Join Rae Frances and Bruce Scates in conversation with the National Centre of Biography's Michelle Staff as they discuss their latest jointly written book Mary Booth: The Woman Who Shaped the Anzac Legend(Miegunyah, 2026).

Drawing on newly uncovered personal correspondence, the authors delve into the story of the woman who came to be known as the 'Queen of Anzac'. From her experiences as one of Australia's first female doctors and a pioneering feminist to her work in forging the Anzac myth, Booth's life sheds light on many dimensions of the country's past. This new biography ensures that she does not fade into obscurity like so many other women of her era.

Attendance is free but registrations are essential. Copies of the book will be available for sale and signing at the event thanks to Harry Hartog booksellers. 

Rae Frances is Emeritus Professor of History at the ANU. She is internationally recognised for her contributions to social, gender and labour history, particularly to the understanding of the intersections between work, gender, class and war.

Bruce Scates is a Fulbright Scholar and Emeritus Professor of History at the ANU. He has pioneered new forms of life writing, published widely on the culture of commemoration and the human cost of war, and is a major contributor to debates in social, labour and gender history.

Michelle Staff is a feminist historian and the online and outreach manager at the National Centre of Biography, ANU.