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The objectives of the Elder Scientific Exploration Expedition are set out in the handbook of instructions prepared for the men of the expedition. The instructions were extensive and included a search for possible traces of the explorer Ludwig Leichhardt who disappeared in the 1840s while attempting to cross the continent. It was hoped that the expedition would accomplish its large programme and complete the map of Australia.

The Elder Scientific Exploration Expedition was financed by Sir Thomas Elder and managed by the Royal Geographical Society of Australasia (South Australian Branch), as Adelaide was closest to the areas to be explored and with there being no branch of the Society in Western Australia. The expedition was to explore western South Australia and central Western Australia, some of the remaining blank spaces on the map of Australia. It was hoped the expedition would find good grazing, or possibly agricultural lands and mineral resources. For this reason a geologist and naturalist were included. The medical officer was charged to make observations of the Aboriginal peoples encountered and record their languages.

Elder, Thomas, Sir, 1818-1897

Lindsay, David, 1856-1922

Elder Scientific Exploring Expedition, (1891-1892) Journal of the Elder Scientific Exploring Expedition, 1891-2 North Adelaide: Corkwood Press, 1999

The Elder Scientific Exploration Expedition, 1891-2: confidential report North Adelaide: Corkwood Press, 2003

Peake-Jones, Kenneth The branch without a tree: the centenary history of the Royal Geographical Society of Australasia (South Australian Branch) Incorporated, 1885 to 1985 Adelaide: Royal Geographical Society of Australasia, South Australian Branch, 1985

State Library of South Australia: Mortlock Wing. Taking it to the edge August 2004-