In this talk, historian Dr Fiona Gatt presents a history of old North Melbourne while reflecting on the process of ‘making’ that history. Fiona will reflect on why she turned her attention to this small but much-loved suburb, the development of the research process and the key findings of her research. In her book Old
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The PMI Victorian History Library will soon be hosting another book sale! Continuing our well-received book sale, we have invited even more stall operators featuring jewellery, knitted toys, scrapbooking materials, soaps, and more. Our book sale regularly features an extensive range of Australian non-fiction as well as collections of vinyl records, magazines, and even play
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Around Prahran's Iconic Buildings Join us for an Australian Heritage Festival event! Step back in time and explore the golden days of shopping along Chapel Street, Prahran. This tour is full of fascinating stories about Melbourne’s beloved department stores. Starting at the PMI Victorian History Library, we’ll explore gems like the old Prahran Arcade, learning
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Step into a world of intrigue and suspense as the PMI Victorian History Library transforms for one extraordinary evening. Uncover hidden truths, decipher cryptic clues, and unmask a potential saboteur in this immersive murder mystery experience. The Scene As Melbourne's elite gather to celebrate, an air of unease settles over the prestigious library. Whispers of
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A National Archeaology Week Event This panel event draws on two recent conference papers: "A Walk in Someone Else’s Shoes: Successful Collaboration and the Preservation of 19th Century Footwear from Deep Deposits below the Melbourne Rail Yard" and "Sound as a Barrel: Historical Archaeological Conservation of a Unique Timber Barrel from Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne."
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A National Archeaology Week Event Western Melbourne’s open plains may look like blank space between suburbs—but dig a little deeper and you’ll uncover stories written into every ruined homestead. These forgotten landmarks tell of colonisation, survival, and cultural change, connecting today’s fast-growing communities with the region’s layered past. In this fascinating talk, we’ll explore how
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Join award-winning author, broadcaster and organic gardening expert, Penny Woodward, for an inspiring talk on how to grow and use herbs for cooking, medicine and pleasure. Drawing on her decades of experience as a horticultural editor, writer, and photographer, Penny will share her practical tips for cultivating healthy herbs at home and explore the fascinating
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Do you want to learn more about the history of your local mechanics’ institute? This talk will showcase the wide variety of material held in the Mechanics' Institutes Resource Centre (MIRC). This rich collection has records relating to 130 mechanics' institutes and consists of photographs, scanned records such as minute books, books and realia. Discover
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Have you discovered a relative who served in the military but aren’t sure how to uncover their story? Join us at the PMI Victorian History Library for a hands-on workshop, and learn how to interpret, locate, and make sense of military records to bring your ancestor’s service to life. What You'll Learn: Finding the right
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In this lively, engaging discussion Aaron and Michelle will discuss their co-written novel for middle grade readers, Spirit of the Crocodile. They'll talk about why they wrote it, how they wrote it (given that they live 5000kms apart) and why stories like theirs are an important part of Australia’s reconciliation process. A recent ABC Radio
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