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Author: Public Record Office Victoria

History lovers will be recognised for their ability to uncover tales within their local community by applying for the Victorian Community History Awards.

The annual Awards, run by Public Record Office Victoria and presented by the Royal Historical Society of Victoria recognise excellence in historical research with the aim of reaching and enriching Victorians through telling stories of local history.

Justine Heazlewood, Keeper and Director, Public Record Office Victoria said the Awards encourage researchers of all ages to use original records to discover their local history.

“There are millions of untold stories safeguarded in the repository at Public Record Office Victoria and we encourage applicants to utilise our collection as well as their local historical collections to discover stories about their communities,” said Ms Heazlewood.

This year, a new category aimed at young researchers has been introduced. The Young Historians Award encourages secondary school students aged between 15 and 18 to engage with local history by exploring local community and identities, significant events and heritage topics.

Other categories cover a variety of formats including unique publications, collaborations, historical interpretations and multimedia where entrants are encouraged to think outside the square and to look to new ways of presenting history.

Andrew Lemon, President, Royal Historical Society of Victoria said the Awards contribute to the development and appreciation of the history of Victoria.

“This annual event is about celebrating the work of both the amateur and professional historian and the importance of documenting local stories,” said Dr Lemon.

Entries are judged on content and presentation with a view to encouraging innovative ways of recording community history across Victoria.

2012 CATEGORIES:

  • Victorian Community History Award $5000
  • History Publication Award $2000
  • Local History – Small Publication Award $1500
  • Local History Project Award $2000
  • Young Historians Award (15-18 years) $500
  • Collaborative Community History Award $2000
  • Multimedia History Award $2000
  • Historical Interpretation Award $2000

For more information and to apply, visit www.historyvictoria.org.au. Applications close Friday 10 August 2012. Winners will be announced at the National Gallery of Victoria on Tuesday 23 October 2012. For further information call 03 9326 9288 or email vcha@historyvictoria.org.au

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