Ku-ring-gai Historical Society presents:
Why the First Fleet was Such a Success
Denis Smith explores the remarkable story behind the First Fleet’s voyage from Portsmouth in 1787. Denis will consider the careful planning that made it possible, the choice of Arthur Phillip to lead it, and why Botany Bay was chosen. The talk also sheds light on Lord Sydney’s role in shaping the expedition, including his selection of Arthur Phillip. Denis tackles some intriguing questions in this presentation: why did Phillip raise the British flag at Sydney Cove in January 1788 when Captain Cook had already claimed the east coast? And what role did Matthew Flinders play in the naming of Australia?
Free entry, no booking required. You are welcome to stay for refreshments following the presentation.
HMS Sirius weathering Tasman Head by George Raper, 1791 (State Library of NSW)
About the speaker
Denis Smith OAM MRSN is Vice President of the Fellowship of First Fleeters and past president of the Lane Cove Historical Society and the Matthew Flinders Society. He is a descendant of 1st Class Marine John Barrisford and his wife Hannah, who came out on the Prince of Wales in 1788.
Event details
Join the Ku-ring-gai Historical Society in Gordon Library Meeting Room 1 at 2:00 pm on Saturday, 15 August 2026. Finishing time is approximately 3:30 pm.
The meeting room is in the Old Gordon Public School, adjoining the library, 799 Pacific Hwy, Gordon (corner Pacific Hwy and Park Ave).
It’s a 5-minute walk from Gordon Station. For a map and parking information, see www.khs.org.au/contact-us
In case of any last-minute changes, and for more information on forthcoming events, please check www.khs.org.au/events
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