Two world wars, a global depression and the Cold War transformed the social fabric of Australia. For many teachers with a desire to make a better world for women and children, this meant action beyond the classroom. Presented by Dr Cheryl Griffin, this presentation looks at how prominent Victorian teacher and activist Doris McRae addressed social, industrial and political issues such as equal pay and employment opportunities for women.

What better defines a city than its street corners? A corner gives you a starting point, a destination and a place to turn. It’s furnished with pillar boxes, newsstands and tram stops, and lamp-posts for light and lounging. Where would you be likeliest to find a pub? At the corner, of course. And who better than Robyn Annear to usher you around the corners of Melbourne, and reveal their bizarre, baroque and mostly forgotten stories?

Experience the Western Treatment Plant at Werribee, and discover the historical and environmental importance of this fascinating site. The Western Treatment Plant was added to the Victorian Heritage Register in 2021, recognising its historical, archaeological and technical significance. The historic Western Treatment Plant in Werribee is a world leader in environmentally-friendly sewage treatment, and one of Victoria’s most unlikely hidden treasures.

A doctor, teacher, gardener and spy. These are four real-life Australians who attracted the attention of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO). But who were they and why was ASIO interested in them? What role did social and political activism have to play in this? Come along to find out more!