Deakin University is celebrating five decades of education, research and community engagement with new exhibitions coming to Geelong and Waurn Ponds.
Deakin’s vice-chancellor, Professor Iain Martin, will officially open the 1974 to Now: Deakin at 50 exhibition program at 4pm on March 19 at the university’s Geelong Waterfront Gallery.
University librarian Hero Macdonald said the program celebrated Deakin’s 50th anniversary through rotating exhibitions focused on achievements in education, research and community impact.
“We hope that as visitors explore the exhibitions, they’ll also share their own experiences, memories, and perspectives, helping us uncover new stories,” they said.
“The series offers a meaningful reflection on Deakin’s legacy, celebrating how the university has evolved while inspiring a forward-looking vision for its future.
“From Deakin’s founding in 1974 to the present, these exhibitions highlight the significant people, values, achievements, and innovations that have shaped Deakin’s unique identity.
“Each exhibition features carefully curated artefacts, imagery, and stories drawn directly from our university archives, inviting visitors on an engaging journey through five decades of our incredible history.”
The program will feature three new exhibitions drawn from materials in Deakin’s archives to provide historical context and personal stories at Deakin’s Waterfront and Waurn Ponds campuses.
Beyond our Walls: Deakin’s Community Impact will open at Waurn Ponds from March 20 to April 30 and at the Waterfront from August 25 to October 5.
Bridging the Distance: Deakin’s Leadership in Distance Education will be held at the Waterfront from May 1 to May 11 and at Waurn Ponds from May 26 to July 9.
Shaping the Future: Deakin’s Legacy of Research will come to the Waterfront from June 10 to July 20 and Waurn Ponds from July 28 to September 7.
Jena Carr
