Media releases
The Shine Dome turns 50 this week
5 May 2009
The iconic Shine Dome, beloved home of the Australian Academy of Science, turns 50 on Wednesday 6 May.
The heritage listed Dome was built specifically for the Australian Academy of Science following an architectural design competition. Construction began in 1958 and finished in April 1959. The building was officially opened on 6 May 1959 by the then Governor-General, Field Marshal Sir William Slim.
The Academy’s peak annual science event, Science at the Shine Dome, also kicks off on Wednesday and will include 50th birthday celebrations for the Dome from 5:00 – 6:30 pm. Talks will be given by prominent speakers, including Professor Frank Fenner FAA* who was elected as one of the Academy’s foundation Fellows and was also present at the Dome’s opening in 1959.
The celebration will also include audio recordings from the opening of the Dome, displays of historic photos, champagne and the cutting of a Dome replica cake by Professor John Shine FAA who lends his name to the Shine Dome after donating to an extensive refurbishment in 2001.
A book is currently being compiled on the Dome’s history and will be launched later this year.
Media are welcome and interviews with speakers can be arranged through the contact.
A professional photographer will cover the event. This event is not open to the public.
* Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science
Event: 50th Birthday of the Shine Dome, 5:00 – 6:30 pm, 6 May 2009
Venue: The Shine Dome, Gordon Street, Acton, Canberra
Contact: Mona Akbari: (02) 6201 9452 or 0447 679 612 mona.akbari@science.org.au
Schedule:
5:00 – 5:45 Drinks and food service
5:45 – 5:50 Audio of opening ceremony from 1959
5:50 – 5:55 Introduction by Prof David Curtis FAA
5:55 – 6:05 Talk by Prof Frank Fenner FAA on what the Dome meant to the Academy in 1959
6:05 – 6:15 Talk by Dr Alan Roberts, currently writing the history of the Dome, on its architectural merit and historical significance
6:15 – 6:25 Talk by current President, Professor Kurt Lambeck FAA, on what the Dome means to the Academy today
6:25 – 6:30 Cutting of the replica Dome cake by Prof John Shine
