Aimed at the preservation and dissemination of valuable archive holdings and library collections worldwide, UNESCO's Memory of the World programme was established in 1992. In 2007 eleven Australian convict sites were nominated for inclusion in the World Heritage Register. On Sunday 1 August, the World Heritage committee announced that the sites would be inscribed. The World Heritage listing includes Cockatoo Island, Hyde Park Barracks and Government House. To read more about the Memory of the World Programme and Australia's newest listing click here.

Several Sydney historians have had their works shortlisted for the 2010 Prime Ministers Literary Award. Grace Karskens' The Colony has received high praise from the award’s judges who have described her scholarship as ‘rich ...balanced and perceptive…startling in its simplicity and directness as she challenges received wisdom’

The work of Sydney based author John Keane has also been acclaimed, judges called his book The Life and Death of Democracy ‘monumental history…essential reading for academics and the general public alike.’
To read more about shortlisted works visit the DEHWA website.

The Kenmore Hospital Museum is under threat of closure as the building which houses it, the old Kenmore Hospital, is being sold. The History Council is urgeing for the sale to be on the condition that community groups using the space will be permitted to continue. For more information view the story by Stateline.

The History Council of NSW would like to congratulate Professor Raelene Frances on her appointment to the Council of National Museum of Australia. Mr Peter Yu and Mr David were also appointed for a three year term. The Council believes it is vital that professional historians play a role in determining how history is made publicly accessible. We are delighted that a prominent and distinguished historian, such as Rae Frances has been appointed to the National Museum of Australia.