Raising the Bar

Overview

The University of Sydney is transforming bars and pubs into classrooms on one night for a second year – 20 of them, to be exact, which means there are at least 20 new things for you to discuss and learn about. Raising The Bar will see academics deliver free talks around the city, bringing the concept that "good ideas are born at the bar" to life.

Previously established a few years back by students from New York and Columbia Universities, this year's event will showcase a range of speakers, ideas, and themes. Pick one that'll interest you, teach you something new, or get you animated, standing and gesturing dramatically with your beer glass.

Try Lian Loke at Cake Wines, reflecting on a positive view of technology, and how it can be used to increase your physical activity (can it turn us into elite athletes?). For something even darker, Celine Van Golde will hold "Making a Murderer: The Real Story" at the Bristol Arms, and detail the case of a real wrongful conviction.

Or, James Humberstone will head to Venue 505 to talk about how music inspires us — from classical to Kanye, and from funk to Taylor Swift.

Raising The Bar will kick off on Tuesday 18th October at various venues, from 6.00pm. It's a free event, but booking is required and recommended so you don't miss out (last year's tickets sold out fast).