Note change from published program:
7 October at 7.30pm
Burnside City Uniting Church, 384 Portrush Rd Tusmore
DR JOHN WOODFORDE…and Six Parrot Puddings
by ROB KIRK
The talk is about the early days of Colonial Adelaide through the eyes of Dr Woodforde, survey doctor (and later JP and Coroner) who came out on the Rapid with Colonel Light. His diary is used (first May 1836 to 22nd May 1837) beginning with his departure from Blackwall in England, and then various other sources until 11th April 1866, Woodforde’s death. We will encounter early hospitals and lunatic asylums, public hangings and soirees at Government House, under seven different governors.
One of Woodforde’s sons, John, went on one, and a half of another of John McDouall Stuart’s expeditions. An integral part of this talk involves many excellent drawings and paintings of early Adelaide, including lady artists who need much more recognition.
Some of Woodforde’s original items will be on display. Rob Kirk’s book on Dr Woodforde was printed with a HSSA grant and will be available to purchase on the night.
About the speaker: Rob Kirk is the great, great, great grandson of Dr Woodforde and
is also related to Major O’Halloran, the first Police Commissioner. Rob has been a geologist for 45 years and lives on a little farm, with Margy, also a geologist, in the Hills outside of Yankalilla. He is a member of
Pioneers Association of SA (PASA) and the Yankalilla and District History Society and has given talks to Probus, U3A, ADFAS and PASA. His interests include rocks and fossils, Tasmanian convicts and British Roman material.