|
 |
|
History
Our History
In 1854 (3 years after the discovery of gold in Victoria) The Philosophical
Society of Victoria and The Victorian Institute for the Advancement of
Science were formed. They amalgamated in 1859 to become the Royal Society
of Victoria. The Society developed and promoted Science in the fledgling
colony, stimulating, fostering, and sustaining the development of astronomy,
anthropology,agriculture, geology, and other natural sciences, engineering,
and meteorology, as well as establishing our first public utilities. No other
colony in Australia achieved such a high level of organised Science in such
a short time. For over 150 years The Society has continued to play a dominant role
in the growth of scientific endeavour and the dissemination of knowledge.
Notable milestones include The Burke and Wills Expedition of 1860 which set-out from
The Society's Hall and ended there when the two explorers were laid in state; the
establishment of The Museum, Library and Bureau of Meterology's weather station
(still on-site); Australia's first Antarctic exploration; the setting-aside
of Wilson's Promontory as a National Park, and the formation of The Marine
Sciences Institute of Victoria. However many more such examples can be traced
to The Royal Society of Victoria.
As our dependence on scientific development has increased, so too has the importance
of the work of The Society in its promotion.
Through its various publications, lectures and symposia, The Society brings together
scientists from diverse disciplines to stimulate discussion, and disseminate
information for the benefit of The Community. It does so without charge.
The Society recognises and encourages scientific research of the highest calibre by
the award of its coveted Medal. It elects scientists of great distinction as
Fellows and provides annual award of a research study grant to young researchers.
In addition it publishes Proceedings of The Royal Society of Victoria and
distributes over 350 copies internationally to like-minded institutions. It is
one of The World's oldest scientific journals, having been published continuously
for over 150 years.
The Society has a long and proud history of important contributions to
Science, Technology and Discovery. H.E. The Governor of Victoria acts as
Patron. It's first President was Baron Sir Ferdinand von Mueller (Government
Botanist and Director of The Botanic Gardens). Later Presidents include such
people of distinction as His Honor Mr. Justice Sir Redmond Barry, Sir Robert
Blackwood, Dr A. Dunbavin-Butcher, Professor T.R. Laby, Professor Sir Frederick
McCoy, P. Crosbie-Morrison Esquire, Professor E.W. Skeats and Professor
Sir Baldwin Spencer.
The Royal Society of Victoria is the only learned society in Australia
with its own building. The Hall has been of inestimable value as it is the focal
point of all our activities; it is our place to meet, our place to learn,
and our place to debate. The Hall is "home" for the work of The Society. It is
a symbol of the importance of Science and Technology in our lives and of The
Society's continuing role in the promotions of this vital work, which as
aforementioned, is conducted pro bono for the benefit of The Community.
|
|
