The Illawarra Performing Arts Centre (IPAC) is set to host a major gathering of minds in early 2026, with the full speaker lineup for TEDxWollongong now officially revealed. Headlining the event is one of Australia's most beloved science communicators and a local son, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki.
A Homecoming for a Science Legend
Scheduled for March 7, 2026, the event will explore the theme 'Lookout', a concept inspired by the Illawarra region's iconic escarpment and coastline. For Dr Karl, it marks a significant return to the city where he grew up, attended school, and began his working life.
"I grew up in Wollongong, I went to Little Flower and also Edmund Rice College, and then the university when it was part of UNSW," Dr Karl recalled. He expressed excitement about the "chance to mess with people's minds" on stage, though he admitted his talk is still taking shape. "The theme is Lookout, and that is just a big theme. So it can oscillate between very serious and very funny," he said.
His early career included a formative job at the Port Kembla steelworks at age 19, testing steel destined for the Westgate Bridge. This experience led to a defining ethical moment when his supervisor subtly pressured him to falsify results showing the steel's fatigue limit was too low. "I suddenly realised that what he wanted me to do was to fake the result," Dr Karl stated, noting the safety margin might have been sufficient but the principle was clear.
Diverse Voices for a Global Stage
The TEDxWollongong roster extends far beyond its headline act, featuring a dynamic mix of business leaders, innovators, thinkers, and creatives. Talks will span a wide range of pressing and fascinating topics, including artificial intelligence, psychology, robotics, romance scams, and local innovations with worldwide impact.
Event director Fairlie Hamilton emphasised the careful curation behind the lineup. "Ultimately, we've tried to balance excellent ideas with diverse voices, innovation and something fun for the audience," she said. While hoping some talks might go viral, Hamilton stressed that the primary goal is to deliver an engaging and thought-provoking experience for all attendees at the IPAC.
The Complete Speaker Lineup
The full list of confirmed speakers for TEDxWollongong includes:
- Dr Karl Kruszelnicki
- Carlie Schofield
- Dr Meghan Dares
- John Pabon
- Nuwangi Cooray
- Isobel Bee
- Kylie Moffitt
- Dr Greg Ryder
- Kylee Dennis
- Project Bucephalus
- Dr Emanuella Brusadelli
- Jack Brown
- Jo Burston
This event promises to put Wollongong firmly on the map for cutting-edge ideas and compelling storytelling. It represents not just a speaking engagement for Dr Karl, but a full-circle moment for the broadcaster who first honed his curiosity and ethical compass in the heart of the Illawarra.
