COMMITTEE OF CONVOCATION - 2007

THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE

A re-creation of the Foundation Plate presented by the Committee of Convocation

21 November 2007

http://www.unimelb.edu.au/unisec/convocation/ INTRODUCTION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Foundation Stone of the University of Melbourne was laid by the Lieutenant-Governor of Victoria, Sir Charles Hotham, on 3 July 1854. The Foundation Stone consisted of an engraved plate with an inscription in Latin composed by the Chancellor, Redmond Barry, some British coins and the Constitution of the University, all laid in a special stone buried in the foundations of the Quadrangle Building. The actual location of the Foundation Stone and its commemorative plate continues to be a great mystery. As the contemporary accounts record, they were placed underground but separately from the footings of the east and west wings that were the first parts of the Quadrangle to be built. One possible place would have been where the un-built south wing and entrance tower were to be, just south of the present undercroft, below and in front of the present Council Chamber, but this is only conjecture. During 2006 the Committee of Convocation noted that that there would be significant changes to the longstanding membership of the Committee brought about by the application of the State Government’s 12 year Membership Rule, which would take effect with the elections to the Committee held towards the end of 2007 and 2009. At the same time the Committee’s attention was drawn to the fact that 2007 would be the 140th anniversary of Convocation (as the successor to the Senate of the University which held its first meeting on 2 July 1867) and that it would be fitting to mark both events by presenting to the University an engraved re-creation of the University of Melbourne Foundation Plate. The research work associated with the project has been enthusiastically undertaken by a Working Group appointed by the Committee of Convocation from its membership and comprises Mr David Dodd (convenor), Dr Cecily Close, Dr John Harcourt and Dr Ros Otzen, with Mr George Tibbits as Consultant. The Working Group wishes to record its grateful thanks to the following persons who have generously given their time to the Project: Professor Emeritus Richard Selleck Associate Professor Christopher Mackie Dr Andrew MacMillan Mr George Tibbits The re-creation of the original Foundation Plate and its translation is now presented to the University, in the presence of the Governor, Professor David de Kretser, AC, as the Visitor, the Chancellor Mr Ian Renard and the Vice-Chancellor Professor Glyn Davis, AC by the President and members of the Committee of Convocation on 21 November 2007 celebrating the 140th Year of the Committee’s founding as the Senate of the University on 2 July 1867. SOURCES

Minute Books of the Council, the Senate and the RJW Selleck, The Shop : The University of Melbourne Convocation of the University of Melbourne 1850-1939. (MUP 2003) Melbourne Newspapers Stuart Macintyre, RJW Selleck, A Short History of Argus the University of Melbourne. (MUP 2003) Melbourne Morning Herald George Tibbits, The Quadrangle : The first building Banner at the University of Melbourne. (MUP 2005) Australasian Sketcher Geoffrey Blainey, A Centenary History of the University of Melbourne Calendars University of Melbourne. (MUP 1957) University of Melbourne Archives Geoffrey Blainey, Norman H. Olver, The University State Library of Victoria of Melbourne : A Centenary Portrait. (MUP 1957) Ernest Scott, The History of the University of Australian Dictionary of Biography - Online Melbourne. (MUP & OUP 1936) edition contents/

1. Introduction and Acknowledgements...... Inside front cover 2. Sources ...... Inside front cover 3. The Re-created Foundation Plate and its Translation...... 2 The Re-created Foundation Plate presented to the . University on the occasion of the 140th Anniversary . of Convocation, to be erected in the Cloisters. of the Old Quadrangle. 4. The Ceremony of the laying of the Foundation Stone - 3 July 1854...... 3 As reported in the Melbourne newspapers, . Argus and Melbourne Morning Herald, and Banner of Tuesday 4 July 1854, including the Argus Editorial of 4 July 1854. 5. The Senate of the University 1867-1923 - A brief history ...... 7 6. Convocation and the Standing Committee of ...... 10 Convocation 1924 onwards 7. Vignettes of the Lieutenant-Governor, the Chancellor and the first Councillors of .the University of Melbourne ...... 12 8. Wardens of the Senate 1867-1923 and of Convocation...... 15 1924-1975, Presidents of the Graduates 1975-1985 and Presidents of Convocation 1986-2007 9. Members of the Committee of Convocation 2007...... 16 (as at 31 August 2007) 10. The University of Melbourne1858 ...... Inside back cover The Quadrangle Building - An original engraving from the . Illustrated London News. Hand coloured and published in London in 1858

1 THE RE-CREATED FOUNDATION PLATE AND ITS TRANSLATION

Primum hunc lapidem This the first stone Academiæ Melburnensis of Melbourne University in honorem Dei instituted in honor of God ad adolescentes philosophia for establishing young men literis pietate in philosophy formandos literature and piety juventutis ingenium excolendum cultivating the talent of youth artes fovendas fostering the arts scientiæ fines ampliandos extending the bounds of science institutæ was laid on the third day of July ante diem quintum nonas Julias in the 17th year of the Queen’s reign anno reginæ XVII and the third year of the Coloniæ Victoriæ III Colony of Victoria Domini MDCCCLIV in the year of our Lord 1854 posuit Carolus Hotham by Charles Hotham Eques de Balneo Knight of the Bath Coloniæ Præfectus Lieutenant-Governor of the Colony CANCELLARIO CHANCELLOR Redmundo Barry Redmond Barry VICE-CANCELLARIO VICE-CHANCELLOR Hugone Culling Eardley Childers Hugh Culling Eardley Childers SOCIIS COUNCILLORS Reverendo Admodum Carolo The Right Reverend Charles Episcopo Melburnense Bishop of Melbourne Reverendo Admodum Jacobo Alipio Goold The Right Reverend James Alipius Goold Honorando Viro Joanne Fitzgerald Lesley Foster The Honorable John Fitzgerald Lesley Foster Honorando Viro Gulielmo Foster Stawell The Honorable William Foster Stawell Honorando Viro Jacobo Frederico Palmer The Honorable James Frederick Palmer Reverendo Irving Hetherington The Reverend Irving Hetherington Reverendo Alexandro Morison The Reverend Alexander Morison Jacobo Croke James Croke Edvardo Grimes Edward Grimes Roberto Williams Pohlman Robert Williams Pohlman Francisco Murphy Francis Murphy Edvardo Stone Parker Edward Stone Parker Gulielmo Clarke Haines William Clarke Haines Georgio Gulielmo Rusden George William Rusden Normano Campbell Norman Campbell Colino Campbell Colin Campbell Lauchlano Mackinnon Lauchlan Mackinnon Godfredo Howitt Godfrey Howitt ARCHITECTO ARCHITECT Francisco Maloney White Francis Maloney White ÆDIFICATORE BUILDER Joanne Sinclair John Sinclair

The Foundation Stone of The University of Melbourne was laid by the Lieutenant-Governor of Victoria, Sir Charles Hotham on 3 July 1854. An engraved plate with an inscription in Latin composed by the Chancellor, Redmond Barry, some British coins and the Constitution of the University, were laid in a stone cavity, covered by the foundation stone, and buried in the foundations of this Quadrangle Building. The above re-creation of the Foundation Plate and its translation was presented to the University in the presence of the Governor of Victoria, Professor David de Kretser, AC, the Chancellor Mr Ian Renard and the Vice-Chancellor Professor Glyn Davis, AC on 21 November 2007 by the President and Members of the Committee of Convocation, celebrating the 140th year of its founding as the University Senate on 2 July 1867.

2 THE CEREMONY OF LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE - 3 JULY 1854

The Argus, Melbourne Morning Herald and Banner accommodation of the spectators, and for the convenient provided lengthy accounts in their 4 July editions performance of the ceremony. Ranges of seats in ascending of this important ceremony for the people of tiers had been erected on three sides of a quadrangle enclosing Melbourne. It was the new Lieutenant-Governor Sir the excavation in which the lower stone had already been Charles Hotham’s first public duty in the Colony, embedded. Opposite the opening was a canopy with a chair having arrived in Melbourne only in late June. In placed under it for Lady Hotham, commanding a full view of all the proceedings and the assembled company. From fact, Hotham laid two foundation stones on this day: this position the addresses were made. A gallery running the first and more splendid was for the University of round on each side led to a flight of steps down to the Melbourne. Following this ceremony the Governor stone, and also gave access to the seats.” The Banner adds: laid the foundation stone of the Melbourne Public “From the cross-trees which suspended the top stone, there Library. The common element was the involvement steamed lines of flags of various colours and designs that in both of some of Melbourne’s most powerful men, were discernible from a considerable distance…” of whom the most significant was Redmond Barry, The Herald’s detailed account continues: “The tools Chancellor of the University and senior Trustee of presented to His Excellency to be used on this occasion, the Public Library, and at the time, also Acting Chief consisted of a silver trowel of the usual size and form, with Justice of the Colony. a simple dedication in English. The dedication was to Mr La Trobe, the late Governor, who was to have laid the stone, The Argus aimed to ‘give a full account of the ceremonies but was prevented by family affliction, and by a press of in the order in which they were performed, the University business before his departure. The trowel was therefore having the first place. Our new Governor could hardly have used in an unfinished state, it being proposed to have a appeared in a more welcome character than as the patron new trowel made of native gold, and to send it to the Paris of education, and it will be seen from His Excellency’s Exhibition [of 1855]. The gold trowel is to weigh 16 ounces, observations how highly he appreciates science in the way and will cost 150 guineas. The silver one cost twenty-five we most require it, that is, in its practical application to local guineas and weighed nine ounces. The mallet or setting purposes. Upon this occasion, as upon all others, Sir Charles mall was of a very tasty design by Mr Reed; it was made of was well received, and his concluding address obtained black wood and ringed with silver. The mortar-board, upon for him the heartiest and, we believe, the most genuine which the mortar was handed to the illustrious operator by cheers he has yet received. His Excellency throughout this the architect, was also of blackwood, bordered and corner- morning’s ceremonies exhibited the same traits of business mounted with silver, and with a centre-piece of the same habits, energy, and decision for which he has already been metal. To these were added, for the foundation of the library, given credit. a silver square with a dedicatory inscription engraved on “About twelve o’clock, the officials and other gentlemen who one arm, and a list of the trustees of the institution on the formed part of the procession to the site of the University, other. The other tools were made for the University, and assembled at the Government offices [on the corner of used also for the library, it not being considered necessary William and Latrobe Streets], and their carriages having to have two sets for two similar works on the same day. The been arranged in order, they proceeded to the scene of the whole of the tools were constructed by Messrs Walsh & principal ceremony. Co., and were very creditable pieces of workmanship, both “The procession included, in addition to His Excellency, as regards design and execution. Lady Hotham, Mrs Kaye, and other ladies, the Chancellor “The procession was received upon arrival at the ground by of the University, Redmond Barry Esq., Acting Chief a guard, and welcomed by the music of the band and the Justice, H. C. E. Childers, Esq., Vice Chancellor, the cheers of the people, who were collected in large numbers Council of the University, including the Right Rev. Dr round the enclosure. As soon as all the party had arrived and Perry, the Right Rev. Dr Goold, the Colonial Secretary the ladies were seated, the Chancellor of the University, Mr (J. F. L. Foster), the Attorney-General (W. F. Stawell), J. Justice Barry, having taken the trowel from the architect, F. Palmer Esq., Rev. Irving Hetherington, Rev. Alexander Mr F. M. White, submitted them to the Vice-Regal party Morison, Ed. Grimes Esq., R. W. Pohlman, Esq., Francis for inspection.” Murphy, Esq., E. S. Parker, Esq., W. C. Haines, Esq., G. W. Rusden, Esq., N. Campbell, Esq., Colin Campbell, Justice Redmond Barry’s Address Esq., Lauchlan McKinnon, Esq., Dr Godfrey Howitt, most There followed a long speech by the Chancellor, Redmond of the members of the Legislative and City Councils, and a Barry. The luckless Argus reporter found ‘that when the great number of our principal professional gentlemen, and learned gentleman desired to be most impressive he became other influential colonists.” the least audible’ but the speech was reported in detail in The Herald continues: “The cavalcade, followed by a host The Herald. of ‘colonists on foot’, had to pass through a long range of “Mr Justice Barry, in presenting Sir Charles with the trowel, streets in order to get clear of the town, and to take a very said that it was a source of much gratification that the first circuitous route in order to reach the ground. public act of His Excellency was one of so great interest, “The site is situate on rising ground to the north of the as in laying the foundation stone of so important an city, in a direct line between the cattle yards and the new institution as the University of Melbourne. To all who were Cemetery. Admirable arrangements had been made for the interested in the advancement of learning, this ceremonial 3 must be imposing in no ordinary degree. In the large recording the event and naming the University Councillors. assembly there congregated, graced as it was by the presence The Argus continues, “His Excellency spread a little mortar, of Lady Hotham, and many other ladies, to smile upon and … the [top] stone was lowered into the spot where it the undertaking, there would doubtless be some, though is intended to remain, like the edifices of the old country, probably not many, who had been living witnesses of the for centuries. A mallet … was handed to the Governor, short history of the Colony. Seventeen years since the land who, having gone through the form of tapping the stone, upon which they stood was known only to the adventurous declared it to be well laid. savage, and to the few explorers who had cursorily visited “The band of the 40th immediately struck up; three the coast. The discovery of the vast resources of the Colony cheers were given for the University, in which all parties advanced with singular and unprecedented rapidity. Since heartily joined; three more were as heartily given for Sir the Allwise Ruler of events had shown to them the universal Charles Hotham; three again, and heartily too, for his lady; wealth with which the country abounded, its history had and three, to wind up the business, for Her Majesty the outshone all previous progress. Queen.” “This progress and improvement in the arts had not been Sir Charles Hotham’s Address reported as favourably as they [sic] might have been. Some It was then the turn of Sir Charles Hotham to speak, which of our friends at home would think from the accounts he did at some length, as reported by the Argus. that had been sent home that the country was a scene of anarchy and disorder. The pen of the future historian must “Mr Chancellor, Ladies, and Gentlemen. If a stranger were do us justice. The well-wishers of the Colony had hoped to land here, steaming up the Yarra and then driving over for the event that had transpired, and rejoiced to see their your magnificent city, seeing the extent of your population, anticipations justified. They had relied on the loyalty of wealth, and prosperity, he would say to himself, there was the people in the first years of foundation of Victoria as one thing wanting, and that was science. He would say, a distinct colony; the legislature had voluntarily increased in coming up the Yarra, you wanted docks. (Hear.) He the grant in aid of religion to £13,000 and £50,000 had would look at your wharfs and streets and see how much since been voted to the purposes of education and religion. required to be done there. We have met here today to lay Now, the University had been endowed with £9,000 the foundation-stone of a University, and I hope and believe a year. He hoped that it would not be considered self- it will have strength and energy enough to accomplish what laudation when he said that the people had not neglected is wanted in this community. It is almost needless for me to their religious obligations; and this circumstance has remind you that nearly every man, I might also say without produced, and now continued to produce, a lively and exception, who has raised himself to a high position, and sincere hope that the institution would be crowned with has been distinguished in the world, received his education success, and would be the means conferring lasting benefit at a university; and has it not only been so in England, but on society. He acknowledged the cordial support given by in Germany also. I will just mention Humboldt, Goethe, the late Governor, to this undertaking, and to all others and Liebig, the Professor of Chemistry, to whose works all whose object was the encouragement of education and now appeal as the highest authority. Then cross the Atlantic the promotion of science and art; and he regarded with to the American shores. There we see the same results. Kent pleasure the spirit which had characterised the Legislature and Wheaton received their education at a university, and when treating similar subjects. He looked with confidence were professors of a university. The American judges were to the Constitution of the University itself, containing as great authorities, not only in their own country, but in it did, the elements of cordial union in prosecuting the England also. I speak in the presence of the Judges and the advancement of the institution. There was no appearance Attorney-General, and they can correct me if I am wrong, of any exclusive religious dogmatism, no supremacy of any when I say that these American authorities are looked up creed. It would admit the members of all denominations, to as high authorities in our own country, and they were who might run their course undeterred by any sectarian educated at universities. differences of opinion. He rejoiced that hitherto perfect “This country requires science for the development of its unanimity had prevailed in the Councils. In asking His resources. You know nothing about what is in the bowels of Excellency to lay the foundation stone of the new edifice, the earth; you know nothing about your coal formations; he would observe that no undertaking could be expected you know there is copper in another colony, you say there is to succeed that was not begun and carried on in devout tin in this and iron too, and no doubt all this is reasonably reliance on the great architect of the Universe. To adopt founded, but you must have sciences to develop these the language of metaphor, he would express a hope that the resources. I hope I shall not be taking too much on myself, foundation they were about to lay was in every sense both for my profession has been that of arms, not of learning, in firm and deep, and that by the aid of Divine Goodness, expressing a hope that the German course of education may the institution would flourish, and be an ornament and a be carried out here; that students may be taught not only blessing to the rising nation.” the classics, but modern languages and all the useful arts of modern times, as well as the learning of past ages. No The Laying Ceremony doubt the classics have their advantages. Lord Brougham, “His Honor then handed the trowel to Sir Charles for instance, who is admitted on all heads to be one of the Hotham, and escorted him from the dais down the steps ablest men of the day, speaks in one of his letters of the to the excavation, where the stone was placed. A copy of great delight he had in discussing the classics with Lord the Constitution of the University with some coins of the Wellesley, whose favorite work was Virgil. It is also said of period, were then placed in the cavity of the lower stone, Canning, in later times, by some foreign chargé d’affaires, and covered with a plate …” with its Latin inscription in a book which I do not remember the name just now,

4 that he found Canning amusing himself just before an party was stationed. The efforts of the mounted police to important debate by studying Virgil, and that it was his clear a space as the party approached caused some ludicrous practice to relieve his mind by a cultivation of the classics. adventures, the people backing in crowds to get out of the “I cannot point out any man of eminence at the bar, in the way of the horses, and tumbling in heaps over the stones pulpit, who did not receive his education at a university. that lay strewn about the place.’ The official party arrived Take Pitt and Fox, anybody; take the Government of the at the site at 1:30 pm. The ceremony which followed was day; take them all, you will find them university men. Lord not to finish until 3:00 pm, and no doubt the cold collation John Russell, though he may be considered as an exception, provided thereafter by Redmond Barry at his residence, was studied at Edinburgh, and there received his education. I most gratefully received by the exhausted participants. dwell but slightly on these topics, for, as I have said before, A long speech by the Speaker of the Legislative Council, Dr arms, and not learning, was my profession. I can only say Palmer, preceded the laying ceremony. The Governor laid that whatever I can do towards the advancement of the the foundation stone in the same way as at the University, University, I will do. then spoke to the crowd, as reported by the Herald. “The Chancellor has very properly remarked that this “He knew not (said he) which was the most important of is a proud day for them. I feel proud at attending such a the two undertakings he had had part in that day. For the ceremony such as this, and I hope before I leave this noble people at large, the present was decidedly the most important colony to see the institution occupied by first rate professors, event. The Library, of which he had had the honour of men of superior abilities.” laying the first stone, would afford to all Colonists a solace, The Herald recorded Hotham’s concluding remarks: “He and a source of never-failing enjoyment. To the unmarried, hoped that he might be spared to see the University in full it would yield the most refined companionship, to those operation. He would urge the observation to be made by who would otherwise frequent the public houses and Washington in his farewell to the American people, that indulge in intoxicating drinks, it would provide a means all undertakings must be based on the idea of the world of amusement of a more healthful and edifying character. to come, and that the belief in a future state must be the Most of the greatest men of the day had sprung from the ruling principle. He trusted that the salutary rule of the people, and had received their education through the institution, which he had quoted, would be kept steadily medium of popular institutions. The Speaker had spoken in view. That no religious dogmas would be introduced, of the mighty power, steam – that was an example of the and that no sectarian grasping at supremacy would be truth of his remark. By whom was steam power discovered? attempted. That members of all denominations, Christians By Watt, a working man: and the discovery was further of every sect, Jews, Musselmans might have access to all the developed by another man who had raised himself from the advantages of the institution. That its conductors would ranks by means of study at public libraries. We referred to steadily persevere in their course of duty to God, to the Dr Black and the investigation of latent heat. The father of Sovereign and to the University, and would look forward the late Sir Robert Peel was a working man: Arkwright was joyfully to the life to come.” another. He (the Governor) entreated the assembled people, as their friend and fellow-colonist, to bear these things in “His Excellency concluded amid cheering, and’, eschewing mind, and to remember that this Library was designed the luncheon provided by the contractors, Messrs John for all, but for the working man more than for any other. Sinclair and Son, ‘the company filed off to form a procession He hoped that books of every language and of every order to the next scene of operations; the band playing and the would find a place in it, so that they may never be at a loss guard standing to arms in the meantime.” for the means of reference on any subject that might arise. THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE MELBOURNE As he had already spoken at some length on the subject of PUBLIC LIBRARY IS LAID the University, he trusted that they would excuse him from The second laying ceremony was a less grand and more entering further into the matter. He assured them that impromptu an affair. ‘As no previous announcements had whatever assistance that he as Governor could render to the been made of the intention to lay the foundation stone of undertaking, they would always find him ready to give. the Public Library on the same day, a large proportion of “The speech of the Governor was received with hearty cheers, the company departed under the impression that all the and the popular and practical tone of his observations gave proceedings were finished,’ explained the Herald. There was great satisfaction to the people. The company separated an air of farce about the proceedings. ‘The stone was slung a few minutes after the conclusion of the ceremony and to a triangle just above its ultimate resting place in a hollow the great business of the day, a day that never should be about ten feet square, immediately above which the official forgotten in Victoria, was over.” THE ARGUS EDITORIAL - TUESDAY 4 JULY 1854 The University of Melbourne Now, however, we are beginning to recover the ground we If the institutions of a country afford a fair criterion of have lost. Religion and Education cannot be said to have its character and condition, Victoria will soon be able to met with neglect at any period of our history, and the invite the application of the test. The influence of the liberal endowment provided for both testifies to the deep gold discoveries, while contributing to that rapid increase consideration with which they arc regarded. Science recently of population and wealth which form the material basis forced its merits upon the public, in the establishment of an of a national structure, has had a blighting effect on the Institute for its advancement an object which we trust to cultivation of those elevated tastes and refuted sentiments see fully realized; and yesterday two noble institutions were which give to that structure nearly all its grace, and, we will founded, and dedicated the one to Learning and the other venture to add, not a little of its usefulness and power. to Knowledge. 5 One of the principal features is their national character. direct call for them. He was surrounded by the tinseled They are designed for the use of the People, without and begowned officials in “church and state”, and the respect to creed, clime or color. It is perhaps difficult for associations produced by the scene were aristocratic and an Englishman to look upon a university as anything academical. Perhaps His Excellency thought that there was save a monkish institution, presided over by ecclesiastics, a little too much ostentation of this nature, and that the accessible only to certain classes of the community, and real usefulness of such institutions would be frustrated by adapted mainly to the training of young gentlemen for making them senile imitations of the English prototypes. what are called “the learned professions”. Perhaps it is He laid particular stress on the importance of adapting equally difficult for him to conceive of a public library in a them to the circumstances of the colony, and of making more catholic light. them instrumental in training youth in the knowledge of Exclusiveness a grand characteristic of English institutions. the “useful arts”. Geology, chemistry, mining, agriculture, Education is confined to those who can pay for it. The horticulture, &c., are more useful here than Greek and Universities, originally national institutions, have become, Latin, important as these are, too, in their own place. or at least are regarded as, the private property of a Time has been when an educated gentleman might enjoy privileged sect. The public schools, founded and endowed a perusal of the Bucolics in the arcadian solitudes of the by mediaeval charity for the gratuitous education of the interior, but the sterner enterprise which the colony now poor, have fallen into the hands of the rich, and peers of requires, demands a training of a more practical nature. the realm scruple not to accept a benefit intended for a The most likely way to render the University successful is needier class. The people are admissible almost any where - to render it useful. By meeting the real wants of the colony, trusted nowhere. Picture galleries, which on the Continent and not allowing it to dwindle into a wretched caricature are the promenades of the people, are closed against them of Oxford or Cambridge, it will gather within its halls the in England lest they should injure the paintings. Gardens youthful intellect of Victoria and soon acquire the influence arc closed against them, lest they pluck the daisies or walk and renown which we ever wish to see associated with a seat on the flower plots. Even the churches, which in all ages of learning. and countries have been the common meeting-place of And whatever tends to promote its usefulness in its the high and low, are let out to the highest bidder; and a own immediate sphere will extend its influence in other man of pensive mind cannot turn aside from the bustle in directions. The day has gone by when any university can, the crowded streets to meditate in St Paul’s Cathedral or like Paris or Oxford, in the middle ages, so far monopolize worship in Westminster Abbey without feeing the porters! the faculty of dispensing instruction as to draw thousands The only places really open to all are the public-houses; and from all parts of the world, to sit at the feet of their “learned it is not surprising, therefore, that the outcasts of respectable doctors;” yet though monopoly be no longer possible society should have taken refuge in the only asylums where or desirable, pre-eminence is within our reach and not they are made welcome. beneath our pursuit. If Melbourne is to he the metropolis It must be admitted, at the same time, that in this respect of the Southern hemisphere, she must be great not only things are changing for the better in the old country. in the extent of her commerce, or the development of her The Great Exhibition had a wonderful effect in relaxing resources, or the freedom of her institutions, but in the the grasp of this exclusive spirit, proving as it did that achievements of her science and learning. She would then people were interested in witnessing the wonders of art, be what she is fast becoming, the glory of the South, and and indicating that, if put to the test, they would shew the civilizer of the East. themselves not less interested in exploring the marvels The ceremony of yesterday recalls to our recollection the of science. A new feeling sprang up among philosophers, opinion entertained of the civilizing function of Australia journalists, and the aristocratic classes in regard to the by Dr Arnold, whose fine historic spirit, aided by his warm elevation of the people. Prince Albert’s model cottages were sympathy with the progress of universal humanity, foresaw deemed worthy of a visit by the denizens of Belgravia. The in the position of this continent, and in the reproduction here most eminent savants in London commenced a course in of British institutions, and agency of European civilization lectures on practical geology, to which the working classes to bear upon the dense population of Eastern Asia. Much as only were admissible. The Exhibition Fund was employed England has had to do with that part of the world, she has in establishing an Industrial College, where labor and done little for its benefit. Civilization cannot be introduced science were to he combined for the attainment of skill, in to India at the point of a bayonet, nor promoted in China order to elevate skilled industry into a profession. through the sale of opium. It is no doubt common to speak Public Libraries were started in Manchester, Liverpool and of war and commerce as agencies of civilization: but this is other large towns, libraries which were public in reality as true only in so far as they promote colonization. Soldiers well as in name. And not only so, but several titled lords of and sailors may clear the way for the march of civilization, the soil came forward as lecturers to the working classes. but they do not directly advance it. One nation is civilized Lords Carlisle and Ellesmere lectured to the operatives of by another through coming into contact with the organic Leeds; Sir Robert Peel to the inhabitants of Tamworth; operations of social life, and becoming partakers of the and the young Earl of Belfast (since dead) to the people of same vital impulse through the medium of its language Ireland. and institutions. England is too distant from Eastern Asia It is this spirit which is required here, and it was pleasing in to accomplish this effectively, and the result will he that no small degree to find Sir Charles Hotham is so imbued though she may retain her political supremacy over India in with it, as his speeches yesterday evinced. The sentiments her own hands, her social influence over it will ultimately of consideration which he expressed for the working classes be transferred to Australia. were the more likely to be sincere, as there was the less

6 THE SENATE OF THE UNIVERSITY - 1867 TO 1923

It is fitting, at the 140th anniversary of the graduate body now this was the only way in which it could properly consider these known as Convocation, to review the history of its predecessor, difficult and, at times, complex and lengthy legislative matters. the Senate of the University, and, in doing so, to examine the However, on many occasions the scheduled meeting lapsed contribution which the Senate made to the evolution of the through want of a quorum. University during its formative years 1867-1923 by virtue of its The Senate also had time to consider other things and the powers as a “house of review” granted to it under the University’s question of the dress of the Warden saw them agreeing, “that the Act of Incorporation dress should consist of a gown of scarlet cloth faced and lined The 1853 Act of Incorporation, with Royal Assent being given with white silk and embroidered with gold, together with a black by Governor La Trobe on 22 January 1853, provided that the velvet hat and a hood of the Warden’s degree.” University would consist of a Council and a Senate and that the The Australasian Sketcher of 31 July 1880 provides an engraving Senate would be composed of graduates holding the degrees of accompanied by a brief but fascinating insight into a meeting Master and Doctor of the University (women were not admitted of the Senate held in July 1880. “The meetings of the senate of to the Senate until 1915). It would come into being when a total the Melbourne University, of which we depict a sitting, are held of 100 graduates with these qualifications had been reached. The at the University in the afternoon. Members as they arrive on Act also provided for the members of the Council to be elected by the landing overlooking the quadrangle, sign their names, and the Senate. Until it was able to exercise this function, members of pass into the large lecture room on the right. When the quorum the Council were appointed by the Governor-in-Council. (20) is complete, the porter, with the words, “Gentlemen, the In May 1867 the enabling total was reached with 128 eligible Warden,” ushers in that crimson-gowned officer, at present Dr graduates (Masters of Arts 71, Doctors of Medicine 53 and Madden.* The members rising, he takes his seat under a somewhat Doctors of Laws 4), with 88 Bachelor degrees being awarded and quaint canopy, and business commences by the registrar, Mr. E. some 194 undergraduates on the University’s books. F. a’Beckett,† in wig and gown, reading the minutes of the last The Senate’s first meeting, held on 2 July 1867 in the University meeting. The ensuing debate usually reveals the professions of Library, was attended by some 36 graduates. The meeting the speakers. This one is apparently combating opposing counsel, immediately addressed two key matters: first, the Rev. Dr that sees before him a class of grown-up boys, another proceeds Bromby was nominated for the position of Warden and second, through, first, secondly, and thirdly, while a fourth prescribes a committee was delegated to bring draft Standing Orders to something that will meet the case. In accordance with the act the next meeting for the regulation of the transactions of the of incorporation of the University, the senate was constituted of Senate. senior graduates – i.e., masters of arts, and doctors of medicine, Forty-six members attended the meeting of the Senate on Tuesday law, or music – as soon as the number amounted to 100. The 16 July 1867 when the draft Standing Orders were tabled and Dr ordinary meetings are held on the first Tuesday in May, August Bromby was duly elected Warden and took the Chair. He only and November, but the Warden may convene a meeting at any served for one year, and was followed by five Wardens who were time. It is the duty of the Senate, in case of vacancy by death or to play a significant role in the evolution of the University in the resignation, to elect members of the Council, and, in addition to subsequent years. business originating in itself, all proposals of the council to make or alter any statutes or regulations, must before coming [sic] law At the next meeting the draft Standing Orders were adopted receive the approval of the Senate. Questions are decided by the provisionally and a copy was sent to each member of the Senate majority of voices, aye or no, or, in case of doubt, by a division.” and to the President of the Professorial Board with the request that they be published in the Calendar. The Senate was not a body to be trifled with, and the Council felt its sting on many occasions. The minutes of the Senate meetings serve to highlight the enormity of the Senate’s role in considering the ongoing changes to the University Statutes and Regulations referred to it by the Council. Furthermore, if it was not for the meeting procedures and rules for debate embodied in the Senate’s Standing Orders - its adherence to these procedures would shame many present day Parliamentary performances - the Senate would have never been able to deal with the myriad of administrative and legislative matters before it. The hour of the meeting was set at 3.00 pm. In the years to come the Senate met later in the afternoon at 4.30 pm and, after meeting for some years in the University Library (in a first floor room with the bay window in the north-east corner of the Old Quadrangle building), it moved down town to meet regularly in the Assembly Rooms in Collins Street or in the Athenaeum. Invariably, with such a large attending membership, the Senate on many occasions moved into a ‘committee of the whole’, as Meeting of the Senate - July 1880.. Sir John Madden in the Chair. * Dr Madden, later Sir John Madden, Warden 1875-1882. (Wood engraving published in Australasian Sketcher. By courtesy of the State † Mr Edward F. a’Beckett, Registrar 1864-1901. Library of Victoria. A/S31/07/80/189.) 7 In 1870 the Senate pursued the Council on the need to define with the view of preventing the proposed breach of regulations.” the tenure of the members of Council. It strongly objected to The Council’s response did not satisfy the Senate and it moved the establishment of a foundation set up by an Order to provide to seek advice from counsel and subsequently adopted his advice scholarships for the sons of that Order, arguing that “it did not to petition the Governor as the Visitor, “to restrain the Council approve of any foundation in the University which is not open to from proposing a breach of the regulations and that the Warden all classes and denominations of Her Majesty’s subjects.” as representing the Senate be required to allow his name to be In May 1872 the Senate stepped boldly out on a major issue. used as the petitioner.” The Council’s placatory response that Council had in October 1871, agreed to allow females to be “it regretted any misunderstanding should have arisen” and that admitted to the matriculation examination, although they their action, “was dictated by a simple desire to do justice to all were not allowed to matriculate! Under the agenda heading of those who might present themselves for examination during the “Exclusion of Females from University Privileges”, the Senate present examination year”, did not satisfy the Senate. insisted “that having regard to the general policy of the Act of Once again the Australasian Sketcher (13 February 1884, p. 18) Incorporation” - and incidentally enshrined in the inscription provides a remarkable report and engraving, showing the on the Foundation Plate - “there is no sufficient reason why Governor, as Visitor, settling this dispute between Council and females should be excluded from the educational achievements Senate. and corporate privileges of the University.” “His Excellency the Marquis of Normanby, as Visitor of the While the Act of Incorporation made no distinction as to gender, Melbourne University, held a visitation of the University on but rather, simply, referred to the Council’s power to confer the 10th January, to decide upon the dispute that has occurred degrees, the Senate’s resolution was considered by the Council between the council and the senate in reference to the examination where it was referred to a committee and languished until 1877. for honours, exhibitions, and scholarships under the regulations A Bill was then introduced into the Legislative Assembly which, recently framed. These regulations were recently adopted in on becoming the University Constitution Amendment Act of August last, and altered the subjects of examination, and the 1881, resulted in the admission of women as students that year number of exhibitions and scholarships. The senate added to the though it specifically excluded them from membership of the new regulations a provision that the old rules should remain in Council and the Senate. force till the commencement of the next academic year, March, The Senate at its meeting on 3 May 1887, was able to adopt with 1884. The council interpreted this to mean that the exam could some satisfaction the following address to Her Majesty Queen be held, and the prizes awarded for the present year, under both Victoria on the 50th Year of Her Reign: the old and the new rules, and published a notice to that effect. The senate disputed the validity of this construction of the To a Queen at Her Jubilee, it may be a source of satisfaction to regulations, and contended that the exams for this year could be reminded that during her Reign women have been admitted be held only under the old rules… A petition was presented to to participate in the educational advantages which are too often His Excellency the Governor by Mr A. Harper, the warden of reserved exclusively for the other sex. Within the walls of this the senate, praying him to hold an inquiry, and to prohibit the University women gather for study as men and enjoy the same council from holding the exams and conferring the honours. privileges. Mr Justice Molesworth was appointed to act as assessor to His The Governor, as Visitor to the University, was twice called upon Excellency. The inquiry took place in the Wilson-hall, where His to intervene in disputes between the Council and the Senate. Excellency was received by a number of members of the council The latter petitioned him in March 1871 over the question of the and other members of the University. Mr F. G. Duffy was heard Council’s refusal to delay the filling of a vacant professorship until on behalf of the senate, and Mr Walker and Mr Hood on behalf the Senate had considered the matter, including the Council’s of the council. His Excellency’s decision was given on January subsequent refusal to provide the Senate with the conditions 23rd. He was of the opinion that the view taken by the senate was of appointment for the Chair. At the Governor’s direction, the right, and that the council could not award new exhibitions and Council delayed the appointment process, while he considered the petition. In July 1871 the Governor, Lord Canterbury, replied to the Senate that he did not regard the petition as calling for any intervention on his part in Council’s proceedings for the filling of the Chair. This response did not satisfy the Senate and they requested the Governor to visit the University to provide them with an opportunity to support their complaint by oral argument. The visit took place in the Council Room on 17 August 1871 and the Governor’s judgement, delivered on 18 September 1871, declared that the Council had acted properly on all matters relating to the conditions of appointment. The real ire of the Senate was felt in 1884 with a successful petition to the Governor as the Visitor, over what can only be described as the Council’s intransigence in refusing to properly consider the effects of its resolution. In September 1883, an item, “Protest against the Council” appeared on the Senate Notice Paper which called upon the Senate, “to protest against the recent changes in the Regulation in The Governor’s Visitation at the University of Melbourne Wilson Hall to regard to Honours and Exhibitions being brought into operation arbitrate a difference between the Council and the Senate - 13 February 1884. (Vice-Chancellor top row 3rd from left; Governor the Marquis of Normanby before the time fixed by the regulation” and “that a Committee be standing; Warden of the Senate Andrew Harper top row 2nd from right.) formed for the purpose of ascertaining the best steps to be taken (Wood engraving. By courtesy of the State Library of Victoria. A/S13/02/84/20.)

8 scholarships till after the commencement of the next academic years of the Senate and a workable harmony descended upon year. He expressed his regret that any students should have been both bodies. misled by the advertisement of the council, but, as the Visitor The Senate met for the last time on 16 October 1923, as a new of the University, he could decide only according to what was University Act was about to be passed in the Victorian Parliament his view of the law. He therefore ordered that the council be which was to replace the Senate with a new body, Convocation. prohibited from conferring the new exhibitions and scholarships This would comprise all graduates, and not merely those with during the current academic year. He further directed that the higher degrees. As an act of last resistance to the new order, a costs incurred by the Warden in the matter should be paid out of motion to change the name “Convocation” back to “Senate” was the funds of the University.” put and lost. A new era of University governance was about to On Friday 1 June 1888, the Senate again was annoyed with emerge and the Senate’s final act was to pass a motion thanking the action of the Council in delaying the transmission of the Dr McInerney for his services as Warden during the past 34 legislation to the Governor which had been previously passed by years. the Senate and Council, and considered a motion that “it was an invasion of the privileges of the Senate on the part of Council to Regrettably, the foregoing only represents a snapshot in the send down Regulations which have already been passed by the life and times of the Senate and the important role it played Council and Senate.” Such was the heat generated over the issue in the governance and affairs of the young and developing that the Senate, meeting in the Assembly Hall in Collins Street, University. Professor Richard Selleck’s entertaining history of debated the issue for three hours before adjourning for dinner, the University, The Shop : The University of Melbourne 1850-1939 then reconvening and debating the motion until it was finally gives a further remarkable and amusing insight into the, at put and carried at 12.20 am on Saturday morning. Such was the times, turbulent interaction between the Senate and the Council, fervour of the Senate when moving to protect its position in the which ultimately was one of the issues which led to the need for governance of the University. a complete reappraisal of the governance of the University which There were to be no more petitions to the Governor to adjudicate took place with the passing of the 1923 University Act. in disputes between the Senate and Council during the remaining

The completed Quadrangle - University of Melbourne. Council Chamber plaque commemorating the laying of the . Media Photograph Collection, Photograph No 19845. Foundation Stone and the opening of the first university building.

9 CONVOCATION AND ITS STANDING COMMITTEE - 1924 ONWARDS

The proposal to replace the Senate with a Convocation, comprising members of the first Standing Committee, five were women: four all graduates, had been made in 1913 by a Joint Committee of in Arts, Music and Education; one in Medicine. Enquiry appointed by the Council to look into the University’s The Convocation, which first met on 29 April 1924, elected as constitution and needs. The Joint Committee also recommended its first Warden Morris Mondle Phillips, a lawyer, now master in that Council membership be broadened, which was to have the equity. When he retired, in 1934, he did so to join the Council effect of reducing the proportion of graduate representation, the (of which he had earlier been a member), a precedent followed Senate having elected 20 out of the 23 members. These and other by a number of his successors. T.P. McInerney had also been changes were prescribed by the University Act of 1923. nominated but lost to Phillips in a ballot, 52 to 41. Tribute was Convocation could elect only 10 of the 31 members of Council. It paid to his courtesy and dedication, and on 9 September a special could make its own standing orders, appoint its own Warden, and meeting of some 40 members collected £75 for a testimonial – his was to hold an ordinary meeting at least once a year with special portrait by John Longstaff, which was destroyed in the Wilson meetings as required. To conduct business meanwhile it was to Hall fire of 25 January 1952. Both Convocation and its Standing elect a Standing Committee which would report to it annually Committee continued to meet at the Presbyterian Assembly Hall and at other times when necessary. The Standing Committee in Collins Street until August 1925, returning there in 1942 was to consist of the Warden, ex officio, as chairman, and not after gathering for some years further west at the Law Institute’s less than 40 other persons (the highest number actually elected rooms, then in the Port Authority Building in Market Street. has been 44) who must be members of Convocation but neither When the Standing Committee took up its major activity members of the Council nor solely or principally employed by of approving or amending legislation sent to it by Council, the University. each Professor whose department was concerned with an Though some had argued against maintaining the bi-cameral item attended to introduce it on Council’s behalf, though system for University legislation, the Standing Committee, like in his absence the Registrar might act as his substitute. This the Senate, was empowered to “amend any statute or regulation inconvenient arrangement was modified until the Chairman or submitted by the council for its approval” and return it so amended Vice-Chairman of the Professorial Board alone introduced all for the Council’s further consideration, but could not originate legislation. Most items were readily approved, but amendments legislation. Like Convocation itself, the Standing Committee were frequent, from minor ones in the interests of clarity or was entitled to submit for Council’s consideration any suggestion consistency and often accepted by Council, to those involving relating to University concerns, and be informed of the result. It a matter of principle. Further explanation usually persuaded the must report on any matters referred to it by Council. Committee, but Council too might be persuaded: an objection For the purposes of electing the Standing Committee and to an amendment of the Discipline Statute led to further changes Councillors, graduates were divided into classes, by Faculty or which it was hoped would meet the Standing Committee’s views. groups of Faculties (Arts, Music and Education constituted one The power of decision lay with Council, but by various measures class), the number of representatives to which each class was it tried to ensure that its enactments and amendments were entitled being as near as possible proportional to the number understood and promptly passed. The Committee’s protests on of graduates in each. It was for Council to determine these the few occasions legislation was acted upon before review received numbers and classes. New faculties were joined to an existing a ready explanation and apology.The Standing Committee class: Commerce to Arts, Music and Education; Architecture to occasionally pursued its right to submit suggestions to Council, Engineering. The representational arrangements of 1923 were Arts and Education representatives seizing the opportunity at otherwise undisturbed until 1938, when the numbers of graduates the second meeting in May 1924 to draw Council’s attention according to their faculties were recalculated and arrangements to the “unsatisfactory nature of the arrangements” between the made to ensure that then, and in future, faculty numbers would School of Education and the University (a reference to the dual be reflected in the number of their representatives. Of the 40 control of Education professor and staff by the University and the Victorian Education Department). Meetings were sought and held, and Council was favourably disposed, but as with other matters raised, funds and time were needed for success. Usually the Committee’s initiatives arose from the legislation before them, or from their desire to support the University or its Vice-Chancellor in times of difficulty and challenge from within or without. A number of motions and papers of this kind have been thoughtfully prepared over the years to forward to an appreciative Council. For many years the press was invited to meetings, and could convey a picture of a meeting livelier than that in the minutes. On 10 February 1927 Arts representative (and MSc) Alfred Hart had brought forward the matter of University finances, inadequate then and long after. A committee was formed with the University Association and Hart wrote a comprehensive paper urging that support be marshalled internally and from the professions and Committee of Convocation -July 1960 business when the University approached Government with its (Photographer unknown. University of Melbourne Archives. UMA/1/2702). submission setting out its needs. No improvement in funding 10 having resulted from successive approaches to governments, matters. Premier of Victoria John Cain also commanded a large Hart and others called into question the ability of the Council as attendance in 1982 for his “Labor in Victoria – the first years”. established by the 1923 Act to secure public support, and a sub- During this period the Wardens’ reports became increasingly committee was appointed to report on its composition. The Argus informative. reporter present was attracted by such parts of the discussion as By 1968 the Standing Committee was entitled to appoint a justified the headline “Convocation criticizes Council”, and a representative to attend meetings of each Faculty, and to certain flurry of letters to the editor followed from Sir John Macfarland, Council committees. The representatives’ reports provided a defending his Council, Hart, and Warden M.M. Phillips who fresh view of University life and problems and occasionally an supplied some context to take the sting out of the article while opportunity for contribution. In 1972, however, Convocation and maintaining the propriety of examining the composition of the Standing Committee found themselves again considering their the Council. The sub-committee recommended having more role as the movement which finally led to the establishment of the Convocation representatives and fewer from certain outside consultative University Assembly gained momentum. A working groups, and the matter was dropped. In 1959 the Registrar group was formed in March to follow these developments, and to asked either that the press be no longer invited or the Standing consider proposals to maintain and increase the role of graduates Committee consider its present mode of debate – an intervention in the University, which was overlooked in the debate. The first generally opposed, but turned by the Warden into a unanimous to come into effect was a change of name to Graduates of the affirmation of the right to exclude the press from whole or part University and Graduate Committee respectively, the Warden to of a meeting. The press was indeed asked to leave in November be now President (decided upon by the Standing Committee on 1962 - for the Registrar’s address on impressions of University 17 May 1972, approved by Convocation in April 1973, and in administration in the UK. force by 1975). A Graduate Office, sought by the working group, Wardens from time to time sought to broaden the Committee’s was opened by the University in 1982, though its function was interests, and from 1929 speakers from within the University to support the new Alumni Association and evolved into that were invited to address meetings, business permitting. A pair of of the Development Office. Wider distribution of an improved talks, one on the nature of muscular movements, the other on Gazette was also recommended. At a special meeting on 4 May developments in the teaching of modern political institutions, 1973 Convocation considered the proposition now abroad that it introduced a series of addresses by scholars returned from abroad be replaced by the Assembly, and recommended to Council that and professors speaking on the work of their departments. On 12 before seeking any major amendment of the University Act, it March 1935 the new, first salaried Vice-Chancellor, Raymond should submit the proposed amendment to a postal referendum Priestley spoke on “The administration of the University of of all members of Convocation setting out clearly the issues Cambridge”. Towards the end of the war a further program of involved. In fact, the Graduates and their Committee resumed renewal revived these addresses, and later occasional visits to their accustomed functions, and when their new name was departments were introduced, to better inform members on the judged likely to cause confusion with other rising organisations, matters with which they were dealing (practices which continue they reverted to that of “Convocation” in 1986. The Graduate to this day). The Warden also arranged for members to receive Committee became simply the Committee and the title of the annual Deans’ reports. To sustain interest the Standing warden was not revived. Committee would now meet monthly between March and The late 1980s were busy years for the Committee. Papers of December, and at the University - first in the Men Graduates’ support for the University’s position were written in connection Room in Union House, later in the old, and finally in the new, with new proposals for higher education; notes for the guidance Council Chamber in the Quadrangle. They could also dine, not of new and present members were drawn up, and in 1988 a only at Union House, but from 1954 at the staff club, University working-group reviewed the consolidation of all University House, the establishment of which they had supported. legislation. For the Standing Committee maintaining satisfactory contact Efforts had been made to streamline the process of reviewing with its constituency was a matter of recurring concern and report legislation by the Committee over the years, and in 1988 Council and among the suggestions of 1944 was that every graduand be changed its method of dealing with regulations so as to remove presented with a printed intimation that graduation brought them from the need for Committee of Convocation approval, membership of Convocation and giving a brief account of its though not from the possibility of comment. Discussions led functions. Convocation’s annual ordinary meetings, to which the to compensations: a Committee representative would join the Standing Committee reported chiefly on legislation passed and Legislation Committee, and the Vice-Chancellor’s report to changes of membership, had attracted few graduates, and the Council would be made available to members. 1930 experiment of adding a talk (Professor Wilkinson on dental From 1998, the power to amend all legislation was withdrawn, education) was not repeated until 1945 (Professor G.S. Browne’s and Convocation lost its right to elect members of Council. These topical address on University entrance requirements). From 1947 changes arose from the 1997 Ministerial Committee of Enquiry speakers were regularly incorporated in the program, including into the Governance of Victorian Universities. Nevertheless, the successive Vice-Chancellors J.D.G. Medley and Professor W.P. Committee continues to receive reports of legislation as of other Paton - both good value, though attendances did not rise beyond matters, and to further keep it in touch with University affairs, 40. Nevertheless, in 1952 a special meeting had drawn 90 to the President is invited to Council meetings, and the Committee discuss the need for greater spending on research. In the 1960s to joint briefing sessions. The Committee’s support for the and beyond, however, the annual meeting with buffet dinner University, and interest in its affairs as it passes through times of attracted much larger numbers, now “graduates and friends”. In momentous change, are undiminished. 1961 some 250 heard Universities Commission Chairman Sir Leslie Martin on “The Future of Australian Universities”, and in From time to time the Committee has undertaken special 1965, 400 attended when Prime Minister R.G. Menzies spoke on projects. The latest of these is the gift to the University of a re- the achievements and limitations of Commonwealth spending creation of the plate associated with its foundation stone. on universities, the need to preserve standards and related 11 LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR OF VICTORIA — 1854

ir Charles Hotham, (1806-1855) he unnecessarily disparaged his predecessor and the existing Swas born on 14 January 1806 in officials. Despite the weight of public opinion against the mining Dennington, Suffolk, England. After licence fee, he proved unwilling to abandon it. Thus in the a successful career in the navy he was Eureka crisis he could depend on little help from the officials, appointed Lieutenant-Governor of and his popularity, though still existing, was a fragile thing. To Victoria on 6 December 1853. The Hotham the crisis was a rebellion, and he wanted to demonstrate discovery of gold had given Victoria to would-be insurgents the futility of challenging a strong the reputation of being a most military force. However, his communications with officials in difficult colonial post. Hotham had Ballarat were poor and on 3 December they precipitated armed diplomatic and naval successes to action which Hotham in Melbourne wrongly interpreted as recommend him and, compared with proof of the continuing danger of insurrection. His diplomatic his predecessor Charles La Trobe, it talents therefore had little room for exercise. He had already set was an impressive appointment. He up a royal commission to inquire into discontent on the fields, arrived in Melbourne on 22 June 1854. He soon appreciated and now urged on its work; he also arranged the resignation of the need to increase revenue, strengthen administration and the chief secretary, JLFV Foster, who was unpopular among allay goldfields discontent by extending political privileges and the miners. Among other ineptitudes he alienated the capable improving the licence system, but he totally misunderstood his auditor-general, HCE Childers. Fortunately for Hotham six position as governor of a sizeable Crown colony, particularly months of political quiet followed Eureka. His post had been Victoria, for which a new constitution providing ‘responsible’ raised to a full governorship on 3 February 1855. In November he government was then under consideration in London. He sent his resignation. His health was failing and on 17 December courted the working population, especially miners, while he caught a chill while opening the Melbourne gasworks. He remaining clearly authoritarian. He managed to upset the firmest died on 31 December, survived by his wife Jane Sarah, daughter supporters of authority, the propertied and official classes. He of Lord Bridport, whom he had married on 10 December 1853. was obstinate and secretive with his councillors and, unwilling (Image adapted from Sir Charles Hotham, Governor of Victoria 1854-1855, by to delegate matters to his officials, he soon exhausted himself Batchelder’s, photographer, courtesy of State Library of Victoria.) with work. When introducing reform of government finance

FIRST CHANCELLOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE

ir Redmond Barry a fee for such services. His interest in the Aborigines was S(1813-1880), judge, general and lasted all his life. was born on 7 June 1813 at In 1851, when the Port Phillip District was separated from Ballyclough, County Cork, New South Wales as the colony of Victoria, Barry was Ireland, the third son of appointed its first Solicitor-General but only briefly, before Major-General Henry Green being elevated to the new bench of the Supreme Court of Barry and his wife Phoebe, Victoria in January 1852 as first puisne judge née Drought. He graduated He was (despite beliefs that the credit belongs largely to from Trinity College, Dublin Hugh Childers) the indubitable prime founder of the (BA, 1837), was admitted to University of Melbourne, of which he was first Chancellor the Irish Bar in 1838, and (1853), a position he held till his death. He was equally attended at Lincoln’s Inn, the father of the Melbourne Public Library (now the State from which he received a Library of Victoria) and its then associated Art Gallery. testimonium in August 1838. Barry’s role in the development of these institutions must He sailed from London in the Calcutta on 27 April 1839 recognise that the greatest help came from his drive, energy and arrived in Sydney on 1 September. He was admitted to and influence. the Bar in Sydney on 19 October. After seeking positions In criminal cases Barry had a reputation for harshness, in New South Wales he sailed for the new Port Phillip though it was a harsh period and he was in tune with his settlement in the Parkfield, landing there on 13 November. times. Probably his most famous trial was that of Ned From that day Melbourne was his home. Kelly in 1880. Though the Kelly legend continues to excite On 12 April 1841, the first day of the first sittings of the attention, no substantial criticism of Barry’s conduct of that Supreme Court in Melbourne, Barry was admitted to trial can be sustained. practice by its first judge, John Walpole Willis. After a very short illness he died in East Melbourne on 23 In the early years of Melbourne Barry became unofficial November 1880, only twelve days after the execution of Ned standing counsel for the Aborigines. He laboured as hard Kelly. He was buried in the Melbourne general cemetery. and as earnestly upon their cases, often capital matters, as he (Adapted from a photograph of Sir Redmond Barry (1813-1880), by an unknown did upon his other briefs, though he rarely, if ever, received photographer, courtesy of University of Melbourne Archives. UMA/I/1108) 12 FIRST COUNCILLORS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE

ugh Culling Eardley Goold. Goold worked vigorously to build the church in HChilders (1827-1896), the Victoria, and his church schools benefited from state aid. He son of a clergyman, did well at emphatically opposed the coming of secular education. In Cambridge, and was advised by 1874, he was made Archbishop of the new metropolitan see family connections and Secretary of Melbourne. On his death in 1891, he was buried within of State, Earl Grey, that an St Patrick’s Cathedral, the building of which was perhaps his apprenticeship in the colonies greatest triumph. would set his career on a favourable illiam John Foster (1831-1909), lawyer and politician, path. He arrived in Port Phillip Wwas born into a distinguished Anglo-Irish family, and in 1850 with his beautiful young educated at Trinity College, Dublin. Before he had finished bride. his degree, he left for the Victorian goldfields. He refused a His first post was as Inspector of Schools. In 1851 he was post in the Victorian public service, and eventually moved to made an Immigration Agent and a National Commissioner of New South Wales as farmer. He took his Law degree in 1858. Education. He was capable, and in La Trobe’s words, he was Appointed to the Legislative Council, he was attorney-general “a sort of living lexicon” of knowledge. With the help of Barry 1877-1878, and again in 1887. In 1888 he was appointed to and Childers, Governor La Trobe had the Act to establish the the Supreme Court, retiring in 1894. University of Melbourne passed in January 1853. Childers was ir William Foster Stawell (1815-1889) was a younger rewarded with the Vice Chancellorship. He became a member Sson of Irish gentry, educated at Trinity College, Dublin. of the Executive Council governing the Colony in late 1853. He migrated in 1842, and after a brief period as a squatter, His other posts in Victoria were Collector of Customs 1853-6, turned to the practice of law in the new colony. Appointed MLA 1856-7, Commissioner of Trade and Customs 1856-7. Attorney-General 1851-57 by La Trobe he was the most able of all in the government, although an arrogant, impulsive He returned to Great Britain where there followed a cantankerous man. He was Chief Justice 1857-86, and Acting distinguished career as Liberal MP 1860-85, 1885-96. He was Governor 1876 and 1884. successively Civil Lord of the Admiralty, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Secretary of State for War, Chancellor of r (later Sir) James Frederick Palmer (1803-1871), the Exchequer and Home Secretary. Dthwarted for advancement early in his medical career, (Image adapted from Hugh Culling Eardley Childers (1827-896), by an migrated to Melbourne in 1840, where he followed pastoral unknown photographer, courtesy of University of Melbourne Archives. and merchant interests while developing his medical practice. UMA/I/1675). He was Mayor of Melbourne 1845-6, and served briefly on ishop Charles Perry (1807-1891) was born into a the Legislative Council of NSW as one of five representing the Bwealthy English family, and educated at Harrow and colony of Victoria. He was elected to the Victorian Legislative Cambridge. Ill-health forced him to abandon the study of Council in 1851, becoming its first Speaker. He was the first Law; he eventually joined an evangelical circle at Cambridge President of the re-formed Legislative Council 1856-70, and was ordained in the Church of England in 1836. Because Chairman of the Board of National Education 1851-62, and a of his committed work for the Church Missionary Society, Trustee of the Public Library. his name was put to the Archbishop of Canterbury as an ev. Irving Hetherington (1809-1875), a Scot educated appropriate candidate for the Bishopric of the new Diocese Rat Edinburgh University, was a prominent Melbourne of Melbourne. He was consecrated in Westminster Abbey in Presbyterian minister. He arrived in Sydney in 1837, and 1847, and arrived with his wife Frances in Melbourne in 1848. was called to the Scots Church in Melbourne in 1847. He There followed extensive work to build the Church of England was deeply embroiled in the problems of division in the in Victoria. He established both Melbourne and Geelong Presbyterian Church for many years. Grammar Schools, although his episcopate coincided almost ev. Alexander Morison (1813-1887) was born in exactly with the transfer of educational authority from the RIreland, but migrated to Hobart in 1832. After a brief church to the state in Victoria. He relinquished his post in return to England where he studied for the Congregational 1874 and returned to England. Church ministry, he returned as a missionary in 1838, and ishop (later Archbishop) James Alipius Goold became pastor of the Independent Church in Collins Street B(1812-1886) was born into a prosperous Roman Catholic in 1843. He was a liberalising influence on the University family in Cork, Dublin. He entered the Augustinian order, Council, supporting, for example, the admission of women studied in Ireland and Italy, and was ordained a priest in 1848. as students. He was a Professor of the Congregational Church He was sent to work in Sydney in 1838, and was appointed by Theological College until his death. Pope Pius IX as Bishop of the new see of Melbourne in 1847. ames Croke (1790-?), a lawyer educated at Trinity College Religious factional strife flared immediately, when Charles JDublin, was appointed Clerk of the Crown in Port Phillip Perry was commonly referred to as “Bishop of Melbourne” shortly after his arrival in the colony in 1839. He was admitted while Goold’s position was ignored. This distinction is to the Bar in 1841 and appointed Crown Prosecutor. He was preserved in the Foundation Plate of the University of a member of the Legislative Council 1852-4 and Solicitor- Melbourne, where only Perry is named Bishop, and precedes General of Victoria 1852-4. 13 dward Grimes (1811-59) was educated at Rugby and orman Campbell (1806-1859), a Scottish-born Major EOxford. He took up land in the colony as a squatter, Nin the British army, sold his commission in 1849 and and was a member of the first Legislative Council. He was emigrated to South Australia where he bought land and Commissioner for Crown Lands in Westernport, and was became briefly a nominated member of the Legislative appointed Auditor-General in 1854. He held the post of Council, chairing a committee on education. After resolving Victorian Immigration Agent in the early 1850s. He retired some financial difficulties he moved in 1852 to Victoria to to England. be Lieutenant Governor La Trobe’s private secretary. On 31 udge Robert Williams Pohlman (1811-1877) studied December 1853 he became the first permanent head of the Jlaw in London before migrating to Melbourne in 1840. Registrar-General’s department. Admitted to the colonial bar in 1841, he became a County olin Campbell (1817-1903), BA (Oxon), from a wealthy Court Judge in 1852 continuing until his old age. He was CGlasgow family, arrived with his brother in Hobart Town founding Chairman of the Denominational Board of in 1838. In 1840 they took sheep to Port Phillip, where they Education 1848-62, and President of the Early Closing chose 48,000 acres in the Ararat district, for a run which was Association. divided between them. He spoke and wrote on public affairs r (later Sir) Francis Murphy (1809-1891), pastoralist all his life, in particular promoting the role of the churches Dand parliamentarian, migrated from Ireland to Sydney in education. He was school inspector and secretary of the in 1836 and thence to Port Phillip in 1846. He was elected to Denominational Schools Board from 1851-1859, and an early the first Legislative Council 1851-5, and was instrumental in proponent of the University’s establishment. He was a member helping to establish provision for schools, roads and railways. of its inaugural Council from 1853-1865, serving briefly as He was first Speaker of the Legislative Assembly 1856-66, and its secretary. He was a member of the Legislative Council a Trustee of the Public Library. from 1854, then of the Legislative Assembly from 1856-1859. Prominent in Anglican affairs, he was ordained in 1879. dward Stone Parker (1802-1865) was appointed by the EColonial Office as Assistant Protector of Aborigines in auchlan Mackinnon (1817-1888) migrated from the Isle Port Phillip, under G. Robinson. He arrived in the colony Lof Skye to Van Diemen’s Land in 1838, eventually settling in 1839, establishing a Station at Franklinford for aborigines. in Port Phillip where he took up pastoral runs. He was a Parker was the most sympathetic of all the Protectors, but member of the Legislative Council 1848-1850 and 1852-1853. the Gold Rush ruined the work to assist aborigines. He was In 1852 he became a partner in the Argus and in 1853 joined a member of the University Council in 1853 and a member the University Council. He returned to England in 1868. In of the Legislative Council 1854-5, and an Inspector for the the early 1880s he raised money from former colonists to pay Denominational Schools Board 1857-62. for a bust of Hugh Childers and an ebony and silver casket containing letters, the original draft of the University’s Act of illiam Clark Haines (1810-1866), BA (Cantab), Incorporation in Childers’ hand and other papers which he practised surgery in England before emigrating in W believed supported the contention that Childers rather than about 1841 and buying land to farm near Geelong. He Sir Redmond Barry had founded the University. The casket became prominent in local affairs, sold his property and was is now displayed in the Council Chamber; the bust is in the a nominated, then elected, member of the Legislative Council Wilson Hall foyer. in 1851-1852, 1853-1856 and 1865-1866. He was a member of the Legislative Assembly in 1856-1858 and 1860-1864. He odfrey Howitt (1800-1873), (MD Edinburgh 1830), was Colonial Secretary from December 1854 to 1855, Chief Garrived in Port Phillip in 1840. He was a member of Secretary 1855-1857 and 1857-1858, and Treasurer 1861-1863. the University of Melbourne Council from 1853-1857 and of He served on the University of Melbourne Council from its Medical School Committee. He followed in Victoria the 1853-1865, and was Vice-Chancellor from 1857-1858. interests in entomology and botany he had pursued before eorge William Rusden (1819-1903) arrived in Sydney emigrating and became first Vice-President of the Philosophical Gin 1834, engaged in pastoral pursuits and worked in Society of Victoria (soon the Royal Society of Victoria). His China before returning in 1849, when he was appointed agent books on botany and entomology and his entomological for the National (i.e., state-directed and secular) Schools. In collection were left to the University of Melbourne, together 1851 he became clerk in the Victorian Colonial Secretary’s with £1000 for scholarships in botany, geology and zoology. office and in 1852 clerk of the Executive Council. In 1856 rancis Maloney White (1819-1888), London-trained he became clerk of the parliaments. He was a member of the Farchitect, arrived in Adelaide in 1848, and after travelling Board of National Education in Victoria from 1853-1862 and about the country set up a practice in Melbourne in 1851. helped to found the Shakespeare scholarship at the University In 1854 his design was selected for the University’s first of Melbourne and Shakespeare prizes for children. His building: a quadrangle with cloisters and an ornamental numerous published works included The Discovery, Survey front, in Tudor style (the south side was long left open, and and Settlement of Port Phillip (Melbourne 1871), Curiosities when built did not follow White’s design). of Colonization (London 1874) and Histories of Australia and New Zealand (London, 1883). He retired to England in 1882 ohn Sinclair. John Sinclair and Son were the successful but returned in January 1893. Rusden bequeathed his books Jtenderers for the contract to construct the first stage and papers to Trinity College (University of Melbourne) and of the building designed by White: the foundations and to the Church of England Grammar School. His great-niece is basements. Numerous variations in the contract led to a member of the present Committee of Convocation. litigation between Sinclair and the University.

14 WARDENS OF THE SENATE - 1867-1923

The Rev. Dr John Edward Bromby, MA BD DD Comb. Andrew Harper, MA. From 14 September 1882 to 13 May From 16 July 1867 to 8 Augus 1868. 1886. The Hon. Dr William Edward Hearn, QC, AM LLD Dub. Charles Alfred Topp, MA LLB FLS. From 13 May 1886 From 8 August 1868, to 24 August 1875. to 12 September 1890. The Hon. Sir John Madden, GCMG, BA LLB LLD. From Dr Thomas Patrick McInerney, MA LLD. From 12 24 August 1875 to 14 September 1882. September 1890 to 17 December 1923.

WARDENS OF CONVOCATION - 1924-1975

Morris Mondle Phillips, MA LLM. From 24 March 1924, His Honour Judge John Gerald Norris, ED, LLM. From 5 to 13 November 1934. November 1962 to 18 August, 1965. Dr Leslie Scott Latham, MA MD BS FRACP. From 11 The Hon. Mr Justice Clifford Inch Menhennitt, QC, LLM. From January 1935 to 14 February 1944. 19 August 1965 to 17 April 1968. The Hon. Sir Arthur Dean, Kt QC, LLM Hon. LLD. From The Hon. Mr Justice William Oliver Harris, QC, LLM. 10 May 1944 to 15 March 1950. From 1 May, 1968 to 19 August 1970. Elias Godfrey Coppel, CMG QC, LLM LLD. From 1 Samuel Austin Frank Pond, OBE ED, MA LLB DipCom. April 1950 to 15 April 1959. From 23 September 1970 to 30 September 1972. Robert Fowler, OBE VD, MD BS FRCS. From 4 May The Hon. Mr Justice Raymond Moyle Northrop, QC, 1959 to 4 November 1962. LLM. From 17 November 1972 to 14 January 1975.

PRESIDENTS OF THE GRADUATES - 1975-1985

The Hon. Mr Justice Raymond Moyle Northrop, QC, Robin Lorimer Sharwood, LLM Calif. SJD Harv. BA LLM. From 15 January 1975 to 16 December 1975. LLB. From 1 May 1980 to 28 February 1982. Ronald Geoffrey Downes, DAgrSc FAIAS FSCSA Raymond Milton Johnson, SM Harv. BCE. From 1 FAATS. From 17 December 1975 to 20 June 1976. March 1982 to 19 April 1983. Thomas Peter Bruce, LLB. From 21 June 1976 to 30 Nina Livingstone Carr, BA DipEd. From 20 July 1983 April 1980. to 6 January 1986.

PRESIDENTS OF CONVOCATION - 1986-

Nina Livingstone Carr, BA DipEd. From 7 January 1986 Timothy Latham, BSc Monash BSc(Hons) Melb. BDSc Melb. to 2 May 1986. LDS. From 15 January 1992 to 31 December 1999. John Michael Clarke, BE. From 3 May 1986 to 31 Thomas Peter Bruce, LLB Melb. From 1 January 2000 December 1989. to 5 March 2001. Barbara May Hamer, BA BSW. From 1 January 1990 to Robin James Condron, BVSc Melb. PhD La Trobe DipBact 18 April 1990. Lond. From 11 April 2001 to 31 December 2005. Harry Stewart Wragge, AM, BEE MEngSc. From 19 Lesley Joan Boston, BA Melb. BEd Melb. MACE. From April 1990 to 31 December 1991. 1 January 2006.

15 COMMITTEE OF CONVOCATION - 2007

President of Convocation: Deputy President of Convocation: Lesley Joan Boston, BA, BEd Melb MACE Laurence Simpson, MD BS Melb. FRACS FCCP

Representatives of the Graduates in Architecture Representatives of the Graduates in Engineering: and Planning: Alan William Abbott, BE (Elec), MBA Melb FIEAust Peter Robert Hirst, BArch (Hons), DipT&RP Melb FRAIA FIICA MRAPI Registered Architect Victoria and NSW Alan James Gibbs, BE (Elec) (Hons), ME Melb PhD Robert Allan McGauran, BArch (Hons), BA, PGradDip Wisc. (PDM) Melb LFRAIA CPP VPELA Registered John Humphrey, BMechE Melb MIEAust CPEng Architect Frank Alfred Moorman Lees, AM MBE BMechE Melb Representatives of the Graduates in Arts and Representatives of the Graduates in Faculty Social Work: of Land and Food Resources and Veterinary Cecily Edith Close, MA Melb PhD Monash, ARMIT Science: Helen Margaret Cohn, BA, MA Melb GDipLib Anne Marjorie Ada, BAgSc, BEd Melb Canberra. Jenny Stillman, BVSc, MVSc, Melb MACVSc Jennifer Digby, BA (Hons), JD Melb . Representatives of the Graduates in Law: Barbara Fary, OAM BA Melb BEd Melb MEd Monash Richard Cook, LLB ANU LLM Melb PhD Lincoln FACE FACEA Matthew R Corrigan, LLB (Hons), BA (Hons) Melb Gary Leonard Israel, BA Melb BEd Monash MACE Jillian Mary Crowe, BA, LLB Melb Geoffrey Homan Thomas, BA, BEd Melb Michael William Gorton, AM LLB, BCom Melb Astrid Marguerita Neal-Adam, BA (Hons) Melb FRACS(Hon) FANZCA(Hon) Eileen Parker, BA Kerala, BSW Melb Roslyn Alice Otzen, BA (Hons) Melb MEd Deakin, Representatives of the Graduates in Medicine, PhD Melb ASDA MACE Dentistry and Health Sciences: Leslie Rowe, BA (Hons), DipEd Melb John Kenneth Harcourt, OAM DDSc Melb FRACDS FDSRCSEd(Hon.) Representatives of the Graduates in Economics Peter Anderson Lowe, MBBS Melb FANZCA and Commerce and the Melbourne Business Ian Rechtman, MBBS Melb FANZCA School: Beverley-Anne Rodan, BDSc, BA Melb Barrington Frederick Benham Dance, BCom Melb Stan Sahhar, MDSc Melb FRACDS LDS Vic. David Michael Dodd, JP BCom Melb Laurence Simpson, MD BS Melb FRACS FCCP Alan Thomson Douglas, BCom, GradDipTaxLaws Melb CPA Representatives of the Graduates in Science: Allan George Handberg, BCom Melb Eric Stanley Bellchambers, BSc, BEd Melb John Gerard Meehan, BCom Melb FCIT AFAIM John Francis Nicholas, BA, BSc Melb FlnstP FAIP Noel Joseph Whiting, BCom Melb FCA Douglas George Parbery, BScAgr Syd MAgrSc Qld PhD Melb Representatives of the Graduates in Education Ann Southcombe Rusden, BSc Melb TSTC MACE. and Music: Barry N Southern, BSc Melb Jane Helen Elton Brown, MMus, DipEd Melb Malory Ann Weston, BSc (Hons) Cant MSc Melb Helen Margaret Fitzpatrick, BA, MEd, DipEd Melb Rosalind McMillan, BMus Melb MEd LaTrobe PhD (As at 31 August 2007). Melb DipED LaTrobe John Reginald Nelson, BSc, BEd Melb BA Monash MEdAdmin NE DEd Melb MACE MACEL

16 The Quadrangle Building, Melbourne University opened in 1855

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