Cold-blooded killers, grief-stricken widows, famous artists, independent women with sharp minds and large fortunes and a cap doffed to Jane Austen’s 250th birthday.  Do you love historical crime fiction?  Top-shelf literary fiction? 

The first Launches at the Library for 2025 has it all!

Come hear the authors of Miss Caroline Bingley, Private Detective, Kelly Gardiner and Sharmini Kumar, along with the author of Diving, Falling, Kylie Mirmohamadi, as we celebrate the publication of these outstanding books, in conversation with Stella Prize winning novelist, Carrie Tiffany.

Launches at the Library are curated and hosted by Prof Clare Wright, Professor of Public Engagement, and supported by the Office of the Vice-Chancellor.

Light refreshments available. 

The School Locker will also be selling these books at the event. 

Catch up on previous Launches @ the Library via the Literary La Trobe podcast (wherever you get your podcasts from)

In this returning series of conversations, we invite authors to share how they interrogate tough topics in their writing lives. Mark Dapin and Clare Wright challenge some great Australian myths and their long-lasting hold on our identity. Hosted by Catherine McKinnon.

In his newest book Always Was, Always Will Be, Thomas Mayo investigates ‘what’s next?’ for reconciliation and justice in Australia after the failed Voice to Parliament referendum. Thomas speaks with Clare Wright about lessons from the past, a path towards the future, and the new generation of Indigenous leaders who are ready, resilient, and hopeful.

This event will be live streamed. Details for the Zoom event will be emailed to you after 8.00am AEST on the day of the event. If you have not received this information prior to the event please check your spam folder.

In 1963—a year of agitation for civil rights worldwide—the Yolŋu of northeast Arnhem Land created the Yirrkala Bark Petitions: Naku Dharuk. ‘The land grew a tongue’ and the land-rights movement was born. The final book in Clare Wright’s historical trilogy tells the story of how the people of Yirrkala changed the course of Australian Democracy. Hosted by Jock Serong.

Amy McQuire, Anna Spargo-Ryan (live stream) and Clare Wright

When some of the institutions fundamental to democracy are struggling both here and overseas, when it feels like progress is slipping and hard-won rights are being wound back, how can the power of writing show us a way forward? Amy McQuire, Clare Wright and Anna Spargo-Ryan offer ideas for working our way out of some of the wicked problems of our time, in discussion with chair Alice Grundy.

Professor Clare Wright discusses her latest work with Kerry O’Brien. Näku Dhäruk: The Bark Petitions is the story of a founding document in Australian democracy and the birth of the landrights movement.

Director's Choice: This session can be streamed at home for $15 as part of the Director's Choice series. Find out more and purchase livestream access HERE.

Clare Wright is an award-winning historian, author, broadcaster and public commentator who has worked in politics, academia and the media. She is currently Professor of History and Professor of Public Engagement at La Trobe University. Clare is the author of the bestselling Beyond the Ladies Lounge: Australia’s Female Publicans (2003) and The Forgotten Rebels of Eureka (2013). Her latest book is Ṉäku Dhäruk: The Bark Petitions. 

Kerry O’Brien is an Australian journalist based in Byron Bay. He is the former editor and host of The 7.30 Report and Four Corners on the ABC. Kerry has also been awarded six Walkley Awards during his career. 

In this special live recording of Hey History! host Axel Clark asks historians Clare and Anna how historical objects can help us learn history.

What can a piece of ochre tell us about Australia’s Deep Time History? Can an old gold pan help us to hear the past? We’ll look at how museums decide what objects to include in their collections, and how everyday objects all around us can link us to people from the past. You might even have a special object in your family from the past you’d like to tell us about!

Suitable for ages 8-12. Years 3-6

Step into the captivating world of history as Professor Clare Wright and Professor Frank Bongiorno come together for an illuminating conversation about Clare's latest book “Näku Dhäruk: The Bark Petitions” and her groundbreaking body of work.

Known for her sharp insights and evocative storytelling, Clare Wright has redefined how we view Australia's past. From the hidden stories of women who shaped the nation's identity to unearthing pivotal moments that echo into today, her work is a treasure trove of discovery. Most recently, Clare has been appointed the new Chair of the National Museum of Australia Council.

Joining Clare is Professor Frank Bongiorno, an esteemed historian renowned for his eloquent analyses of Australia's social and political evolution. Together, they’ll delve into the themes, challenges, and triumphs that have defined Clare's career, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her latest masterpiece, the final instalment of her Democracy Trilogy.

Expect thought-provoking dialogue, rich anecdotes, and a celebration of the power of history to inform the future. Whether you're a lifelong history enthusiast or curious about the stories that shape our world, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Come ready to be inspired, challenged, and deeply moved. Reserve your spot now and be part of this remarkable exchange between two titans of historical storytelling!

There will be a Q&A session following the presentation, then light refreshments.
MCH members $15; Concession (Gov’t support and full-time students) $15; Non-members $20

Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/CXZJR

Join award-winning author and professor of history Clare Wright in this free webinar discussing her landmark new book, Näku Dhäruk The Bark Petitions: How the people of Yirrkala changed the course of Australian democracy.

In 1963—a year of agitation for civil rights worldwide—the Yolŋu of northeast Arnhem Land created the Yirrkala Bark Petitions: Näku Dhäruk. ‘The land grew a tongue’ and the land-rights movement was born.

Näku Dhäruk is the story of a founding document in Australian democracy and the trailblazers who made it. It is also a pulsating picture of the ancient and enduring culture of Australia’s first peoples.

And it is a masterful, groundbreaking history.

Clare Wright’s Democracy Trilogy began with The Forgotten Rebels of Eureka and continued with You Daughters of Freedom. It concludes with this compulsively readable account of a momentous episode in our shared story.

Australia's Biggest Book Club is brought to you by the Australia Institute.

La Trobe University Press is delighted to invite you to celebrate the book launch of Robert Manne: A Political Memoir on Thursday 28 November 2024.

The event is supported by Readings and will be hosted by La Trobe Professor of Public Engagement, Professor Clare Wright OAM, featuring guest speakers Glyn Davis, Raimond Gaita, Martin Krygier and Anne Manne.

Date: Thursday 28 November

Time: 6.30pm (Doors open at 6.00pm with light refreshments)

Location: CO.AS.IT.,199 Faraday St Carlton VIC 3053

RSVP: Tickets are limited - please confirm your attendance by emailing publicity@blackincbooks.com by Friday 15 November.

**Please note: You must RSVP to attend this event.

Join us for a screening of Bob Brown’s documentary The Giants which explores the intertwined fates of trees and humans. Followed by a Q&A with Bob Brown, co-directors and Clare Wright.

From the land-rights movement, to Treaty borne from the ashes of an unsuccessful referendum, Clare Wright (Naku Dharuk The Bark Petitions) and Inala Cooper (Marrul) discuss the long, powerful history of First Nations sovereignty and activism. With Tom Griffiths they will discuss the Yirrkala Bark Petitions and what this founding document can teach us about Australian democracy as we journey towards Treaty. 

Join Clare Wright and Thomas Mayo as they discuss Naku Dharuk The Bark Petitions.

ABOUT THE BOOK

In 1963—a year of agitation for civil rights worldwide—the Yolŋu of northeast Arnhem Land created the Yirrkala Bark Petitions: Naku Dharuk. ‘The land grew a tongue’ and the land-rights movement was born.

Naku Dharuk is the story of a founding document in Australian democracy and the trailblazers who made it. It is also a pulsating picture of the ancient and enduring culture of Australia’s first peoples. 

And it is a masterful, groundbreaking history.

Clare Wright’s Democracy Trilogy began with The Forgotten Rebels of Eureka and continued with You Daughters of Freedom. It concludes with this compulsively readable account of a momentous episode in our shared story.  

Clare Wright’s Democracy Trilogy is completed with the story of how the people of Yirrkala changed the course of Australian Democracy.

In 1963—a year of agitation for civil rights worldwide—the Yolŋu of northeast Arnhem Land created the Yirrkala Bark Petitions: Naku Dharuk. ‘The land grew a tongue’ and the land-rights movement was born.

Naku Dharuk is the story of a founding document in Australian democracy and the trailblazers who made it. It is also a pulsating picture of the ancient and enduring culture of Australia’s first peoples. And it is a masterful, groundbreaking history.

Clare Wright’s Democracy Trilogy began with The Forgotten Rebels of Eureka and continued with You Daughters of Freedom. It concludes with this compulsively readable account of a momentous episode in our shared story.

Clare Wright will be in conversation with Associate Professor Julie McIntyre.

Join us for wine, snacks, and great chat at the launch of Clare Wright OAM's latest book, Naku Dharuk The Bark Petitions: How the People of Yirrkala Changed the Course of Australian Democracy. Clare will be in conversation with Professor Jane Lydon discussing her book already described as 'A masterpiece' (Thomas Mayo). 

About the Book

In 1963—a year of agitation for civil rights worldwide—the Yolŋu of northeast Arnhem Land created the Yirrkala Bark Petitions: Näku Dhäruk. ‘The land grew a tongue’ and the land-rights movement was born.

Näku Dhäruk is the story of a founding document in Australian democracy and the trailblazers who made it. It is also a pulsating picture of the ancient and enduring culture of Australia’s first peoples. 

And it is a masterful, groundbreaking history.

Before British colonisation, there were more than 250 languages spoken on this continent. Less than half survive today, and most of them are under threat. In a live episode of their hit podcast, Archive Fever, historians Yves Rees and Clare Wright are joined by special guests Cheryl Leavy and Paul Girrawah House to discuss orality as archive: how language helps us know the past and why the work of language revitalisation – bringing languages back to life – is so vital to the future.

Christos Tsiolkas is one of Australia’s most beloved and provocative novelists, and he is beloved because of his provocations. That’s a rare form of admiration in this tall poppy chopping country. Christos’s latest book, The In Between, is a love story; a tender tale of mid-life solace. It’s his most gentle, earnest book to date, and it may be his best. In this special event, Christos reflects on his life on - and off - the page with friend, and fellow Melburnian, Clare Wright.  

How did Australians come to have a political voice? Stella Prize-winning historian, Clare Wright, has spent more than two decades tracing this question through artefacts and archives. The result is a groundbreaking, three-volume masterpiece - The Democracy Trilogy - a milestone in Australian political storytelling. Join Clare and Barrie Cassidy, as they discuss the latest and final volume of the trilogy - Näku Dhäruk - the tale of the Yirrkala Bark Petitions, founding documents in Australian democracy.

In the early 1850s, the discovery of gold in Victoria drew thousands to places like Ballarat in search of fortune. Amidst strict licensing fees and terrible living conditions – and as the gap grows between the haves and the have-nots – prospector Peter Lalor (Chips Rafferty) assumes leadership of the Ballarat Reform League and leads a rebellion against the state government. 

At the time of production, Eureka Stockade ranked among the most expensive films shot in Australia. This ‘Australian Western’ contributed to keeping the legend of the Eureka Stockade alive in the national memory.  

Presented in partnership with Canberra Writers Festival. 

Join us for a post-screening discussion with Professor Clare Wright OAM, award-winning historian, broadcaster and author of The Forgotten Rebels of Eureka. The discussion will be moderated by The Australian film critic Stephen Romei. 

Presented on 35mm film prints from the NFSA collection.  

Join us for an event featuring acclaimed author Clare Wright OAM, Patron of the PMI Victorian History Library. She will discuss her latest book, which delves into the pivotal year of 1963. During this time, leaders of the Yolngu clans, in collaboration with their white allies, embarked on an unprecedented political journey that led to the presentation of four Bark Petitions to the Federal Parliament. <> "Naku Dharuk The Bark Petitions" offers a compelling narrative of a foundational document in Australian democracy and the individuals behind it. Clare Wright's meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring to life the rich and enduring culture of Australia’s first peoples, highlighting their ongoing resilience and influence.

Bookings are essential.

Respected historians Clare Wright and Mark Dapin describe the excitement and challenges of diving into historical records to expose truths that often make people feel uncomfortable about the past, as explored in Clare’s new book Naku Dharuk The Bark Petitions and Mark’s Lest: Australian War Myths. With Hilary Harper.

Clare Wright, author of Naku Dharuk The Bark Petitions, chats with historian Anna Clark.

Anna's new book is a personal account of her love of ‘the catch’ and an exploration of how fishing became a national pastime. Anna delves into favourite fishing spots, the passing down of fishing know-how, Indigenous fishing practices, and why we love ‘throwing a line’.

Join us to hear Clare Wright in conversation about her latest book, Naku Dharuk: The Bark Petitions.

This is the story of a founding document in Australian democracy and the people who made it. It paints a vibrant picture of the profound and ancient culture of Australia's first peoples, in all its continuing vigour.

Clare Wright's groundbreaking Democracy Trilogy began with The Forgotten Rebels of Eureka (workers' rights) and continued with You Daughters of Freedom (women's rights). After a decade of research and community consultation, it concludes, fittingly, with a fascinating and compulsively readable account of a momentous but little-known episode in our shared political history.

Tickets are $10 per person, redeemable on purchases of Naku Dharuk: The Bark Petitions on the night of the event.

Please book here.

Näku Dhäruk is the story of a founding document in Australian democracy and the trailblazers who made it. 

Join us for a drink to celebrate the Melbourne launch of Clare's book at the Wild Geese Hotel, upstairs on level 1 in the Celtic Club Members Bar. 

Featuring special guests and a performance by Yirrmal.

RVSP essential. 

This launch is supported by Maurice Blackburn Melbourne. 

Discover a ground-breaking episode in Australia's First Nations history with author Clare Wright, joined in-conversation with Paul Daley.

How the people of Yirrkala changed the course of Australian democracy.

In 1963—a year of agitation for civil rights worldwide—the Yolŋu of northeast Arnhem Land created the Yirrkala Bark Petitions: Näku Dhäruk. ‘The land grew a tongue’ and the land-rights movement was born.

Näku Dhäruk is the story of a founding document in Australian democracy and the trailblazers who made it. It is also a pulsating picture of the ancient and enduring culture of Australia’s first peoples, and a masterful, ground-breaking piece of history. Näku Dhäruk is also the culmination of Clare's Democracy Trilogy that began with The Forgotten Rebels of Eureka and continued with You Daughters of Freedom.

Discover this compulsively readable account of a momentous episode in our shared story with author Clare Wright, who will be discussing her newest book in-conversation with fellow writer Paul Daley.

About the author

Professor Clare Wright OAM is an award-winning historian, author, broadcaster and public commentator who has worked in politics, academia and the media. Clare is currently Professor of History and Professor of Public Engagement at La Trobe University. In 2020, Clare was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for ‘services to literature and to historical research’.

Paul Daley is a multi-award winning journalist and an author of fiction and non-fiction books. He has been a finalist in major Australian literary awards including the Prime Minister’s History Prize and the NIB Award. He is a feature writer and columnist for `The Guardian where he largely writes about national identity, history and Indigenous issues. His most recent book is `Jesustown (Allen & Unwin, 2022), a critically praised novel about Australian frontier violence, anthropology and cultural theft.

Organised in partnership with Constant Reader Bookshop.

Näku Dhäruk is the story of a founding document in Australian democracy and the trailblazers who made it. It is also a pulsating picture of the ancient and enduring culture of Australia’s first peoples.

And it is a masterful, groundbreaking history.

On Tuesday 8th October at The Royal Oak, Balmain, join Clare Wright in conversation with Megan Davis.

Copies of Näku Dhäruk, The Bark Petitions will be available for purchase at the venue through Roaring Stories, with Wright signing copies after the discussion.

With Kip Williams' production of Picture of Dorian Grey captivating the world stage (and the screen rights snapped up by Cate Blanchett), a new animated feature film adaptation of The Canterville Ghost wowing children and TikTok claiming Oscar Wilde as the world’s first influencer, it’s fair to say that the man who wrote “There is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about” is having a moment.

In September 2024, The Australian Ballet is embarking on a monumental new ballet based on the life and writings of Oscar Wilde. As part of its longstanding partnership with The Australian Ballet, La Trobe University is launching a range of public initiatives/activity around the Melbourne Oscar© season to highlight the scientific, education and creative research links between the two organisations.

Curated by Prof Clare Wright OAM, this public event will explore the cultural influences on Oscar Wilde’s own literary output (particularly his philhellenism, a love affair with classical antiquity) as well as the ways that his work has impacted later generations of writers, artists, critics and curators. This discussion is also a chance to reflect on who the lesser-known literary heroes of the modern gay rights movement might have been. And who are the idols of today’s young LGBTQI+ people?

To coincide with Oscar©, La Trobe is also producing a book, The Importance of Being Oscar, making public the historical consultation a team of La Trobe experts in history, sexuality, English and creative writing provided to The Australian Ballet to bring Oscar Wilde’s life, times and works to life onstage with integrity and compassion. This free book offers a new level of insight into Oscar Wilde’s story, and a copy is included with your ticket. To receive your copy, please remember to add postage details at checkout.

Books from La Trobe authors will be available to purchase from Readings Books at the event or can be purchased online from Fiction — Readings Books.

Ticket sale proceeds will be donated to Pride Foundation Australia for support of queer asylum seekers.

Doors open 6.00pm for a 6.30pm start. 

What happens when a veteran interviewer becomes the interviewee? Join historian and author Professor Clare Wright as she turns the spotlight on political journalist, podcaster and television presenter, Annabel Crabb in the Festival’s intimate opening event.

Includes special performances by acclaimed poets Jazz Money and Sara M Saleh.

Presented by La Trobe University.

Join us to hear Ariane Beeston in conversation with Clare Wright.

Ariane Beeston is a child protection worker and newly registered psychologist when she gives birth to her first child – and very quickly begins to experience scary breaks with reality. Her memoir Because I'm Not Myself, You See is a candid, often humorous memoir of motherhood and madness, interwoven with research and expert commentary. It's the story of the impossible pressures placed on new mothers and how quickly things can go wrong during 'the happiest time of your life'. It's also about life on the other side of serious illness, trying to make sense of what doesn't make sense, and finding humour, beauty and joy when things don't go according to plan.

Claire Tonti will also perform songs from her indie folk album, Matrescence. Laugh, cry and stomp your feet with this celebration of the messy, complex, beautiful and sometimes brutal transition to motherhood. Tonti is a songwriter and podcaster. She released her debut album Matrescence in February 2023 with sold out shows both in her hometown Melbourne & across the UK and Ireland. 11 songs about love, loss, identity, motherhood, creative freedom & overcoming birth trauma.

Professor Clare Wright OAM is an award-winning historian, author, broadcaster and public commentator who has worked in politics, academia and the media.

Free, but bookings are essential.

Please book here.

Join two of the most admired writers in Australia today, Booker Prize–winning Richard Flanagan and Miles Franklin–winning Anna Funder as they discuss writing in the margins between fiction and non-fiction, history and memoir, personal and public.

Historian Clare Wright leads this conversation, examining their genre-bending masterpieces. Through a hypnotic melding of dream, history, science and memory, Question 7 traces the ripples of history through Richard’s own family and is described by Anna as holding “a life between its covers”. Wifedom is Anna’s “counterfiction”, an attempt to write Eileen O'Shaughnessy, George Orwell’s first wife, back into the narrative from which history has so carefully excised her. Not only a New York Times Notable Book of 2023, Wifedom also described by Geraldine Brooks as “Simply, a masterpiece”.