THE FLAG’S UP – A talk by Peter Poland OAM, author

This presentation will briefly address the contents of ‘The Flags Up’ which  is the story of significant events that occurred in the first 20 years of the South Head Lookout Post between  1790 to 1809 and the commemorations of the 200th anniversary held by the Woollahra History and Heritage Society.  This presentation will focus in more detail on other anecdotes which came to light during research for the book.

Background

In Australia’s early years English, Dutch, French, American and Russian ships anchored alongside convict vessels in Sydney’s peaceful harbour.  They carried Matthew Flinders and other famous navigators; political prisoners, daring escapees, Aborigines and Maoris making their first international journeys, and governors to and from their difficult postings.  The South Head Lookout Post which recorded these arrivals and departures has been manned since January 1790.

 About the Author

Peter Poland is a retired Naval Officer and President of the Woollahra History and Heritage Society.  He is also a member of the Naval Historical Society of Australia.  Born in the UK to a naval family Peter joined Dartmouth Royal Naval College at the age of 13.  During his 30 year naval career he served 2 ½ years with the Royal Australian Navy.  Peter commanded 4 ships including the frigate HMS Zest, which he brought into Sydney Harbour in 1968. Peter retired from the Royal Navy in 1971 as a Commander and brought his family to Australia.