2 July 2026
2 July 2026
As Patron of the Hamilton Literary Society, Her Excellency the Honourable Caroline Wells, Governor of Tasmania, was today pleased to join members for their annual lecture at the Hobart Town Hall.
Hobart was officially designated as a UNESCO City of Literature in 2023, with the city – and the State – home to many renowned writers as well as cultural organisations that promote a love of literature, such as the Hamilton Literary Society.
The Society was founded in 1889 by Lady Teresa Hamilton, wife of Tasmania’s 6th Governor, Sir Robert Hamilton, and is the oldest continually operating literary society in Australia.
Today, the Society meets monthly to foster an interest in, and appreciation of, literature and to promote discussion and friendship among women who share a love of reading and writing.
The 2026 lecture was presented by Tasmanian author Amanda Lohrey, who discussed the history of literature in Tasmania.
Following the lecture, Lord Mayor of Hobart, Councillor Anna Reynolds, hosted a civic reception to mark the Society’s 137th anniversary.