We live in a world of endless spin. Governments, political parties, corporate lobbies, media conglomerates, and digital algorithms compete constantly to shape what we see, what we think, and what we feel.
This environment forces a question our society cannot afford to avoid: What happens to a democracy when citizens can no longer separate truth from deception, information from propaganda, or authentic debate from calculated manipulation?
Coinciding with our 2026 Annual General Meeting, Conversation at the Crossroads is proud to present our fourth Annual Oration: Ending the Spin Cycle, delivered by commentator, author, and media innovator Hannah Ferguson.
As mainstream political parties fail to deliver for working people, we are witnessing a global surge in far-right political movements—the ultimate protest vote. At the same time, in an information ecosystem dominated by corporate interests and billionaire oligarchs, legacy and social media platforms have been weaponised to keep us divided across ideological trenches, distracting us from addressing systemic, structural inequality.
How do we seek truth, build solidarity, and protect democracy under these conditions?
Join us in person or online for an evening of intellectual stimulation, frank discussion, and the opportunity to connect with kindred spirits who believe honest dialogue remains our best defense against apathy and disinformation.
Program:
Date: Monday 30 November 2026, 5.45PM - 9.00PM
5:45 pm – Doors open & registration
6:15 pm – Conversation at the Crossroads Annual General Meeting (AGM)
7:15 pm – Refreshments, drinks & finger food
7:45 pm – 2026 Annual Oration: Ending the Spin Cycle by Hannah Ferguson, followed by an official Response and Audience Q&A
About the Orator - Hannah Ferguson:
Hannah Ferguson is the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cheek Media Co, an independent digital media platform redefining Australian public discourse. She is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, co-host of the weekly news and pop culture podcast Big Small Talk, and the bestselling author of two books, Bite Back (2023) and Taboo (2024).
Founded in late 2020, Cheek Media delivers progressive, uncompromising perspectives on subjects defining the national conversation. Directly challenging the dominance and rhetoric of traditional media monopolies, Cheek translates complex political, legal, and economic systems into accessible, engaging commentary for audiences historically alienated by the language of power. Cheek leans into difficult, uncomfortable conversations, providing independent analysis with real bite.
Hannah holds a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Master of Writing, Editing and Publishing from The University of Queensland. Her commentary and investigative writing have appeared in The New York Times, The Guardian, The Sydney Morning Herald, Harper’s Bazaar, InStyle, and Crikey.
Attendance Options:
𝟭. Attend in person at St Kilda Town Hall, 99A Carlisle Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
Meet the speakers, take part in the live audience Q&A, and catch up with members and fellow attendees over drinks and finger food.
𝟮. Join online via livestream: Accessible nationwide and globally. Ticket holders will receive a private, high-quality livestream link and access instructions 24 hours prior to the event.
Tickets:
In-Person: $30 Full / $21 Concession (includes AGM, drinks, finger food, and Oration)
Online (Livestream): $15 Full / $12 Concession
Bookings are essential for both in-person and digital tickets to assist with catering and streaming capacity.