Vignette 16: Honouring a rock star

Geologist, explorer, and environmentalist Reginald ‘Reg’ Claude Sprigg (1919–1994) left an indelible mark on South Australia’s scientific landscape. An alumnus of the University, his contributions to geology and environmental conservation are celebrated through the Spriggina floundersi sculpture, made by Silvio Apponyi, and donated to the University by former Supreme Court Justice, The Hon Tom Gray QC, with the support of the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program.

Spriggina floundersi, an animal from the late Ediacaran period, was named after amateur fossil hunter Ben Flounders, and Reg Sprigg himself. Its fossil is the official fossil emblem of South Australia. Reg Sprigg’s exceptional contributions to geology, mineral exploration, and environmental protection were pivotal in shaping South Australia’s  scientific heritage.  His discoveries, including the recognition of the Ediacaran Period, opened new chapters in our understanding of Earth’s history.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Giving with impact.  p.30