ACT Monaro Riverina Branch: Talk – French Botanising in Australia in the 18th & 19th Centuries

Max Bourke has long been interested in many aspects of both French culture and the Enlightenment. From the 18^th century France sought to become a colonial power to rival Britain. This was played out in both scientific and military spheres and the result was a body of knowledge that lay at the core of understanding the new, to western eyes, flora of Australia. This talk will look at the work of French botanists/gardeners from the 18^th Century and their interactions with British scientists in documenting, and describing in the then ‘new’ method(s) of western science, the plant life of Australia. Despite rolling wars and revolution this work went on with only minor interruptions, into the 19^th century.

Max has academic qualifications in science, art and conservation management. He has worked in the public and private sectors in senior roles and served as officer bearer in both the ACT Branch and the National Management Committee of the Australian Garden History Society.

Location: The Chapel, Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, 15 Blackall Street, Barton.

Cost: $15 AGHS members, $20 non-members (includes refreshments)

Book: at Trybooking.

Further Information: Nancy Clarke, clarkenancy624@gmail.com or on 0423 690 626.