First Conversation in Newcastle
Customs House Hotel

Thursday May 20th, 1999

This first event in Newcastle was attended by a very enthusiastic group of over 20 people. 

Topics covered included:

Work as an avenue of contribution rather than consuming our whole life.  What was wanted was a working environment that is people friendly.  This of course required sensitive management..

Most people seem to want less actual paid work and would be better served to live more simply.  This would give space to create community where people will meet to break down the feeling of isolation.  The concept was represented in one person's analogy of fresh baked bread and tea and cakes around the fire.

The need was expressed to engage our community and harness ideas and passion of people at the local area.  In such forums we could examine our values and perhaps spread education in values as well as thinking skills.

We may be able also to give the disadvantaged some sense of empowerment.

In spite of the rhetoric to the contrary, we seem to be faced with few choices, not more.  Globalisation turns out to be less a friend than espoused by our leaders.

Preparation of our children was also seen as necessary in the field of critical thinking skills, teaching them about economics, ethics, values, ecology   etc. 

Problems currently faced offer too many easy choices regardless of your ethics.  Eg fast foods and poor choices are not often challenged.

The Conversation was lively and stimulating and we have agreed to continue the event next month with a view to a long term series.

A special thanks goes to Geoff Evans for his enthusiasm and effort to get this event started in Newcastle.

Also I wish to acknowledge the support given by the Environmental Protection Authority in providing the start-up venue.  Many thanks indeed.

The next Newcastle Conversation will be Thursday June 24th.