One of history’s great scientists will be the focal point of an interesting presentation to be held at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) on Thursday 5 July 2007.
The presentation about Charles Darwin’s life will be delivered by Alister Hayes, World Heritage Bid Manager for Charles Darwin's home and neighbourhood at Downe in the London Borough of Bromley.
Mr Hayes’ talk, Darwin’s Origin at Downe will include an introduction to Charles Darwin the scientist, Darwin at Down House (his home for 40 years), the voyage of HMS Beagle and later naming of Port Darwin, as well as the publication of The Origin of the Species and plans to celebrate the bicentenary of Darwin’s birth in 2009.
’While I have a deep interest and understanding of Charles Darwin’s life, I am also an initiating partner of Darwin200, a collaboration of organisations across the United Kingdom who are celebrating Darwin's 200th birthday in February 2009 with an exciting program of activities,’ Mr Hayes said.
’The celebrations are centred on Darwin's birthday but will begin in July 2008 by commemorating 150 years since Darwin first presented his theory about evolution to fellow scientists,’ he explained.
‘Darwin200 events will build up to November 2009, which is the 150th anniversary of the publication of On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection.
‘We are eager to see UK and worldwide celebrations about the impact that Darwin's ideas about evolution have had, as well as his approach to the understanding of the natural world and his outstanding example as a scientist.
‘I am looking forward to visiting the city named after this famous scientist and presenting my talk at MAGNT.’
Mr Hayes’ presentation on Thursday 5 July will begin at 5pm at the MAGNT Theatrette with light refreshments to follow at the Cornucopia Museum Café from 6pm. Admission is free.
The MAGNT presentation is in conjunction with Charles Darwin University and Darwin City Council.
Download the event flyer (.pdf).