Lunch Hour Talks
LUNCH HOUR TALK 15 OCTOBER 2026
Thursday 15 October 2026
Speaker: Helen Zigmond
Topic: We Are Our Own Resource – Finding the Language
In 1993 Helen Zigmond’s monodrama on surviving Child Sexual Assault ‘In Relation To Inadmissible Evidence’ was staged at the Belvoir St Downstairs Theatre. It was the beginning of a professional journey that would take her through the sectors of Arts, Education and Health. In each sector she found the need for a new language counterpointed with the knowledge that the strength and power of community is understanding that it is its own resource.
Helen Zigmond’s extensive career spanned Primary and High school teaching, the University sector and consultation at the New South Wales Department of Education, the Starlight Foundation and within the arts and health sector for both State and Federal governments. Her career represents a germinal and creative role combining art and health in developing programs with and for young people. Helen’s initiatives garnered the resources for her programs through grants from various sources such as Premier’s Department, College of GP’s and the Prime Minister’s Department.
Where – The meeting room at the Customs House Library, at Circular Quay. 31 Alfred St – at Circular Quay, opposite the station. Take the lift (back LH corner of the foyer) to the second floor.
When – 15 October 2026. The talk will begin at 12.15, The room is open from 11.30 for tea/coffee/sandwiches.
Entry – $20 JSNWL members $25 non-members
PLEASE BOOK BY NOON Monday 12 October 2026
Phone the library on (02) 9571 5359 or email
LUNCH HOUR TALK 20 AUGUST 2026
Thursday 20 August 2026
Speaker: Kate Rowe
Topic: How the F*ck Would I Know?
Kate is 75, Ten Pound Pom, Aussie by choice, ageing lesbian feminist, 78er, clean and sober for 49 years, Child sexual abuse and rape survivor, Feminist, athlete, travel adventurer and unapologetic truth-teller. Kate brings sharp wit and deep humanity to her stories. In her recently released memoir, ‘How the F*ck Would I Know? ‘, Kate shares stories drawn from a life lived boldly and honestly, reflecting on joy, resilience, politics, humour, and freedom often found in unexpected, everyday places.
It is a raw, honest and historical piece with some funny stories.
Where – The meeting room at the Customs House Library, at Circular Quay. 31 Alfred St – at Circular Quay, opposite the station. Take the lift (back LH corner of the foyer) to the second floor.
When – 20 August 2026. The talk will begin at 12.15, The room is open from 11.30 for tea/coffee/sandwiches.
Entry – $20 JSNWL members $25 non-members
PLEASE BOOK BY NOON Monday 17 August 2026
Phone the library on (02) 9571 5359 or email
