A voluntary, not-for-profit organisation for advancing geographical science and promoting public awareness and enjoyment of Geography and related topics.
Advance public awareness of, and interest in, geography and related disciplines, including environmental issues
Encourage research and scholarship in geography
Recognise and reward achievements in geography
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.
Experience. Geography. Together.TM
The RGSSA Library contains over 25,000 volumes and is one of the most significant collections of rare geographical books and manuscripts in Australia.
Temporary closure: Wednesday 4 November - Friday 6 November 2026
The Society supports a number of awards and prizes to promote geographical education and research, and to recognise members’ efforts.
15 October 2026 - 19 October 2026 | 8:00 am
Trips & Tours
FULLY BOOKED To experience this rare fill of Kati Thanda Lake Eyre and continue the RGSSA tradition of involvement with this iconic part of our Outback, we are conducting a special five-day tour to Lake Eyre south and William Creek.
6 November 2026 | 9:30 am
Forum Events
Third Royal Geographical Society of South Australia (RGSSA) Postgraduate Geography and Cognate Disciplines Symposium
19 November 2026 | 5:30 pm
Monthly Lecture
Andrew will entertain and inform us with his talk about travelling with camels in the outback.
Image from https://www.andrewharper.com.au
20 November 2026 | 12:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Forum Events
This symposium brings together a range of transport planning experts to discuss mechanisms by which to promote and enable a range of active travel modes that can facilitate the development of both a more sustainable and liveable Adelaide and a healthier and engaged population.
26 November 2026 | 10:30 am
Rare Books Group
The Society has more than 30 large pictorial albums - this talk highlights a selection of these remarkable photographic albums, showcasing expeditions undertaken during the 19th century.
3 December 2026 | 12:00 pm
Lunchtime Meeting
This research proposes to explore the case of the York Gate Library as a fascinating early example of object movement for reasons of social interest and cultural relevance to UK and Australian societies. Sophie is a recipient of one of the RGSSA's Library Fellowships in 2026.
7 December 2026 | 12:30 pm
The RGSSA Council would like to show its sincere appreciation for all that its volunteers do for the Society by inviting them to lunch with us on Monday 7 December in the Jervois Room of the State Library.
As our President, Leigh Radford OAM, recently remarked at the AGM - the great work achieved by the Society is dependent on the remarkable efforts of its volunteers!
Please let us know whether you can attend by noon on Wednesday 25 November and advise admin@rgssa.org.au of any dietary requirements.
Hoping you will be able to join us on 7 December at 12:30 pm for a light lunch including wraps, fruit and home baked goodies as well as tea, coffee and juice.
10 December 2026 | 6:30 pm
Events
The Society's Annual Dinner is a not-to-be-missed occasion which should be both enteratining and informative, not to mention delicious!
14 September 2027 | 9:00 am
Trips & Tours
Walking through the desert with pack camels offers a truly unique and transformative experience. The journey is slow and mindful, where you walk quietly across the desert, with the camels following behind, offering a steady, calming rhythm throughout the day.
4 October 2027 | 12:00 am
Trips & Tours
This will be a seven-day trip escorted by RGSSA Head of Travel Joc Schmiechen.
© The Royal Geographical Society of South Australia