Nathan Spielvogel Oration - Exploring Difficult History

Presented by the Ballarat Historical Society, the annual Spielvogel Oration delivers a public lecture on an issue of local significance. This year author Dr Frank Golding has titled his presentation "Exploring Difficult History". While we justifiably celebrate Ballarat's proud built heritage and community achievements, Dr Golding will explore its less palatable and more disturbing social history. Focusing on the experiences of women and children in care during the 19th and 20th centuries, Frank will explore the institutions which were established and the social attitudes and policies impacting the care provided. He will also reveal some of the unintended consequences of these policies. This event will provide a challenging counterpoint to the overall Heritage Festival theme of "Entertainment" and will serve as a reminder that not everyone was enjoying life in a lucky country.