14 November 2018: Distinguished alumni Dr Skye Saunders will present ‘Transforming the whispers from the bush: Refreshing gendered culture in rural Australia’ for the University of Canberra’s 2018 Don Aitkin Lecture.
Dr Saunders, Australia’s leading expert in the area of sexual harassment in rural communities, will reflect on her ground-breaking book Whispers from the Bush: The Workplace Sexual Harassment of Australian Rural Women (2015).
"I feel deeply honoured to deliver the 2018 Don Aitkin Lecture. The University of Canberra holds a very special place in my heart and has done for many years now. It's humbling to have been asked to contribute in this way," said Dr Saunders
Dr Saunders interviewed more than 100 women across Australia for the book, the first of its kind to consider sexual harassment in rural workplaces in Australia.
In the course of her PHD research, Dr Saunders uncovered a ‘cultural epidemic’ of entrenched, gendered harm in traditionally male dominated, bush work places, which inspired her book.
"I am delighted to share insights and experiences arising from my 'Whispers from the Bush' journey. Individuals have shared with tremendous generosity of spirit, so 'Whispers' is a rich tapestry of voice from different parts of rural Australia."
Dr Saunders will propose a framework for effecting cultural change and present a short documentary, entitled Grace under Fire, which was produced with the Victorian Women’s Trust.
Dr Saunders was awarded the University of Canberra’s Chancellor’s 2017 Distinguished Young Alumni Award.
The 2018 Don Aitkin Lecture is a free public event but places are limited.
Date: Thursday 15 November 2018
Time: 6–8pm
Venue: Ann Harding Conference Centre, University of Canberra.
Dress code: Business, smart casual.