Sharper Format, Bigger Conversations: Orana Outlook Forum Returns for 2026

4 November 2026 - The Orana Outlook Forum returns to Dubbo on Thursday 19 November, bringing together industry leaders, government representatives and regional changemakers for an afternoon of insight, collaboration and forward‑looking conversation about the future of the Orana.

This year’s Forum has been refreshed into a shorter, sharper format, delivering the same depth of substance in a streamlined program designed for the busiest time of the year. Every session has been curated to maximise value, with speakers unpacking the issues and opportunities shaping the region, from energy, mining, transport, AI, workforce, migration, housing, health, arts, agriculture and more.

RDA Orana CEO Justine Campbell said the updated structure is designed to maximise value while respecting the demands on regional leaders at the end of the year.

“We know this time of year is an incredibly busy time across the Orana, so we’ve sharpened the program to ensure every speaker, every conversation and every update delivers real impact. It’s a concentrated, high‑value Forum that still provides the depth, insight and collaboration our region expects.”

The 2026 program features an impressive line‑up of speakers, who are directly leading major projects, policy shifts and community initiatives across the region:

• Greg Ley, CEO of Lecroma, will unpack how data centres, AI and the Renewable Energy Zone could reshape local jobs and the regional economy, and the double‑edged impacts these emerging industries bring.
• Craig Jenkins, Executive Director of Regional Economic Development at Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, will outline the work of the Orana team and provide a deep dive into the key priorities and major opportunities emerging across the region.  
• The Golden Highway Taskforce Panel will unpack the recent $520 million funding announcement, the opportunities it unlocks for freight, industry and communities, and the next steps needed to deliver long‑term productivity, safety and regional connectivity along the corridor.
• Peter Bennett, Executive Project Director at EnergyCo, will provide an update on the Central‑West Orana Renewable Energy Zone, including progress on planning and delivery, and the Community Benefits Fund.
• Chris Godfrey, Infrastructure Director at Dubbo Regional Council, will address long‑term water security, economic resilience and the future opportunities of recycled water. 
• RDA Orana CEO and Orana DAMA Designated Area Representative Justine Campbell will provide an update on the Orana Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) and the next steps for strengthening skilled migration pathways across inland NSW.
• Kylie Falciani from Marathon Health will unpack the evolving health landscape, access challenges and the future of regional wellbeing.
• Jane Donald, Director of Bob Berry Real Estate, will share the 2027 real estate outlook, including emerging trends across residential, commercial and industrial markets.
• Cameron Beard from Elders will provide insight into agriculture in the Orana, from livestock and merchandise to agribusiness finance and farming operations.
• Jamie‑Lea Trindall, Executive Director of Outback Arts, will introduce the new Southeast Aboriginal Arts Development initiative, the peak agency strengthening the Aboriginal arts sector in NSW.
• The Gunyah Project team will present an update on their major 580‑acre sustainable housing and community development in Dubbo’s North‑West Urban Release Area, showcasing how this long‑term project is shaping future growth and liveability for the region.
• Madeleine Lawler, CEO of RDA Mid North Coast, will discuss regional labour market intelligence and what it means for workforce planning across the Orana.
• The Welcome Experience Orana, led by Alana Copelin, will showcase how the program is transforming the way essential workers settle, connect and thrive in regional communities.
• Michael Sutherland, General Manager NSW for Alkane Resources, will provide an update on the Boda-Kaiser gold‑copper project, a significant development located 15km north of Wellington, and discuss how this premier‑location resource project is shaping long‑term opportunities for the Orana region.
• Narromine High School Wellbeing Hub will present how its integrated model brings health, education and community services together to support rural students, highlighting the role of strong partnerships, efficient resource use and regional networks in reducing barriers.

From economic development and infrastructure to health, housing, migration, agriculture, arts and community wellbeing, the Forum brings all the region’s priority conversations into one room.

As the formal program concludes at 5pm, attendees will move to The Vault Orana for Orana Outlook Sundowners - an evening of drinks, canapés and entertainment in the garden. The Sundowners event offers a relaxed opportunity to continue conversations, strengthen connections and celebrate a successful year across the region.

“The Sundowners are one of the highlights of the Forum,” Ms Campbell said. “It’s a chance to unwind, connect and recognise the achievements, resilience and momentum of the Orana as we head into a new year.”

Event Details Orana Outlook Forum
12.30pm – 5.00pm, Lazy River Estate 
Light lunch and afternoon tea included

Orana Outlook Sundowners 
5.30pm – 8.00pm, The Vault Orana
Drinks, canapés and entertainment included

Tickets and full program available at: oranaoutlook.com

-ENDS-

Media Contact: Harriet Gilmore | M: 0427 095 558 | E: media@rdaorana.org.au