Attention as Currency with Professor Katherine Johnson — North Fitzroy Library

Join me for a fascinating free talk on one of the most valuable things we own: our attention. Professor Katherine Johnson draws on developmental neuroscience to explain how attention works, why it's so easily taxed in an information-saturated world, and what we can actually do to protect and restore our focus in everyday life. It's a family-friendly evening talk hosted by Yarra Libraries as part of National Science Week, and it's a lovely low-key way to spend a Thursday evening learning something genuinely useful. We'll meet at the gates of the library at 5:45pm for a quick hello, then head in together for the 6pm start. The talk wraps up around 7:30pm, and anyone who'd like to keep the conversation going is welcome to join us for a casual bite nearby afterwards. Just so it's clear: this is a casual social meetup arranged so we can head along together — it isn't run by, affiliated with, or endorsed by Yarra Libraries or Professor Johnson. Please grab your own free ticket directly through Eventbrite; an RSVP here doesn't include entry. **Who this is for** * Anyone curious about how the brain works, focus, and the science of attention — no background needed. * It's family-friendly, so all ages are welcome. * Coming solo? You'll fit right in — lots of people come along on their own, and meeting at the gates first makes it easy. **Links** * Meetup start point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iwfhPG14S4D1t6zM8 * Free ticket (book your own): https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/attention-as-currency-with-professor-katherine-johnson-tickets-1992329016721 **Timeline** * 5:45pm – Meet at the gates of the library and say hello * 6:00pm – Talk begins * 7:30pm – Talk wraps up and meetup ends * 7:30pm onwards – Optional casual bite nearby for anyone keen (the meetup officially finishes here) **Tickets / cost** Free, but you'll need to book your own ticket through the Eventbrite link above. These talks can fill up, so it's worth grabbing yours in advance. **Transport** The library is at 182 St Georges Road, North Fitzroy. It's well served by tram along St Georges Road, and there's some street parking around if you're driving — please allow a little extra time to find a spot. **Bring** * Your booked Eventbrite ticket * Your curiosity (and maybe a notebook if you like to jot things down) **Expect** * Vibe: relaxed, friendly, and curious * Pace: an easy evening — sit back and enjoy the talk * Group style: a casual social group heading along together **Important notes** * A Meetup RSVP is not a ticket — please book your free spot on Eventbrite separately. * If your plans change, please update your RSVP so numbers stay clear for everyone.