21 February

An exhibition of archaeological artefacts has opened at the Golden Dragon Museum in Bendigo. Victoria’s Goldfields: Chinese Curiosities from Heritage Victoria features artefacts that once belonged to Chinese people living in Victoria in the C19th. All were excavated from archaeological sites across the State.

Jointly curated by the Golden Dragon Museum and Heritage Victoria, the exhibition is the first in the Museum’s new temporary exhibition space. It was opened with a lion dance by the Bendigo Chinese Association.

Stone Qilin figurine
Source: (Source: Heritage Victoria, 2023)

The exhibition reveals the lives of Chinese people in the C19th as seen through their belongings. These include tales of a young Chinese herbalist, pioneering fishermen, musical market gardeners and intrepid goldminers. Over 70 artefacts from eight archaeological sites are on display.

The exhibition highlights Heritage Victoria’s archaeology collection and its ability to shine a light on communities whose stories are rarely told. It will explore the methods archaeologists use to bring these untold stories to light.

Curators talks and hands on activities will run alongside the exhibition, providing plenty of opportunities to learn more. The exhibition will be open for a year, until November 2024.

Chinese archaeological artefacts
Source: (Source: Heritage Victoria, 2023)

Page last updated: 21/02/24