What we do

Overview

The Society encourages “… studies and investigations in Science, Art, Literature and Philosophy”

This is achieved through the following activities:

• Publication of results of scientific investigations through its Journal and Proceedings,
• Awarding prizes and medals for outstanding achievements in research,
• Liaison with other similar bodies,
• Holding meetings for the benefit of members and the general public (special meetings are held for the Pollock Memorial Lecture in Physics and Mathematics, the Liversidge Research Lecture in Chemistry, the Poggendorf Memorial Lecture in Agriculture and the Clarke Memorial Lecture in Geology),
• Maintaining a library.

The Governor of New South Wales is the Society’s Vice Regal Patron.

Throughout its history, the Society has done much to foster local research, particularly in science, through meetings, symposia, publications and international scientific exchange, and has supported and fostered the endeavours of other organizations dedicated to the furtherance of knowledge.

Branches

The Society has its head office in Sydney, a long-standing, active branch at Mittagong in the Southern Highlands, and a new branch in the Hunter, established in 2019. Regular meetings are held in all locations, and are well attended by members and visitors. A further branch at Orange in the Central West of NSW has been active in the recent past.

Membership

Membership of the Royal Society of New South Wales is open to any person interested in the promotion of studies in Science, Art, Literature and Philosophy and is an avenue through which individuals can share in the work of the Society. Futher details of membership, including the benefits, categories of membership, and how to join the Society are available on the website.