Gold Rush: Australia's Obsession with Winning

Event and Ticketing Details

Dates & Times

Wednesday 16 November
6:15 PM - 7:15 PM

Location

The Wheeler Centre

176 Little Lonsdale Street Melbourne Victoria 3000

Get directions

What does it mean to win? Why are so many of us motivated by the prospect of glory? How does our obsession with winning in sport shape our culture and sense of nationhood? And does this obsession spill over into our attitudes towards art, education and our careers?

In this conversation, hosted by broadcaster Francis Leach, we’ll examine the concept of winning from some fresh angles. Leach will be joined by artist Abdul Abdullah, whose artwork has broached the intersection of sport and politics, and academic Zali Yager, whose research focuses on body image and doping. Also stepping up to the crease will be cricket writer Gideon Haigh, whose new book explores themes of legends and legacy in cricket.

The panel will discuss the toll the obsession with winning can take on individuals, as well as the links between triumph, legacy and the dream of immortality.