Meet the author- Virginia Trioli

Listen to the recording of Virginia Trioli in conversation with Allan Behm discussing her new book A Bit on the Side: Reflections on What Makes Life Delicious on the Experience ANU SoundCloud channel.

Virginia Trioli will be in conversation with Allan Behm discussing her new book A Bit on the Side: Reflections on What Makes Life Delicious.

Virginia Trioli knows that enduring joy is often found not in the big moments but in the small. And as a dedicated, almost obsessive, foodie, she believes that food gives us the perfect metaphor for how to devour the real flavour of life. When the main course is unappetising, the 'bits on the side' make life really delicious. The sweet and the sour; the salty, the bitter - our small, meaningful selections are the ones that make life glorious.

A Bit on the Side is an ode to joy, filled with wisdom, stories, memories and recipes, all told with Virginia's renowned insight and wicked sense of humour. This is a book to be read, treasured and shared with anyone who wants life served with a side of delight.

'Utterly delightful. Trioli's passion for life - and food, glorious food - crackles through every joyous page. A book so rare and so bloody well done.' Trent Dalton

'A warmly engaging epicurean masterclass on the pleasures of companionship and the table.' Christoph Tsiolkas

Virginia Trioli is a journalist, broadcaster and author. She is a two-time Walkley winner. In 1995, for her business reporting and in 2001 for her landmark interview with the former Defence Minister, Peter Reith, over the notorious Children Overboard issue. Virginia is currently host of ABC TV’s Creative Types and former host on ABC News Breakfast, Q&A and ABC Melbourne. Virginia is a much sought-after speaker and MC.

Allan Behm is Director, International & Security Affairs Program at the Australia Institute, Canberra, Following a career spanning nearly 30 years in the Australian Public Service, Allan was Chief of Staff to Greg Combet, from 2019 to 2013. From March 2017 until February 2019 he was senior advisor to the Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong. Allan was the inaugural Chair, and is still a member, of the of the Canberra Writers Festival Board. Like Virginia, Allan has a passion for “glorious food”.

The vote of thanks will be given by Professor Mark Kenny Director at the ANU Australian Studies Institute.

Books will be available for purchase before and after the event in the Street Theatre foyer.

The As You like It Café bar will be open for drinks pre & post conversation. 
Pre-event book signings will be available from 5.30pm, and available again after the event.

More information

ANU & The Canberra Times Present 
Meet The Author 
Virginia Trioli

Tickets: This is a free event but bookings are essential

This event is in association with the Harry Hartog Bookshop and The Street Theatre.