Quantum Words Perth 2022 is bringing together a never-to-be-repeated line up of extraordinary writers, scientists, creatives and other experts to discuss everything from farming for our future, to fire, and the hidden meanings in maps.
Quantum Words Perth is Western Australia’s only writers’ festival dedicated to writing about science, innovation, creativity and the spaces in which they intersect. The inaugural Festival took place at the State Theatre Centre in 2019, bringing together outstanding thinkers, scientists and creators from across Australia and overseas to engage in conversations about the ways in which we come to understand ourselves, the world, and the expansive universe we live within.
The festival returns in 2022, with a range of events suitable for adults, schools and children.
Anthony James will be hosting three of the conversations:
FRIDAY 16 SEPTEMBER (Schools Day - all welcome, program geared towards secondary students)
Free entry, but booking required.
Taking place at John Curtin College of the Arts, 90 Ellen St. Fremantle
CHANGING THE STORY - MAKING A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE, 9.30 to 10.15am
The Western Swamp Tortoise, endemic to a small portion of Western Australia, is the most endangered Australian reptile. The effort to bring this species back from the brink of extinction is one that involves a range of strategies. Hear about how this combined effort is bringing about positive change. Speakers include Neeve Blackham-Jennings, Mandy Bamford, Nicki Mitchell and Anthony James.
(Note: David Pollock from Wooleen Station is part of the next panel session from 10.15 to 11am)
YOUNG DARK EMU - 11.15am to 12.00pm
In Young Dark Emu - A Truer History, Bruce Pascoe uses the accounts of early European explorers, colonists and farmers, to argue for an understanding of Australia prior to the arrival of Europeans as a land of cultivated farming areas, productive fisheries, permanent homes, and thriving villages. Bruce discusses his work with Anthony James.
SATURDAY 17 SEPTEMBER
ON FIRE, 12.00 to 12.45pm, $5 entry, bookings here
Taking place at the State Library of WA.
It’s a fundamental tool, but also one of our greatest fears. Join former NSW Fire Commissioner Greg Mullins, Indigenous fire expert Oral McGuire and cultural geographer Lesley Head as they talk with Anthony James about our relationship with fire and the challenges we are likely to face as the planet warms.
(Note: David Pollock from Wooleen Station and Bruce Pascoe speak with fellow podcaster & host Meri Faten on Farming for our Future, from 4 to 4.45pm)
Event Info:
Friday 16 to Sunday 18 September 2022
Friday is Schools Day - free entry (all secondary school teachers & students particularly welcome)
Most other sessions over the weekend are just $5.