Proclamation Day

Proclamation Day is observed in South Australia to commemorate the establishment of government in the province on 28 December 1836. Ceremonies are held at the Old Gum Tree in Glenelg North, recalling the reading of the original proclamation that founded the colony.

• Ceremony held at the Old Gum Tree in Glenelg North
• Commemorates the 1836 proclamation of South Australia's government
• Original proclamation promised equal legal protection for all
• First proclamation was printed on South Australia's first press
• No longer a public holiday but still officially observed

What it is

Proclamation Day marks the anniversary of the official proclamation of government in South Australia, a moment that signaled the beginning of formal colonial administration. The day is significant for many South Australians as it recalls the founding ideals of the colony, including the promise of equal protection under the law for both settlers and the local Aboriginal population. The event is a time to reflect on the early days of the province and the intentions set out by its founders.

Where it comes from

The origins of Proclamation Day trace back to 28 December 1836, when Captain John Hindmarsh, the first Governor of South Australia, read the proclamation beside the Old Gum Tree in Glenelg North. This act followed the passing of the South Australia Act 1834 by the British Parliament and the subsequent Letters Patent issued by King William IV. The proclamation, drafted aboard the Buffalo and printed on the first press in the colony, declared the establishment of government and affirmed legal protections for the native population. Over time, the day became a public holiday and a focal point for community gatherings.

How it is celebrated

Today, Proclamation Day is marked by formal ceremonies at the Old Gum Tree, attended by senior officials and members of the public. These ceremonies often include readings of the original proclamation and speeches reflecting on the founding of the province. While it is no longer a public holiday, the event retains its ceremonial importance, especially in Glenelg North. The day once drew large crowds for festive gatherings, but now the focus is on commemoration and historical reflection rather than large-scale celebration. Some years see the observance moved to 27 December to align with holiday schedules.

Joining in

Visitors interested in South Australian history can attend the main Proclamation Day ceremony at the Old Gum Tree in Glenelg North, Adelaide. Expect a dignified event with speeches and a sense of historical continuity, as local officials and community members gather to remember the founding of the province. The atmosphere is respectful and reflective, offering a chance to witness a living tradition in the place where it began.

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article Proclamation Day, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.

Read more

• Proclamation Day on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

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