Dava Sobel, Niall Williams, and Stan Grant headline a new literary series at State Library Victoria

Renowned Australian and international authors are heading to State Library Victoria for an exciting new literary series commencing in early 2025. Beyond the Page presents bold, global and distinctive conversations with the some of the best writers from Australia and around the world, right here in the heart of Melbourne, City of Literature.

The stellar lineup features conversations with award-winning journalist Stan Grant and best-selling Irish author Niall Williams, a signature lecture by renowned American science writer Dava Sobel, and lunchtime book-club sessions with leading Australian literary talents including Helen Garner.

The Beyond the Page program includes:

Dava Sobel, For Future Reference lecture, Friday 7 March, 7.30pm

Dava Sobel, an award-winning science writer, will deliver the 2025 For Future Reference lecture, focussing on the extraordinary life and legacy of Marie Curie, the subject of her latest book, The Elements of Marie Curie: How the Glow of Radium Lit a Path for Women in Science. A dual Nobel prize-winning scientist, Madame Curie coined the word ‘radioactive’ to describe two new elements that she discovered alongside her husband. She was prolific and gifted science communicator, who mentored scores of younger women who were drawn to her laboratory, and whose lesser-known lives in science are also inspirational. Funded by the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust, For Future Reference is an annual lecture series that shines a light on the influence of women via the medium of literature, storytelling and authorship, with a focus on the future archives to be held in the State Collection.

Niall Williams In Conversation, 5 March, 7.30pm

Continuing the great tradition of Irish writers, best-selling author Niall Williams has written nine novels, including History of the Rain, which was longlisted for the Booker Prize, Four Letters of Love, which has been made into a major motion picture, and This Is Happiness which was shortlisted for the Irish Book Awards Book of the Year. He will appear in conversation at the Library to discuss his latest novel Time of the Child, a heartbreaking and life-affirming novel about small towns and second chances.

Stan Grant In Conversation, 4 March, 7.30pm

Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi journalist Stan Grant has won three Walkley Awards, a Logie Award and four Asia TV Awards. As a writer he has published seven books including the best-selling Talking to My Country, which won the Walkley Book Award. He will appear at the Library to discuss his body of work including his most recent book Murriyang: Song of Time. Grant’s most poetic and inspiring work yet, Murriyang offers a means of moving beyond the binaries and embracing a path to peace and forgiveness rooted in the Wiradjuri spiritual practice of Yindyamarra – deep silence and respect.

Helen Garner, The Season, 8 February, 1pm

One of Australia’s most respected writers, Helen Garner, turns her attention to Aussie rules in The Season where she follows the highs and lows of her grandson’s under-16s team. A passionate Western Bulldogs fan, this is her chance to connect with her youngest grandchild, to witness his triumphs and defeats, to fear for his safety in battle, to cheer as his team fights for a place in the finals. The Season is a celebration of the nobility, grace and grit of team spirit, a reflection on the nature of masculinity, and a tribute to the game’s power to thrill us.

Beyond the Page will also feature journalist David Marr speaking about My Country, award-winning playwright Samah Sabawi and her new book Cactus Pear For My Beloved, filmmaker and historian Santilla Chingaipe’s rich history of Black Convicts, and award-winning lawyer Josh Bornstein in conversation about his compelling new book Working for the Brand.

State Library Victoria Director of Experience Joel McGuiness said:

“Beyond the Page is an inspiring new literary series showcasing celebrated international authors alongside leading Australian talent. The series highlights the power of storytelling and the Library’s vital role as a hub for dialogue, learning, and inspiration.”

For more information and to book tickets visit slv.vic.gov.au/whats-on.