Mr.
McKinlay died at Gawler in December, 1874, and it was resolved to perpetuate his memory by the erection of an obelisk in the cemetery.

The 14th of November was the day appointed for the ceremony, and after I had laid the stone with the customary forms, there was a luncheon, presided over by Mr.W.F.Wincey, the Mayor of Gawler.

He delivered a really eloquent address, describing the character and heroic labours of the distinguished explorer, whose achievements we were celebrating.

My own health and that of my brother was proposed, and in responding (my brother not being present) I once more took occasion to express the deep sense, on the part of all my associates, of the kindness with which we had been received.
After this my brother and I paid a flying visit to Melbourne, where we remained a few days, and received much attention from the Governor, Sir George Bowen, the Mayor of Melbourne, and others; and then, on the 5th of December, we bade farewell to our South Australian friends and started on our homeward voyage.

On the 10th we reached King George's Sound, where we were heartily welcomed and presented with a congratulatory address.