Kerrie O’Brien

In this discussion, Kerrie O’Brien, a Senior culture writer known for her incisive commentary, dives deep into the chaos that erupted at the Bendigo Writers Festival. A controversial code of conduct sparked a mass exodus of nearly 60% of writers, revealing tensions between free speech and perceived censorship. Kerrie explores how this debacle highlighted the struggle to engage in nuanced conversations about complex issues, particularly regarding Israel and Gaza. She reflects on the urgent need for open dialogue in a climate often stifled by fear and misinformation.