2026 Festival
Speaker Profile
Norman Swan
Trained in paediatrics, Dr Norman Swan was one of Australia’s first medically qualified journalists, with a broadcast career spanning over 30 years. He hosts Radio National’s The Health Report and co-hosts Coronacast, while also reporting for 7.30, Four Corners, and appearing on The Drum. A health strategist and advocate for evidence-based approaches, he sits on the board of the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth. He is the bestselling author of So You Think You Know What's Good for You? and So You Want to Live Younger Longer?
Be Still My Heart: The engine of human expression, unpacked
Jane Montgomery Griffiths, Norman Swan, Clara Tuite and Steph Vizard with Fiona Gruber
Going back to the Ancient Greeks and Romans, the heart has always inspired artists, writers, poets, musicians and thinkers. Our panel reflects of the curious allure of this remarkable human organ.
The Attention War: Can books lure kids off their screens?
Scott Gordon, Sally Rippin and Norman Swan with Francesca Carter
The book’s biggest competitor is the screen. And despite new social media bans, kids are still finding companionship and entertainment via the laptop or iPhone. How can parents encourage book reading in ways that are meaningful and bring results?
This session is supported by Coote Family Lawyers
Is 70 The New 50? Baby Boomers and their refusal to grow old
Karen Inge, Lucinda Holdforth, Bernard Salt and Scott Williams with Norman Swan
This session is supported by Village Glen
Into Our Own Hands: Assisted dying and its place in society
Andrew Denton, Lucinda Holdforth and Betty King with Norman Swan
A graceful and calm departure. The right to decide. Having end-of-life choices that allow dying with dignity. Our panel reflects on society’s navigation of these difficult issues.