This year’s theme is: EMBRACING CHANGE

October Business Month 2026 is all about Embracing Change. This year’s events will have a focus on adapting to rapid advances in technology, shifting market demands and evolving workplace dynamics.

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Renee Wootton Tomlin: Leading from the edge in a changing world 

Friday OCTOBER 2

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: RENEE WOOTTON TOMLIN

CEO AND FOUNDER OF NEW ERA ENERGY

Some people build careers. Renee Wootton Tomlin is building industries. Renee is proving that the future of industry lies at the intersection of innovation, sustainability and purpose. A proud Tharawal woman, aerospace engineer, sustainability strategist and founder of New Era Energy, Renee is redefining what it means to lead with purpose, bridging technology, culture, and climate innovation. Her career has spanned some of the world’s most recognised organisations, including NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Qantas, Western Sydney Airport and LanzaJet, where she helped advance the global adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel and scaling global market adoption. Today, through New Era Energy, Wootton Tomlin is driving new approaches to decarbonisation, bringing together engineering expertise, commercial innovation and Indigenous knowledge to create lasting environmental, social and economic outcomes. Named among Australia’s most influential young leaders, she is also co-host of the Promoted Podcast, where she shares insights on leadership, innovation and navigating change in a rapidly evolving world. At October Business Month, Renee will share a deeply human story of learning to lead at the edge of technology, responsibility and change. Renee’s presentation will weave personal experience with practical insight, showing how confidence, courage and capability are built over time — especially in moments where there is no playbook.

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DCOH Women in Business Lunch with Rochelle Courtenay: Turning pain into purpose

Friday OCTOBER 9

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: ROCHELLE COURTENAY

FOUNDER OF SHARE THE DIGNITY

Rochelle Courtenay knows the power of a simple question: If not me, then who? The founder and managing director of Share the Dignity, Rochelle Courtenay launched the national charity in 2015 after learning that some women and girls were forced to use socks, newspaper and other makeshift items to manage their periods. What began as a grassroots community collection has grown into one of Australia’s most influential social movements, distributing millions of period products and driving national conversations about dignity, equity and access. Known affectionately as Australia’s “Pad Lady”, Rochelle has helped deliver landmark change, from advocating for the removal of the GST on period products to expanding access through innovative Dignity Vending Machines and community programs across the country. A former personal trainer with no charity experience, no roadmap and plenty of self-doubt, she transformed a personal conviction into a purpose-driven organisation powered by thousands of volunteers and supporters. Today, Rochelle’s vision extends beyond period poverty. As Share the Dignity evolves, she is championing a broader mission focused on wellbeing, inclusion and addressing the systemic barriers that prevent people from living with dignity. With honesty, humour and heart, Rochelle will take you on a journey of what it truly takes to turn purpose into action – and how, with enough courage and fire in your belly, one person really can create lasting change.

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Stronger Together: Katherine business dinner featuring Brett Blake 

Friday OCTOBER 16 

KEYNOTE EVENT

STRONGER TOGETHER: KATHERINE BUSINESS DINNER

FEATURING COMEDIAN BRETT BLAKE 

After one of the most challenging disaster seasons in recent memory, the Big Rivers region business community is coming together for an evening of connection, reflection and well-earned laughter in Katherine.

The Stronger Together: Katherine Business Dinner is more than a networking event. It is a celebration of the resilience, determination and community spirit that define the Big Rivers region. The dinner will recognise those who have weathered adversity and continued to support the region through challenging times. Bringing the entertainment is acclaimed Australian comedian, Brett Blake, one of the country’s fastest-rising comedy talents with a reputation as an authentic and relatable performer. Known for his sharp wit, self-deprecating humour and stories that range from dyslexia and truck licences to life in regional Australia, Brett has appeared on Question Everything, Spicks and Specks, Patriot Brains, The Tourist and Taskmaster Australia.

With good food, great company and plenty of laughs, this October Business Month event is a reminder that when the Territory faces challenges, it does so together and emerges stronger for it.

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Adam Jacobs: Lessons from building THE ICONIC, thanks to NAB 

Friday OCTOBER 30

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: ADAM JACOBS

CO-FOUNDER OF THE ICONIC AND HATCH

Adam Jacobs has spent his career challenging conventional thinking about how technology can improve the way we live and work. As co-founder of THE ICONIC, Australia’s largest online fashion retailer, Adam helped transform the nation’s retail landscape by building a business centred on customer experience and digital innovation. Since launching in 2011, THE ICONIC has become one of Australia’s most recognised e-commerce success stories. But for Jacobs, success is about more than building profitable companies. His latest venture, Hatch, was founded on a bold mission: helping people find meaningful work by connecting their skills, values and interests with opportunity. A former strategy consultant with BCG and PwC in Sydney and Copenhagen, Adam combines analytical thinking with a deep curiosity about how technology is reshaping society. He has built a reputation as an entrepreneur focused on solving real-world problems and creating businesses with lasting impact. His achievements have earned widespread recognition, including CEO Magazine’s Young Executive of the Year award and the University of Sydney Alumni Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. At October Business Month, Adam will share the lessons, challenges and insights gained from building a high-growth business and leading through disruption, change and innovation – warts and all.

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TERRITORY SUCCESS STORIES

THIS YEAR’S TERRITORY SUCCESS STORIES INCLUDE A DIVERSE RANGE OF BUSINESS OWNERS AND ENTREPRENEURS, EACH OF WHOM WILL BRING THEIR OWN LOCAL STORY TO INSPIRE, AND SHARE WITH, THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY AT THEIR ALLOCATED OCTOBER BUSINESS MONTH KEYNOTE SPEAKER EVENT. 

Meet our Alice Springs Territory Success Stories at Renee Wootton Tomlin: Leading from the edge in a changing world | 2 October 2026 

MELANIE DALY – SWANK SHOES

Melanie Daly is the owner of Swank Shoes and founder of Frock Star in Alice Springs. After a 12-year career with the Department of Education, she took over the family-owned Swank Shoes in 2019, continuing a local retail legacy that began in 1972. Driven by a passion for fashion, inclusivity and personalised service, Melanie has expanded her businesses to offer curated footwear, clothing and accessories, helping customers feel confident, stylish and supported.

ANDREW MOWLES – ALICE HOSETECH & INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES

Andrew Mowles is the co-founder and owner of Alice Hosetech & Industrial Supplies, a proudly Territory-owned business providing industrial, hydraulic and equipment solutions across Central Australia. Starting from a mobile workshop, Andrew has grown the business into a leading regional supplier and employer, recognised for its commitment to customer service, local industry and community resilience.

Meet our Darwin Territory Success Stories at DCOH Women in Business Lunch with Rochelle Courtenay: Turning pain into purpose | 9 October 2026

KYLIE STRAUBE – REMOTE TERRITORY HEALTHCARE

Kylie Straube is a Nurse Practitioner, health advocate and founder of Remote Territory Healthcare, a nurse-led primary healthcare clinic established in Berry Springs in 2024. With more than 20 years’ experience in rural and remote healthcare, Kylie is passionate about relationship-based care that treats the whole person, not just symptoms. Driven by innovation and community need, she works tirelessly to improve health outcomes and strengthen healthcare access for Territorians.

JESSIE RISK – AKJ SERVICES

Jessie Risk is a proud Larrakia woman, local developer and Founder and Managing Director of AKJ Services, a 100% Indigenous-owned Darwin construction company. Since 2018, she has grown AKJ into a respected Territory business, creating employment and career pathways for local and Aboriginal Territorians. Recognised as the 2024 NAIDOC NT Woman of the Year, Jessie is also a proud mother of five and a passionate advocate for empowering future generations.

NICKI MARAKAS – ENNESS BEAUTY

Nicki Marakas is the founder of Enness Beauty, a national award-winning Darwin business built from a passion for makeup and a willingness to back herself. Specialising in bridal, event and photography makeup, Nicki has expanded her services to meet changing client needs. A proud Territorian, she credits community connections, continuous learning and adaptability as key drivers of her success and continued growth.

Meet our Katherine Territory Success Stories at Stronger Together: Katherine business dinner, featuring Brett Blake | 16 October 2026

JEFF USHER – CUSTOM CABINETS KATHERINE

Jeff Usher is the owner of Custom Cabinets Katherine, a business born from an unexpected stop in the Territory after a vehicle breakdown led him to Katherine. Today, the company delivers custom joinery for residential and commercial projects across the Big Rivers region. Jeff is passionate about developing local tradespeople, embracing practical innovation and creating opportunities that build skills, capability and investment within the Katherine community.

TEGAN PEIRCE – DRAGONFLY EVENTS

Tegan Peirce is the owner and operator of Dragonfly Events, a Katherine-based business that has grown from a one-off wedding catering job into a full-service events company. Since 2009, she has built a reputation for adaptability, exceptional service and community support. Providing everything from catering to event management, Tegan’s success is driven by a simple philosophy: “Say yes, then find a way.”

TRENT DE WITH – ROD & RIFLE TACKLEWORLD KATHERINE

Trent de With is a Katherine business owner and outdoor enthusiast who leads Rod & Rifle Tackleworld Katherine, a family-owned business that has served the region for more than 40 years. Since joining the business in 2017, Trent has helped drive significant growth by embracing change, expanding product ranges and using digital platforms and social media to connect with customers well beyond Katherine. He is passionate about regional business, supporting his local community and promoting the Territory outdoor lifestyle that has always been at the heart of Rod & Rifle.

Meet our Darwin Territory Success Stories at Adam Jacobs: Lessons from building THE ICONIC, thanks to NAB | 30 October 2026

ROSHELLE DELL – PURE PILATES NT

Roshelle Dell is founder and director of Pure Pilates NT, a fast-growing Darwin business helping Territorians improve their strength, health and wellbeing. After studying law and working as a paralegal, Roshelle retrained following motherhood and opened her first studio in 2024. Now spanning three locations, Pure Pilates NT reflects her passion for community, quality coaching, lifelong learning and creating local career opportunities.

MATTHEW JACQUES – NEPTUNE HOLDING GROUP

Matthew Jacques is the Co-Founder and CEO of Neptune Holding Group, a veteran-owned Northern Territory management and solutions company. After serving 20 years in the Royal Australian Navy, retiring as a Maritime Logistics Chief Petty Officer in 2026, Matthew transitioned his operational leadership experience into building a nationally recognised business. A passionate advocate for safety, leadership and veteran employment, he is also the founder of Forces Football Darwin and author of the leadership book DICTATOR.

SAM MOLLOY – MEC NT

Sam Molloy is the co-director of MEC NT, one of the Northern Territory’s leading electrical and communications contractors. Starting in 2010 with just three employees, Sam has grown the business into a major Territory employer delivering complex projects across the NT and northern Western Australia. Known for his determination, commitment to client relationships and ability to tackle challenging remote projects, Sam believes success comes from delivering on commitments and growing together as a team.

Visit obm.nt.gov.au to book and find out more.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FIND OUT WHAT’S ON NEAR YOU!

WHETHER YOU’RE A SMALL TO MEDIUM BUSINESS OWNER, ENTREPRENEUR, INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL OR JUST STARTING OUT – WITH A MIX OF IN-PERSON AND ONLINE EVENTS, THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE, NO MATTER WHERE YOU’RE LOCATED.

Here are some highlights around the regions – head to obm.nt.gov.au to view the full calendar of events.

TOP END: EVENTS IN DARWIN, HUMPTY DOO AND PALMERSTON

The Pivot Room, part of the Business Support Series
Wednesday 21 October in Darwin

The Pivot Room is not another workshop where you sit back and listen.

This immersive, hands-on experience puts you in realistic business scenarios where the pressure is on and the landscape keeps changing.

Working alongside other businesses, you’ll test decisions, explore opportunities, challenge assumptions, and discover how different choices can impact growth, profitability and resilience.

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Beyond the IT Bill: Understanding What Tech Your Business Really Needs, hosted by Kyanite Solutions
Friday 2 October in Darwin

Building Your Digital Marketing Plan, hosted by Clickstarter Education
Monday 5 October in Palmerston

Embracing Change: Resilience That Holds Under Pressure, hosted by A Million Things Coaching and Consulting
Thursday 8 October in Darwin

Elevating Business, Empowering Community, hosted by EmpowerCard
Wednesday 14 October in Palmerston

Connecting Humpty Doo, hosted by Palmerston Regional Business Association
Thursday 15 October in Humpty Doo

Delegation is the New Superpower, hosted by Swarmly
Wednesday 21 October in Darwin

Reading the Signals: How To Use Your Numbers to Navigate Change Before It’s Too Late, hosted by LC Accountants
Thursday 22 October in Darwin

Emotional Intelligence and Resilience in Action, hosted by A.R.T. Your Life
Wednesday 28 October in Darwin

EAST ARNHEM: EVENTS IN NHULUNBUY

Arnhem Voices Film Festival: Creating Economic Opportunities Through Film, hosted by Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation, The Gove Theatre and Yanawal Experiences and part of the Business Support Series
Wednesday 21 October

The Arnhem Voices Film Festival is more than a celebration of local stories. It is an opportunity to explore how the screen industry can contribute to the economic future of East Arnhem and create new opportunities for local businesses, organisations and entrepreneurs.

The festival will bring together filmmakers, industry professionals, business owners and community members to discuss the growing role of film and production in regional Australia.

Join us for an evening of film, discussion and networking as we explore how the screen industry can help shape a strong and sustainable economic future for East Arnhem.

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

East Arnhem Tourism Connect, hosted by Developing East Arnhem Ltd
Thursday 8 October

Protect What You Create: Understanding Intellectual Property, hosted by IP Australia
Monday 19 October

Looking Out For Your Mates: On-site Mental Health Awareness Training, hosted by Mates in Construction
Tuesday 20 October

The Road Ahead – Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation, hosted by Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation and The Gove Art Theatre
Thursday 29 October

CENTRAL AUSTRALIA: EVENTS IN ALICE SPRINGS

From Doing to Leading – Alice Springs, part of the Business Support Series
Friday 9 October

Many new managers and business owners struggle to let go of the work that made them successful. This workshop helps participants make the transition from individual contributor to effective leader by learning how to delegate, coach, and achieve results through others.

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Is AI Content Giving You the Ick? hosted by The Desert Collective
Friday 2 October

Keeping Cool in the Chaos: Practical De-Escalation for Teams Navigating Change, hosted by Trainspire Training
Wednesday 7 October

AI Governance: What Every Business Needs to Know, hosted by Lime and Fire
Thursday 15 October

Level Up Your ChatGPT for Business, hosted by Darwin Innovation Hub
Thursday 22 October

Building a Sustainable Territory Workforce: Leveraging the NT DAMA to Address Evolving Workforce Needs, hosted by ACET Migration Services
Thursday 29 October

BIG RIVERS: EVENTS IN KATHERINE

Sustainable Supply Chains (Katherine Agriculture), part of the Business Support Series
Thursday 22 October

From across the Big Rivers region, connect with your local agricultural sector colleagues and small businesses in a casual networking event.

An invitation to business and industry partners to connect in a relaxed, networking event over sunset canapes hosted by KRS, with a focus on promoting our regional supply chain members (small businesses) and their valued contribution to the region’s agricultural sector.

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Manbulloo Pastures and Palettes, part of the Business Support Series
Friday 2 October

Write with Confidence at Work, hosted by Communicate NT
Tuesday 13 October

Festival of Women, hosted by Rebecca Ross of Noone Left Behind
Wednesday 14 October

Go Deeper with AI Tools for Business, hosted by Darwin Innovation Hub
Monday 26 October

Calm Under Pressure, hosted by Biznorth
Monday 26 October

BARKLY: EVENTS IN TENNANT CREEK

Building Accountability Without Micromanaging – Barkly, part of the Business Support Series
Tuesday 13 October

Creating accountability doesn’t require constant oversight. This workshop equips new managers and business owners with practical tools to set clear expectations, develop ownership, and hold people accountable while building trust and engagement.

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Business Support Showcase – Barkly, part of the Business Support Series
Tuesday 13 October

Everyday AI for Barkly Businesses, hosted by Clickstarter Education
Tuesday 20 October

Barkly Give & Get, hosted by Impact North
Tuesday 20 October

Confident Speaking for Leaders and Managers, hosted by Speakstarter Education
Wednesday 21 October

Getting More Out of MS Copilot, hosted by Clickstarter Education
Wednesday 21 October

Event details are subject to change. Visit obm.nt.gov.au for the latest information.

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EVENT PARTNERS

October Business Month Event Partners, who represent business and industry, host independent events that form part of the broader calendar of events. This year, around 70 local businesses and organisations will be hosting events across the Territory and we would like to acknowledge and thank all of them – without these valued Event Partners, October Business Month would not be what it is today!

10×10 Philanthropy
A Million Things Coaching & Consulting
A.R.T Your Life
ACET Migration Services
Amy Hetherington
APM Employment Services
ASAP Coaching
Ask Jodes
Australian Film Television and Radio School
Bamara
Banubanu Lodge
Belinda McCulloch – Creating What’s Next
Biznorth
Business Analysis Network NT
Centorrino Technologies
Chamber of Commerce and Industry NT
Chamber of Commerce NT – Local Jobs
Charles Darwin University Nhulunbuy
City of Darwin
City of Palmerston
Clickstarter Education
Communica Consulting
Communicate NT
Crest NT
Cultural Journeys Pty Ltd
Darwin City Retailers Association
Darwin Innovation Hub
Developing East Arnhem Ltd
EmpowerCard
+finlease
Forward Focus Partners
HWLE Lawyers
Impact North
Industry Capability Network Northern Territory
IP Australia
Jackadder International
Kristal Margrie Lifestyle
KWP+Partners
Kyanite Solutions Pty Ltd
LC Accountants
Lime and Fire
Master Builders Northern Territory
Mates in Construction
Migrant Workers’ Hub
monday.com
Mparntwe Alice Springs Community Foundation
National Australia Bank
Norvane Cyber
NT WorkSafe
Outback Safety
Palmerston Regional Business Association
Rebecca Ross, Noone Left Behind
Red-Core Technology
REINT
Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation
Speakstarter Education
Swarmly
The Desert Collective
The Gove Art Theatre
The Last Supper
The Missing Question
TQ Business Magazine
Trainspire Training
Two Two One Mental Health Charity
VitaChoice LTD
Yanawal Experiences
YouthWorX NT
Westpac

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SPONSORS

PLATINUM: NAB, DCOH

GOLD: Darwin Innovation Hub, Charles Darwin University

AIRLINE: Airnorth

SILVER: City of Darwin, McDonald’s / VIGR Group, Mindil Beach Casino Resort

BRONZE: PKF Merit, Hays

MEDIA: Territory Q Business Magazine, Mix 104.9, WIN Network, NT News, Imparja Television, Sun969