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Pull up a seat at the decision making table.
We host numerous events each month for our members, each recorded and added to the resource library.
Professional
development sessions with industry leaders
Networking the network sessions to leverage The Connection Table
Brunch with Friends - connecting the network with thought leaders
Special events with key partners from across the globe
For people shaping what’s next in rural Australia
Whether you're influencing policy, growing a business or strengthening communities, The Connection Table connects ambitious people with the conversations, relationships and opportunities that move them forward.
For leaders ready to influence and take a seat at the table
You’ve built credibility in your industry and now you’re looking beyond local impact. You want a stronger voice in the rooms where decisions are made, deeper strategic conversations and a network that understands the complexity of leading from regional Australia.
The Connection Table gives you access to commercially sharp professional development, high-trust peer relationships and conversations that bridge the gap between industry and decision-makers.
You’re likely thinking about:
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Board readiness and governance
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National influence and policy
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ESG and systems change
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Mentoring the next generation
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Expanding your strategic network
For those building businesses, leading teams and creating impact.
You’re building something meaningful and you know strong teams are critical to long-term impact. Whether you’re leading a growing business, managing emerging leaders or creating opportunities within your organisation, you want professional development that genuinely resonates with people in rural Australia.
The Connection Table gives you and your team access to high quality conversations, leadership development and meaningful networks that build confidence, capability and connection, no matter where they’re based.
You're likely looking for the following for you and your team:
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Confidence and visibility
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Leadership development
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Better networking opportunities
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Practical business and communication skills
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A trusted peer community
For those strengthening communities from the ground up
You’re often the connector, advocate and catalyst behind your region. Whether you work in health, education, local government or community development, you care deeply about creating resilient regional communities and empowering others to thrive.
The Connection Table offers a rare space where you can recharge, learn and connect with people who understand both the opportunity and the responsibility of regional leadership.
You’re likely focused on:
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Community resilience
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Collaboration and connection
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Supporting local people and businesses
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Sustainable regional growth
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Finding support for yourself, too
Got professional development budget?
Connected Leadership: Governance & Group Effectiveness is a practical, self-paced leadership and governance certification designed for people contributing to boards, committees, organisations and community groups.
Built specifically for rural Australia, this flexible program helps participants strengthen their confidence in governance, communication, decision-making and group effectiveness, with practical tools that can be applied immediately in workplaces and communities.
Every enrolment also includes 12 months access to The Connection Table network, connecting participants into ongoing professional development, strategic conversations and meaningful connections with leaders across industries and communities.
Our founders
Jo Palmer and Julia Spicer OAM are passionate advocates for rural Australia, bringing together decades of experience in entrepreneurship, community building, innovation and leadership. Together, they’ve built The Connection Table to create meaningful connections, opportunities and visibility for people in the regions.
Member spotlight
Cartier Women's Initiative
Ruby Riethmuller credits Connection Table webinar as the turning point that led to prestigious Cartier Women's Initiative Fellowship.
The Connection Table is celebrating one of its own after member Ruby Riethmuller was named a 2026 Cartier Women's Initiative Fellow - one of the world's most competitive and prestigious awards for women entrepreneurs driving social impact.
Ruby, founder and CEO of youth mental health platform Womn-Kind, is one of three Australian women selected from a global field. She will travel to Bangkok, Thailand in June for the awards ceremony, where finalists are in the running for grants of up to USD $100,000. The 2026 program marks the initiative's 20th anniversary, celebrated under the theme "Lighting the Path."
Ruby had been aware of the Cartier Women's Initiative for years - and had repeatedly opened the application, only to close it again. What changed was proximity. A Connection Table webinar featuring Cartier Women's Initiative alumni and Connection Table member, Edwina Sharrock gave Ruby the chance to hear from someone who had walked the path before her and ask the questions she could not answer on her own.
"I finally felt ready in myself this year to apply, and I just remember leaving the webinar feeling like it was achievable," Ruby said. "It felt less intimidating - and it was a place where I could ask the hard questions. It was really helpful."
