Dear colleagues
Greetings from the United Kingdom, where I’ve had the profound honour of representing Flinders University at a truly historic event – the reinterment of Captain Matthew Flinders.
As many of you know, Captain Flinders’ final resting place was a mystery for nearly two centuries. Originally interred at St James’ Church, Piccadilly, after his untimely death at 40, his grave was rediscovered in 2019 during renovations at Euston railway station. This remarkable find set in motion a five-year journey, spearheaded by The Matthew Flinders Bring Him Home Committee, to return the Captain to his hometown of Donington, Lincolnshire.
The past few days have been a whirlwind of emotion and reverence. I’ve had the privilege of attending several commemorative events, culminating in the poignant reinterment ceremony. While Captain Flinders may be a household name in South Australia, it was deeply moving to witness how his legacy endures in Donington. The ceremony beautifully honoured the man, his family, his shipmates and friends, and his incredible world changing contributions, bridging the gap between personal history and national heritage.
One of the most touching moments in the celebrations of the life of Matthew Flinders has been the acknowledgement of his friendship and camaraderie with Bungaree – the Aboriginal explorer who played a crucial role in the circumnavigation of Australia. On many occasions, Bungaree’s expertise saved the expedition, and it has been an honour hearing his story respected and recognised.
Our journey doesn’t end here.
Tomorrow, we’ll join forces with The Hon. Stephen Smith, High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, The Hon. David Ridgway, Agent General for South Australia, our distinguished alum Dr Brendan Nelson AO, Senior Vice President of The Boeing Company and President of Boeing Global, and Matthew Flinders’ great-great-great granddaughters to host an Alumni and Friends Summer Reception at Australia House in London. After years of separation, I’m looking forward to the opportunity to reconnect with our UK-based alumni.
I also encourage you to explore the videos showcasing the unique Captain Flinders artifacts in Flinders University’s Special Collections – tangible links to our namesake’s extraordinary life.
As we celebrate this historic moment, it’s crucial to acknowledge that it coincides with NAIDOC Week (July 7-14). This overlap provides an important opportunity for reflection on the complex interplay between individual historical achievements and the broader context of colonisation.
I extend my deepest gratitude to our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, students, and alumni who continue to guide us on our journey towards reconciliation, fostering understanding and open, respectful dialogue.
Let us move forward, honouring our past while building a more inclusive and understanding future.
With kind regards,
John Hood
Chancellor