Coming together to protect Country, restore nature, and transform the systems shaping our shared future.

Building on the energy and success of last year’s sold-out Soliphilia conference, the CCWA Regional Gathering brings people together in the South West to connect, collaborate and inspire action for protecting Country, restoring nature, and transforming the systems that shape our shared future.

At the heart of this year’s gathering is the theme Protect. Restore. Transform. – a bold call to rally around the places we love and the future we want to shape. 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. 

Across the gathering, participants will hear keynote insights, take part in panel conversations and practical workshops, connect with member groups, 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. 

The program will celebrate First Nations knowledge and connection to Country, with 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. 

With a Member Group Expo, Yarning Circle, sundowner, catering and optional on-Country tours on 31 October, the Regional Gathering is a welcoming space to connect, learn, share and leave ready to take action. The Saturday site visits will offer attendees the chance to spend time on Country, visit places that member groups and communities have worked hard to protect, and deepen cultural learning through connection with place. 

This year, CCWA’s annual conference is heading to the South West. The Regional Gathering carries forward the spirit of our flagship event while grounding it in the people, places and environmental priorities of the South West. 

Bringing together member groups, Traditional Owners, community leaders, campaigners, researchers and changemakers, the Gathering is an opportunity to connect, share ideas, celebrate successes and strengthen our collective efforts to protect Country, restore nature and create thriving communities for generations to come.