Good food, new company and thoughtful conversation are on the menu when The Common Table launches at Saltbush Bar & Grill in Ballina on Wednesday 14 October 2026.
Created by political opponents-turned-friends Kiri Dicker and Josh Booyens, the new social enterprise aims to build social cohesion and reduce isolation through genuine dialogue on issues that matter to communities.
Guests will share a meal prepared by Saltbush Bar & Grill at small tables with people they don’t know, guided by carefully paced conversation prompts. The evening begins lightly, with time to settle, laugh and connect, before inviting personal stories, reflection and deeper discussion as each table feels ready.
Four Common Table manners guide the experience: listen deeply, stay curious, make room for others, and disagree without being disagreeable.
The first theme, ‘A Place to Call Home’, explores home, housing and belonging through the people, places and memories that shape us.
Meaningful dialogue
‘The idea grew from concern about how fragmented and oppositional Australian society is becoming,’ Kiri Dicker said.
‘We want people to re-learn the skills for meaningful dialogue, which starts with deep listening and mutual respect.’
‘Kiri and I discovered shared values and a friendship I treasure by getting past our first impressions,’ Josh Booyens said. ‘We want guests to enjoy a great meal, have a laugh and leave with a new connection or a fresh perspective.’
Tickets are $75 plus booking fee and include the shared meal, guided conversation and all Common Table materials. Drinks are purchased separately.
Pay It Forward tickets fund the complete experience for someone who may otherwise be unable to attend. Community partners will distribute these independently, with supporters and recipients remaining anonymous.
The Common Table is politically independent. Over time, the founders hope to equip other communities with the tools and confidence to host Common Tables of their own.
The first event will be happening on Wednesday 14 October 2026 from 6pm-9pm, at Saltbush Bar & Grill, 2 Martin Street, Ballina.
Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/commontable.
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