Programme 2027

Monday 18 February 2027, 7:15pm

@ West Torrens Library Auditorium,  1 Brooker Terrace, Hilton

Julian Ratcliffe

The history of the Burra Mines: the discovery of copper and the story of the town
Julian lived in Burra for twenty years and worked as a tour guide. He has authored numerous pamphlets about Historic sites around Burra,    volunteered at the restored Burra Railway Station and at the Burra Town Hall, and organised bus tours of the town.  Together with his photos, hear the fascinating story of the discovery of copper in the town, the Engine House, the Smelter, and the miners’ cottages and their lifestyle. He describes Burra as an Historian’s Wonderland. And he has some wonderful photos which he will use to illustrate his talk.  

  Image: Burra Burra Mines 1875 [SLSA B75030] 

Monday 22 February 2027, 7:15pm

@ West Torrens Library Auditorium,  1 Brooker Terrace, Hilton

Robert Davis

Clipper Ship The City of Adelaide
The City of Adelaide is the world’s oldest surviving clipper ship. It was launched in 1864 and completed 23 annual voyages transporting passengers and cargo from Plymouth to Adelaide until 1887. 

It is now preserved in dry dock at Port Adelaide where it is undergoing restoration.  Robert Davis is closely connected to the ship, knows its history, and will share his knowledge of this maritime marvel.    

  Image: Robert Davis [supplied]

Monday 22 March 2027, starting 5pm

NO MEETING - BOOKED EVENT

Guided Tour - Port Adelaide

Clipper Ship The City of Adelaide
Join an exclusive guided tour of the Clipper at its home at Port Adelaide, with special guides, Robert Davis and his team.

The 90-minute tour will begin at 5.00pm. After the tour, we will adjourn to a nearby hotel for dinner and a chance to enjoy each other’s friendship.  Further details about the event and booking details will be provided in the near future. Cost of the tour is $10 members, $15 non-members.  Everyone welcome. 

  Image: City of Adelaide Clipper Ship [SLSA B 1778]

Monday 26 April 2027, 7:15pm

@ West Torrens Library Auditorium,  1 Brooker Terrace, Hilton

Alison Milisits

The Milisits story - Vili's family bakery
This is the story of Vili Milisits, his childhood, and his journey through to a wonderfully successful business career as a baker, and the famous Vili’s Pie.  Vili arrived in Adelaide with his family in 1956 with virtually nothing, having escaped the Hungarian revolution.  The company now employs 360 staff, supports 57 charities, distributes its products Australia wide, and exports to 24 countries.   Alison, Vili’s daughter, has grown up in the business and is now the managing director. This is a great story about a thriving West Torrens business.

NOTE - TBC*

SA HISTORY FESTIVAL 

Kandahar Open Days

Built c1900 and given as a belated wedding present from Captn William Morish to his daughter Mary Elizabeth when she married Arthur Hill, the house was designed by Edward Davies, notable South Australia architect. Take a look around Kandahar and learn it’s history with the West Torrens Historical Society.   Bookings not required. Entry by donation. Enjoy $5 Devonshire tea (10-1pm both days). 

Tuesday 4 May, 10am - 3pm and Saturday 8 May, 10am - 2pm 

ACCESSIBLE PARKING AVAILABLE - northern carpark / GENERAL PARKING - southern side

Please call Graham Parry 0418 880 080 for further details