Although we have a female Prime Minister, and have had five female Premiers – and many women cabinet ministers – why does Australia still have a society that dwells on the appearance and domestic arrangements of our female politicians? Dr Meredith Burgmann doesn’t know all the answers but she certainly has opinions.
Do you have fond memories of rolling Jaffas down the cinema aisles, of attempting to tear your Minties wrapper into the longest strip possible, or getting Fantales stuck between your teeth? Dr Lisa Murray uncovers the history of food manufacturing in the suburbs of Redfern, Alexandria, Waterloo and Surry Hills, reminding us that Sydney has long been a place of industry and production.
Department stores like Anthony Hordern & Sons, Mark Foys, Farmers and Bebarfalds were once household names in Sydney, attracting huge numbers to the city. However by the 1960s and 1970s they (and their furniture store cousins) had almost totally disappeared from the city. What happened to them?
Can Obama win the 2012 US Election? Obama’s term as President has been characterised by contrasts. His election was met with hope and high expectations, but his national approval rating hit an all-time low in late 2011. What are Obama’s chances of re-engaging the voters who turned out in droves to elect him in 2008? Will they stay home, disillusioned, or will they support Obama’s record in a very challenging financial and political environment?
In 1858, only 23 listings for Pitt St were for women. But is this the full story? Catherine Bishop reveals the many women who ran businesses and contributed to Sydney’s economy.
**NB: This talk is now on Monday, 18 Feb** Peter FitzSimons brings to life the Eureka Stockade, the events which caused it and changes to Australia’s societal fabric that occurred after the battle.
Catherine Bishop returns to SMSA to explore how the everyday objects we find in museums tell stories of the lives of women in the 19th century.
**WAIT LIST ONLY** Historian and film-maker Peter Barton reveals that The Battle of Fromelles, Australia’s worst military disaster, did not unfold the way we have been led to believe.
Join historian Babette Smith as she explains how the research for her book The Luck of the Irish reveals that the reaction of ordinary prisoners to the convict system was crucial to creating the Australian working class.
Carmel Bendon takes us on a journey back in time to explore medieval life and society.
Join Ian Scanlon as he shares his journeys around Australia with a group of historic car club members, and get inspiration for your next travel adventure.
For COSHA, Kieran Hannan tells the story of little known attempt by a group of London radicals to overthrow the British government and change Britain into a people’s republic and ‘free’ Ireland.
SMSA (Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts)
