.John Stephenson

is the current chair of Forum, a writer and teacher who studied philosophy at post-graduate level. He has lived in Leura for the past 22 years. His novel, The Optimist (Text), is a tragi-comedy based on the early life of the poet Christopher Brennan. He is currently working on a philosophical novel inspired by the legend of Dr Faustus. 

    .Chris Arnott 

           has had a business career in a range of industries in a range of locations in Australia and overseas. Most recently he managed an international events company. He now operates a consulting and mentoring practice from a base in Blackheath.

      Jim Silkman

           alongside a successful management career in engineering, has had a lifelong interest in philosophy and lately done further university studies in it. He has been closely involved with the Forum for many years.

      Bev McNeill

           has had many years working in academic administration and has always had a keen interest in philosophy. She brings experience, practical acumen and enjoyment to her Forum involvement.

      Peter McNeill

            flirted with economics at Sydney University, qualified as a chartered accountant.   Working life was in the corporate world.  Keen interest in human behaviour and how society orders and organises itself. Is a tutor with University of Third Age in current affairs.

      Joanne See

             after university language and religio-cultural studies, has had a strong involvement with community organizations in the Mountains, particularly  in advocacy for disability rights.

Immediate Past Chair

The Forum would like to thank author and historian Babette Smith for the endless reserves of time, energy, skill and good humour she brought to chairing our committee from 2005 until recently. We wish her well with our new sibling, the Blackheath History Forum.

Our distinguished academic advisers:

Duncan Ivison

Dean, Faculty of Arts, University of Sydney

Huw Price

ARC Federation Fellow & Challis Professor of Philosophy
Centre for Time
Department of Philosophy, University of Sydney