Conversations with Mark Swivel
A Little More Conversation …
Join Mark Swivel and special guests for captivating discussions on these current hot topics.
Death & Dying
Wed 5th February 2025, 6:30pm – 8:00pm
Drill Hall Theatre, Mullumbimby
How are we feeling about death and dying, as fragile humans, loving families and diverse communities?
We are opening up to new approaches and more open engagements with death and dying. Zenith will share thoughts on ceremony we are creating to find new meaning in death and dying, while we explore innovative methods of palliative care and voluntary assisted dying.
Zenith Virago is a much loved local legend and was Byron Citizen of the Year 2021. The founder of the Natural Death Care Centre, as a Deathwalker, Celebrant and educator Zenith has led thinking and practice on reclaiming dying, death, body care and ceremony for over 30 years. Zenith is co-author of the book The Intimacy of Death and Dying, Patron of The Good Funeral Guide, UK, and the subject of the international independent documentary, Zen & the Art of Dying. Zenith featured in the award winning documentaries TENDER and Laura’s Choice. A TEDX Byron Bay speaker and creator of the annual Vagina Conversations.
With Zenith Virago, Founder, Natural Death and Dying Centre
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The Future of Tech – Digital Natives Only?
Wed 5th March 2025, 6:30pm – 8:00pm,
Drill Hall Theatre, Mullumbimby
What is our digital future? How do consumers participate in this brave new world, with confidence and protection? How will our communities influence the shape of AI and our online world? Is it possible?
Australia has some amazing success stories but is a small player in global tech. Damian will share his thoughts on how we take advantage of the real opportunities while minimising the obvious risks. Damian is a leader in the tech sector in Australia, the CEO of the Technology Council of Australia which brings together our key technology companies with a mission to shape Australia’s digital future. The Tech Council collaborates with governments and community to advise, educate and create the foundations for a successful, truly digital economy.
Damian has an exceptional background at the summit of tech in Australia and overseas, with strategic leadership roles at AfterPay, Uber and YouTube; he was also Senior Policy Advisor to Prime Minister Julia Gillard. Damian lives with his family in Byron Bay.
Damian Kassabgi. The Future of Tech – Digital Natives Only?
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Queer Culture Now
Wed 23rd April 2025, 6:30pm – 8:00pm
Drill Hall Theatre, Mullumbimby
What does it mean to be queer? How can ‘straight’ society support our diversity of queer people? How far have we moved from the early days of ‘Mardi Gras’ activism? What is the legacy of the ‘marriage equality’ plebiscite? Is there a clear way for communities and government to be better allies for queer folk and queer culture? How do we respond to the handling of the Census ‘debate’ on recognising queer identity?
Aiden Gentle will set out their perspective on these pressing issues, with a wealth of experience informed their philosophy and practice. Aiden Gentle (they/them) is a non-binary human who identifies with the terms Queer(sexuality and gender), and Transgender. They combine a lifetime of volunteerism with 24 years as a Social Worker. Aiden is the founder of Queer Family, a Mullum-based organisation that reduces social isolation and improves mental wellbeing through safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people and allies to practice creativity, connect, build, and strengthen community in the Northern Rivers. Queer Family has been supporting our community for the past 5 years, engaging an average of 2000 people annually, and has won several awards.
With Aiden Gentle, Founder, Queer Family Northern Rivers.
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Bookings Essential
Full fee: $30 per session, Concession: $20 per session
Each session runs from 6.30pm to 8pm in Mullumbimby.
Doors open at 6pm for a 6.30pm start.
