Dr Peter Hobbins Lecture - Defending the Hunter region in World War II

Organised by the Friends of Grossmann and Brough Houses, the 2024 Grossmann Lecture will be delivered by Dr Peter Hobbins, Head of Knowledge, Australian National Maritime Museum, exploring the theme: Maitland under attack? Defending the Hunter region in World War II.

Was Maitland ever at risk of being attacked during World War II? What sort of credible threat could have materialised – and were we prepared for it? Set in the context of the larger Fortress Newcastle network, this presentation considers the prospects of naval, military and aerial attacks in the Hunter region, from toxic gases to warship broadsides. Furthermore, where did the Hunter sit in broader contexts, including national and imperial defence?

The annual Grossmann Lecture will be accompanied by homemade canapes and a complementary glass of sparkling wine, to be enjoyed in the delightful gardens of Brough and Grossmann Houses.

All funds raised help to keep our 1870 Victorian townhouses maintained.

Dr Peter Hobbins

Dr Hobbins is a historian and curator at the Australian National Maritime Museum, where he leads the research, exhibitions, publications and library teams. As a passionate advocate for public history, Peter’s work includes working with objects, sites, archives and people. His own research focuses on science, technology and medicine, ranging from snakebite to pandemics, and aircraft accidents to defensive fortifications. Having shared history on numerous television programs, from Who Do You Think You Are? to Australian Story, Peter has given over 150 presentations to scholarly and community audiences.

Brough House details:

73 Church St, Maitland 2320 NSW

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