Memberships

The Keith Suter Memorial Lecture celebrates the remarkable legacy of Keith Suter, a passionate advocate for informed public discourse, civic engagement, and the pursuit of big ideas.

Keith was a long-time supporter of WEA Sydney and shared a strong connection with our mission of lifelong learning, community participation, and thoughtful dialogue. The annual lecture reflects the principles Keith championed throughout his life.

Each year, it explores themes central to his work, including the role of ideas in shaping society, civic responsibility, public debate, and leadership in service of the community. Through this event, WEA Sydney aims to inspire engaged, reflective, and evidence-informed conversation, keeping alive the spirit of curiosity, insight, and civic-mindedness that Keith exemplified.

The Dame Marie Bashir Memorial Lecture honours the extraordinary legacy of Dame Marie Bashir, a lifelong champion of education, inclusion and community wellbeing.

A valued supporter of WEA Sydney, and a former student, Dame Marie shared a deep and enduring connection with our mission of lifelong learning, social inclusion and civic engagement. We are honoured to present this annual lecture with the support and permission of her family. This lecture series reflects the values she so powerfully embodied.

Each year, it will explore themes central to her life’s work, including education as a force for social good, human rights and social inclusion, community leadership, and mental health and wellbeing. Through this event, we aim to foster the kind of compassionate, thoughtful and evidence-informed public discourse that Dame Marie exemplified, while celebrating the enduring impact of her contribution to Australian society.

The George Shipp Memorial Lecture honours George Shipp, a distinguished classicist, scholar, and dedicated advocate for adult education.

Known for his clarity of thought, rigorous scholarship, and passion for intellectual inquiry, George inspired generations to engage deeply with ideas, language, and the humanities. George shared a strong connection with WEA Sydney’s mission of lifelong learning, critical thinking, and community enrichment.

This annual lecture celebrates his vision, exploring themes central to his work, including the transformative power of education, the role of culture and ideas in society, and the importance of reflective, informed public discourse. Through this lecture, WEA Sydney continues George’s commitment to nurturing curiosity, critical engagement, and a love of learning across the community.