Guest Speaker:
Denis Smith
Join us in Gordon Library Meeting Room 1
at 2 pm on Saturday 15 August 2026 for
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Denis Smith explores the remarkable story behind the First Fleet’s 250-day, 15,000-mile voyage from Portsmouth in May 1787 - from the careful planning that made it possible, to the inspired choice of Arthur Phillip to lead it. He will also look at why Botany Bay was chosen, and uncover some of the lesser-known episodes along the way.
The talk also sheds light on Lord Sydney’s role in shaping the expedition, including his part in selecting Governor Phillip. Along the way, Denis tackles some intriguing colonial questions: why did Phillip raise the British flag at Sydney Cove in January 1788 when Captain Cook had already claimed the east coast? And what role did Matthew Flinders play in the naming of Australia?
An engaging and thought-provoking presentation - join us at the Ku-ring-gai Historical Society to discover the story behind the voyage that changed a continent.
Free entry, no booking required. You are welcome to stay for refreshments and a chat following the presentation.
About Denis Smith, OAM, MRSN
Born in Waverton, Denis is a retired electrical engineer who has always maintained a great interest in history. He is vice president of the Fellowship of First Fleeters; and past president of both Lane Cove Historical Society and the Matthew Flinders Society.
Denis is a First Fleet descendant of 1st Class Marine John Barrisford and his wife Hannah, who came out on the Prince of Wales in 1788. They spent three years in Sydney, then to Norfolk Island, settling on a land grant of 160 acres. When they closed down Norfolk Island in 1808, the family transferred to Hobart on 500 acres.
As always, please keep an eye on our website in case of any last-minute changes.
The venue is Gordon Library Meeting Room 1, in the Old Gordon Public School, which adjoins the Gordon Library, 799 Pacific Highway, Gordon (corner Pacific Highway and Park Avenue).
It’s just a 5-minute walk from Gordon Station.
For a map and parking information, see our Contact page.
