Lectures

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.

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.

9 October 2024 | 12:00 pm

Lunchtime Meeting

The ancestors of Indigenous Australians: How they settled and thrived since their beginning

Australia, the continent, wasn’t always Australia as we know it today.  Was settlement an accident, or something more deliberately planned? By which route – or routes – was the continent first settled, and when?

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.

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.