Syllabus of Meetings 2026

Members of the Melbourne Dickens Fellowship hold regular meetings at The Faichney Room

Toorak Uniting Church, 603 Toorak Rd, Toorak, Victoria starting 7:30pm for 7:45pm.

Presentations generally last 50 minutes to allow further time for questions followed by light refreshments.

We welcome visitors unless the event is for members only. Please email the Secretary in advance at info@dickens.asn.au of your intention to attend to ensure a seat and a guest name tag.(Map)

If you have any questions or are interested in joining, please CONTACT US

Upcoming presentations and speakers are also listed on the home page.

 

Date

Event / Presentation

Friday February 6th

The Dickens 214th Birthday Commemoration Dinner: Guest Speaker: Ted Reilly

6:30pm for 7:00pm, Matthaei Room, University House, Cnr Tin Alley & 112 Professors’ Walk, University of Melbourne, Parkville.

Wednesday March 18th

Introduction to The Old Curiosity Shop: Andrew Gemmell

Wednesday April 15th

Madeline Bray and the Feminine Gaze: Barbara Sharpe

Wednesday May 20th

Neither oar nor sail – birth of the Comet steamboat: Veronica Delafosse

Wednesday June 17th

The President’s Night – Angela Burdett-Coutts: Warren Collins

Wednesday July 15th

Table top telling of The Old Curiosity Shop: Terry Hayes, Elizabeth McKenzie and Pamela Chaikin-Badoer

Wednesday August 19th

What is curious about The Old Curiosity Shop: Michelle Prawer

Wednesday September 16th

(1) Annual General Meeting and Elections

(2) Members’ Night: Members read and discuss a favourite piece of Dickens

Wednesday October 21st

Table top telling of The Old Curiosity Shop: Terry Hayes, Elizabeth McKenzie and Pamela Chaikin-Badoer

Wednesday November 18th

Wares for sale: advertising in Dickens’ time: Terry Hayes

Wednesday December 9th (Second Wednesday)

Christmas Party (for Members only)

Traditional Readings, Knowledge Bee, Singing, and Supper.