This page is relevant to the 150th anniversary events and is retained for general interest.

July 24th 2012 marks the sesquicentenary of Stuart and his Companions reaching the north coast of Australia, thereby becoming the first Europeans to cross from south to north and returning through the centre of the continent. Accordingly, major celebrations are planned. They will be be held simultaneously at Point Stuart, N.T., Adelaide & London.

There’s lots going on, commencing in April and continuing throughout the year in the way of interesting talks, functions and exhibitions, again in both the N.T. and S.A.

Please click the link below to download.
Event calendar 2012-13

Stuart's fully restored grave, 2011

Until very recently, visitors who paid their respects at the grave of Australia’s greatest inland explorer probably did not know that the grave they were viewing had been incomplete since World War 2. Back then, the 2.7 metre granite needle sitting on top of the grave pedestal was dislodged and went ‘missing’.

For the last 66 years, a lack of funds has prevented the full restoration of his grave. Now the needle on his grave has been replaced with a grey granite needle sourced from India. Financial assistance was received from a Commonwealth Government grant (Commemorating Eminent Australians), the Royal Geographical Society of South Australia, and the John McDouall Stuart Society.

Stuart’s grave is now ready for 2012, when on July 25th a ceremony to recognise the arrival on the north coast of Australia on that day, 150 years ago, will be held. Stuart and his Companions were the first Europeans to cross the continent from south to north, through the centre, and return without loss of life.

Please visit the events calendar in the news section to see what other events will be held.

Join with us on a tour of Stuart’s route north as he left Adelaide on 25th October 1861 – exactly 150 years ago to the day.

We will depart at 10.00 am October 25th 2011, from the Central Bus Station, Franklin St, Adealide, and the Adealide Aquatic Centre (free parking), Jeffcot Rd, North Adealide at 10.15 am; and return there at approximately 3.30 pm.

The bus tour will include a visit to

• Carclew, the site of James Chambers house in Jeffcott St, North Adelaide
• the site of the Heart in Hand Hotel (where Stuart injured his hand)
• the Old Spot Hotel, Salisbury, where the party stayed the first night
• Kingsford, the home of Stephen King junior (and site of McLeods Daughters TV show)
• Gawler, where we will visit the church where a special service was held for the departing men.

Along the way we will have commentary about the relevant locations and we’ll enjoy the camaraderie of a shared interest.

We will have a luncheon in the Gawler Arms Hotel and arrive back in North Adelaide by mid afternoon.

Cost will be approximately $ 30 (depending upon numbers), plus lunch at $ 9.50, plus a guided tour of Gawler for $2.50.

RSVP to the Acting Honorary Secrtetary by 11th October through normal means, or email through this site before 28th September.