Australian Museum plans bicentennial while reckoning with colonial past

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 9 Oct, 17:49 · Archive

The Australian Museum will mark its bicentennial in 2027 while acknowledging its colonial history.

The Australian Museum revealed full plans on Saturday for its bicentennial displays in 2027, officially on 30 March, including an exhibit featuring the world's biggest dinosaur. The institution, described as the nation's oldest, is aiming to inspire new generations whilst marking an impressive if sometimes troubled 200-year history.

Director and CEO Kim McKay said the museum was revamping its offerings for a 'drastic' rise in visits from children and an evolving information landscape. She emphasised that reliable information was core to the museum's continuing role in Australian society. 'We're here just to present the facts as we know them and the science behind that,' she said.

Ms McKay acknowledged historical practices she described as unacceptable. 'Many of my predecessors were involved in those practices where Aboriginal people were treated and studied as fauna,' she said. 'Museum practice for 150 years was unacceptable in today's terms.' The institution is repatriating hundreds of Aboriginal ancestors to their countries and has changed how it works with First Nations communities, which now lead research, displays and programming involving their cultural heritage.

How it is being reported

• Museum's new chapter won't deny uneasy pastThe Australian Museum hopes to inspire a new generation while confronting its colonial past, as the nation's oldest museum prepares to mark its 200th year.Perth Now · 9 Oct, 17:02
• Museum's new chapter won't deny uneasy pastThe Australian Museum hopes to inspire a new generation while confronting its colonial past, as the nation's oldest museum prepares to mark its 200th year.The West Australian · 9 Oct, 17:02

In this story: Australian Museum · Kim McKay · Australia · First Nations

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