Ithaka Lectures 2025

The lectures of 2025 are already underway as this author writes, with a most inspiring presentation from Dr Richard Harris, the renowned anaesthetist and cave diver who led the rescue in the Tham Luang caves in 2019.

Commencing in 2023, the lectures allow the community to hear from professionals at the forefront of their subject areas, challenging the audience to consider a range of perspectives over the course of the year. Running between 6:00pm and 7:00pm in the Alastair Mackerras Theatre, attendees are able to enjoy a stimulating presentation and ask questions of the various personalities. Some presenters run book signings after the lecture or are available for a brief meet and greet.

Pictured in header: Ms Chloe Robson, Dr Richard Harris and Mrs Becky Lovelock and pictured here Dr Richard Harris delivering his presentation

Wednesday 12 March – The Hon Julie Bishop

A former politician who served as Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2013 to 2018 and Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party from 2007 to 2018. She was the Member of Parliament for Curtin from 1998 to 2019 and is currently the Chancellor of the Australian National University. In conversation, Ms Bishop regaled the audience with stories of her time in office, inspiring insights into leadership and thoughts on Australia’s current position in global politics. As noted on the evening, we could have listened to her all night.

Wednesday 7 May – Professor Alan Duffy

British-Australian astrophysicist and science communicator. He is a Professor at Swinburne University of Technology and Lead Scientist at the Royal Institution of Australia. His research focuses on using supercomputers to model galaxy formation and understand dark matter. He is also a prominent media personality.

Wednesday 4 June – Mr Alastair MacGibbon

Australia’s leading cybersecurity expert and Chief Strategy Officer at CyberCX. With a 15-year career as a Federal Agent in the Australian Federal Police, he established the High Tech Crime Centre. He has held senior roles, including eSafety Commissioner and National Cyber Security Adviser.

Wednesday 6 August – Dr Theodore Ell

An Honorary Lecturer at the Australian National University, specialising in literature. His research spans Australian, English and Italian literature. He is also an award winning poet and author, known for his book Lebanon Days and his poetry collection Beginning in Sight.

Thursday 11 September – Dr Fiona Kerr

A renowned expert in human connectivity and neuroscience. She is the founder of The NeuroTech Institute and an Honorary Lecturer at the University of Adelaide. Her research focuses on the intersection of neuroscience, technology and ethical practice, aiming to enhance human technology partnerships.

Wednesday 22 October – Professor Jioji Ravulo

Chair of Social Work and Policy Studies at the University of Sydney. His research focuses on mental health, youth development and decoloniality. He is also an Adjunct Professor at the University of the South Pacific, supporting social work education and policy development across the region.