Tuesday 29 July from 17:30 in the Members Bar
The Chairman’s Lounge by Joe Aston is an investigative book that exposes how Qantas, Australia’s national airline, misused its power and betrayed public trust. The title refers to the exclusive airport lounge for Qantas’ elite members, symbolising the company’s growing detachment from everyday customers.
Aston, a former columnist for the Australian Financial Review, reveals how CEO Alan Joyce and Chairman Richard Goyder prioritised profits over passengers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aston’s sharp writing and insider access make this a compelling read for anyone interested in corporate power and accountability.
In summary, The Chairman’s Lounge is a detailed exposé of Qantas’ ethical failures and the broader issues of corporate and political corruption in Australia.
Recap of our last Book Club Meeting by Member Ken Glover :
“Hudson Fysh – by author Grantlee Kieza
This was the life story of the WW1 hero who founded and guided Qantas through the first 50 years. Firstly, all members were astounded by the duration of his tenure, from mapping out the original routes and airfields of the service throughout outback Queensland in 1922, to his role in the jet age and beyond in the 70’s.
There was also comment on a multitude of aircraft accidents in the 30’s, but particular mention was made of the roles involving his joint founder and WW1 flying ace, Paul McGinness, and that of the long-serving and original engineer, Arthur Baird, together with the original investors in the airline.
Hudson Fysh’s most momentous decision was to buy superior American built Lockheed aircraft in late 1945 , after the end of WW2, in preference to British aircraft, when there was much pressure from Government and sundry for the latter.
There was also much discussion as he approached retirement on his role within the airline, as it appeared that his “use by ” date had passed. A disappointing end for this pioneer. Members awarded this book an average of 7.5 out of 10, a healthy score which indicated their enjoyment in reading the biography, and some history of Qantas.
3-word summaries included: Australian Aviation History / Courage, Vision, Execution / Big, Bold Brave. Flying, Fysh Flags.
Our next book for July also relates to Qantas, viz The Chairman’s Lounge – The Inside Story of how Qantas sold us out.”
If you’d like to join Book Club this month, please email [email protected]
