Fields & Fortunes 2026

Smart Business, Strong Communities

The Fields & Fortunes Regional Business Forum returns in 2026, bringing together businesses from across the Great Southern and beyond to explore how technology is shaping the future of regional business.

This full-day forum is designed to be practical, relevant and accessible, with real-world insights, engaging speakers and plenty of opportunity to connect with other businesses across all sectors.

Event Overview

Date: Thursday 19 February 2026
Location: Gnowangerup Sporting Complex
Time:
• 9:00am – Arrival and registration
• 9:30am – Speakers commence
• 4:00pm – Networking sundowner

Catering: Morning tea, lunch, tea and coffee provided throughout the day.

Tickets: Available now Click here for tickets

About the Forum

Fields & Fortunes is a regional business forum focused on strengthening local economies by sharing ideas, tools and experiences that support sustainable growth.

The 2026 theme, Smart Business, Strong Communities, explores how technology can:

• improve business efficiency and productivity

• support innovation and adaptability

• strengthen connections across regional communities

• create new opportunities for growth and collaboration

The program will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions and informal networking, with content designed to be useful whether you are just starting out, growing a business, or adapting to change.

Who Should Attend

This forum is ideal for:

• local and regional business owners

• people working in or supporting small and medium enterprises

• businesses from all sectors interested in practical technology

• community organisations, industry groups and government representatives

No technical background is required — sessions are designed to be clear, relevant and grounded in real-world application.

Confirmed Speakers

Julian Moore

Chief AI Consultant | Strategic Membership Solutions

Julian Moore is recognised as one of Australasia’s leading experts in the practical application of artificial intelligence across business, government and the not-for-profit sector. Known for his engaging, story-driven presentations and live demonstrations, Julian shows how AI can be embedded into everyday operations to save time, improve engagement and uncover new opportunities.

Mat Lewis

Director | Creative Tech Village

Mat Lewis is a long-standing leader in Western Australia’s creative and innovation ecosystem. As Director of the Creative Tech Village, he works at the intersection of creativity, technology and business, supporting collaboration, digital capability and new economic opportunities across the state.

Jason McFarlane

Director | GreenTech Innovation Hub

Jason McFarlane is an economic strategist with over 20 years’ experience supporting innovation, sustainability and regional development. As Director of the WA GreenTech Innovation Hub, Jason focuses on connecting industry, government and communities to accelerate emerging technologies and future-focused industries.

Bethany Findlay

Regional Development & Engagement Manager | nbn

Bethany Findlay works directly with regional communities and businesses across the Great Southern to support understanding and uptake of digital connectivity. She is passionate about bridging the digital divide and helping regional businesses unlock the benefits of fast, reliable broadband.

Renu Kannu

National Robotics & Innovation Lead | Australian Automation and Robotics Precinct
(CORE Innovation Hub as Operator)

Renu Kannu is a strategic leader in Australia’s robotics, automation and innovation ecosystem. She brings national and global insight into how emerging technologies are being tested, trialled and scaled, and what this means for industries and regions navigating change and opportunity.

Trade Booths

Trade booth opportunities are available for businesses and organisations that provide technology, services or support relevant to regional business.

Trade booths offer:

• direct engagement with forum attendees

• visibility across the full day, including breaks and the networking sundowner

• an opportunity to showcase products, services or programs

Trade booths can be booked here.

Networking & Sundowner

The day will conclude with a relaxed networking sundowner from 4:00pm, providing an opportunity to continue conversations, meet speakers and connect with other businesses in an informal setting.

Stay Informed

Tickets are available now, with further program details and announcements to be released closer to the event.

For updates, speaker announcements and trade booth information, keep an eye on our website and social media channels.