Jack Toohey: Better Things are Possible

FESTIVAL LAUNCH

Come and join us for the official opening of the 2026 Bathurst Writers’ and Readers’ Festival at BMEC, followed by an insightful conversation with Jack Toohey. 

5pm – Smoking Ceremony performed outside BMEC

5:15pm – Welcome to Country, BMEC Foyer

5:45pm – Jack Toohey: Better Things are Possible

JACK TOOHEY: BETTER THINGS ARE POSSIBLE

A more sustainable and equitable Australia is an achievable reality—we just need the courage to get informed, get connected and show up for the future we want.

The housing crisis, climate change, persistent gender inequity. A mounting mental health epidemic, a floundering media landscape, a political class that seems increasingly disconnected from voters …

Better Things Are Possible is Jack Toohey’s case for choosing hope over apathy. It’s a rallying cry to replace defeatism with resilience.

Join Jack Toohey in conversation with Jac Underwood about how we start channeling our energy into innovative solutions to the challenges we’re facing.

Jack Toohey is an Australian creative director and activist known for his ability to distil complex issues into clear, compelling content. He rose to prominence in 2023 with a viral video examining the difference between housing affordability in 1983 compared with 2023, which amassed over 20 million views. A former music photographer and creative agency founder, Jack has redirected his communication skills towards storytelling that exposes harmful systems and advocates for social and climate justice.

Jac Underwood

Jaclyn Underwood is a graduate of Charles Sturt University, holding a Bachelor of Communication specialising in journalism, and was elected to Bathurst Regional Council in 2024.

Now working in the not-for-profit sector, Jaclyn remains deeply connected to the Bathurst community. She continues to MC local events and award nights, championing the people, stories and initiatives that shape and strengthen the region.