South Australian Museum
Autumn 2013 Museum Map on page 5
South Australian Museum North Terrace, Adelaide Information 08 8207 7500 www.samuseum.sa.gov.au
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Contents
From the Director. ............... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................................................ 1 About the South Australian Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................................................ 2 Plan your visit....................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................................................ 4 Map.. . . . . . . . . . . ........................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................................................ 5
Special Exhibitions
The Art of Science: Remarkable Natural History Illustrations from Museum Victoria........................ 6 Winning Sky Photos: The David Malin Awards 2012 .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................................................ 8
Museum Galleries
Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 10 South Australian Biodiversity Gallery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 12 World Mammals. ................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 14 Whales & Dolphins. ............... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 14 Pacific Cultures Gallery.......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 14 Ediacaran Gallery.................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 14 In the Footsteps of Sir Douglas Mawson.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 15 Minerals & Meteorites. .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 15 Opal Fossils of South Australia.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 15 Ancient Egypt....................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 15 Giant Squid. .......................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 15 Out of the Glass Case........... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 16 Ways to Support the Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 18 Programs. . . .......................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 20 Calendar.. . . ............................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................................... 21
South Australian Museum North Terrace, Adelaide Information 08 8207 7500 www.samuseum.sa.gov.au SouthAustralianMuseum SAMuseum SouthAustralianMuseum
What’s On is printed 100% carbon-neutral. Cover: In the Ediacaran Fossils Gallery.
From the Director
It is remarkable just how popular fossils are! I am always delighted to see how they spark excitement, especially in our young visitors. Just mention the word ‘dinosaur’ and most five-year-olds will list their favourite species! But it’s hardly surprising as we are extraordinarily fortunate in South Australia to have fossil evidence of almost the whole of the evolution of life preserved in our rocks – from the first multi-cellular life forms, hundreds of millions of years old, through to the giant beasts that roamed the land just a few thousand years ago. This unique story is also captured in the South Australian Museum’s wonderful paleontology collections which our experts use to research the evolution of life, and tell the astonishing story of how life emerged from the primordial ooze to diversify into the extraordinary range of species found today. Our researchers have direct access to some of the world’s best palaeontological material. For example Museum scientists are examining the oldest multi-cellular life on Earth – the mysterious Ediacaran fossils
of the Flinders Ranges. They are working with colleagues from NASA on these ancient primitive organisms which are the best proxy for finding life on other planets. Also our researchers have discovered the oldest compound eye in fossils on Kangaroo Island – 515 million years old! This significant scientific discovery resulted in two papers in the prestigious scientific journal Nature last year. The front cover featured our artist’s reconstruction of the predator to which the eyes belonged. This research, at the forefront of global scientific
“We have direct access to some of the world’s best palaeontological material”
discovery, truly assists us in telling compelling stories to our visitors and in engaging all generations in science, endeavor and a quest for knowledge. We are delighted to be launching our newest program – Fossil Fest – during April, where you can luxuriate in all things palaeontological.
Prof Suzanne Miller Director, South Australian Museum
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About the South Australian Museum
Come and explore the South Australian Museum – the most visited natural history museum in Australia and one of Australia’s most important scientific and cultural institutions. We’re committed to sharing our specimens, stories and science with you in an interactive and fun environment to inspire lifelong learning and give you an experience you’ll never forget. Wander through five floors of amazing exhibits where you’ll be surprised by nature and fascinated by our stories. The Museum cares for over four million objects and specimens collected over the last 150 years, ranging from minerals and meteorites to polar exploration artefacts and parasitic creatures. Our unique and globally significant collections are a vital part of Australia’s national heritage and the international scientific record and they’re growing every year! Exploring South Australia or Australia for the first time? Start your journey at the gateway to Aboriginal Australia – the Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery. Our collection of Aboriginal
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material is the largest and most comprehensive in existence – a truly international resource. Here you can see Aboriginal artefacts from across the country and watch Aboriginal Australians tell their stories. The South Australian Biodiversity Gallery highlights the extraordinary range of wildlife you’ll encounter on your travels through the different regions of the State. Have the locals been telling you tall
tales about our animals? The Museum’s Information Centre is open every day – our science communicators can answer your questions or identify any specimens you bring in! Generations of Adelaideans have explored the Ancient Egyptian Room, marveled at Nathan the lion in our World Mammals Gallery and rushed up four floors to see our 11 metre long giant squid from top to bottom. South
Australia’s unique fossil history is on show in the Fossils Gallery where you’ll find 40 000 year old megafauna fossils, 120 million year old opalised fossils and even 500 million year old fossils from the Flinders Ranges that changed our understanding of evolution. Take some time out between galleries to relax and enjoy a meal in the Museum Café or browse through the Museum Shop, where you’ll find books,
jewellery, toys, cultural artefacts and even fossils. The South Australian Museum is also a major centre of exciting scientific discovery. Behind the scenes, scientists use our collections to understand Australia’s natural and cultural heritage and are world leaders in palaeontology, evolutionary biology, terrestrial invertebrates and mineralogy. Our scientists don’t just stay in the Museum, they take exhibits
to regional areas for our Out of the Glass Case Roadshow. Our music programs, community initiatives and public events also inspire the community to learn more about our natural environment. Museums are a trusted information resource because they are based on the real thing – the collections. Come and see ‘the real thing’ at the South Australian Museum.
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Plan Your Visit
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To Migration Museum
State Library of South Australia
South Australian Museum
KI N TORE AVEN U E
Whether you’re in for a whole day of exploring or just a quick visit, we’ve got thousands of incredible creatures and spectacular stories to share. The South Australian Museum is on North Terrace in the cultural heart of Adelaide, alongside the Art Gallery of South Australia and State Library of South Australia. With five floors of exhibits, we’re recognised internationally for the size and breadth of our collections. Our permanent galleries have been favourites for generations of visitors, including the Ancient Egypt gallery and our giant squid that stretches over four floors. We also showcase collections from other museums around the world through visiting exhibitions. Self-guided tours are available at anytime or our dedicated volunteers can guide you at 11am on weekdays and 2pm and 3pm on weekends and public holidays. We even run special guided tours on selected days so that you can learn about individual galleries and collections in more detail. Give us a call on 08 8207 7500 or visit www.samuseum.sa.gov.au to find out what’s on and when.
Art Gallery of South Australia
To Rundle Mall
To Government House To Adelaide Railway Station
G AWLER PL ACE
N O RTH TERRACE
If you’ve got questions about what you’ve seen then pop into the Information Centre and have a chat to our friendly and knowledgeable staff. The Museum is an easy walk from accommodation, public transport, car parks and the Rundle Mall shopping precinct. Admission: Entry to the Museum is free. Entry fees may apply for special exhibitions. Service animals are freely admitted. Deaf and hearing impaired tours are available during the year.
To University of Adelaide To Adelaide Botanic Gardens
Getting here: Bus: Bus stop G1 Train: Adelaide Railway Station Tram: Rundle Mall Parking: Street parking on Kintore Ave and commercial car parks on North Terrace
Facilities: Museum Café, Museum Shop, public lawns, ATM, parents’ room, wheelchair accessible.
RU N D LE M ALL
Opening hours: Open daily, 10am–5pm. Closed on Christmas Day and Good Friday.
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Main Lift to Levels G 1 M 2 3 Stair to Levels G 1 2 3 Ediacaran Fossils
Southern Lift and stair to Levels G 1 2 3
Mawson
Minerals & Meteorites
Museum Shop Museum Cafe Information Desk Cloaking Toilets Parents Room ATM
Mezzanine
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Giant Squid
Megafauna Fossils Opal Fossils
Stair to Level 1
South Australian Biodiversity Gallery
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Ancient Egypt
Giant Squid
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Pacific Cultures Gallery Stair to Level M Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery
Giant Squid
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Information Centre World Mammals Stair to Level M North Foyer
Ground
Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery
Giant Squid
Special Exhibitions
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Special Exhibitions
Whales & Dolphins
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Museum Lawn
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Main Entrance
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Main Foyer
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SPECIAL EXHIBITION
The Art of Science: Remarkable Natural History Illustrations from Museum Victoria 30 March – 19 May 2013
Special Exhibition Gallery Level G 3 2 M 1
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Free
This exhibition is supported by the State Government of Victoria and Visions of Australia.
Media Partner
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Whether they fly, swim, crawl, wiggle or walk, we are endlessly fascinated and inspired by the creatures of our world. The Art of Science showcases the uncommon beauty produced from 300 years of exacting scientific observation and illustration. As exploration and science have expanded our horizons
across time and space, the ability to capture and communicate the truths held in nature have become increasingly important. Scientific artwork is as important and astonishing today as it was in the 18th century. In this exquisite exhibition, Museum Victoria presents
Opposite: John James Audubon, Redshouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) from The Birds of America (detail), 1829. Hand-coloured aquatint, engraving on paper.
the development of scientific art from the State museum’s seldom seen collection of artworks and rare books, and stunning images produced with microscopes, macro-lenses and computers. Come and see descriptions of an ‘amphibious animal of the mole kind’ – a platypus – from the 1700s and share the fascination that early European explorers and settlers felt discovering a new world and the animals within it. The exhibition also includes modern scientific images and illustrations, ranging from highly magnified images that unlock the hidden beauty of some of our smallest creatures via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to painstakingly accurate taxonomic drawings that will be invaluable to future generations of scientists. Remarkable images of butterfly eggs and bee’s legs sit alongside the first illustrations of newly discovered species and paintings of animals based on fossil fragments in this rare exhibition, The Art of Science.
Below: Arthur Bartholomew, Coprosma Hawk Moth (Cizara ardeniae), 1873. Watercolour and pencil on paper.
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SPECIAL EXHIBITION
Winning Sky Photos: The David Malin Awards 2012 31 May – 7 July 2013
Special Exhibition Gallery Level G 3 2 M 1
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Free
A Sydney Observatory and Powerhouse Museum travelling exhibition. Awards presented by the Central West Astronomical Society for AstroFest, Parkes NSW. Supported by Canon Australia and CSIRO’s Austronomy and Space Sciences.
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Alex Cherney, Speared Emu. Winner of the Wide Field category. © Alex Cherney
In the 1970s astronomer and photographer David Malin became the first person to photograph the faint colours of the night sky. His pictures taken from the AngloAustralian Observatory have become the canonical images of many celestial sites, from the Horsehead Nebula to our nearest-neighbour galaxies. With modern equipment, amateur astronomers are taking increasingly spectacular images of the sky.
In this traveling exhibition from the Powerhouse Museum visitors can view top entries from the David Malin Awards, an astrophotography competition held annually by the Central West Astronomical Society and open to photographers around Australia. The competition aims to encourage photographers to use their vision, imagination and skill to produce inspiring and beautiful images of the sky.
There are seven categories: deep sky; wide-field; solar system: high-res (field of view less than one moon-width); solar system: wide-field (field of view greater than one moon-width); animated sequences; and junior (18 years and under). This year’s open theme was ‘Symmetries’. A Photo Editor’s Choice Award was added in 2012. Martin Pugh, IC5067. Winner of the Deep Sky category. © Martin Pugh
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GALLERY HIGHLIGHT
Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery
Level G & Level 1 3 2 M 1
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Principal Sponsor
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The South Australian Museum’s Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery was developed in partnership with Aboriginal communities around Australia. It’s the most comprehensive Aboriginal cultural gallery in the world and provides a fresh perspective on many aspects of Aboriginal culture and history. We encourage you to find your own way pathway through this modern and multi-layered
gallery which includes over 3000 objects and hundreds of photographs from all regions of Australia. The gallery explores the achievements, creativity and diversity of Australian Aboriginal cultures before the significant impact of European contact. Artefacts, artworks, films, sound recordings, field notebooks and manuscripts are brought to life in the gallery’s many multi-media exhibits
that include touch screens, virtual reality sequences, sound recordings and films. Arriving in Australia over 50 000 years ago, Aboriginal people successfully colonised the entire continent, adapting and thriving with elegant solutions to one of the world’s harshest environments. You’ll discover how Aboriginal people knew when and where to move seasonally and how they used their knowledge of the landscape, plant species and animal behaviour to hunt and gather food. Special modules in the gallery feature the technological achievements of Aboriginal people – from fish-killing boomerangs and bark buckets to chisels and axes. The diversity of tools created by Aboriginal people across Australia is awe-inspiring. Food gathering tools and samples of the foods they ate like wild yams, truffles, grasshoppers and witchetty grubs are on display, together with plants and techniques used to make medicines and hunting poisons. Storytelling sticks, spinning tops and games as well as ceremonial objects will leave you with a vivid impression of everyday Aboriginal life.
The gallery is a living collection – information is widely used by members of Aboriginal communities in genealogical research and has helped many people discover ‘their country’. At the time of European settlement, there were more than 250 Aboriginal language groups across Australia and regional case studies are a major feature of the gallery. Films
of Aboriginal people talking about ‘their country’ are used alongside maps and spectacular landscape images to give each region an identity. Come and see Aboriginal people continue to tell their stories through the Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery.
Views of the Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery. Photos: Ross WIlliams
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GALLERY HIGHLIGHT
South Australian Biodiversity Gallery
Level 2 3 2 M 1
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Principal Sponsor
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From giant squid in the deep southern ocean to hopping mice in the hot northern deserts, South Australia is home to a diverse and distinct range of wildlife. The South Australian Biodiversity Gallery at the South Australian Museum celebrates our amazing wildlife across four distinct environmental regions: arid, temperate, coastal and marine. Travelling through South Australia? A visit to this gallery is a must to help you spot and identify the unique wildlife you’ll see during your trip. There are over 12 000 models in the gallery which are so detailed that it’s hard to believe that they don’t spring to life as you approach. Listen to the sounds of the ocean and the birds calling as you wander through the gallery and explore each region through interactive specimen drawers, multimedia interpretive panels, electronic labelling and discovery boards. Play hide and seek with animals at sea, guess which jaws are adapted for biting different foods and learn about corals and sea slugs in our marine environment. The deep sea environment has also been
recreated in ‘Life in the Deep’; a stunning display that stretches over four floors. Its star is an 11 metre long lifesized model of the largest squid ever recorded. The giant squid is accompanied by models of its fellow sea creatures like vampire squid, jelly fish and crabs while interactive screens detail the mysterious world of these creatures. South Australia’s wildlife has a well-earned reputation – you can learn about the deadly weapons of our spiders, snakes, octopuses and jelly fish and watch ants defend their nest against intruders. You can match the animal to their desert home, discover which animals only come out at night and even try your hand at matching the scat (poo) to the animal! Want to get involved? Visit the research station within the gallery to learn more about what you can do to help protect our precious biodiversity.
Views of the South Australian Biodiversity Gallery. Photos: Grant Hancock Photography
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Museum Galleries
World Mammals Level G
Take a walk around the world with animals from all geographic regions in the World Mammals gallery. Have you ever wondered how you measure up to an elephant or an elk? Prepared in the early days of the Museum by our excellent taxidermists, our specimens put mammals into perspective, both large and small. Many animals that now call the Museum home actually lived long and happy lives at the Adelaide Zoo – each animal in our gallery has a story to tell.
Whales & Dolphins Main Foyer, Level G
Whales and dolphins are a favourite with many Australians as they symbolise our love of the ocean and its amazing marine life. The Museum has the largest collection of cetaceans (whales and dolphins) in Australia – our gallery is just the tip of the iceberg! Right next door to the Museum Café, our display of an 18m sperm whale skeleton – one of the largest ever collected – is not to be missed.
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Pacific Cultures Gallery Level M
The Pacific Cultures Gallery is the largest exhibition of Pacific material in Australia and a truly remarkable collection of the material cultures of the Pacific. Artefacts are on display from Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Santa Cruz Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Fiji and New Zealand. The collection has about 3 000 items including spears, shields, utensils, ornaments and ritual objects. Information and images within the gallery help to explain geographic differences and cultural changes over time. You can also learn about the scientists, missionaries, government officers and other collectors who have contributed to the collection. The Pacific Cultures Gallery is being preserved as an example of 19th century museum display using the original heritagelisted wall cases and flat cases. This forms a striking contrast to other collections within the Museum.
Ediacaran Gallery Level 3
Did you know that fossils of the earliest known forms of animal life were found in the Flinders Ranges in South Australia? The Ediacaran Period is named after the region where these fossils were found and this period is one of the most exciting areas of palaeontology today. South Australia’s truly unique and crucial contribution to our understanding of evolution can be found in the Ediacaran Gallery. The gallery displays rare and unique fossils from the Flinders Ranges including the largest known fossil animal of its time – a doormat-sized Dickinsonia rex. Even Sir David Attenborough has come to see it! See the world’s oldest known fossil animal, sponge and coral reefs as well as a giant image of the iconic Wilpena Pound which has harboured these secrets for 550 million years. The time-scale and magnitude of the discovery can be hard to comprehend, but seeing these rare fossils is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss. Generously supported by Beach Energy.
In the Footsteps of Sir Douglas Mawson Level 3
Sir Douglas Mawson’s vision and determination led to a legacy of inspirational scientific knowledge. In the Footsteps of Sir Douglas Mawson is an insight into the remarkable achievements of a man whose scientific curiosity led him everywhere from the hot Australian outback to the frozen Antarctic. The gallery contains many of his personal belongings from three Antarctic expeditions, including his half-sledge, papers and photographs, and gives insights into the science to which he contributed.
Sir Douglas Mawson and members of the 1930–31 expedition to Antarctica, left to right, from top: KN Mackenzie (ship’s captain), D Mawson (leader), TH Johnston (chief biologist), K Oom (hydrographic surveyor), JF Hurley (photographer), E Douglas (aviator).
Minerals & Meteorites Level 3
Stunning colours, shapes and sizes – they’re all on display in our Minerals gallery. You’ll see a ‘rainbow’ of mineral formations, meteorites and even rocks from Antarctica. We’ve handpicked each mineral from our collection that holds over 35 000 specimens – one of the largest in Australia. From diamonds to dolomite , the Minerals gallery showcases material from Australia’s first mines and explores the stories behind each discovery.
Opal Fossils of South Australia Level 3
Can you imagine finding a mighty marine reptile in the dry opal fields of outback Australia? Come and see the partial skeleton of a six metre long plesiosaur discovered in an Andamookan opal mine along with pieces of the ancient sea bed. You’ll uncover species new to science and fossils from the Moon Plain, a rich hunting ground for fossils from the ancient inland sea.
Ancient Egypt Level 3
The Ancient Egypt gallery holds the mummy and coffin of Renpit-Nefert, along with more than 650 artefacts that shed light on Egyptian life. The gallery forms part of our Foreign Ethnology collection that holds over 26 000 items from the Pacific, Asia, Africa and the Americas.
Giant Squid All Levels
Our Life in the Deep display was twelve months in the making and it’s easy to see why – our giant squid extends over four floors!
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PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT
Out of the Glass Case
At the South Australian Museum, we know that not everyone can come to us. That’s why every year since 2003 we’ve hit the road, taking our Out of the Glass Case Roadshow to regional, rural and remote SA. The roadshow is one of the few programs of its type in Australia – we take our collections out of their cases (and scientists out of their labs!) to share their latest research with our community. Our Out of the Glass Case Roadshow has travelled over 45 000 kilometres to share our stories, collection items and science, amazing and inspiring over 36 000 people along the way. Our specially-trained staff provide free, interactive and memorable learning experiences that are suitable for all students. We work with schools and communities to provide curriculum-linked sessions and public programs that promote cultural connections, help people learn more about their region and other cultures and environments. The roadshow isn’t just for students – everyone gets involved in our community
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From the 2012 Out of the Glass Case Roadshow to Pipalyatjara in the APY lands.
events which include field days, interactive hands-on activities and talks. Since 2010, the Out of the Glass Case Roadshow has been visiting the Anangu, Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands. It provides an opportunity for people in remote communities to engage with Museum stories and our collections. We’ve
taken young people on a quick trip through four and a half billion years of history and shared stories about discovery, nature and culture. Our team gets a real buzz out of the roadshows too. People in rural and remote areas often have great first-hand knowledge of their environment and the enthusiasm of the young
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Out of the Glass Case destinations 2003–2013 people (and the adults!) really inspires our team. From the oldest of fossils to newly discovered species, our Out of the Glass Case Roadshow gives people of all ages an unforgettable museum experience. It can open discussion on pathways for further education in science, natural and cultural history. It’s also a great chance for
students to see research in action, discover the relevance of science in everyday life linking the past, present and future. Generously supported by the Wood Foundation and a private philanthropic fund.
Sponsors
Katie Perry, Outreach Officer 08 8207 7518 katie.perry@samuseum.sa.gov.au
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Ways to Support the Museum
Museums depend on the generosity of individuals, corporations, governments, community groups and associations to reach their full potential. We encourage you to consider becoming involved, to help make a difference and keep the stories flowing.
The South Australian Museum Foundation
The focus of the South Australian Museum Foundation is to further the scientific, cultural and educational projects and programs at the South Australian Museum, through philanthropic support. As an independent notfor-profit organisation, the Foundation works to ensure the Museum remains at the forefront of natural history debate, research, and visitor attendance in Australia. The Foundation was established in 2005 to realise the vision for the South Australian Biodiversity Gallery. Since that time it has nurtured relationships to raise vital funds necessary to complete the restoration of the Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery, to acquire and conserve artefacts, to complete collections, and to
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extend the Museum’s outreach initiatives to a wider audience. The South Australian Museum Foundation exists to support the Museum in its endeavours to inspire current and future generations. Â
South Australian Museum Foundation Ken Ross, Executive Officer 08 8207 7395 ken.ross@samuseum.sa.gov.au
Museum Director Suzanne Miller and Foundation Chair the Hon Dr Diana Laidlaw AM with Terry Davies, former principal of Yuendumu School, at the 2011 re-opening of the Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery, a project generously supported by individual donors to the Yuendumu School Doors appeal, the South Australian Museum Foundation, and Newmont Asia Pacific.
Waterhouse Club Expedition to Kangaroo Island Emu Bay Trilobite Fossil Site, 2011.
The Waterhouse Club
The Waterhouse Club was established in 1987 to provide an innovative approach to the traditional role of a support group, in an era of reducing public sector funding. The Club takes its name from the South Australian Museum’s first Curator, Frederick George Waterhouse. The Club’s annual program offers a fine blend of entertainment and education in the company of the Museum’s award winning researchers and collection managers. The locations for these events range from the Museum’s own special spaces to world-class tourist destinations. The objective of The Waterhouse Club is to make associating with the South Australian Museum fun, while also raising significant funds for the Museum each year. The Club’s goal is to build a network of like-minded, passionate people who are active in the community and able to influence outcomes important to the future of the Museum. The Waterhouse Club Natalie Rollinson, Secretariat 08 8203 9802 waterhouseclub@samuseum.sa.gov.au
Friends of the South Australian Museum
The Friends of the South Australian Museum are dedicated to helping the Museum tell the story of Australia’s unique natural and cultural heritage for the benefit of current and future generations. Founded in 1965, the Friends is an entirely volunteer organisation that raises funds through membership fees, tours and donations in order to support the South Australian Museum.
Please donate
Consider making a gift when you visit the South Australian Museum. Donation boxes are located in the Main Foyer, and for a gold coin donation, you can make our T-rex roar! Every donation helps the Museum support life-long learning in the community.
FOSAM Joy Mallett, President 08 8207 7389 friends@samuseum.sa.gov.au
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Programs
Information Centre.
Information Centre
This is the place to go if you have any questions! Our team knows all about our exhibits and can even help identify any specimens you bring in. If you do manage to stump them with a tricky question, they have our scientists on call to help find the answer. Whether it’s looking with our microeye into a secret world, or watching our bees make honey, the Information Centre is a free, hands-on, fun and inspiring experience for visitors of all ages. Open daily 11am–4pm, 11am–3pm on weekends and public holidays. Closed 25 Dec – 1 Jan. Telephone 08 8207 7404. Generously supported by the Thyne Reid Foundation.
Tell Me a Story
Designed especially for kids aged 3–5 years, these 30 minute sessions centre on real objects from our collections and use story, song, dance and poetry to surprise and inspire. Sessions are free and run twice a day on weekdays, in the last week of every month, from March to November. Every child receives a free take home gift. Bookings are essential on 08 8207 7090. Generously supported by the Wood Foundation.
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School Holiday Program
For over 30 years we’ve been running holiday programs that engage and entertain children of all ages. These programs are developed to inspire life-long learning, and there’s something new on offer every holiday. Holidays are a great time to visit the Museum, to join in special programs and discover amazing objects and stories.
Guided Tours
Unlock more of the Museum’s secrets with a free guided tour. Our friendly and knowledgeable volunteers offer daily tours that take in the highlights of our collections. They also provide special tours of selected galleries to explore the Museum’s collections in more detail.
Sprigg Lecture Series
The Sprigg lectures commemorate the life of a remarkable South Australian, Dr Reg Spriggs ao. Not only did he discover the world’s oldest fossilised animals in the Flinders Ranges, he also founded the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. This lecture series celebrates the ongoing spirit of scientific discovery, expedition and endeavour. Lectures are free but bookings are essential on 08 8207 7090. Join in the conversation on twitter, #Sprigg. Generously supported by Beach Energy and Bundaleer Wines.
Calendar March – May 2013 Date
Time
What’s On
Location
Admission
Mon–Fri
11am
Guided tours
Meet in Main Foyer Free
Sat, Sun & Public Hols
2pm, 3pm
Guided tours
Meet in Main Foyer Free
2 Mar
12–5pm
Out of the Glass Case: Adelaide Stone knapping demonstration, as part of the Blak Nite indigenous artist showcase.
Living Kaurna Cultural Centre, Bedford Park
Free
9–11 Mar
12pm–6pm
WOMADelaide Explorers’ Tent Activities and workshops with Museum scientists and experts.
KidZone, WOMADelaide, Botanic Park
WOMADelaide entry fees apply
18–22 Mar
All day
Out of the Glass Case: Port Augusta School workshops. Please see www.samuseum.sa.gov.au for details.
Check website
Free
25–28 Mar
10.15–10.45am, Tell Me a Story: Paws, Claws, Wings & Things Meet in Main Foyer Free* 11–11.30am Museum stories for ages 3–5.
25, 26, 28, 30, 31 Mar
2pm
Focus guided tours: Fossils
Meet in Main Foyer
4–5 Apr
All day
Out of the Glass Case: Bordertown School and local events. Please see www.samuseum.sa.gov.au for details.
Check website
Free
9 Apr
5.30pm drinks, Sprigg Lecture: Spriggs and Specks 6pm start Scientists and experts discuss entertaining questions on science and society.
Pacific Cultures Gallery, Level M
Free*
15–19 Apr
10.30am– 2.30pm
School Holiday Program: Fossil Fest Dig pits, performances and more.
Fossil Galleries, Level 3
Free
19 Apr, 17 May
5.30–6pm
Tell Me a Bedtime Story World Mammals Stories and supper with the museum animals. Gallery, Level G
19 Apr, 17 May
6.30–7.15pm, 7.30–8.15pm
Fossil Torchlight Tours After-dark exploration of the fossil galleries with Prof. Flint, for ages 8+.
Meet in Main Foyer Free*
20–21 Apr
10am–5pm
Fossil Fest: Community Days Talks, tours, performances and dig pits.
Fossil Galleries, Level 3
29, 30 Apr; 2, 3 May
2pm
Focus guided tours: Biodiversity
Meet in Main Foyer Free
29 Apr – 3 May
10.15–10.45am, Tell Me a Story: Fossil Hunters 11–11.30am Museum stories for ages 3–5.
Meet in Main Foyer Free*
27–31 May
2pm
Meet in Main Foyer Free
27–31 May
10.15–10.45am, Tell Me a Story: Making Music 11–11.30am Museum stories for ages 3–5.
Focus guided tours: Ancient Egypt
Free*
Free
Meet in Main Foyer Free*
*Bookings essential for these programs, please call 08 8207 7090
21
Exploring the natural world through artistic creativity
Save the Date
Gala Launch Night, 19 July 2013 Guests will enjoy a black-tie reception that celebrates the winning artists of this prestigious international competition and will have the first opportunity to view and acquire winning artworks. Be inspired by the stunning diversity and colour showcased in the gallery, as well as the scientific messages behind these high-calibre artworks. Hosted annually by the South Australian Museum Foundation for the benefit of the Museum. Tickets on sale from 22 April 2013. Please call 08 8207 7660 or email foundation@samuseum.sa.gov.au for more information. 2011 Waterhouse Art Prize Overall Winner. Julie Blyfield, Scintilla Series — Spiralling weed, Soft sponge, Sea urchin Vessels 2010. Pure silver.
South Australian Museum North Terrace, Adelaide Information 08 8207 7500 www.samuseum.sa.gov.au