Source: Conversation at the Crossroads
We live in a world of endless spin. Spin by governments and politicians, corporations and vested interests, media empires and digital platforms, all competing to shape what we see, what we think, what we feel.
Hence the question we dare not avoid:
What happens to our society when its citizens cannot distinguish truth from deception, information from propaganda, or genuine debate from calculated manipulation?
This year’s Annual Oration
to be delivered by
HANNAH FERGUSON
will confront this challenge head-on.
In Hannah’s words, “The failure of mainstream political parties to deliver for working people has caused a global surge in far-right political groups – the ultimate protest vote. In an information ecosystem controlled by billionaire oligarchs, both legacy and social media platforms have been weaponised as part of sophisticated political operations designed to keep us screaming across the aisle rather than focusing on the real problem: structural inequality. In this environment how do we continue to seek truth and protect our democracy? “
ORATOR
Hannah Ferguson
Hannah Ferguson is the co-founder and CEO of Cheek Media Co, a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, and co-host of the weekly news and pop culture podcast Big Small Talk. She is the bestselling author of Bite Back and Taboo.
Through Cheek Media, Hannah challenges the rhetoric of traditional media monopolies, translating complex political, legal, and economic power structures into engaging, sharp analysis that refuses to shy away from uncomfortable truths.
Event Details
- Date: Monday 30 November 2026
- Venue: St Kilda Town Hall (99A Carlisle Street, St Kilda) or Live Online
- Program:
- 5:45 pm – Doors open
- 6:15 pm – Annual General Meeting
- 7:15 pm – Drinks & finger food
- 7:45 pm – Annual Oration, Response, and Audience Q&A
Registration & Tickets
Whether you are joining us in person in St Kilda or streaming from home, places are limited.
- In-Person Attendance: $30 Full / $21 Concession (includes AGM, drinks, finger food, and the live Oration & Q&A)
- Online Livestream: $15 Full / $12 Concession
Come along for an evening of lively debate, intellectual clarity, and the chance to connect with fellow citizens dedicated to defending an honest, robust democracy.
P.S. In-person tickets include catering and refreshments, so early bookings are strongly encouraged to assist with venue numbers. Secure your place today.