September 17: Book Launch at the Alliance Francaise

September 17 at 6.00pm : Book Launch.

Encountering Terra Australis. The Australian Voyages of Nicolas Baudin and Matthew Flinders (Wakefield Press), by Jean Fornasiero, Peter Monteath & John West-Sooby.

You are cordially invited to join us for drinks and nibbles as we celebrate the publication of a brand new book that highlights the many achievements of South Australia’s favourite sea-faring Frenchman, Nicolas Baudin. Two of the book’s authors, Jean Fornasiero and John West-Sooby, will give a short talk about this remarkable expedition and its often maligned commander. You’ll also find out about some of the other work being done on topics ranging from the great books of French literature to the place of food in French life and culture.

At the dawn of the 19th century, two remarkable voyages of discovery set out from rival ports, but with a common destination – the world of uncertainty and half-truths that was Terra Australis. Alienated from one another by the treacherous international relations of the day, the expeditions and their captains were nonetheless united in their cause of carrying to the antipodes the European Enlightenment’s defining quest for knowledge and discovery. Nicolas Baudin and Matthew Flinders would exemplify that unity of scientific purpose when they crossed paths in the waters off Australia’s previously uncharted south coast. However, while the name of Matthew Flinders has found its rightful place in the pantheon of Australian explorers, that of Nicolas Baudin remains tarnished by the false accusations made against him by his enemies. This book redresses the balance. Next to Flinders’ voice is that of Baudin – presented through fresh translations of his journals. And alongside the charts and the artwork which recorded the English encounter with Terra Australis are placed the visually striking rewards of the French expedition. Moreover, the authors have undertaken a detailed examination of the full range of achievements on both sides – in natural science, artistic endeavour, hydrography and, last but by no means least, the nascent discipline of anthropology.