Australasia

A snapshot of early twentieth‑century scholarship, this eight‑lecture series offers a richly illustrated overview of Australasia as seen through the eyes of the British Colonial Office. Drawing on photographs, painted scenes and detailed maps, the presenter guides listeners through the region’s geography, natural resources, and emerging societies, while explaining how the colonies fit into the wider imperial framework.

Beyond the facts and figures, the talks capture the optimism and challenges of a rapidly developing part of the world. Listeners will hear about the agricultural boom in Queensland, the mineral wealth of Western Australia, and the growing urban centres of New Zealand, all set against the backdrop of indigenous cultures and the complexities of colonial governance. The material, originally designed to accompany a set of lantern slides, brings history to life with vivid visual references that still resonate today.