The Women's Club, Sydney

It was purely by coincidence that the leaders invited to speak at The Women's Club, Sydney monthly Club lunch series turned out to be trailblazing women—many the first in their positions. Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of engaging with these remarkable women, diving deep into their insights, experiences, and learnings. As I reflected on the legacy of our Club, founded by 100 pioneering women at The Women's College, within The University of Sydney, I realised that 2024 has brought a remarkable surge in female firsts. In my latest opinion piece published in Women's Agenda, I explore how these women are not just stepping into leadership roles but are fundamentally transforming what leadership means. Their stories are shaping a new narrative—one that I believe will define the future of leadership. Thank you to our Club Lunch speakers, thus far for 2024, for generously sharing your time, company and stories: Louise Cantillon, Jocelyn King, Caroline Butler-Bowdon, Ruby Riethmuller, Imogen Clarke, Zali Steggall OAM MP, Abbie Galvin LFAIA. #femalefirsts #leadership 🔗

Last Monday, The Women's Club had the pleasure of hosting Amelia Birch Sommelier and Owner of wine bar Famelia for an extraordinary event: 'I Can't Believe It's Not Pinot Noir'. The evening was an exploration of 'un-famelia' varietals that sit slightly adjacent to Pinot Noir, yet embody the same spectrum of light, bright red wines. Amelia introduced four new world wines from Australia, specifically, from Adelaide Hills, SA; Tamar Valley near Launceston, Tasmania; the Hunter Valley, NSW and Tumbarumba, NSW. We recognise that although these wines are deemed 'new world' in winemaking, Australia possesses some of the oldest terroirs globally. Hence, we pay homage to the Elders, both past and present, the traditional custodians of these lands who have tended and nurtured the lands from which we reap the vines and grapes. Following the introduction to new world, we tasted three old world wines, from France - Arbois, Jura; Languedoc and Beaujolais. Guests discussed the distinctive differences, in colour and complexity. Thank you, Amelia, for a delightful and educational event! To stay updated on future events, sign up for our mailing list today. Cheers to more nights of great wine and wonderful company! #womenwhowine #femalewinemakers #winesofwomen

Last Friday, our Women in Music program featured performances by Aimee Brown and Ingrid Fittler. Aimee, a recorder player and musicologist, showcased beautiful recorder music, blending baroque and contemporary pieces. Ingrid, a talented recorder player and member of the 'Judgment of Paris' ensemble, delighted the audience with her skillful renditions, highlighting the recorder's versatility. Aimee presented at TWC's February Club Lunch in 2022 after she was awarded NCW NSW Celebrate being Australian award sponsored by The Women's Club. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Aimee and Ingrid for their performances. To stay updated on future Women in Music events, sign up for our mailing list. #womeninmusic #femalecomposers #femaleperformers

Recently, we were joined by multi-award-winning author and journalist Bri Lee in conversation with literary commentator and festival moderator Nicole Abadee for the launch of Bri's debut novel, 'The Work'. During the discussion, Nicole posed the question: "Can you separate the art from the artist?" In her response, Bri Lee explored why this question persists and remains fascinating. She highlighted that there is no single answer that applies universally, emphasising the complexity and variability across different industries, art forms, and individual artists. Bri pointed out that every decade has seen variations of this debate, and it endures because each situation is unique. Bri noted that some artists can be judged separately from their work, while others cannot, especially when their problematic behaviour directly informs their art. She also stressed the significant difference between solo creative projects and collaborative works. How do you think audiences should navigate their consumption of art when confronted with these ethical dilemmas? Comment below. Allen & Unwin #authorconversations #booklaunch #literarydiscussions

We are thrilled to partner with Belvoir St Theatre for a special event in our Salon Series! 🎭 Join us for an intimate conversation with Shakthi, the acclaimed playwright of "Counting and Cracking," and his mother, Anandavalli, a choreographer, costume and cultural consultant. They will be joined by TWC member Angela Bowne SC for an enriching discussion. Shakthi and Anandavalli will explore "Counting and Cracking," a play currently captivating audiences at Carriageworks in Sydney before its journey to New York. The conversation will delve into personal and cultural interactions, Sri Lanka's political history, migration, diaspora, and family dynamics. Plus, learn about Anandavalli's esteemed dance career as the founder of Lingalayam Dance Academy and Company, and hear Shakthi's insights into his upcoming feature film, "The Laugh of Lakshmi," a poignant story of a mother and son separated by war. Tickets include a light dinner, so you can enjoy a meal while engaging with this fascinating conversation. Don’t miss this unique event! Event details: Tuesday 27 August at 6 pm arrival for a 6.30 pm start @ The Women's Club TWC Friends $60 Non Member $65

Dr. Jeanell Carrigan AM, an Associate Professor in Collaborative Piano at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, University of Sydney, presented an insightful lecture on the life and works of Mirrie Hill. Members and guests gained a newfound appreciation for Hill's contributions to music, as Dr. Carrigan delved into Hill's background as a pianist, teacher, music examiner, and composer. Dr. Carrigan highlighted Hill's marriage to her mentor, Alfred Hill, and the impact it had on her self-perception and recognition. Despite composing around 540 pieces, mostly for piano, many of Hill's works remain unpublished and unperformed. The lecture featured performances of these forgotten compositions, revealing Hill's diversity and skill. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Jeanell Carrigan for taking the time to join us. To keep up to date with your program of events, sign up to our mailing list. #femalecomposers #unsungwomen #womenofmusic

Today's Club Lunch featuring Zali Steggall OAM MP was a resounding success, with members and guests thoroughly engaged by her insights and experiences. Zali's journey from Olympic success to political triumph resonated deeply, underscoring her commitment to climate action and integrity in public service. Her call to action on these critical issues left a lasting impression. Attendees were captivated by Zali's transition from Olympic athlete to barrister to Independent MP, highlighting her determination and versatility. Her advocacy for gender equity and her significant roles in various boards were particularly inspiring, showcasing her leadership in both sports and governance. Looking ahead, we encourage everyone to stay informed about our upcoming events by subscribing to our mailing list. Don't miss out on details for the Club Lunch in August and other engaging programs that promise enriching experiences and valuable networking opportunities. Join us as we continue to host influential speakers and foster meaningful discussions within our community. #womeninleadership #politicalintegrity #communityengagement

Sommelier and Owner of wine bar Famelia, Amelia Birch is joining us at The Women's Club to host 'I Can't Believe It's Not Pinot Noir' ~ a look at 'un-famelia' varietals (pun intended) that sit slightly adjacent to Pinot Noir and very much in the same spectrum of the light, bright red wine as described above. You will enjoy a 4-course menu, with 7 half-glasses of wines selected and matched by Amelia, that broaden the horizon around light red wine in a fun and approachable way. Each course we'll look at 2 wines - one old-world, one new-world, and all made by women - and compare and contrast them. If you're a Pinot Noir lover, this event is not to be missed...! Event details: Monday 29 July 6 pm for 6.30 pm start @ The Women's Club All tickets $140 Ticket includes 7 selected wines to taste. Served and accompanied by an amazing four-course dinner. Tickets will soon be released to public. Sign up to the TWC mailing list to receive updates! Or email [email protected].

Last week, the Women in Music event featured works by renowned French composer Cécile Chaminade, Australian classical pianist Miriam Hyde, and Australian musical composer Meta Overman. It was a tribute to their creativity and impact on music history. Highlighting the evening was Melissa Coleman, a dedicated freelance flautist renowned for her performances in solo, orchestral, chamber music, and music theatre genres. Accompanying her on piano was Dr. Jeanell Carrigan AM, Associate Professor in Collaborative Piano at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. The event emphasised the importance of recognising and celebrating female composers for their invaluable contributions to the world of music. Join Dr. Jeanell Carrigan AM for our upcoming Members’ Lecture – Australian Women in Music, focusing on pianist, teacher, music examiner, and composer Mirrie Hill. The event will take place on Thursday, July 25th, from 3:30 to 4:30 pm. Tickets are available here: https://lnkd.in/g5gVnSfb. Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the rich legacy of Australian female composers! #womeninmusic #femalecomposers

Monday evening was powerful as The Women's Club welcomed Lynda Holden in conversation with Ingrid Matthews on "This Is Where You Have To Go." The evening highlighted the resilience and courage in Lynda’s journey, the importance of justice and truth for silenced women, and the need for ongoing advocacy and awareness. A heartfelt thank you to Lynda for openly sharing her journey with us and to Ingrid for guiding the conversation. Pantera Press #womensvoices #socialjustice #australianwomen