Art & Heritage Collections

One of the University of Adelaide's most distinguished scholars, Antarctic explorer, geologist and academic Sir Douglas Mawson (1882-1958) remains an inspiration to staff, students and the general public.

The University holds a significant collection of rocks and minerals that Mawson collected during his trips to Antarctica, and many more in Australia - specifically the Flinders Ranges. During his tenure Mawson identified the site for Australia's first uranium mine.

The Tate Museum in the University's Mawson Laboratories houses a select display of Antarctic material and Mawson memorabilia.

For Open Day 2009, we present to the public two unlikely specimens from the Museum, which predominantly focuses on rocks and minerals: an Emperor Penguin and an Adelie Penguin, and two splendid Frank Hurley photographs of these fascinating birds in the wild.

These will be on display during August in the foyer of the Barr Smith Library.

Mirna Heruc, Manager, Art & Heritage Collections