Exhibits at Government House

Government House, in collaboration with the South Australian Museum, presents a collection of ancient fossils and minerals, the coffin plate of Matthew Flinders from the History Trust of South Australia, and a fossil of the prehistoric bird Genyornis newtoni from Flinders University, celebrating South Australia’s rich mineralogical, paleontological, and historical heritage.

Prehistoric Wonders: A Deep Dive into Fossils from South Australia’s Past

Dating back to the Ediacaran Period - 635 to 541 million years ago -, this fascinating collection of fossils on loan from the South Australian Museum offers a glimpse into the early development of multicellular organisms in the Flinders Ranges.

South Australia’s Mineral Masterpieces: Discover the State’s Hidden Geological Treasures

The Minerals exhibit highlights the diversity and wonder hidden beneath our soil. Brought to life through the expertise of the South Australian Museum, these specimens celebrate the state’s rich mining and geological heritage.

London, Donington, Adelaide: The journey of Matthew Flinders' coffin plate

Captain Matthew Flinders (1774–1814) led the first circumnavigation of Australia, charting much of South Australia’s coast. His grave was rediscovered in London in 2019, identified by the engraved lead plate on his coffin. Reburied in 2024 with a replica plate, the original is now part of the South Australian State History Collection.

Members of the public can view it at Government House Adelaide at the 2026 Open Day.

South Australia’s Giant Bird: A Window into Prehistory

Genyornis newtoni, the last of Australia’s mihirungs, was a massive flightless bird that stood 1.3 m tall, weighed 240 kg, and browsed shrubs and small plants.

Its fossils, unearthed at Lake Callabonna - located 120km southwest of Cameron Corner, the junction of South Australia, Queensland and New South Wales - offer a rare glimpse into Australia’s megafauna and the continent’s unique evolutionary history.