Secrets of a better life An evolutionary search for answers with Zoe Kean

For as long as there have been humans, we have asked questions about the mysteries of life.

Science journalist Zoe Kean takes us behind the scenes of the evolutionary paradoxes of life on this planet. From freezing in Tasmanian sleet to a laboratory of sleeping sharks in North Queensland, she explores with scientists how these evolutionary mysteries might just uncover the secrets of a better life for humans and the creatures we share the planet with.

Chaired by Sydney Morning Herald Science Reporter Angus Dalton, this wide-ranging conversation will shed light on how we can learn from the past to face the challenges of the future.

“Evolution is not perfect, just good enough. This book brilliantly guides you through this complexity, showing us how we evolved to be marvellously imperfect. Why do we have sex? Why does cancer happen, why do dogs age and sharks sleep? Read this book and get learned up.” – Dr Karl Kruszelnicki

Zoe Kean

An award-winning science writer with a focus on evolution, ecology and the environment, Zoe Kean’s work has been published by The Guardian, ABC, The Best Australian Science Writing 2023, Cosmos Magazine and the BBC.

Publishing her debut book Why Are We Like This? last year, Kean is also the co-editor of The Best Australian Science Writing 2025, out in November. Her love for science cannot be contained to the page – Zoe Kean also gives talks, makes science TikTok videos and regularly appears on live radio.

Make Good Festival 2025

Make Good Festival celebrates curious minds and skill-sharing. Featuring an inspiring line-up of authors and doers, the event offers talks, workshops, and hands-on experiences that explore ways to live thoughtfully and responsibly.

Expect good thinking, good food, and to develop skills you didn’t know you had across two inspiring days. Shaped by a shared desire to create meaningful change, the Make Good Festival connects a community passionate about living better, for ourselves and for the planet.

Explore the 2025 festival program.

Make Good Festival is supported proudly by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.

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Cost

$18 Adult
$12 Concession
$10 Members
Children up to 12 years free

Save up to 30% when you purchase tickets to multiple Make Good Festival events. Discount is calculated at check out.

Ticket includes entry to the Art Museum and Homestead.