Breaking Barriers to Education in the Outback
The 54th Annual State Conference of the Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association of New South Wales will be held in the historic city of Broken Hill or as its fondly referred to 'The Silver City'.
Broken Hill is a city in the far west region of outback NSW, Australia. An inland mining city, it is near the border with South Australia on the crossing of the Barrier Highway (A32) and the Silver City Highway (B79), in the Barrier Range.
The town is prominent in Australia's mining, industrial relations and economic history after the discovery of silver-lead-zinc ore led to the opening of various mines, thus establishing Broken Hill's recognition as a prosperous mining town and the birthplace of BHP.
Mining is still a key export of Broken Hill however, there is still so much on offer. From large festivals like the Mundi Mundi Bash and the Broken Heel festival to completely being surrounded by National Parks and Agriculture there is a significant Arts culture to be admired and appreciated.
Registration and Welcome Gathering
Palace Hotel Balcony
227 Argent St
6-9pm
Canapes and drinks on the balcony of the famous Palace Hotel, made iconic during the filming of Priscilla Queen of the Desert. If you haven’t been to the Palace before, you’re in for a treat! The Hotel has an eclectic vibe and charm. We look forward to catching up, enjoying a few bubbles and delicious food with old friends and new.
ICPA-NSW Conference
Day 1
Broken Hill Civic Centre
31 Chloride St
9am - 5pm
Tuesday 24th March 2026
If you didn't arrive in time to register at the Pre-Conference Function the evening before, don't worry, we will be available in the foyer of the Civic Centre from 8.30am.
The Civic Centre is located at 31 Chloride St, which is in the heart of the city and easy walking distance to varying levels of accommodation, shopping, restaurants, cates, pubs, heritage and tourism venues
Morning Tea, Lunch, Afternoon Tea will be provided.
Wheel Chair accessible.
Keynote Speaker – Sarah Donnelley
Sarah is an educator and leader with a strong background in fostering student and community growth. As Director of Programs at the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation, she oversees initiatives aimed at closing the education gap for vulnerable communities. She is passionate about creating inclusive, culturally rich learning environments that empower young people. Her book, Big Things Grow (Allen & Unwin, 2022) reflects her experience teaching on Barkindji Country in Wilcannia, where she also founded the Wilcannia Youth Foundation to support local youth. In 2020, Sarah was honoured to receive the Telstra ARIA Music Teacher Award
Conference Dinner
Broken Hill Civic Centre
31 Chloride St
6.30pm – 11pm Tuesday 24 March
The Civic Centre will be transformed at the end of day one of Conference into a beautiful dining room . Further discussions of the days debate and a time for conversation over delicious food with like minded people will be enjoyed with thanks to the support of Tronox.
Breaking Barriers Panel:
We have an amazing group of panelists including local treasures from the Far West who are Breaking Barriers to help provide our kids the best education in the Outback
Day Two:
AGM and Conference Day 2:
Civic Centre
31 Chloride St
8:30am – 4:30pm Wednesday 25 March
The AGM will be conducted in Function Room 1 and the conference agenda will follow at approximately 9.30am.
Morning Tea, Lunch and Afternoon Tea provided.
Post Conference Get Together
The Old Brewery
81 Buck Street
6.30pm - 9pm
Our post conference dinner will take in a piece of history at the Old Brewery while being served amazing Tapas from The Tipsy Camel. The heritage listed property has the perfect ambience to say our goodbyes with a great feed and clink of glasses. The night will be filled with fun and laughter to send off our amazing 2026 conference.
Corporate Display Stands:
$25
There is plenty of space within the Civic Centre for a display stand, with table and promotional banners.
