15 August

Cement Creek Plantation: A living laboratory

Nestled in the Dandenong Ranges, Cement Creek Plantation is more than a picturesque forest. It was established in the early twentieth century as an experimental site for forestry research. The approach was groundbreaking for its time, playing a crucial role in advancing our understanding of exotic timber species and forest management techniques.

Tall slim trees can be seen amongst a forest with greenery on top of them.
Cement Creek Plantation
Source: Heritage Victoria

Melbourne Observatory: Stargazing through history

Built in 1861, the Melbourne Observatory complex was crucial for early Australian astronomy. It helped in observing stars and planets and developing new techniques. As there were few well-equipped observatories in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the complex provided the world with important scientific information that was unavailable from other sources.

Panorama of Melbourne taken from Government House tower, showing the Melbourne Observatory complex . The image is in black and white
Panorama of Melbourne taken from Government House tower, showing the Melbourne Observatory complex (c. 1870-75)
Source: Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales

Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens: Advancing zoological excellence

Since its establishment in 1862, the Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens has been key to zoological research and animal care in Victoria. The design of animal enclosures such as the Great Flight Aviary (1934), the former Elephant House (1944), and the Giraffe House (1913), were highly innovative for their time. Today, the Zoo remains dedicated to conservation and education, fostering knowledge and respect for wildlife and their habitats.

Two elephants, one laying down and one from the behind can be seen in the grey and dry enclosure
The Elephant House at Royal Melbourne Zoo
Source: Heritage Victoria

CSL (Commonwealth Serum Laboratories) Collection: A Legacy of Medical Innovation

The CSL Collection represents a vital chapter in Australia's medical history. Established in 1916, CSL was instrumental in the development of vaccines and serums that have had a profound impact on public health. The collection comprises over 650 objects, including vaccines, sera, antivenoms and scientific instruments.

These heritage places and objects are active reminders of how science has shaped our past and continues to inspire our future. Whether through groundbreaking research, astronomical discoveries, or medical advancements, Victoria's heritage is rich with stories of scientific progress and discovery.

Bottles of penicillin can be seen lined up against one another.
CSL penicillin (1944)
Source: Museums Victoria

Page last updated: 23/08/24