The Geological Society of Australasia existed for 22 years (1895-1907). It was most active between 1886-1892 and 1896-1899, and there was virtually no activity after 1904. The Society exerted a considerable influence in Australasian mining and geological circles, particularly the former, despite the fact that its active members were few. Most members were Victorian, but every other Colony of Australia was represented, as was New Zealand, and at least one active but short-lived off-shoot was formed in Western Australia. Apart from its own publications which, although limited, covered many aspects of Australasian geology, the Society did its best wherever possible to encourage the publication of useful data, and it maintained a large library. It had a long continued interest in education and tried, albeit unsuccessfully, to improve the calibre of mining education in Victoria. Probably the most successful move of the Society was its formation of the Victorian Chamber of Mines from which grew a still existing mining chamber. Robert Litton founded the Society and was intermittently active until 1896; James Stirling dominated the Society for much of its life, instigating many of the important moves it made. However, the Society owed its continuing existence not to Stirling, but to a small group of mining engineers and investors, essentially amateur geologists, who had a passion for order, met regularly, and kept regular records. The history of the Society shows that a scientific society can prosper with limited funds and small numbers if there is sufficient dedication, a measure of expertise and good leadership, and order in affairs.
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