On 25th February our first guest speaker at the Podium for 2025 will be Patricia Skehan, Publicity Officer for City of Canada Bay Heritage Society.

She  will speak on the Canada Bay Exiles: a remarkable story that explains, among other matters, how Canada Bay got its name.

In 1840, fifty-eight French Canadians were exiled for life in Australia for their part in an uprising in modern Quebec. They were originally destined for Norfolk Island but were sent instead to the Longbottom Stockade. They found work on the Parramatta Road, and were in time granted tickets of leave. Patricia Skehan will tell the story of their hardship and eventual release. Most returned to Canada in time. 

This promises to be a lively presentation. Do come and bring your friends!

This event is held at Lane Cove Library. Free to members; $5 for non-members.

Refreshments provided: wine and cheese