A cartoon rediscovered

Description

Discover the Cartoon that vanished twice!

Few Australian cartoons are as famous as Stan Cross's For Gorsake Stop Laughing, this is serious. First published in Smith’s Weekly in 1933, it captured the irreverent spirit of a nation enduring the hardships of the Depression.

But then it disappeared. Not once, but twice.

The original artwork vanished for decades before resurfacing in 2014. Even more astonishingly, the newspaper page on which the cartoon first appeared also disappeared from the historical record, replaced by a copy that concealed an extraordinary mystery.

Robert Phiddian will take you down these tortured paths, sing the praises of the unknown librarian who collected Smith’s in Adelaide and outline some implications for the archiving of media heritage.

Image: Smith's Weekly, For Gorsake Stop Laughing, this is serious, Stan Cross, 1933

About the presenter

Robert Phiddian came to Flinders University on a one-year contract in 1991. On April Fools’ Day 2026 he retired as Professor of English. Between these dates, he taught Shakespeare, Swift, comedy and satire. He researched (and continues to research) political satire in particular.

FAQs

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

Access to the Institute Building is via the external ramp on the Kintore Ave entrance or via the internal ramp between the Institute Building and the Spence Wing (opposite the Treasures Wall).

There is on-street accessible parking available close to the State Library. View more information and maps of City of Adelaide's Accessible parking options.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays. The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.

Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.