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

Relics Cabinet Progress - September 2026

Thanks to many volunteers, the Relics team's ambition for a bespoke Relics Cabinet is about to be realised.

Position

The RGSSA’s Relics Team, along with Richard Wilson and David Underhill, recently welcomed Andrew Pfitzner, Director of South Australian firm Pfitzner Furniture, regarding the creation of a Relics Cabinet. The bespoke piece will be situated on the landing outside the RGSSA office. 

The onsite meeting addressed critical technical requirements, including exact dimensions, physical stability, and security features such as custom locks and laminated glass. Due to the tight constraints of the Mortlock Chamber lifts, Andrew meticulously measured all access points to ensure flawless installation. 

A Piece of South Australian History 

The cabinet will be constructed from century-old, old-growth Western Australian Jarrah. This historic timber was originally shipped across the Great Australian Bight to South Australia, where it served as storage vats for the Bleasdale Winery before being replaced by modern stainless-steel tanks. Given the premium craftsmanship and historical provenance of the timber, the cabinet is designed to complement the existing heritage environment and is expected to also become a valued relic. 

Measuring

Project Support & Next Steps 

This project has been made possible through a sizeable sponsorship, supplemented by significant member donations and targeted fundraising. The RGSSA accepted the formal quote to commence drawing up plans. 

Subsequently the Cabinet consultation group met recently to review the architectural drawings prepared by Pfitzner Furniture. They were accepted in principle, subject to clarification regarding some minor details. The cabinet will be installed onsite when completed. 

There is still time to be involved and to contribute:

If you would like to support this lasting addition to the Society, please donate through: Library Fund - The Royal Geographical Society of South Australia - select library fund 

Plus send a confirming email to admin@rgssa.org.au indicating your donation is to be directed to the “Relics Cabinet” within the library fund.

Photos courtesy of David Underhill

Comparing wood colours

 

Reviewing the architectural drawings