Connecting Ideas, Creating Impact 

Join us for the New England North West Regional Leadership Summit 2025 on the 8 – 9 April at the TRECC in Tamworth, where leaders, innovators, and changemakers come together to connect ideas and create lasting impact across the NENW region.  

For this year’s Summit, Business NSW NENW and major partners Telstra, Tamworth Regional Council and University of New England (UNE), bring regional businesses, policymakers, and thought leaders into one space to explore practical solutions to shared challenges and opportunities, ensuring a vibrant and resilient future for our communities and industries. 

Key Highlights and Takeaways for Attendees 

• AI for Innovation, Productivity and Growth: Learn how AI is transforming business operations and explore actionable strategies to integrate AI responsibly and effectively, with insights from Hon. Victor Dominello and industry pioneers – CTO at Microsoft, Rik Irons-Mclean and SkillsIQ CEO, Yasmin King. 

• Innovative Business Solutions: Discover how connecting procurement, manufacturing, and energy strategies can create meaningful impact for regional industries, with expert sessions led by industry leaders from energy sectors and procurement expert Rechelle Leahy. 

• Workforce Attraction and Retention: Explore real-world solutions like The Welcome Experience, designed to attract and retain talent in rural communities by fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. 

• Future-Ready Skills for Emerging Industries: Prepare for the future by connecting ideas from advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and technology experts who will share strategies to build workforce capabilities and drive innovation. 

• Navigating Industrial Relations Workers Compensation with Confidence: Gain insights into the latest legislative changes and learn how to confidently manage compliance and workforce challenges with guidance from Julian Arndt (ABLA) and Andrew Hollier (iCare). 

• Inspiration from Regional Success Stories: Learn from leaders like Hugh Eastwood CEO of Photo Create, who have used innovative approaches like lean manufacturing and continuous improvement to drive resilience and excellence. 

What to Expect 

Under the theme “Connecting Ideas, Creating Impact”, Day 1 will focus on the transformative potential of AI, sustainable business practices, and regional collaboration, capped with inspiring success stories from businesses making an impact. Day 2 centres on people-focused themes, addressing workforce shortages, building future-ready skills, and ensuring safe, equitable workplaces, while equipping attendees with the tools to lead their industries confidently. 

Why Attend? 

• Connect Ideas: Collaborate with leaders, innovators, and policymakers to exchange fresh perspectives and solutions tailored to regional challenges. 

• Create Impact: Walk away with actionable strategies to implement in your business, organisation, or community, ensuring positive outcomes and long-term success. 

• Inspire Change: Be part of the discussions shaping the future of regional industries and gain the knowledge to lead with resilience and confidence. 

Whether you’re a business owner, policymaker, or community advocate, the NENW Regional Leadership Summit 2025 is your opportunity to connect powerful ideas, drive meaningful change, and create a lasting impact in the NENW region.