Big Ideas

In this enlightening discussion, Professor Di Otto, a pioneer in establishing women's shelters, shares the history of Australia's women's refuge movement. Bobbie Townsend recounts her courageous escape from an abusive partner, while Vivien Johnson reflects on her founding role in the Marrickville Refuge Collective. They delve into the early activism that transformed societal attitudes towards domestic violence and highlight the importance of collective empowerment. Ludo McFerrin facilitates heartfelt insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by these extraordinary women.

Costa Georgiadis, host of ABC TV's Gardening Australia, and Andrew Cox, CEO of the Invasive Species Council, dive deep into Australia's battle with invasive species. They discuss the impact of feral animals like cats and cane toads on native biodiversity. Beyond the usual suspects, they highlight lesser-known threats like smooth newts and red fire ants. The conversation emphasizes the need for community involvement and individual responsibility in conservation efforts, advocating for active stewardship of Australia's unique landscapes.

Join writer Benjamin Law, known for his witty cultural critiques, and artist Lindy Lee, who explores her Chinese ancestry through Zen philosophies, as they dive into the fascinating world of portraiture. They discuss how portraits reflect identity and power dynamics, using examples like Vincent Namatjira's controversial piece of Gina Rinehart. The conversation also touches on the role of representation for marginalized groups, the colonial legacy in art, and personal journeys of authenticity in a postmodern landscape. A thought-provoking exploration awaits!

A freckle-faced kid from Bondi, Pauline Menczer fought the entrenched sexism of the pro-surfing scene to became women's world surfing champion and pave the way...er, waves..for girl grommets today. But all the while she was also fighting another battle inside her own body’s cells. Ironwoman and surf lifesaving champion Bonnie Hancock became the fastest and youngest person, and the first Australian woman, to circumnavigate Australia on a small surf ski, solo. What possessed her to paddle 12,700 kilometres through crocodile and shark-populated waters, mega-waves, and worse? Pauline and Bonnie join Big Ideas' host Natasha Mitchell for a conversation that might inspire you to chase your dreams, big or small.This event was organised and hosted by the Queenscliffe Literary Festival. SpeakersPauline MenczerWomen's world surfing champion Author, Surf Like a Woman (2024)Bonnie HancockAthelete, professional Ironwoman, dieticianAuthor, The Girl Who Touched the Stars (2024)Ambassador, Gotcha4Life FoundationFurther informationGirls Can't Surf documentaryAustralian Surfing Awards Surfing Hall of Fame 

In this engaging discussion, Petr Pavel, the President of the Czech Republic and former NATO Military Committee chair, shares his insights on the Ukraine war and its impact on global security. He argues that supporting Ukraine is vital for maintaining sovereignty and freedoms worldwide. Pavel emphasizes the rise of global conflicts, the need for democratic unity against authoritarianism, and the lessons learned from post-communist leadership. He also reflects on the delicate balance of international responsibilities, particularly in the context of China and its stance on the conflict.

Viet Thanh Nguyen, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and refugee from Vietnam, shares his powerful insights alongside Andre Dao, an award-winning writer. They discuss the emotional weight of memory and trauma within Vietnamese families. Topics include the challenges of recounting personal and familial histories, and how language shapes identity amidst displacement. They also explore the delicate balance between artistic expression and political activism while tracing Nguyen's journey through love, loss, and the enduring impact of war.

Nour Haydar, Senior Audio Producer and co-host of Guardian Australia's Full Story podcast, brings valuable insights from her journey as a journalist. She discusses the complexities of reporting on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives. Haydar shares personal childhood trauma and highlights the ethical responsibilities of media in covering sensitive topics. The conversation explores the consequences of underrepresentation and advocates for authentic representation of Palestinian voices amid the chaos of war.

Richard Creswick, a former ABC journalist and Cyclone Tracy survivor, shares gripping personal accounts alongside historian Derek Pugh and curator Jared Archibald. They explore the chaos of evacuation, emotional trauma, and the community's resilience in the cyclone's aftermath. The discussion highlights powerful stories of survival, from a young boy's harrowing experience to the hard-fought journey of recovery and reconstruction in Darwin. Together, they reflect on the lasting impact of this disaster and the strength found in shared memories.

Dr. Scott Avery, a profoundly deaf Worimi man and Professor of Indigenous Disability and Wellbeing, discusses the intersection of disability, identity, and leadership. He shares personal stories of resilience while navigating deafness and the challenges of stigma. Alongside Christina Ryan, they emphasize honoring past disability leaders and the importance of inclusive advocacy. They also explore systemic issues like ableism, urging collective responsibility for meaningful change. The conversation culminates in celebrating disability leadership and the global Deaf Pride movement.

Join author Dave Witty, who reveals how trees narrate human history, and science writer Fiona McMillan-Webster, discussing the remarkable legacy of seeds, including a 2,000-year-old date palm. Satyajit Das shares his adventures in ecotourism and the pressing challenges of wildlife preservation. Together, they explore the intricate link between natural beings and human stories, from indigenous histories to the urgent need for conservation. Expect captivating tales that blend science, personal narratives, and a deep appreciation for our interconnectedness with nature.