Painter, teacher, art critic, television host, author and gallery director, Betty Churcher AO (1931-2015) was part of the lifeblood of the visual arts in Australia. While her father believed ‘education spoiled a girl’, Churcher fought to complete her studies, further her education in London, and to forge a path for women to take positions of authority in the arts in Australia. She was the first woman to head a tertiary institution, become director of a state gallery, and to lead the National Gallery of Australia.

Affectionately dubbed ‘Betty Blockbuster’ for her love of bringing major international exhibitions to Australia, Churcher was passionate about making art relevant and accessible. In honour of her legacy, every year since 2022 the Gallery has hosted the Betty Churcher AO Memorial Oration, featuring leading women in the arts who inspire creativity, inclusivity, engagement and learning.

As we count down to the 2025 oration this International Women’s Day – featuring feminist artist Judy Chicago in conversation with art historian Katy Hessel – we revisit past orations from women who share Churcher's groundbreaking spirit.

In this episode, you’ll hear from another Australian trailblazer: Dame Quentin Bryce, Australia's 25th and first female Governor-General. Dame Quentin devoted attention to social justice and human rights issues, placing special emphasis on promoting and protecting the rights of the country’s First Nations peoples.

Recorded during her lecture in Canberra in 2024, Bryce reflects on the life and legacy of her friend Betty Churcher and celebrates the contributions of women in the arts. 

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