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Conservation Council of WA to host inaugural Regional Gathering in WA’s South West – Protect. Restore. Transform.

The Conservation Council of WA (CCWA) will host its inaugural Regional Gathering in Busselton this October, with a focus on climate and nature.

The event, taking place at the Sabina River Farm on Friday, 30 October, will connect conservationists and people interested in learning more about our environment with CCWA member groups, First Nations voices, community leaders and innovators in the space to share knowledge and strengthen action for climate and nature.

Building on the energy of last year’s sold-out Annual Conference held in Perth/Boorloo, CCWA’s Regional Gathering will focus on connecting, collaborating and inspiring action for protecting Country, restoring nature, and transforming the systems that shape our shared future.

CCWA Executive Director Matt Roberts said the theme at the heart of this year’s gathering, Protect. Restore. Transform, was “a bold call to rally around the places we love and the future we want to shape”.

“This gathering is about listening, learning and working together — bringing local knowledge, First Nations leadership and community action into the centre of the decisions that shape our lands, waters and communities,” Mr Roberts said.

“Across the region, nature and climate are under growing pressure, from habitat destruction and forest mining to fossil fuel expansion and impacts on our oceans, rivers, forests, coastlines and communities. This is a chance to listen deeply, share knowledge, and build real momentum for change.

“Regional communities are on the front line of protecting the places we love, and their leadership is essential if we are to secure a safe climate and a thriving natural environment for future generations.”

Across the gathering, participants will hear keynote insights, take part in panel conversations and practical workshops, connect with groups who are doing the work in their local areas to preserve wildlife and the natural environment, and join yarning spaces that support open and respectful discussion.

“Together, we’ll explore how local leadership, community knowledge and collective action can respond to the challenges facing the South West and other regions across WA. 

“The program will celebrate First Nations knowledge and connection to Country, and feature sessions on balancing development with natural values, turning local threats into collective power, caring for Country, practical action for nature in a growing region, and the future of bushfire management in the South West.

“The event will provide participants with a welcoming space to connect, learn, share and leave ready to take action.”

On Friday, the Regional Gathering will feature Keynotes, Workshops, a Member Group Expo, a Yarning Circle, and a catered social Sundowner.

Optional on Country Tours will be held on Saturday, offering attendees the chance to spend time on Country, visit places that member groups and communities have worked hard to protect, and deepen learning through connection with place. 

“Held in the South West of WA – a globally significant biodiversity hotspot – the gathering will explore what is needed to protect nature, restore biodiversity, and transform the systems shaping the state’s environment and communities,” Mr Roberts said.

“It’s about building meaningful relationships, and inspire collaborative action grounded in respect for Country, community leadership, and the vital perspective of regional voices.”

Event details:

Date: Friday, 30 October 2026, 8:30am–5:00pm, followed by a sundowner.  

Optional on-Country Tours will take place on Saturday, 31 October

Location: Sabina River Farm, 213 Wonnerup S Road, Yalyalup

ENDS

Media contact: John Cooke – 0433 679 780 

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