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RST Apology to Tasmanian Aboriginal people 2021.

The natural history observations and collections made during Furneaux’s visit to Tasmania (Van Diemen’s Land) in 1773 with special reference to botany

Papers & Reports

Summary

During the visit of H.M.S. ADVENTURE to Tasmania in March 1773 a number of animals and birds were caught or observed; several of the birds were later drawn. As well, Tobias Furneaux, captain of ADVENTURE, collected seeds of at least two plants, Eucalyptus obliqua and Leptospermum lanigerum, and herbarium specimens of the latter, which were brought back to England. The seeds were germinated and plants were growing in London gardens in the late 1770’s. The possible existence of other herbarium specimens is discussed, and the reasons for the small amount of scientific collection by ADVENTURE’s complement are discussed.

Acknowledgement of Country

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.

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On 15 February 2021, the Royal Society of Tasmania offered a formal Apology to the Tasmanian Aboriginal people.