IWF Cornerstone Conference - Melbourne
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'Evolution and Revolution' was the topical theme of the 2018 IWF Cornerstone Conference in Melbourne which explored global issues – human origins, frontiers in genetics, the evolution of work, shifting geopolitics, and changing oceans – in a local context.
More than 500 IWF members, guests and sponsors attended the 2-4 May conference, including five members from IWF UK.
The conference kicked off with a fabulous reception at the Peninsular Docklands, including addresses by Governor Linda Dessau AC, the 29th Governor of Victoria and first woman to hold the role, and Aunty Di Kerr, a Wurundjeri Elder dedicated to upholding Aboriginal culture.
The full programme, opened by IWF President Teresa V-F Weintraub (pictured) and the superb Conference Co-Chairs Michelle Loader and Karen Hayes, included sessions on 'Fake News' and media bias, with a passionate contribution from Maria Ressa, CEO Rappler, the online news website, and sexual harassment with a speech by Wafa Alkhadra, Dean at the American University of Madaba, Jordan. The wonderful final dinner began with a welcome by 'Priscilla Queen of the Desert' and ended with dancing to the cool sound of The Lisa Edwards Band.
Congratulations to Kate Mason, President of IWF Australia, Karen and Michelle, and the dedicated members of IWF Australia who contributed to making the conference so memorable.
Julie Goldstein, IWF UK Chair
