The Australian Museum and Hyde Park
The Australian Museum's focus is on natural history and indigenous cultures. While we loved our visit and spent several pleasant hours exploring the exhibitions, we found that much of the Museum looks a little tired around the edges. So we were glad to learn that the Musuem is currently in the early stages of a $41 million construction and refurbishment plan that will improve both the research and exhibit facilities.
The Search & Discover centre was, by far, our favorite part of the Museum, and under the new plan, this area promises to get even better. No matter what area of the Museum you want to explore in more detail, there are specimens you can get a closer look at (often with the aid of a microscope) or even touch; computer simulations and interactive programs that provide in-depth information; plus a wealth of books and videos at your disposal. The staff is unbelievably knowledgeable and helpful -- just tell them that (for example) you want to see how it looks when a boomerang is thrown, and they will direct you to the appropriate resources.
We also liked the section on gems and minerals. Don't miss the chance to view the largest nugget of gold ever found (it's as big as a pillow!), plus a look at a selection of Australian opals. We found it amazing that all the specimens in the Albert Chapman Mineral Collection were found by one man -- and an amateur mineralogist to boot!
It isn't often that you see a collection of skeletons that makes you laugh out loud, but the witty poses of the human skeletons in the Skeleton Exhibit will do just that. This gallery, which is in the oldest part of the Museum complex, would make a fabulous setting for a Halloween party!
We had been warned that there are limitations on the Aborigine artifacts on display because so many in the Museum's collection are sacred and shouldn't be seen by the uninitiated, so we weren't surprised that much of the display is made up of photos and videos that tell the stories and legends of the indigenous Australians, rather than case after case of ancient items. Still, you'll find examples of boomerangs, didjeridus, and Pukumani poles used in mourning ceremonies. And we loved the examples of artwork -- past and present.
After several hours indoors, we wanted to spend some time enjoying the unseasonably (but delightfully!) warm winter weather, so we decided to head over to nearby Hyde Park. Originally a racetrack and playing field, this Park is now primarily a green space frequented by officeworkers. The south end is dominated by the Art Deco-style Anzac Memorial, a large stone-covered structure facing a reflecting pool.
The Search & Discover centre was, by far, our favorite part of the Museum, and under the new plan, this area promises to get even better. No matter what area of the Museum you want to explore in more detail, there are specimens you can get a closer look at (often with the aid of a microscope) or even touch; computer simulations and interactive programs that provide in-depth information; plus a wealth of books and videos at your disposal. The staff is unbelievably knowledgeable and helpful -- just tell them that (for example) you want to see how it looks when a boomerang is thrown, and they will direct you to the appropriate resources.
We also liked the section on gems and minerals. Don't miss the chance to view the largest nugget of gold ever found (it's as big as a pillow!), plus a look at a selection of Australian opals. We found it amazing that all the specimens in the Albert Chapman Mineral Collection were found by one man -- and an amateur mineralogist to boot!
It isn't often that you see a collection of skeletons that makes you laugh out loud, but the witty poses of the human skeletons in the Skeleton Exhibit will do just that. This gallery, which is in the oldest part of the Museum complex, would make a fabulous setting for a Halloween party!
We had been warned that there are limitations on the Aborigine artifacts on display because so many in the Museum's collection are sacred and shouldn't be seen by the uninitiated, so we weren't surprised that much of the display is made up of photos and videos that tell the stories and legends of the indigenous Australians, rather than case after case of ancient items. Still, you'll find examples of boomerangs, didjeridus, and Pukumani poles used in mourning ceremonies. And we loved the examples of artwork -- past and present.
After several hours indoors, we wanted to spend some time enjoying the unseasonably (but delightfully!) warm winter weather, so we decided to head over to nearby Hyde Park. Originally a racetrack and playing field, this Park is now primarily a green space frequented by officeworkers. The south end is dominated by the Art Deco-style Anzac Memorial, a large stone-covered structure facing a reflecting pool.
posted by Insider Travel Guides at 4:49 PM
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