Skylarking An Epilogue by Kate Mildenhall

• (02) 4441 5675
• 11 Dent Street, Huskisson NSW 2540, Australia
• jervisbaymaritimemuseum.asn.au/skylarking-by-kate-mildenhall
• 23 Jul 2026
• 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm

At a Glance: The Information Hub

Author Kate Mildenhall will host a discussion on the historical events that inspired her novel, Skylarking. The event will cover the region’s local history, literature, and the landscape of Cape St George.

Fact and Fiction at Cape St George

Hosted at the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, just minutes from Cape St George Lighthouse, the event examines one of the region’s most compelling stories.

Completed in 1860, Cape St George Lighthouse later became associated with navigational challenges caused by its location, and its history includes several notable maritime incidents as well as the well-documented 1887 shooting that inspired Skylarking. In 1887, the isolated lighthouse community became the setting for the accidental shooting that claimed the life of Harriet Parker while she was with Kate Gibson. A coroner’s inquest concluded the shooting was accidental, and the event later inspired Kate Mildenhall’s debut novel, Skylarking.

After discovering the story while camping at nearby Green Patch, Mildenhall spent years transforming historical records into Skylarking. During this special conversation with Dr Rose Searby, she reflects on the balance between fact and fiction and the unique challenges of writing a story so deeply rooted in Jervis Bay.

An Evening with Kate Mildenhall

Guests arrive from 5:30 PM to enjoy a complimentary drink before the discussion begins at 6:00 PM.

Held at the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, the discussion explores the historical background of Skylarking and the people whose lives inspired the novel.

Local Tips

Winter evenings in Huskisson become cold soon after sunset, so dress warmly if you’re arriving early or exploring the foreshore beforehand.

Limited on-street parking is available near the museum. Arriving early provides the best chance of finding a nearby space, with additional parking available within walking distance. Arrive before 5:15 PM for the closest parking or use Tomerong Street, only a short walk away.

Guests are encouraged to arrive from 5:30 pm to allow time to check in and enjoy refreshments before the discussion begins at 6:00 pm.

Extend Your Visit

Visitors travelling from outside the region may wish to extend their stay to explore nearby attractions including Cape St George Lighthouse, Green Patch and Booderee National Park, all of which are closely connected with the history that inspired Skylarking. Experience Jervis Bay also provides information on local accommodation options in Huskisson, Vincentia and Hyams Beach for those planning a longer visit.

Explore Beyond the Event

The experience doesn’t end when the discussion finishes.

Visitors interested in the historical background of Skylarking can explore the Cape St George Lighthouse ruins and nearby Green Patch, locations closely connected with the events that inspired the novel. Afterwards, enjoy lunch in Huskisson or explore the area’s cafés, galleries and coastal walks before heading home.

A slower winter itinerary offers a deeper appreciation of both the novel and the remarkable landscape that inspired it.

Practical Information

• Getting There
  • Sydney: Approximately 2.5 hours via the Princes Highway.
  • Canberra: Around 2 hours 45 minutes via the Kings Highway.
• Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible, with sealed pathways and wheelchair-friendly facilities.
• Dining: As the event concludes during the evening, checking restaurant opening hours or making a dinner reservation in advance is recommended.
• Tickets: Purchase tickets directly through the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum