Talks and workshops on everything from climate change to industry policy and the arts to Australia’s place in the world will be held Friday and Saturday February 15 and 16 from 10am to 5pm at the Mullum Ex-Services Club, Dalley Street, Mullumbimby.
Federal candidate, lawyer and comedian Mark Swivel says it’s an opportunity to think through how to rebuild our Commonwealth and to produce ‘an action plan for our 2019 election.’
He says, ‘Together presents a challenge to Australia – disruption is everywhere except politics – so let’s change that. Our majors don’t own our government, we do. And we need to restore it to its role as a force for positive change.’
Headline speakers include Belinda Kinkead, engineer and director of LO3 Energy Australia, who will speak on energy policy and climate change. Also appearing will be professor Patrick Keyzer, head of LaTrobe Law School, who will speak on human rights and the world we want to live in; performer and creator of Wonderbabes Kate McDowell will speak on her life in the arts and funding a future.
Macquarie academic and muso professor Julian Knowles will also speak on ‘making sense of higher education,’ while broadcaster Mick O’Regan will speak on journalism and democracy.
Entertainment
Mark says, ‘It’ll be fun – especially on Friday night when we’re entertained by Bec Melrose, winner of RAW Comedy 2018 and Pinky Beecroft, ex-Machine Gun Fellatio frontman.’
‘But this is serious, Mum – members will be engaged in policy debates and developing strategy and tactics for the coming campaign.’
‘Together is a new political force, part of the new independent wave that will change #auspol and our “national conversation” at the 2019 federal election.
Policy platform
‘Together has applied for registration with the Australian Electoral Commission and will campaign at least in the Senate for NSW.
‘We have over 700 members, a policy platform, a motivated committee and a militia of volunteers.’