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

Lectures

The RGSSA hosts a series of stimulating lectures on a broad range of geographical topics, both current and historical.

Lecture Program

Monthly Lectures are generally held on the third Thursday of the month at 5.30 pm, preceded by drinks and nibbles from 5:00 pm in the Hetzel Theatre, Institute Building on the corner of North Terrace and Kintore Avenue.  Members are requested to make a gold coin donation to help offset the cost of hospitality. The cost for non-members is $10.  Meetings may be followed by an optional light dinner at a local venue.

Lunchtime meetings are held during the cooler months of the year.  Members are requested to make a gold coin donation while the cost for non-members is $5.

Videos of some previous lectures are available on YouTube.

The Royal Geographical Society of South Australia Lecture Program is supported by the State Library of South Australia.

Upcoming Lectures

Mc Douall Stuart H Itches a Ride

11 September 2024 | 12:00 pm

Lunchtime Meeting

Tracing the route of John McDouall Stuart

This presentation, based on a book by author-journalist Rosemary Cadden, will ask you to relive the pioneering spirit of John McDouall Stuart as Rosemary retraces his footsteps across 6000 kilometres of rugged outback. From the sandy deserts to the tropical north, this is a journey of discovery, both personal and historical. Discover the challenges faced by early settlers, confront the complexities of Indigenous history, and share the laughter and hardships of a modern-day adventurer. Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore the soul of Australia.

Paul Dare book cover

19 September 2024 | 5:00 pm

Monthly Lecture

South Australia From Above: Views from Then And Now.

This talk will give an insight into Paul's compelling new book which prominently features historical aerial photographs by the pioneering South Australian photographer, Douglas Darian Smith (1900-1984). Smith's initial foray into aerial photography took place as a passenger alongside the legendary aviator Sir Ross Smith in his Vickers Vimy. Douglas Darian Smith continued to document the stunning landscapes of South Australia from the skies well into his mid-seventies, providing a captivating glimpse into the region's history and transformation over almost a century.

Rawlinson

23 October 2024 | 5:00 pm

Monthly Lecture

From Sextants to Satellites: Where on Earth am I?

NOTE:  This lecture is being held on a Wednesday.

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.

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.

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.

Previous Lectures