News
Ernest Scott Prize to Chinese-Australian history book
22 July 2008
Professor John Fitzgerald is the worthy winner for 2008's Ernest Scott Prize for his book Big White Lie: Chinese Australians in White Australia, UNSW Press, 2007. The Ernest Scott Prize is awarded annually to the book judged to be the most distinguished contribution to the History of Australia or New Zealand published in the previous year. The award was announced at the Australian Historical Association Conference dinner by Professor Joy Damousi, Head of the School of Historical Studies at the University of Melbourne.
In awarding Professor Fitzgerald with the 2008 Ernest Scott Prize, the judges citation stated:
“This is a mould-breaking book, with a strong argument, meticulous and extensive research, and a providing a new and challenging way of understanding Chinese-Australian history. Fitzgerald shows that historians have too often adopted the assumptions of earlier generations of uncomprehending Australians, and that it is possible to see the history of Chinese in Australia quite differently. Through extensive use of both Chinese and English language sources, it constructs an often surprising account of the ways in which Chinese people in Australia lived, thought, and acted. The subjects of this history come to life variously as democrats, liberals, nationalists, political activists, and successful businessmen often with international connections. This book will affect not only our understanding of Australian history but also the way we think about current issues, such as immigration policy and multiculturalism, more generally.”
The Prize is based on a bequest by Mrs Emily Scott in memory of her husband, Sir Ernest Scott, who held a professorship in the department of History at the University of Melbourne.
Two other fine books were shortlisted by the judges for this year's Prize:
Selling Sex: A Hidden History of Prostitution by Raelene Frances (published by UNSW Press, 2007), and
The Best Man Who Ever Served the Crown? A Life of Donald McLean by Ray Fargher (published by VUW Press, 2007).
The School of Historical Studies extend its congratulations to Professor John Fitzgerald.
2008 Ernest Scott shortlist announced
11 June 2008
The Ernest Scott Prize is awarded annually to the book judged to be the most distinguished contribution to the History of Australia or New Zealand published in the previous year. The Prize is based on a bequest by Mrs Emily Scott in memory of her husband, Sir Ernest Scott, who held a professorship in the University of Melbourne's History department.
Three fine books have been shortlisted by the judges for this year's Prize. The winner will be announced at the Australian Historical Association dinner, 9th July. The shortlist is:
John Fitzgerald, Big White Lie: Chinese Australians in White Australia, UNSW Press, 2007
This is a mould-breaking book, with a strong argument, meticulous and extensive research, and a providing a new and challenging way of understanding Chinese-Australian history. Fitzgerald shows that historians have too often adopted the assumptions of earlier generations of uncomprehending Australians, and that it is possible to see the history of Chinese in Australia quite differently. Through extensive use of both Chinese and English language sources, it constructs an often surprising account of the ways in which Chinese people in Australia lived, thought, and acted. The subjects of this history come to life variously as democrats, liberals, nationalists, political activists, and successful businessmen often with international connections. This book will affect not only our understanding of Australian history but also the way we think about current issues, such as immigration policy and multiculturalism, more generally.
Raelene Frances, Selling Sex: A Hidden History of Prostitution, UNSW Press, 2007
This is a lively and well-written history which investigates the history of prostitution in Australia from the convict period through to the present. It considers many dimensions ˆracial, legal, political, and cultural ˆ of its subject, and demonstrates the connections between the sex industry in Australia and the international movement of sex workers. As the author writes, "through the lens of sexual exchange we see a society working out its destiny both within national borders and in relation to the rest of the world". This is confronting history, well told.
Ray Fargher, The Best Man Who Ever Served the Crown? A Life of Donald McLean, VUW Press, 2007
The issue of land ownership lies at the heart of this biography of one of the major figures in the history of nineteenth century New Zealand. McLean served in numerous government posts, from Sub-Protector of Aborigines to Native Minister. He was fluent in Te Reo and had a deep understanding of Maori custom and culture, yet he was also responsible for extracting more land from Maori ownership than any other colonial official. The McLean archive is one of the great repositories of information for colonial New Zealand and this biography brings to life the man behind the archive. It also engages with issues that remain central in the political and social life of New Zealand today.
The judges in 2008 are Professor Ann Curthoys, Manning Clark Professor of History at the Australian National University; and Professor Brian Moloughney, Head of School of Asian & European Languages at Victoria University of Wellington.
Patricia Grimshaw receives dual recognition for distinguished service
19 March 2008
In recogniton of Professor Pat Grimshaw’s contribution to the University of Melbourne, a new award has been introduced in her name. The ‘Patricia Grimshaw Awards for Mentor Excellence’ honour Pat as a distinguished Professor of History and pioneer of women's and gender history, who has mentored generations of PhD students and younger colleagues across the University.
Pat’s magnificent achievements have also been recognised with her induction to the 2008 Honour Roll of Women in recognition of her substantial contribution to her field of research as an academic, pioneer of the study of women’s history, a writer and researcher, lecturer, supervisor, administrator and activist.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Pat for these richly deserved honours.