William Morris 'Billy' Hughes, known as the 'Little Digger', remains one of Australia's most debated prime ministers. His remarkable career, spanning nearly six decades in politics, was marked by both nation-shaping achievements and deeply divisive actions.

Join historian Professor David Headon AM for an illuminating lecture exploring Hughes's complex legacy. Discover how Hughes was both a master manipulator and a brilliant orator, examining his role in forming the Australian Labor Party, his fierce advocacy for social welfare, and his contentious stance on conscription, which split the nation for generations.

Enjoy an evening of canapés and conversation delving into Hughes's life and gain a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how history is made and shared in the latest lecture of the First Eight Project series. This event will also address Hughes' many facets, with particular attention to his personal life.

The First Eight Project is a lecture series presented by Professor David Headon AM and a joint undertaking between National Archives of Australia, the Parliamentary Library, National Museum of Australia, Victorian Parliamentary Library and the ANU Australian Studies Institute. The project aims to renew interest in this formative period of Australia's democracy, focusing on the private, public and political lives of its early political leaders.

Don't miss this opportunity to explore the fascinating life of Billy Hughes, from his early days as a union organiser to his role as Australia's wartime Prime Minister and his enduring legacy that continues to spark debate today.