Heritage talks - the '74 floods

In 1974, Cyclone Wanda wreaked havoc across South-East Queensland, bringing a devastating deluge that led to one of the worst recorded floods in the area’s history. Thousands of homes were destroyed, and 16 lives were lost. 

This year, to mark the 50th anniversary of this historic event, we invite you to look back on the experiences of those who endured it, and the broader impact the floods had on the urban landscape.

Renowned historian Dr Margaret Cook will discuss her research related to the Brisbane River/Maiwar and its history of flooding, while James Davidson, Australia’s leading flood-resilience architect, considers the impact of floods on residential design and livability in Southeast Queensland. 

Following the talk, enjoy a hands-on experience with a curated selection of original materials from State Library collections in the Marica Sourris and James C. Sourris AM White Gloves Room. 

Image: 32027, Rosemary Spenceley’s colour slides of Brisbane and Southeast Queensland, Houses in St Lucia flooded to the roofline during the Brisbane flood of January 1974, Rosemary Spenceley, John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland 

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