Hunter Region Innovators and Business Leaders Connect at Inaugural Hunter Industry Open Day

The University of Newcastle's Upper Hunter hub recently hosted a dynamic Industry Open Day on 6 May 2026, bringing together regional leaders, innovators, and industry professionals for a day of collaboration and knowledge sharing. 182 attendees registered for the inaugural Upper Hunter event, following the success of the Newcastle Industry Open Day, now in it’s fourth year.

The event kicked off with a warm welcome from Deputy Vice-Chancellor Engagement and Equity Nathan Towney, setting the stage for the highly anticipated Mayoral Muster. Nathan was joined by Mayor of Muswellbrook Shire Council, Cr Jeffrey Drayton and Deputy Mayor of Singleton Council, Cr Sue George, sharing their insights and aspirations for the future of the region.

Delivered by Laura Eadie, Director of the Institute for Regional Futures (IRF), the Hunter Insights session drew upon insights from Teachers and Teaching Research Centre’s Aspirations survey, Hunter Medical Research Foundation’s Health Pulse survey and IRF’s national and regional data analysis to deliver valuable analysis of the broader Hunter region's economic landscape, emerging opportunities, and future growth prospects.

The morning session concluded with the Future Made panel, including a mix of University representations and industry to discuss key themes around planning and investment in our local regions. The attendees heard valuable insights from Jane Callinan, Engagement Manager, Energy Hubs, AGL, Christopher Sampson, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Tiliter Technology, Ivan Waterfield, CEO from HunterNet, Professor Kathleen Butler, Director of Indigenous Research, from the University of Newcastle and Professor Peter Lewis, Research and Development Director at Ethtec.

Participants then engaged in specialised, hands-on professional development workshops in artificial intelligence, cultural capability, and building workforce capability.

A highlight of the day was the Research and Innovation Capability Expo, which showcased 20 of the University's cutting-edge research, innovative teaching approaches, and learning innovations. The expo provided an interactive platform for attendees to explore collaborative opportunities and engage with leading researchers.

The event concluded with a networking lunch, fostering meaningful connections between industry representatives, academics, and regional stakeholders. This successful gathering reinforced the University of Newcastle's commitment to driving innovation and economic growth in the Hunter region.