Better Boards Conference 2026
Pathfinders – Governing with Courage
31 July - 1 August • Cairns Convention Centre
Governance and Leadership Conference
for Leaders of Not-for-profit Organisations
A key networking and professional development exercise, this great-value conference is worth including in your board's annual program of work. Join us for two days of insights, information, ideas, practical tools, solutions and strategies to support board and directors' governance and leadership knowledge.
Download Program (PDF) for your board.
Location
Cairns Convention Centre
Date & Time
July 31: 8:30am - 6:30pm
August 01: 8:30am - 4:00pm
Attendees
Directors and CEOs of NFP Organisations
Pre-Conference Board Member Innovation Tour
Thursday 30 July — Kick off your conference experience a day early with our Innovation Tour. Visit three unique Cairns not-for-profits — Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, Resilient Reefs Foundation, and Cape York Partnership. A day of new ideas and new people that brings fresh thinking back to your boardroom.
Includes morning tea at Fitzroy Island Resort, set lunch at Ochre Restaurant, and a full day of networking with fellow directors and CEOs. Seats are strictly limited.
Conference Schedule
Venue Information
Cairns Convention Centre
Sheridan St &, Wharf St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Getting There
Cairns Convention Centre is an easy 11 minute drive from the airport. There are a variety of transport options to choose from [here]. Cairns is an easily navigable city with many amenities within walking distance. Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions are within a 10-minute walk of the Centre, ensuring convenience.
Parking
The Centre offers 219 undercover parking spaces, including 9 designated disabled car parking bays. Access to the car park is via Sheridan Street. The car park operates from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays). Please be aware that overnight parking is not permitted.
Accommodation
We've partnered with nearby hotels to offer special rates for conference attendees. Contact Better Boards for details.
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