RST Apology to Tasmanian Aboriginal people 2021.
RST Apology to Tasmanian Aboriginal people 2021.
For over a century, the Geological Survey of Tasmania—part of Mineral Resources Tasmania—has mapped the state, laying the foundation for world-class mineral discoveries and scientific advancement. From early field mapping to today’s cutting-edge techniques such as hyperspectral logging and 3D geological modelling, we combine tradition with innovation to preserve geological knowledge and support exploration, land use planning, and a deeper understanding of Tasmania’s geological evolution.
Dr. Rebecca Sproule is a geologist with over two decades of global multicommodity experience in mineral exploration and geoscience leadership. She earned her Bachelor of Science with Honours in Geology from the University of Tasmania and later completed her Ph.D. at Monash University.
Dr. Sproule has worked in senior positions across five continents in various roles encompassing exploration, development, and operations. In November 2024, she was appointed as Tasmania’s Chief Government Geologist. In this role, she leads the Geological Survey at Mineral Resources Tasmania, bringing her global expertise to support the state’s mineral exploration and development initiatives.
The Royal Society of Tasmania acknowledges, with deep respect, the traditional owners of this land, and the ongoing custodianship of the Aboriginal people of Tasmania. The Society pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge that Tasmanian Aboriginal Peoples have survived severe and unjust impacts resulting from invasion and dispossession of their Country. As an institution dedicated to the advancement of knowledge, the Royal Society of Tasmania recognises Aboriginal cultural knowledge and practices and seeks to respect and honour these traditions and the deep understanding they represent.
On 15 February 2021, the Royal Society of Tasmania offered a formal Apology to the Tasmanian Aboriginal people.