Norman Selfe (1839-1911) was a brilliant engineer, inventor and marine architect, whose wharves, sea walls, dredges and bridges hastened the transformation of Sydney harbour from a natural to an industrial landscape. His dream to connect Sydney with its north shore wasn’t realised in his lifetime but his harbour bridge designs and proposals later influenced the tendering process under Bradfield. As well as being Sydney’s busiest engineer, Norman Selfe helped kick-start technical education in New South Wales, co-founded the Royal Australian Historical Society, and campaigned tirelessly for improvements to the city of Sydney. Today he is best remembered in the name of Normanhurst, where his grand house Gilligaloola still stands.

Catherine Freyne studied history and Spanish at the University of New South Wales. She currently divides her time between ABC Radio National where she produces social history documentaries for Hindsight, and the Dictionary of Sydney where she writes and commissions entries relating to education, science and technology.

Talkabout events are a collaborative venture with the Dictionary of Sydney project. For more information visit www.dictionaryofsydney.org

The Mitchell Theatre is located on Level 1, 280 Pitt Street.

171 Seats (142 seat recommended capacity due to obstructed views).

The hire fee includes a fixed data projector, projection
screen, sound system, lectern and a computer with internet
access. Instructions for use of the room equipment are displayed on the wall and are also available at Level 3 Reception.

Food and beverages MUST NOT be consumed in the Mitchell Theatre, however the foyer may be used as a break-out area. 

Wheelchair accessible.

Hearing loop installed.

This venue is available for hire. See Venue Hire for details.