Guest Speaker:
Ian Burnet
Join us in Gordon Library Meeting Room 1
at 2 pm on Saturday 19 September 2026 for
A Maritime History of the Torres Strait
The Torres Strait is one of the world’s most dangerous waterways - a maze of reefs, islands and treacherous channels between Australia and Papua New Guinea. Yet for early mariners, finding a route through it could save weeks on the voyage to Asia.
Join maritime historian and author Ian Burnet as he uncovers the dramatic story of explorers, shipwrecks and survival in this perilous passage. From Torres and Cook to Bligh and Flinders, generations of navigators risked everything charting these hazardous waters.
Featuring tales of mutiny, hurricanes, headhunting and desperate open-boat voyages, this is a fascinating glimpse into one of Australia’s most gripping maritime histories.
Free entry, no booking required. You are welcome to stay for refreshments and a chat following the presentation.
About Ian Burnet
Ian Burnet is an author, historian and former geologist who has spent more than thirty years living, working and travelling throughout Indonesia and the eastern archipelago. Fascinated by the region’s rich maritime history and diverse cultures, he has also led sailing voyages through the Spice Islands aboard traditional Indonesian wooden schooners.
His books include Dangerous Passage, Spice Islands, East Indies, Archipelago, The Wallace Line and The Tasman Map, exploring the history, exploration and cultures of our region. Ian’s website: ianburnetbooks.com
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.
