Window on Collections: Victoria's Deaf History

Did you know the first Victorian Deaf society was established 140 years ago? Join us for a captivating panel discussion and historical display as we explore the rich history of the Victorian Deaf Community, presented in partnership with Expression Australia.

Celebrating National Week of Deaf People, the panel will explore key milestones for the Deaf community, and discuss historical events throughout the timeline of Deaf history in our state.

Panellists include:

• Mac Adam OAM, significant member of the Deaf Community, Board Member and colleague of Victorian Deaf Society
• Julian Walshe, video maker, Deaflympics athlete and treasurer for the Melbourne Deaf Football Club
• David Peters, Support Worker at Expression Australia, and former Secretary General of Asia Pacific Deaf Sports Federation
• Melissa Anderson, Auslan teacher and President of Deaf Women Victoria

The discussion will be facilitated by Luke D. King, multidisciplinary artist, video producer and teacher.

After the discussion, immerse yourself in some historically significant collections artifacts, including the iconic 1884 Gaslight, a gathering place for the Deaf Community.

Don’t miss this chance to learn about this important part of Victoria’s history.

Book your tickets now.

You can join this event at the Library or via livestream. Auslan-English interpreting will be available at the event via Expression Australia, along with live captioning.

We wish to acknowledge the significant contribution of the Expression Australia Community Engagement team laising with community. We also acknowledge Mac Adam, for researching the Library’s collection and Expression Australia’s archive for this event, including advising on the items to be displayed.

Please note that items on display at this event may include images of people who are no longer with us.