Join us for thought provoking discussions at the Woodend Winter Arts Festival

The 20^th edition of the Woodend Winter Arts Festival is set to deliver one of its most engaging Words & Ideas programs to date. There will be author talks, political debates, a deep dive into Australia’s energy transformation and a discussion on the incredible healing power of music. We gain an insight into the incredible life and legacy of Jane Austen with her great-niece, Caroline Jane Knight. Plus more! 

Further details about each of the Words & Ideas events happening during the Woodend Winter Arts Festival can be found below.

Act fast and secure your tickets now—these events are expected to sell out.

William Morris – The Work of Ten Men
Lecture by Christopher Menz

Join art consultant and former director of the Art Gallery of South Australia, Christopher Menz, as he leads a lively discussion on the works of one of the greatest pattern designers of all time, William Morris (1834–96). A poet, novelist, artist, and socialist, Morris remains enduringly popular, most famous for his superb textiles and wallpapers. His London design firm Morris & Company (1861–1940) was one of the most successful and progressive in Victorian Britain with clientele from around the world, including in Australia.

When: Saturday 7 June at 10.30am
Where: Woodend Community Centre

The Healing Power of Music
Robyn Williams and Professor Catherine Crock

Discover the incredible power of music – which can heal both the mind and body. Its universal appeal makes it a powerful tool for relaxation, resilience, and emotional expression across all cultures and generations. It can ease stress, help manage pain, reduce anxiety, and even boost cognitive function, offering comfort when you need it most. Whether it’s a soothing melody or an energising beat, music provides a natural and accessible form of healing therapy.

This thought-provoking discussion will be led by science journalist and broadcaster Robyn Williams (best known for hosting The Science Show on ABC Radio National) and Professor Catherine Crock AM, the founder of the Hush Foundation, which uses music and the arts to improve healthcare experiences.

 When: Saturday 7 June at 12pm
Where: Woodend Community Centre

My Great Aunt Jane Austen: Celebrating 250 years
Caroline Knight

Join us in celebrating the incredible life and legacy of Jane Austen with her great niece, Caroline Jane Knight! In honour of Jane's 250th birthday, step into her world through the eyes of her family. Caroline, Jane Austen’s fifth great niece, will share personal memories of growing up at Chawton House, the ancestral estate where Jane lived, wrote, and published her most celebrated novels. As the last of Jane’s nieces to be raised within these historic walls, Caroline offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the place and family that shaped Jane’s literary genius and continues to inspire fans worldwide. 

When: Saturday 7 June at 4pm
Where: Woodend Community Centre

Australia’s Energy Transformation in the Regions
Dietmar Tourbier & Peter McTaggart

 Join Dr Dietmar Tourbier, the Director of Energy at the CSIRO, as he leads a discussion on Australia's journey to a net-zero emissions future. As we explore the right pathways, technologies, costs, and the role of regions, we'll delve into the findings of a 2024 CSIRO, which revealed strong support for a shift to renewables. Despite this interest, many Australians lack knowledge about large-scale renewable projects. This discussion will address the need for clear, transparent information and holistic community support during the energy transition.

When: Sunday 8 June at 10.30am
Where: Woodend Community Centre

Fearless Beatrice Faust: Sex, Feminism & Body Politics
Judith Brett, interviewed by Sally Warhaft

Join award-winning biographer Judith Brett and Sally Warhaft as they discuss the life and legacy of Beatrice Faust, a transformative feminist activist, writer, and intellectual. Faust founded the Women’s Electoral Lobby in Melbourne in 1972 and campaigned for abortion law reform. Don't miss this compelling portrait of a woman who refused to be a victim and was a force to be reckoned with.

When: Sunday 8 June at 12.30pm
Where: Woodend Community Centre

Vortex
Rodney Hall & John Scott

Join us for a discussion on Rodney Hall's latest magisterial novel, Vortex, set in 1954 Brisbane during Queen Elizabeth II's first royal tour. This novel, resonant with contemporary concerns, showcases Hall's ambition and talent. A two-time Miles Franklin Award winner and national treasure, Hall's works have been widely published and translated. He will be joined by joined by John A Scott, author of eighteen internationally published books. Don't miss this chance to explore the foundations of the 21st century through the lens of one of Australia's foremost authors.

When: Sunday 8 June at 2.30pm
Where: Woodend Community Centre

A Garden and a Library: what more could you need?
Michael McCoy 

TV host and garden writer Michael McCoy will explore evocative references to gardens in fiction, the literary quality of early garden writing, and his personal journey through the interplay of reading, writing, and gardens. A Woodend local, Michael is a renowned garden designer, writer, broadcaster, and host of ABC TV’s Dream Gardens. His design work has been featured internationally, and he has authored three books on gardens and garden design. 

When: Sunday 8 June at 4:30pm
Where: Woodend Community Centre

Sheila Drummond Memorial Lecture “Hot off the Press”
Margaret Simons in discussion with Don Watson and Jim Middleton

Join award-winning journalist and author Margaret Simons as she discusses issues in politics and journalism, joined by Don Watson and Jim Middleton. Margaret is a journalism academic and board member of the Scott Trust, owner of The Guardian. Don Watson is a renowned author and historian, while Jim Middleton is a veteran journalist and former foreign correspondent. Don't miss this engaging event with some of Australia’s brightest and most insightful minds.

When: Monday 9 June at 10am
Where: Woodend Community Centre

The Genius of Nijinsky
Jill Rivers 

A tale of brilliance and despair, Polish/Russian dancer Nijinsky's story is one of artistic success shadowed by mental health struggles. Yet Jill Rivers, A New Zealand-born writer and cultural consultant, is convinced that Nijinsky was way ahead of his times — at the vanguard of Western Modernism in multiple art forms — movement, literature, and arts. Join Jill as she leads a fascinating and insightful discussion.

When: Monday 9 June at 12pm
Where: Woodend Community Centre

The Woodend Winter Arts Festival is a registered charity. All donations over $2 are tax deductible. Donate here or visit our website for more information on how to donate.