Note that this event is presently fully booked, however, if you have an interest in this trip we encourge you to join the waitlist in case of cancellations or if there is enough interest we may be able to arrange a similar trip in the future. (There is no obligation on your part in joining the wait list.)

Murray River Cruise and Royal Geographical Society of SA
1-8 May 2026

Join us for a Geotour cruise on the Murray River and a hosted visit to our sister Society, the Royal Geographical Society of South Australia in Adelaide.

Twin Share from $4075.00 pp; Single rate from $5830.00 pp

* As we have to book flights and cabins on the boat please register by 31 Jul 2025. On receipt of an offer, an Initial deposit of $1,000pp (partly refundable) is required by 15 Aug 2025 to secure cabins & flights.

Cost includes:

Itinerary includes:

This Geotour will include guided shore excursions covering geographical, ecological, historical, economic and cultural aspects of this part of the Murray River:

Enquiries:
RGSQ office +61 7 3368 2066 or email info@rgsq.org.au

As more land is developed and paved over, the natural absorption of rainwater by soil and vegetation is drastically reduced. Instead, rainwater runs over impervious surfaces like asphalt and concrete, picking up a cocktail of pollutants before it enters storm drains and flows untreated into local waterways. The result is a growing, largely invisible crisis affecting rivers, lakes, oceans, and even drinking water supplies. In a natural environment, rainwater is absorbed into the ground, recharging groundwater and sustaining ecosystems. But, in built environments, stormwater behaves differently. [AIMEQUIP]

Speakers:

Professor Steven Kenway

Steven is a water leader with senior experience in research, industry, and government, developed through roles with The University of Queensland, CSIRO, Brisbane Water, Sydney Water, and private consulting. He has worked with urban water, wastewater, stormwater, and related energy and greenhouse gas issues since 1990. His work addresses urban water security, water-energy nexus, and circular economy. He creates collaborations, tools, models and knowledge to address all flows of water – and related energy - into, out of, and within cities. This enables evaluation and management of key concepts such as: (i) net zero carbon water cycle, (ii) hybrid, decentralised and integrated systems performance, and (iii) sustainable urban design and planning.

Assoc Professor Brian McIntosh

Brian is a water sector and sustainability capacity developer, educator, researcher and boundary spanner. He has significant experience in the design and delivery of applied and inter-disciplinary programs to build capacity for innovation, change and adaptation at individual, organisational and sectoral scales. As a recipient of international and national research awards and of a National Teaching Award, Brian has designed and delivered professionally targeted, problem and work-based water management and leadership programs and courses to participants from 86 different countries. This includes having led the development and delivery of water management and engineering Masters in Australia and the UK responsible for educating around 1000 graduates now working globally.

Glenn Browning

Glenn is a Senior Engineer at Brisbane City Council, specialising in stormwater management and Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD). With over 25 years of experience in waterway management across Queensland, Glenn has played a pivotal role in shaping sustainable urban water practices. His recent work focuses on developing innovative frameworks for waterway restoration and contributing to policy through published reviews, discussion papers, and guideline updates. Glenn is a member of Engineers Australia's Climate Risk Working Group, where he is helping to craft national guidance to support the engineering profession in adapting to future climate challenges. Currently undertaking a PhD at Griffith University, Glenn’s research explores new strategies for restoring urban waterways—bridging science, policy, and practice to improve ecological outcomes.

Each speaker will have 8 minutes to spotlight their work. During the Q&A forum the audience will have up to 60 minutes to ask questions of the experts on their research.

Light refreshments are served on arrival. This is a chance to network with colleagues and friends interested in this topic.

Please post your questions on notice to: Email questionsonnotice@gmail.com

Date: Tuesday 28 October

Time: 5:30 pm light refreshments – doors open @ 5:15

6:00 – 6:30 pm Presentations

6:30 – 7:30 Q&A Forum

7:30 – 8:00 Mingling

Place: Gregory Place, Level 1, 28 Fortescue St. Spring Hill

Cost: $5.00 for refreshments, included in registration.

Cost: $5.00 Members

$10.00 Non-Members

Free Students

Come enjoy the great outdoors and learn more about the geography of D'Aguilar National Park with the Young Geographers Group on a hike of the Somerset Trail, Mt Mee. 

The Somerset Trail is a 13km circuit that'll have you hiking through an array of landscapes including piccabeen palm rainforest, dry sclerophyll forest, scrubby heath and even a section of old hoop pine plantation. The trail also includes a stunning lookout location over the mountains and both Somerset and Wivenhoe Dam. For those who'd like a shorter self-guided walk option, the nearby Piccabeen Walk takes you on a relaxing 1km circuit of piccabeen palm grove just opposite The Gantry. 

For those interested in coming on the Somerset Trail hike, we'll meet at The Gantry picnic area at 9am. Those not keen on the hike but still interested in joining us afterwards for a picnic and hangout are welcome to meet at The Gantry picnic area around 1pm. We'll provide some blankets, picnic food and drinks to share.

There's plenty of native flowers in bloom still and wildlife around at the moment so it's sure to be a lovely day. See you there! 

Speakers: Professor David Hensher AM and Dr Peter Scarth

Professor David A. Hensher AM PhD FASSA is a distinguished transport economist and the Founding Director of the Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies (ITLS) at the University of Sydney. Internationally recognised for pioneering contributions to discrete choice modelling, stated preference methods, economic valuation, and travel behaviour analysis, his work has profoundly influenced transport policy and infrastructure planning. With over 82,000 citations and 755 publications, Professor Hensher ranks among the most cited economists globally. His leadership has elevated ITLS to ERA Level 5 status, “well above world standard.” In 2023, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his service to transport research. Recipient of numerous awards including the 2009 IATBR (International Association of Travel Behaviour Research) Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition for his long-standing and exceptional contribution to IATBR as well as to the wider travel behaviour community. David in 2025 is ranked #1 globally for scientists in transport and logistics and #1 in 2025 in Public Transport. He was an early pioneer of MaaS and developer of MaaF.

Dr Peter Scarth is a spatial scientist who pioneered the application of AI and spatial data in land management. With a PhD and an Adjunct Associate Professorship at The University of Queensland, Peter blended his academic work with hands-on experience as a former jackaroo and timber harvester. This unique background helped him develop the fractional cover model, a vital tool for land condition monitoring nationally. As a co-founder and Director of Cibo Labs, he translates decades of research into practical models that provide farmers with intelligence on forage availability and land health, supporting sustainable and profitable practices. He is also a Director at Ozius, where he leads AI and Big Data efforts to create rigorous models that map dynamic changes in global vegetation structure and condition. Peter is focused on the future: integrating AI and predictive analytics to solve the "wicked problems" of land management and revolutionise the ag-tech industry globally.

Description:

This talk explains what the initial Mobility as a Service (MaaS) idea was and how we have progressed with trying to find a way forward that aligns with a business model and how it might change travel behaviour to achieve a range of sustainability goals. Disappointingly the ecosystem focussed on multi-modalism has to date failed to deliver and we have looked for new ways of seeing is there is ecosystem that may make a rebadged MaaS a worthwhile activity - which we call Mobility as a Feature (MaaF) with embedded multi-service and non-mobility service providers. We sketch out the next generation plan.

When: 11 November 2025

Time: 6:30 – 7:30 pm AEST   Please note the 6:30 pm start

           7:30 – 8:30 pm AEDT 

Location: Zoom Only

Please note: The ZOOM link for this event is included in the confirmation email which you will receive once you have registered. You will find it at the bottom of the notice. Please keep this in a place where you can find it when needed. A reminder email will be sent with the link on the day of the event close to Close of Business hours.

This event may be recorded. If you have any questions, please email us at info@rgsq.org.au

Join us for a day out on Coochiemudlo Island on Wednesday 19th November.

This is an opportunity to explore the island which is a short distance from Victoria Point. While predominately residential, it has a variety of wildlife, migratory birds, and habitats to explore, including the heritage-listed emerald fringe of bushland around the shoreline which distinguishes it from other inhabited islands in Moreton Bay.

Vivienne Roberts -Thomson, President of Coochiemudlo Island Coastcare, will take the group on a guided walk around the island and discuss geographical issues which have impacted the island in recent times.

Transport: The day trip involves self-drive to Victoria Point Jetty and travelling by ferry to and from the island. As using public transport may take up to 2 hours from Brisbane city, carpooling is suggested.

Parking: There is some public parking near the Victoria Point jetty or in nearby streets – please be aware that time limits apply in certain areas.

10.15 am: Participants meet at the Victoria Point Jetty to catch the ferry to Coochiemudlo. The ferry costs 50 cents each way, leaving every 30 minutes on the half hour/hour.

10.30 am: Depart for Coochiemudlo where we will be met by Vivienne Roberts-Thomson at the jetty. Walk through Norfolk Park to the Curlew Café.

Victoria Point Jetty departure.

Morning Tea: Morning tea can be purchased at the Curlew Café which is a short walk from the ferry. There is also the option to bring your own morning tea.

After morning tea, Vivienne will take the group to features of geographic interest around the island. It is a pleasant walk from the café east along the Norfolk track to historic Norfolk beach, the landing site of Matthews Flinders in 1799, and through the wetlands to Morwong beach. We will be able to see the impact of the 2013 storm surge of ex-Cyclone Oswald, the Melaleuca/wetland ecosystem, RAMSAR sites and the impacts of Cyclone Alfred.

(The island bus may be able to pick up those who may not want to walk back to the lunch venue.)

12.30 pm Lunch: We will return for lunch at the Beach Bar for those who wish to purchase lunch.  Alternatively, you can pack a picnic lunch.

Post lunch: Afternoon activities: Birdwatching (more information to follow.)

Participants can catch the ferry to return at own leisure.

Participants please note: Please wear closed walking shoes, sun-safe clothing and bring a hat, sunscreen and water.

Limit: 20 participants. If the trip is fully booked, please use the waitlist. There is the possibility of late places being available.

Cost: Members $15, Non-members $20, including a donation Coochie Coastcare

Register and pay by November 15, 2025.

Photo: https://coochiemudloisland.com.au/

Coordinator: Kaye Schwede  

The Moreton Bay Foundation recently commissioned a review of the current evidence and stakeholder knowledge of Moreton Bay ecology, social connection and barriers and legislative frameworks. The review resulted in a comprehensive plan Blueprint for a sustainable Moreton Bay for people and nature (2025-2035) and identifies priority actions for the protection and renewal of Moreton Bay over the coming decade. [Moreton Bay Foundation website]. The speakers will address 3 of the recommended programs and actions; Program 3, Knowledge exchange and stakeholder coordination, Program 4, Increasing catchment sediment reduction at a Bay-wide scale and Program 6, Strengthening community connection with Moreton Bay.

Speakers

Katie Walters is the Acting CEO of The Moreton Bay Foundation, an independent, science-led charity that brings together community, researchers, industry, government, and First Nations to protect and restore Moreton Bay. The Foundation commissioned the Blueprint for a Sustainable Moreton Bay for People and Nature 2025–2035 and launched the report in 2024. In her role, Katie provides a platform for the Bay’s diverse network to come together, facilitating collaboration that enables knowledge sharing and coordinated action to protect the Bay’s natural and cultural values. She brings more than 30 years of experience in community engagement and over 15 years in marine conservation and science, spanning local, national, and international contexts. Her work centres on engaging stakeholders and communicating both the value of Moreton Bay and the vital connections between people and place.

Dr Jack Coates-Marnane is a catchment scientist. In 2016 he completed a PhD in geoscience, investigating long-term environmental change in Moreton Bay using sediment cores. This work provided novel insights into the Holocene environmental history of the Bay, including the impacts of more recent catchments land-use changes. In his current role Jack supports the delivery of regional ecosystem health monitoring and reporting program (EHMP – Report Card) for waterways of the South East Queensland Region as well as targeted river management initiatives.

Angela Massy is the Chief Executive Officer of the EcoMarines Foundation, a Queensland-based charity dedicated to inspiring young people to become leaders in environmental stewardship. With a background in community engagement, governance, and not-for-profit leadership, Angela is passionate about empowering the next generation to take meaningful action for our land, waterways, and marine environments. Under her leadership, EcoMarines has expanded its reach across Queensland, working with schools, councils, and industry partners to foster practical, youth-led sustainability initiatives. Her work is strongly informed by the principles of place-based education and the role of geography in shaping environmental understanding. By connecting students to the specific ecological, cultural, and social contexts of their local environments, Angela has championed programs that link classroom learning to real-world action.

Each speaker will have 8 minutes to spotlight their work. During the Q&A forum the audience will have up to 60 minutes to ask questions of the experts on their research.

Light refreshments are served on arrival. This is a chance to network with colleagues and friends interested in this topic.

Please post your questions on notice to:

Email questionsonnotice@gmail.com

Date: Tuesday 25 November

Time:  5:30 pm light refreshments – doors open @ 5:15 

             6:00 – 6:30 pm Presentations

             6:30 – 7:30 Q&A Forum

             7:30 – 8:00 Mingling 

Place: Gregory Place, Level 1, 28 Fortescue St. Spring Hill 

Cost: $5.00 for refreshments, included in registration. 

Cost: $5.00 Members 

          $10.00 Non-Members 

          Free Students 

Presenter: Trevor Hamley, Australian Glaciologist

SYNOPSIS

"Vodka in a Vegemite Jar" is the title of a book written by Australian Glaciologist, Trevor Hamley. The book describes the 1983 over-snow trek of 3,000 kilometre across Soviet Antarctic from Mirny to Dome C and return. In this memoir, Trevor reveals how fate and a touch of destiny propelled him towards this unique experience, including a visit to Vostok - the coldest place on Earth.

At every turn, the Dome C traverse was beset by adversity yet achieved its scientific objectives. Mechanical and scientific equipment succumbed to the harsh Antarctic conditions, where temperatures plunged to minus sixty degrees centigrade. An appendectomy was performed 1,000 kilometres from the safety of a permanent station, an unprecedented feat in the annals of Antarctic expeditions. Each leg of the journey became an exhilarating episode. But the narrative does not merely recount the logistical aspects of the traverse; it delves into the intricacies of glaciology and the profound issue of our time: climate change.

In "Vodka in a Vegemite Jar", Trevor skilfully intertwines the thrill of exploration with challenging human experiences. He tells us about an extraordinary opportunity and cross-cultural friendship.

AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY

Trevor Hamley is the author of "Vodka in a Vegemite Jar – an Australian on a Soviet Antarctic Expedition". After finishing an undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering at Monash University, Trevor joined the Australian Antarctic Division as the glaciologist - to winter at Casey in 1978. He then commenced a career in engineering construction before re-joining the Antarctic Division to participate in a Soviet Antarctic Expedition in 1983/84. Trevor completed a Master of Science degree in Glaciology at Melbourne University in 1987. He is a life-long enthusiast of outdoor activities and lives in Brisbane with his wife Kerry-Lynne with whom he has two sons and four grandchildren.

Register and pay via the website.

Coordinator: Kay Rees

Photographs and videos may be taken during RGSQ events for use in promotional materials including, but not limited to, the RGSQ website, social media channels, newsletters and other publications. By attending an RGSQ event, you consent to the use of your likeness for these purposes, unless you inform the event organizer or photographer otherwise.

Map Group's end of year event will follow a “tried and tested” formula where members will present a 5 minute segment on an interesting item they have collected. The item could have some geographical connection or be as broad as you wish.  Some suggestions to get you thinking; the item can be a book, holiday souvenir, piece of equipment, some photographs or maps.  It is surprising how entertaining this segment of our program can be and it usually creates much laughter.  This will be followed by a special morning tea and the usual camaraderie.

Limit:- 30.  Registration on the website required.

Coordinator:-  Kay, Neville and Len

Photographs and videos may be taken during RGSQ events for use in promotional materials including, but not limited to, the RGSQ website, social media channels, newsletters and other publications. By attending an RGSQ event, you consent to the use of your likeness for these purposes, unless you inform the event organizer or photographer otherwise.