Museum Coffee Club

Join Rosie Smith to talk about how we can find ourselves by spending time in nature and in a meaningful community of interest with others who are enthusiastic about WA's natural world. In a time where distractions can get in the way of people's sense of purpose, lets' talk about the benefits of 'touching grass' together!

Rosie Smith arrived in WA from living in eastern Australia and working in environmental education. From a previous life teaching science in high schools, Rosie gained a degree in Ocean Sciences, a post graduate degree in Ecology, and a wealth of experience as an outdoor educator. She's passionate about connecting others with our biodiverse WA landscapes in a way which fosters positive stewardship. Having worked in a number of roles in environmental learning (across the not-for-profit, state government, and private sectors), Rosie currently works with River Guardians. This sees her talking with people of all ages to engage them with the unique Swan Canning ecosystems and wildlife right on the doorstep of people in the Perth metro. Helping people to understand and protect this iconic river system has offered a meaningful opportunity to take her passions to the community. Rosie is happiest when out running or hiking bush trails, kayaking, camping, gigging with her band, and hanging at the beach with her family and four-legged rescue fur baby Nala.

Join David O'Sullivan and special guest Margo O'Byrne for a conversation about the notorious Catalpa escape of six Irish Fenian prisoners from Fremantle Prison in April 1876. With careful preparation and funding, a conspiracy was developed to liberate these prisoners from the remote shores of the Swan River Colony on board an American whaling ship. What followed was a rollicking tale of a high drama and international incident that became renowned across the seas.

David O'Sullivan is an Assistant Curator of Maritime Heritage at the WA Museum. His research background includes histories of Fenian activity in Canada and the United States in the 19th century. 

Margo O'Byrne is the chairperson of the community group, Fenians Fremantle and Freedom and co-director of the recent Fenians Festival 2026, Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Catalpa escape. Together with Michael Barker, she recorded the Catalpa Escape Podcast Series for Fremantle Shipping News. 

Join Gerry for an engaging coffee chat as he reflects on his journey into model-building, from his early beginnings as a hobbyist to discovering a fulfilling later-life passion in researching and crafting intricate ship models. Hear how his skills and practice have evolved over time, and gain insight into the dedication behind his work.

Join David for a relaxed coffee club conversation celebrating a lifelong passion for travel and photography. Having journeyed across the globe, David has built an extraordinary collection of photographs, capturing ships in ports around the world. Come along, share in his stories, and talk travel with us.