Diocesan Historical Commission
Role
The Ballarat Diocesan Historical Commission holds many historical records regarding the administration of the Diocese. It contains general information about Ballarat parishes and various Catholic Agencies and Institutions. With a few exceptions, it does not hold records of individuals.
Purpose
To collect and preserve in its archives all documents, photographs, and objects of significance to the history and heritage of the Catholic Diocese of Ballarat. These include parish histories, architectural plans, correspondence, sacramental objects, liturgical items, vestments, and other relevant items that pertain to the heritage and history of the faith community encompassed by the Catholic people of this region today.
Contributions
The Historical Commission encourages parishes to place information about significant events with the Commission. Parishes should maintain an archive within the parish. Should a parish or donor wish to lodge objects or original documents and retain copies, this is also acceptable. However, originals are preferred, with waivers to comply with current copyright law. This dual holding safeguards the faith community in the event of loss at either repository. The diocesan Archive issues a Donation Form for items of material culture donated.
Membership:
Bishop Paul Bird CSsR, Dr Malcom Borg, Andrew Black, Sr Berenice Kerr rsm, Fr John Monaghan, Dr Michael Taffe, Dr Samantha Fabry and Fr William Lowry.
Contact:
Dr Malcolm Borg
Diocesan Archivist
PO Box 576
Ballarat VIC 3353
Phone: (03) 5337 7123
Fax: (03) 5332 1122
Email: Diocesan Historical Commission
Office Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 8:30am – 5.00pm
Visiting Hours (by appointment only)
NB. Please note that public parking for visitors is not guaranteed at the Diocesan Centre and all visitors are required to sign in at the Archives upon arrival.
Historical Items Collection:
The collection of historical items housed in the Ballarat Diocesan Archive is gradually becoming available to view online through the Victorian Collections website. Should you wish to follow our progress, click here.