EPLGA Conference

13/02/2026

Here it is, your EPLGA26 conference program.

Packed to the brim with top level speakers, networking opportunities and offsite activities.

Why offsite you ask? If you are travelling to a region, it’s nice to have time to SEE the region - tour, learn and taste while meeting and
re-connecting with your fellow delegates.

To all our sponsors we appreciate your support of this conference. We will intro them on here in the lead up to the conference but the program has them all listed AND in they are room, on the day!

Ticketing is now closed so if you have missed out, follow us for 2027 dates.

See you soon!

Team Open Eyre Events

Visit Whyalla EPLGA Conference Whyalla City Council

2026 EPLGA Whyalla Conference Pr : simplebooklet.com

10/02/2026

Last days of ticketing, dont miss your chance to get in the room!

EPLGA Conference February 26 & 27, Whyalla

The program explores decision making, regional futures, data driven insights and leadership in complex environments.

Dynamic speakers, including an interactive panel discussion focused on real world decision making, what worked, what did not, and the choices that can actively shape regional futures.

All that and an exciting social program to ensure maximum time for networking and visiting some of Whyalla’s highlight spots.

To secure your tickets head to https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/2026-eplga-conference-whyalla-tickets-1978075645504?aff=eplga

Visit Whyalla Open Eyre Events Whyalla City Council

25/01/2026

Quick spin to Whyalla and what better way to spend the coolest day of heatwave week out on Spencer Gulf Adventures Ultimate Tour. Steve’s knowledge and enthusiasm makes this tour a standout in the region. Best news is he is scheduling extra tours for the Saturday after the conference at an exclusive EPLGA delegate rate. Details of how to secure this special are on your ticket. Thank you Steve ⚓️🐬

22/01/2026

🎤 Mike Rolls

Mike is a leading voice in resilience, decision-making, and navigating change. He doesn’t just talk about resilience, he lives it, challenges it, and teaches it in a way that cuts through the noise.

After experiencing a life-altering health crisis as a young adult, Mike spent years rebuilding his life both physically and mentally. That experience shaped his grounded, practical approach to resilience - one focused less on adversity itself and more on how people respond when faced with pressure, uncertainty, and complex decisions.

Today, Mike works with organisations, teams, and leaders navigating high-stakes decisions and significant change. With a background in health and qualifications in counselling, he blends lived experience with evidence-based insights to deliver practical, real-world tools.

Known for his trademark dry wit, no-nonsense delivery, and relatable storytelling, Mike leaves audiences challenged, energised, and equipped with strategies they can immediately apply.

22/01/2026

🎤 Hari Hara Priya Kannan

We’re delighted to welcome Hari Hara Priya Kannan, Chief Data Scientist at The Demographics Group in Melbourne.

What sets Hari apart is her ability to distil vast tracts of data into a clear narrative tailored to specific audiences. She engages audiences with expert insights on housing, migration, international education, ageing, regional opportunities, workforce change, and the rise of AI and digital skills.

Hari is a sought-after speaker and writer; she writes a monthly column for The Australian newspaper. She makes data engaging and accessible, which is why business clients in particular value her customized, impactful presentations.

Hari Hara Priya Kannan represents the next generation of Australia’s most engaging data scientists and corporate speakers.

22/01/2026

🌏 Connecting Futures: A Dream or a Choice?

We’re excited to officially welcome you to the page for the 2026 EPLGA Annual Conference, taking place in Whyalla on 26–27 February 2026.

This year’s conference invites us to look beyond vision alone and consider the choices, decisions and actions that actively shape our regional futures. Across two inspiring days, local government leaders, industry, and community stakeholders will come together to connect, learn and share practical insights.

📍 Where: Westlands Hotel, Whyalla
📅 When: 26–27 February 2026

Program at a glance:
🔹 Thursday 26 February
• 4:30pm – Optional Steelworks Tour (60 mins, must prebook)
• 6:00pm – Welcome Evening at Maritime Gardens (transfers available)

🔹 Friday 27 February
• 8:30am–4:00pm – Full-Day Conference at Westlands Hotel
• 4:30pm – Optional Foreshore Frenzy Bus Tour (45 mins, must prebook)
• 6:15pm – Gala Dinner at Westlands Hotel

🎤 Keynote Speakers:
We’re thrilled to announce:
• Hari Hara Priya Kannan, Chief Data Scientist, The Demographics Group
• Mike Rolls, recognised authority in resilience, crisis management and decision-making

🎙️ Conference MC:
We’re pleased to welcome Alison Lloyd-Wright (Managing Director, Good Trouble Group) as our MC. Bringing senior leadership experience across SA government and a strong commitment to regional communities, including a personal connection to Whyalla.

Further speakers will be announced soon, along with an informative and interactive panel designed to encourage practical discussion and shared insights.

Join us for thought-provoking conversations, meaningful connections, and the opportunity to help shape our collective future.

🎟️ Tickets are now available. Secure yours today and be part of what comes next