The South Australian Register, Saturday 24 October 1840 (original printed article below)

To the Editors of the South Australian Register

GENTLEMEN – I am surprised that so little general interest seems to be taken in the Natural History of this colony. It is true there is a Society established for the purpose of urging a spirit of inquiry into this delightful science, but that is all – no endeavours seem yet to be made to forward these views.

Of course one of the first objects of emigration is to better your condition, and on arriving here, for some little time more than a casual glance at the curiosities of the country would not be attempted amidst the hurry and confusion of settling. But afterwards, I should think that at least once a week, one might examine the works of Nature where there are so many objects of admiration and research lying all around, adjacent to our fast improving town of Adelaide among the beautiful park-like lands and pastures of our adopted country.

A little more exertion on the part of the Committee, if those engaged really take any interest in it would no doubt bring more members to the Society and thereby more funds for carrying its objects into effect, commanding for the “Natural History Society” of South Australia rather more than a name, which it only at present possesses.

I intend from time to time, if it does not militate against the objects nor occupy too much space in your widely circulating journal, to make, first, a few general remarks on the Natural History of the colony, as regards the animal kingdom, and then mention some of the remarkable novelties which in this still but little known portion of the world, Nature is continuously presenting to our notice.

Nature Amator

October 24, 1840