The extraordinary Melbourne Cricket Ground—popularly “The People’s Ground”—is the inspiration for this conference. This acknowledges that heritage is for and about people and community. Whilst place is central to conceptions of heritage, is it not intangible values—stories, memories, connections, emotions—that reveal and sustain our heritage?

The MCG is included on the National Heritage List, although its continual evolution means that most of the fabric is barely thirty years old. It has shared Aboriginal and non-Indigenous heritage values, and a prominent history to match its location in the landscape of the Yarra River. 'The significance of the MCG extends far beyond that of a mere sports stadium. It is an integral part of the fabric of Melbourne and the nation, and has gained an egalitarian image as “the people’s ground".' (MCG National Heritage List Citation)

The conference is jointly convened by two organisations, each celebrating a major anniversary in 2016: the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) turns 60, and Australia ICOMOS turns 40. Together, that's 100 years of support for history and heritage.

The conference is augmented by two prior 'satellite' events (4–5 October), and several workshops and site visits on Saturday 8 October. 

Click HERE for the conference website, including registration details.