23 Countries, One Shared Purpose: Highlights from COINN Darwin 2026

When 23 nations gather in the tropical capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, something extraordinary happens.

From 25 to 28 August 2026, neonatal nurses, researchers, educators, and healthcare trailblazers converged for the 12th Council of International Neonatal Nurses (COINN) Conference in Darwin, Australia. Bound by the theme "Transforming Neonatal Care: Innovate, Influence, Inspire," delegates spent four unforgettable days sharing cutting-edge research, building cross-border friendships, and shaping the future of global newborn care.

It wasn’t just a conference, it was a powerful reminder of what happens when a global community unites for the world's most vulnerable patients.

Four Days of Hands-On Learning & Unforgettable Moments

The energy was palpable right from day one. Tuesday launched with an intensive Workshop Day, where delegates rolled up their sleeves for deep dives into critical practice areas:

• Neonatal skin integrity and advanced wound care

• Airway management and mechanical ventilation

• Evidence-based nutrition and lactation support

• Neurodevelopmental care and quality improvement

And because no Australian gathering is complete without a memorable welcome, delegates wrapped up day one mingling alongside salt-water crocodiles at the famous Crocosaurus Cove Welcome Reception!

Across the remaining three days, the venue buzzed with high-impact plenary talks, concurrent sessions, and interactive poster galleries. From digital health innovations and perinatal mental health to navigating care in resource-limited settings, every session hammered home one vital truth: Partnerships are essential to ensuring better outcomes for newborns and their families.

Unveiling a Bold New Identity for COINN

One of the highlights in Darwin was the official unveiling of COINN’s brand-new visual identity.

More than just a logo refresh, the new design captures the heart of neonatal nursing through four core elements:

• The Mother: Symbolizing care, compassion, and the family-centered philosophy that anchors neonatal practice.

• The Baby: Representing hope, vulnerability, and our collective commitment to life’s earliest moments.

• The Globe: Reflecting an international network where clinical knowledge and advocacy know no borders.

• The Circle: A powerful motif of unity, protection, and strength in global collaboration.

Together, these elements signal an exciting new era for COINN, one rooted in compassion, professionalism, and unified global advocacy.

Leadership Shifts & Honoring a Legacy

Darwin marked a pivotal chapter for COINN’s board as new leaders stepped forward to guide the organization's future:

• Tracey Jones (UK) was announced as President-Elect, commencing her term on 1 January 2027 to ensure a seamless leadership transition.

• Patrick Too will become the new Vice President of COINN.

• Five New Board Members were welcomed to broaden global representation: Helle Haslund Thomsen (Denmark), Laura Maguire (UK), Breidge Boyle (UK), Shamshad Kousar Chaudhary (Pakistan), and Nicodem Komba (Tanzania).

A Heartfelt Farewell to Professor Karen Walker

The neonatal community paused for a standing ovation to celebrate Professor Karen Walker, honoring her remarkable seven-year tenure as COINN President. Under her guidance, COINN grew into a formidable global force.

To ensure her impact endures, the Board officially established the Professor Karen Walker Scholarship, designed to support emerging nursing educators, researchers, and leaders for years to come.

"As I step away from the role of President, I do so with thanks to all who served on the board with me and my colleagues that have shared my  journey. It has been a privilege to be president of COINN for the last seven years, and to witness the growth of COINN. As president my legacy is not the position I held, but the nurses  that we’ve  inspired and the differences that we have made globally. I could not be happier about what we achieved and where COINN is now situated globally. I am truly honoured by this scholarship. Thank you all.

Prof. Karen Walker, Outgoing COINN President.

A huge congratulations was also extended to Professor Agnes Van Den Hoogan, who was named Distinguished Fellow of COINN 2026 for her outstanding contributions to COINN and to the field of neonatal nursing.

Sunset Celebrations & Looking Ahead to 2029

After four days of intense learning, delegates enjoyed the iconic Darwin Sailing Club for the official Conference Dinner. Set against an Australian sunset, it was a night of celebration, laughter, and toast-worthy achievements.

While saying goodbye to Darwin was tough, the energy turned to pure excitement as the destination for the next international conference was officially announced...

Destination 2029: Japan!

COINN will be heading to Utsunomiya, Tochigi in March 2029.

Thank You, Darwin!

To every speaker, sponsor, exhibitor, organizer, and delegate who traveled across the world to join us: thank you. The research shared and the connections forged in Darwin will ripple through neonatal units globally for years to come.

23 countries. One global community. One shared purpose.

See you in Japan in 2029!