Mapping great change: the landscape of central Victoria surveyed significant historical and cultural changes occurring upon and within the landscape of central Victoria from the mid-1800s. Historical maps tell of a landscape radically transformed by agriculture, mining and mass settlement and illuminate layers of stories underpinned by the specific geological composition of the area and its rich resources. Complex relationships between people, cultures, and the land are explored through the lens of the centre piece of the exhibition, a unique map made in 1852, showing the landscape as it was before European occupation and charting the rapid changes brought about by this invading force. 

This exhibition was produced in collaboration with Gerry Gill, lecturer in Sociology and Aboriginal History at La Trobe University, Bendigo. Three short films directed by Gill, The Map and Remembering (below), The Bendigo Creek Story, and Storytelling and Collections were featured in the exhibition and can be viewed via Victorian Collections. 

Authors include: Gerry Gill, Clive Willman, Clare Needham and foreword by Karen Quinlan

Photography: Ian Hill

A 28 page publication was produced to accompany this exhibition. Click on the image below to view an electronic version. A limited-edition print copy this catalogue is available at the Bendigo Art Gallery shop while stocks last.

Click on the first image below then use the arrow to view all images.