Level 3 Mortlock Wing State Library of South Australia North Terrace Adelaide SA 5000

Our purpose

Public Awareness

Advance public awareness of, and interest in, geography and related disciplines, including environmental issues

Geographical Science

Encourage research and scholarship in geography

Recognition

Recognise and reward achievements in geography

Commemoration

Commemorate past achievements of significance to geography

The Society is custodian of an extensive library of antique, rare and current books and maps. Many are featured in our Treasures. Amongst its various activities the Society organises lectures on topical issues, publishes a scholarly journal, recognises contributions to geography through an active awards program, and convenes an active field activities program.

The RGSSA welcomes professional geographers, geography graduates, and all those with an enthusiasm for geography, travel and exploration to join.

Quick Links

Sharing our unique historical perspective to a digital age; through the pages of the RGSSA's rare collection of books, maps, photographs, artworks and historical relics

RGSSA Library


The RGSSA Library contains over 25,000 volumes and is one of the most significant collections of rare geographical books and manuscripts in Australia.

Awards & Research


The Society supports a number of awards and prizes to promote geographical education and research, and to recognise members’ efforts. 

Upcoming Lectures & Events

Rawlinson

23 October 2024 | 5:30 pm

Monthly Lecture

From Sextants to Satellites: Where on Earth am I?

NOTE:  This lecture is being held on a Wednesday and will be preceded by the AGM at 5:00 pm.

This lecture will trace the development of instruments and other technologies used to determine our location on the earth’s surface, both on land and at sea.

Todd

24 October 2024 | 10:30 am

Rare Books Group

A walk with the visionary Charles Todd

A real opportunity to walk in the footsteps of this amazing man, Charles Todd (with credit to Keith Conlon and Richard Venus)..

Migration

7 November 2024 | 12:00 pm

Lunchtime Meeting

The ancestors of Indigenous Australians

Corey's research is mainly in the area of global-change ecology — how human endeavour and climate fluctuations have altered past, present and future ecosystems.  

RAA

14 November 2024 | 5:00 pm

Monthly Lecture

Two ways to see, a Rock Art research journey

Professor Andy Gleadow, Dr Damien Finch, Iain Waina

NOTE:  This lecture is being held on the second Thursday in November.
As this lecture will be very popular, bookings are essential to guarantee admittance.

Rock art is a significant archive of our rich cultural heritage and helps us understand our Australian history.  Our presenters will share how traditional owners and scientists have worked together over the last decade to determine the age of rock art sites on Kwini and Balanggarra Country in the East Kimberley.

Annual Dinner 2021

12 December 2024 | 6:00 pm

Events

Annual Dinner

The Society's Annual Dinner at which presentations are made to those who have made an outstanding contribution to the Society, and/or Geography.

Umpherston Sinkhole

11 March 2025 | 8:00 am

Trips & Tours

Southeast South Australia and Western Victoria

Following the highly successful and informative SE and Western Victoria Tour 29 April – 4 May 2024, the Society is planning a repeat with a few additions from our last experience for those who missed out.