Real estate professionals from across Australia gathered in Albury-Wodonga from 5–7 August for First National Real Estate’s 2026 Rural & Regional Muster, sharing ideas, experiences and practical strategies that will help rural agencies better serve their local communities.
The annual event brought together members who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of regional and rural property markets. While the programme featured speakers from agriculture, manufacturing and elite sport, the Muster’s greatest value lay in the conversations between members and the willingness to openly share knowledge that can be applied in local markets across the country.
Across the conference, delegates explored topics including innovation, business leadership, resilience and high performance, with each session prompting discussion about how those lessons can be applied to rural real estate businesses. The exchange of ideas continued well beyond the formal presentations, with members sharing practical marketing initiatives, business experiences and local market knowledge throughout the event.
Members also demonstrated their commitment to regional communities through the Rural Muster Charity Auction, raising $25,000 for the First National Foundation, $10,000 of which will be donated to Yes Unlimited – a local charity that aims to end homelessness. Delegates donated unique items from their own regions, continuing a tradition that has become one of the event’s highlights.
Rural Chapter Chair, Rohan Ibbs, said the Rural & Regional Muster reflected the cooperative spirit that has always underpinned First National.
‘One of the greatest strengths of our network is that our members are always willing to help one another. They openly share ideas, experiences and practical solutions that can make a genuine difference in another rural business.
‘No two rural markets are exactly alike, but many of the challenges we face are remarkably similar. Learning from colleagues who have already found successful approaches allows everyone to return home with fresh ideas and greater confidence.
‘The formal sessions are only part of the story. Some of the most valuable discussions happen between presentations, over meals and during the field day, where members openly share what’s working in their own businesses. That’s what makes our Rural & Regional Muster such a valuable event each year.’
The Muster concluded with a field day through north-east Victoria, giving delegates the opportunity to experience local producers and businesses while continuing the conversations and relationships that define First National’s Rural Chapter.