Opening for Archaeology

The Institute of Archaeology had its opening in its new location at La Trobe University today. This is the beginning of a new chapter in its contribution to research and learning, especially in its mission to promote interest amongst young people who might one day become archaeologists.

The Vice Chancellor opened the renovated site. The building was originally built for WW1 veterans who needed continual care after their return. It later became a psychiatric hospital. It has taken a lot of volunteer work to bring the building back to a usable state. Peter joined up with another member in our church, to front up one day every second week, for the last half year, to help to repair, sand, and paint the place to get it ready. A lot of volunteers were involved! There is still much work to be done even after the opening.


The place is huge with very high ceilings, so a trestle trolley was always needed (see in picture). There are many large exhibition size rooms and one of these has become an extensive library with a large range of archaeology journals. It has the largest collection, in the southern hemisphere, of "real stuff from the diggings" of Ancient Middle East places. A lot of these bits and pieces still have to be catalogued. It is amazing that Melbourne has this collection and amazing that it is so close to were we live. Peter has enjoyed being part of that scene.