Published on Wednesday, 3 June 2026 at 9:23:26 AM

Fields & Fortunes Gains State Recognition

The Shire of Gnowangerup is delighted that its annual Fields & Fortunes Regional Business Forum has been recognised as a leading example of local economic development and featured in a recent publication by the Western Australian Local Government Association. The forum was selected as a case study in WALGA’s From Idea to Implementation: Local Government Economic Development Case Studies collection, which showcases successful projects from across Western Australia to help other local governments learn from and adapt proven ideas in their own communities.

Now in its third year, Fields & Fortunes has grown into a well-supported event that brings together business owners, industry leaders, community organisations and changemakers from across the Great Southern and beyond. WALGA’s case study highlighted how the forum was developed in response to local business feedback, creating opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing and practical learning. The 2026 forum welcomed more than 100 attendees and featured speakers covering topics including artificial intelligence, connectivity, automation, robotics and emerging technologies under the theme Smart Business, Strong Communities.

The success of the forum has cemented its place on the local calendar, with Fields & Fortunes set to return in February 2027. Planning will begin later this year, and the Shire is keen to hear from businesses and community members about future themes and topics they would like explored. Whether it is innovation, workforce development, agriculture, tourism or something entirely new, community input will help shape the next chapter of this growing regional event and ensure it continues delivering value for local businesses and the wider region.

The full article can be found on the WALGA website or in the link below.

Economic Business Case Studies

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