The Victorian Government is very proud to support the Royal Society of Victoria’s plans to celebrate the sesquicentenary of the ill-fated expedition of Burke and Wills.

The story of Burke and Wills is a fabled part of Australian history and a part of Victoria’s rich tradition of science and discovery.

These two pioneers risked all in the pursuit of knowledge and their legacy deserves to be recognised and celebrated. It is appropriate that the sesquicentenary celebrations are being organised by the Royal Society of Victoria. The Society was the original sponsor of the expedition and is preparing a wide-ranging program of events to commemorate this important anniversary. The program of events and activities will stretch out from Victoria into other States, and it is fitting that the program has the support of both the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments. The Victorian Government hopes that you can join us in supporting the Royal Society of Victoria’s efforts to commemorate the Burke and Wills expedition and the contribution of these two unique Australian pioneers.

John Brumby
Victorian Premier