Pupils at exclusive Queenwood girls school encouraged to consider careers in ‘international security’ by former top spy David Irvine

IS the next generation of ASIO spies lurking in the corridors of Sydney’s exclusive Queenwood School for Girls?

David Irvine, the retired head of ASIO is speaking at Queenwood. Art: John Tiedemann

IS the next generation of ASIO spies lurking in the corridors of the exclusive Queenwood school?

Will the call for a woman to be the next James Bond now strike a chord among Mosman schoolgirls?

Once upon a time, Queenwood girls were encouraged to be teachers or doctors.

But after former ASIO director-general David Irvine addresses the students, they may well opt for a more clandestine career.

The world of international espionage isn’t as action-packed as a James Bond movie.

Mr Irvine is the second guest speaker in the public lecture series Balmoral Lectures at the Mosman school.

Mr Irvine, who spent 46 years in the diplomatic service and as Australia’s top spy, will encourage students to consider a career in “foreign affairs and international security”.

He said the threat of terrorism has placed intelligence services in a more favourable light and as a vital service to the country.

Spying is ‘not so much about people in trench coats standing under lampposts’, says David Irvine.

“Spying is a series of intellectual processes as much as anything,’’ he said.

“Intelligence services collect information, analyse it and report to government.

“It’s not so much about people in trench coats standing under lampposts.”

He said there were good career prospects and it was “challenging and interesting work’’.

Asked about any danger, Mr Irvine replied: “You’re more likely to come to grief in the mining industry.”

International security offers equal career opportunities for women'..

Gillian Anderson is a favourite selection to be the first female Bond.

Queenwood principal Elizabeth Stone said the Balmoral Lectures helped students develop a broad perspective on the world.

“Mr Irvine told us he believes that it’s a fascinating area to work in and he is keen to help young people understand why its an important and rewarding career path,” she said. “It’s a perfect fit for us as a school.”
Mr Irvine will speak at Queenwood at 6pm, August 24. Public welcome. Bookings: mosman.nsw.gov.au

Queenwood principal Elizabeth Stone.