RDHS History Talk: Colonial Ladies - Lovely, Lively and Lamentably Loose

Sat 17 Aug 2024 - Sat 17 Aug 2024

1 pm - 2 pm

Location
Lionel Bowen Library, Maroubra
Address
669-673 Anzac Parade, Maroubra, NSW 2035

Join us for a free history lecture presented by Judith Dunn, OAM.

Bookings
Bookings are essential online. For more information, please contact The Randwick & District Historical Society: 02 9349 3572 or email: randwickhistory@outlook.com
Booking URL
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/944770753757

A lively and interesting talk revealing the feisty nature of convict pioneer women, branded in official records as "the very dregs of society". Individual crime reports from the Sydney Herald illustrate the larrikinism and inner strength that allowed these women to survive. Beyond minor thefts, these feisty women engaged in all sorts of mischief, including amorous adventures with men, drunkenness, absconding, violent and riotous behavior, and more.

These stories relate to crimes committed after arrival in the colony and demonstrate why they were incarcerated in the Female Factory or Convict Women’s Gaol. Although humorous, this thought-provoking presentation delves into the harsh realities of the gaol system these women endured and how they managed to survive it.

About the speaker: Judith Dunn's passion for Australian history is evident through her roles as a Councillor at the Royal Australian Historical Society and a representative on the Federation of Australian Historical Societies. With over 30 years of service, she is a Past President and currently serves on the Council of the Parramatta & District Historical Society. Her book, Colonial Ladies: Lovely, Lively and Lamentably Loose, received an individual grant from the Heritage Branch of the NSW Department for Planning. Judith's dedication has earned her several awards, including the Australian Bi-Centenary Medal and an OAM in 2011 for her contributions to History and Heritage. As a TAFE Teacher, she also received a NSW Quality Teaching Award. Beyond her professional achievements, Judith serves as President of two local community groups and enjoys water skiing in her leisure time.

This talk is presented by The Randwick & District Historical Society in collaboration with Randwick City Library.

Terms and conditions:

  • Covid-19 Safety Terms and Conditions apply. Follow this link to find out more. Please review them prior to attending this event as these may change with short notice.
  • Online bookings are essential.
  • If you are unable to attend the event, please cancel your ticket as soon as possible. This will enable others to participate.
  • You do not need to be a Library member to attend this event, however library membership is free and you can join online.
  • Please arrive 10 minutes early to allow the event to run on time.
  • Your attendance at events supported by Randwick City Council may be digitally recorded through photographs and/or video recordings. Images may be used for promotional purposes on council's websites, publications, social media or by newspapers. By attending this session you agree to these terms. If you do not wish your image to be published, please notify staff before the event.

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