Introduction

The Gadfly was a weekly periodical founded by C.J. Dennis in Adelaide in 1906. Dennis founded the illustrated magazine as a showcase for the works of himself and his 16-year-old co-founder, Archie Martin, as well as a means of commentating on the arts and the general Australian social scene. The two founders had practically no money of their own and were only able to start the venture on capital of £100 raised through family and friends. The magazine lasted for three years but was always only barely able to keep up with the printers' bills. The staff of the magazine consisted of C.J. Dennis, editor; Archie Martin, sub-editor; Beaumont Smith, drama and sport; Geoffrey Burgoyne; Alice Grant Rosman; and Will Donald, artist.