He will be bringing some of his books along to display at the next meeting of the Gerringong and District Historical Society on Saturday July 28.

In a talk entitled ‘London life 300 years ago’, he will be speaking about his most precious book ‘Poems on Several Occasions’ by Matthew Prior.

Noel’s family had a fascinating association with the publication of the book, which took place in 1718.

The talk will illustrate the strong linkages between the poetry and politics of the day, with mention of contemporary prejudices and pastimes.

President of GDHS, Helen McDermott, said the story of Noel’s family connection with this book is most interesting, and it’s a story well worth coming to hear.

Noel Merrick has been a resident of Gerringong since 2013, having moved from the Blue Mountains just before the devastating bush fires.

In 2009 he took early retirement from the University of Technology, Sydney, where he was an Associate Professor in Hydrogeology and Director of the National Centre for Groundwater Management.

Now he is Director of a small business enterprise in Gerringong specialising in high-level scientific computing and simulation.

The talk will be held at the RSL Memorial Hall on the corner of Fern and Belinda Streets Gerringong, at 1pm on Saturday July 28.

Visitors are most welcome at a gold coin entry charge.

The talk is followed by afternoon tea, and then a General Meeting of the Society.