Are you involved in the history sector and have a passion for history events? This is a great voluntary opportunity to contribute to the continuation of a history research seminar series, History Now. Following a successful year in 2024, the History Council of NSW and its event partners are calling for expressions of interest for a Convener and Curator of the History Now series in 2025.
2024 History Now Convener Dr Jesse Adams Stein (right). Photo credit: Tim Harris, TWH Photography.
Description of the History Now series
History Now is a long-running, volunteer-led seminar series that explores current and compelling issues affecting the practice of contemporary history. In the past, History Now has been led by historians such as Anna Clark, Hannah Forsyth and Paul Ashton, among others.
In 2024, History Now was a collaboration between the History Council of NSW (HCNSW), the State Library of NSW (SLNSW) and the UTS Australian Centre for Public History (ACPH), and was convened by Jesse Adams Stein (Vice President of HCNSW / Member of ACPH). Eight events in total were run, mainly in-person at the SLNSW, between March and November. These sessions were recorded and published as podcasts by the HCNSW. We are seeking to continue the momentum and interest built up in 2024.
Scope of sessions
History Now is short and sweet. The tone is conversational and the format is usually two speakers, each talking for 15-20 minutes, followed by a Q&A facilitated by a chairperson. History Now is usually an in-person event unless otherwise stated, and is recorded for podcasting purposes. There is scope to change the format to hybrid modes, and/or host events outside of Sydney – we are open to ideas. You can listen to previous episodes here, which have an international reach: https://historycouncilnsw.org.au/podcasts/
The series has often been led by academic historians but is designed for a broader general audience and reach, so anyone with a passion and talent for history is invited to express interest in this role. The emphasis is on bringing ‘cutting edge’, new and interesting historical research into public discourse.
History Now 2025
The role of Convenor/Curator is a voluntary one. It offers great exposure and an opportunity to work with amazing historians and others. Ideally, you will be someone who has:
- An understanding of contemporary History issues and topics relevant to Historians and history-loving members of the community
- Good networking and organisation skills
- Ability to curate, write, convene and present sessions
HCNSW Support for the role
While the role is voluntary, the History Now curator will supported by a great team from the HCNSW. The curator will liaise via email and Zoom with the HCNSW Executive Committee and will be supported administratively by the Programs and Management team at the HCNSW.
We also have a list of potential 2025 speakers and topics if you are looking for inspiration.
(Photo credits for below pictures: Laura Sayle, HCNSW)
Taylor Coyne, Emily O’Gorman, and Warwick Anderson at History Now 2024
Hanna Forsyth presenting at History Now 2024
Jesse Adams Stein at History Now 2024 Lectern
Alison Bashford presenting at History Now 2024
Audience at History Now 2024, Maps Room, State Library of NSW
Further information about the programme can be found via the links below
https://historycouncilnsw.org.au/about/programs/history-now-2024/
Podcast site: https://historycouncilnsw.org.au/podcasts/
Deadline for receipt of Expressions of Interest: Friday, 31 January 2025
Email address for submission of EOIs: executive@historycouncilnsw.org.au
Contact for further information about the role: Dr Jesse Adams Stein