New South Wales

Events

01 May 2010 : Egyptians, gods and mummies: Travels with Herodotus
In about 450 BC the Greek travel writer Herodotus went to Egypt. He journeyed throughout the Delta, up the Nile as far as Elephantine, and headed into the desert towards Giza to see the Pyramids and the Sphinx. They were already, in his day, 2000 years old. He also visited the Temple of Bastet at Bubastis. A granite column capital from this temple, weighing 3.4 metric tonnes, will be the centrepiece of the exhibition, on display in the Nicholson Museum for the first time. On either side of the Hathor capital is the carved head of the goddess Hathor. The exhibition looks at Egypt through the eyes of Herodotus. Mummified cats, birds and crocodiles will be on display, plus three of the Nicholson's mummies. Dig deeper...

12 May 2010 : The Mummy Returns – how filmmakers made Ancient Egypt rise from the dead!
A public lecture by Dr Craig Barker (The University of Sydney) Join us on a light-hearted journey through the history of mummy movies. From Boris Karloff to Brendan Fraser, see how Hollywood has resurrected ancient Egyptians from their tombs. Dig deeper...

17 May 2010 : Tour of Cockatoo Island’s Recent and Older Archaeological Discoveries
The Sydney Harbour Federation Trust have organised a tour of archaeological discoveries on Cockatoo Island. Cockatoo Island is the largest island in Sydney Harbour. Located at the junction of the Parramatta and Lane Cove rivers, Cockatoo Island is a former imperial prison, industrial school, reformatory and goal. It is also the site of one of Australia's biggest shipyards during the twentieth century. The first of its two dry docks was built by convicts and was completed in 1857. The island's maritime industrial activity ceased in 1992. Join Mike Hincks from Casey and Lowe Pty Ltd who has been involved in exposing convict and colonial-period remains on Cockatoo Island. Sites include the Convict Courtyard, Guardhouse, Mess Hall and Barracks, Solitary cells and Kitchen, Free Overseer’s Quarters, Grain Silos, Former Lumber Yard (Building 13) and former Water Tank investigation. Please allow sufficient time to get to Cockatoo Island. A ferry leaves from Circular Quay at 9:10am, arriving at Cockatoo Island at 9:18am. A return ferry leaves the Island at 11:53am for Circular Quay. Please check times on the Transport Info website closer to the day, as there may be changes to timetables (http://131500.com.au/). You can of course look around the Island for as long as you like, and there is a cafe near the ferry dock. For more information about Cockatoo Island, visit: www.cockatooisland.gov.au. Dig deeper...

19 May 2010 : The rise and fall of the port of Darling Harbour 1788 - 1988, a talk by Dr Wayne Johnson
Discover the history of Darling Harbour with archaeologist Dr Wayne Johnson as he talks about how Sydney was industrialised by the introduction of steam power. Johnson developed the Steam Revolution exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum, and since 1993 has been the archaeologist for the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority. Dig deeper...

19 May 2010 : ‘Diving into Archaeology’ with the Heritage Branch - BOOKED OUT
As part of National Archaeology Week (NAW), Diving into Archaeology, will be an entertaining evening designed to help you ‘dive into archaeology’ and explore the shipwrecked depths of human history. Hosted by the Heritage Branch, Maritime Archaeologist Sarah Ward will MC the evening and introduce feature talks by: - Wayne Johnson, Archaeologist for the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, who will present ‘200 years and Counting: The Maritime and Industrial Heritage of Darling Harbour.’ - Max Gleeson, renowned Author and Deep Wreck Diver, who will talk about some of the state's greatest shipwreck stories, and show some not to be missed ‘highlight’ footage of rarely visited wreck sites. - Kieran Hosty, Curator Maritime Archaeology at the Australian National Maritime Museum, who will talk about his latest expedition to Wreck Reef in search of the Porpoise and the Cato. - Tim Smith, Deputy Director, Heritage Branch, NSW Department of Planning, who will talk about wartime wrecks, midget submarines, planes and dumps: the underwater legacy of the great wars in NSW. For more information about Shipwrecks and Maritime Heritage in NSW, visit: http://maritime.heritage.nsw.gov.au/public/welcome.cfm THIS EVENT IS NOW BOOKED OUT. THANK-YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT. Dig deeper...

19 May 2010 : Herodotus and the Great Mummification Debate
A public lecture: Janet Davey (Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University) A lecture exploring the process of Egyptian mummification and examining recent scientific investigations of Egyptian mummified bodies. Dig deeper...

20 May 2010 : Darling Harbour’s New Archaeological Discoveries
Redevelopment at Darling Harbour provided an opportunity to investigate the archaeology associated with its maritime and industrial development. Remains of substantial maritime infrastructure, such as a 1820s stone jetty, were found buried below 1840s reclamation. As Sydney grew, the natural landscape around the harbour was modified to suit the needs of industry such as iron foundries and steam-powered milling. Houses were built among the factories, providing slum-like accommodation for workers. These archaeological remains and historical records provide valuable information about 19th century. Abi Cryerhall, a Senior Archaeologist with Casey and Lowe Pty Ltd, Archaeology and Heritage Consultants, who worked at Darling Harbour, will speak of their work and their discoveries. Dig deeper...

22 May 2010 : Introduction to Maritime Archaeology Course
This Australasian Institute for Maritime Archaeology Nautical Archaeology Society Part 1 Introduction to Maritime Archaeology course will run over two days. Hosted by Charlestown Diving Academy, organised by the Heritage Branch NSW Department of Planning, and taught be experts from both the Heritage Branch and International Conservation Services, the course will introduce the basic principles of maritime archaeology, along with topics such as dating methods used in archaeology, first aid for finds, and the current legislation applies to our underwater cultural heritage. By the end of the course participants will: - have been introduced to the basic principles and scope of nautical archaeology; - be able to apply 2D survey methods to an archaeological site; and - have an understanding of their rights and responsibilities concerning underwater heritage. Practical sessions during the course will focus on the use of 2D & 3D survey techniques and how these can be used on archaeological sites. Participants will not only get to practices the techniques but will also have the chance to draw up their results, demonstrating the advantages and disadvantages of different survey methods. The course is suitable for both divers and non-divers alike, and will be of interest to anyone with an interest in our maritime past (historians, archaeologists, naval architects, students and the like). Charlestown Diving Academy: http://www.charlestowndive.com.au/index.html Heritage Branch: http://www.heritage.nsw.gov.au International Conservation Services: http://www.icssydney.com.au/ Dig deeper...

22 May 2010 : Open Day of Nepean District Historical Archaeology Group
Our Open Day will feature access to the Group's photograph collection, the library, land title deeds and many artefacts collected during the course of our work in the Penrith and Castlereagh district over the past 30 years. We will have displays of projects we have worked on and associated publications will be available. We will be happy to assist with any enquiries. Light refreshments will be provided. Dig deeper...

22 May 2010 : The colony and Sydney Harbour, talk by Dr Grace Karskens and Dr Ian Hoskins
Sydney’s early history is fascinating and important. We are fortunate to have two recently-published books that help us visualise, feel, touch and smell that history. As part of Sydney Writers’ Festival Dr Grace Karskens (The Colony: a history of early Sydney) and Dr Ian Hoskins (Sydney Harbour: a history) will discuss their works and give insight to the dilemmas and rewards of their research. Presented in partnership with the National Trust’s S.H. Ervin Gallery and begins in the gallery, viewing ‘Salon Des Refuses’ with a glass of wine, cheese and biscuits, and, after the authors’ discussion, concludes with book-signings followed by stargazing at historic Sydney Observatory. Books will be on sale (at a special discount on the night only of 10%) and limited parking is available. Dig deeper...

27 May 2010 : Dig it! Hands-on archaeology at Fort Phillip for schools
This 1.5 hour hands-on workshop is for secondary school student groups. Using artefacts found at Sydney Observatory (formerly Fort Phillip) it introduces Years 7 – 10 students to the use of artefacts as sources of information about the past, and the methods used by archaeologists to investigate them. Students work collaboratively to sort, analyse and evaluate the artefacts, draw conclusions and then present the results of their findings. Dig deeper...

28 May 2010 : Sydney Historical Archaeology Professionals Workshop (SHAP) 2010
REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN Presented by the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority and the Heritage Branch, NSW Dept Planning, the Sydney Historical Archaeology Professionals Workshop (SHAP) 2010 will take place on Friday 28th May 2010 at the Big Dig Archaeological Education Centre, Sydney Harbour YHA, Gloucester Street, The Rocks NSW 2000. SHAP 2010 will focus on the in situ conservation and interpretation of archaeological sites, and will provide a forum for members of the Sydney historical archaeology community to get together to network, share ideas, and learn about the latest developments in in situ conservation and on site interpretation. SHAP 2010 has been scheduled to coincide with the recently opened Sydney Harbour Youth Hostel on the site of the 1994 and subsequent archaeological excavations at Cumberland/Gloucester Streets, otherwise known as the “The Big Dig” site, and will take place the Friday following National Archaeology Week. Places will be limited to 100, and bookings are essential. Registrations close 21 May 2010. Please contact Sarah Ward at the Heritage Branch for a registration form. Confirmed speakers include: - Tracy Ireland: Why in situ; - Liz Holt: in situ constraints; - Wayne Johnson: The Rocks; - Sam Moody & Monique Galloway: Ballast Point; - Siobhan Lavelle: Parramatta Justice Precinct; - Denis Gojak: on site interpretation at Old Marulin; - Sarah Ward: in situ underwater; and - Pamela Kottaras will lead the closing discussion. For more information about the Big Dig site, visit: http://sydneyharbouryha.com.au/education/ SHAP 2010 Organising Committee Wayne Johnson, Monique Galloway, Siobhan Lavelle, Sarah Ward and Pamela Kottaras ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - ACCOMMODATION The team at Sydney Harbour YHA & The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre have arranged a special offer of 20% off the member rate for accommodation at Sydney Harbour YHA for those registered to attend the SHAP workshop on the 28 May 2010. If people wish to take up this offer, please book directly with Alison Frappell, via telephone on 02 8272 0915 or via email: alison.frappell@yha.com.au Dig deeper...

Exhibitions/Displays

01 May 2010 - 31 December 2010 : Archaeological Relics of First Government House at Museum of Sydney
The Museum of Sydney is built on the site of the earliest foundations of British colonisation in Australia. At this site in 1788, Governor Arthur Phillip built the first Government House; the home, offices and seat of authority for the first nine Governors of New South Wales. In 1983 archaeologists unearthed the original footings of the house, which by a miracle of history had lain preserved since it was demolished in 1846. These archaeological remains are a feature at the Museum of Sydney and can be viewed from the footpath at the front of the Museum at any time. Why not visit the Museum of Sydney whilst you are there (charges apply for museum entry – refer to http://www.hht.net.au/museums/mos/main)! Dig deeper...

01 May 2010 : Archaeological Relics of Australia's First Iron Works
Come and see archaeological relics and interpretation of the Fitz Roy Iron Works in Mittagong, Australia’s first iron works. The iron works commenced operation in the late 1840s. Commercial redevelopment of the site uncovered the nationally significant archaeological remains. Relics have been conserved in-situ in a 40 m x 45 m area of the basement car park of the Highlands Marketplace, Mittagong. This is the largest in-situ conservation outcome for historical relics in NSW. It is also a successful outcome where the history and heritage has been respected within the commercial redevelopment of the site. Relics on site include: puddling furnaces, boiler houses, iron rolling mills and remains of a Chilean mill. The Fitz Roy Iron Works complex is currently under consideration for listing on the State Heritage Register due to the significant archaeological remains. For more information visit: http://www.fitzroyironworks.com.au/ Dig deeper...

01 May 2010 - 30 May 2010 : Outlines - Koori Artefacts from the Macleay Museum
Sydney is home to one of the largest outdoor rock art sites in Australia, and the largest population of Aboriginal people anywhere. Across Aboriginal Australia is a great diversity of art and belief practices. This exhibition brings together painting tools, ochres, shields, spears and clubs that all have their provenance in Aboriginal language regions of New South Wales, such as the Bundjulung, Wiradjuri and Dharug. The exhibition also includes stone tool artefacts from the Penrith lakes area thought to be around 15,000 years old. From the deep past to today the exhibition highlights the continuing artistic traditions of Aboriginal people of New South Wales. This exhibition aims to highlight the largely untold story that these objects can tell us about the regional local knowledge’s of New South Wales and their traditional custodians. Dig deeper...

03 May 2010 : The Sky's the Limit: Astronomy in Antiquity
How did the ancient Egyptians know when the Nile was about to flood? Why was Stonehenge built? How did the ancient Greeks know when to plough their fields? Which zodiac sign did Augustus use to legitimise his rule? The answers were in the sky. The sun, moon, stars and planets and their movements were of great significance to the people of the past. Their religious beliefs and ritual activities regularly involved the movement of the sun, moon and stars. Beliefs grew of peoples’ destiny being told in the sky: the zodiac and horoscopes were developed. The movements helped to signal regular events and, with devices such as the Antikythera Mechanism, these were systematised into the calendar that we still use. The philosophical reasoning and the scientific investigations and instruments that have helped to explain the world from Aristotle to Galileo, provide a continuum of human investigation and discovery. The museum is open: 10am-4.30pm Monday to Friday 12noon-4pm Sunday Closed Saturday and public holidays. Dig deeper...

10 May 2010 - August 2010 : Dig it! Artefacts from Fort Phillip
See a small display in the Museum’s front foyer of recent archaeological finds from the Fort Phillip site, as well some of the Museum’s own 19th century flintlock firearms. In 2008, the remains of Fort Phillip were uncovered by the New South Wales Government Architect’s Office and Casey & Lowe Pty Ltd, as they excavated the grounds of the Signal Station, adjacent to Sydney Observatory. Fort Phillip was built from 1804-06 as a strategic stronghold (but never finished). It included a bomb-roof shelter the existence of which had been speculated but is now confirmed by recent excavations. Dig deeper...

29 May 2010 - 30 May 2010 : Dig it! The archaeology of Fort Phillip
Discover the treasures archaeologists have unearthed at Sydney Observatory! In 2008, the New South Wales Government Architect’s Office and Casey & Lowe Pty Ltd excavated the grounds of the Signal Station, adjacent to the Observatory. They revealed the remains of Fort Phillip, dating from 1804. They also discovered evidence of the original flagstaff used in signalling; a collection of European grapeshot ammunition and rare gunflint; and a range of domestic artefacts. View these artefacts on display at Sydney Observatory. Dig deeper...