2 June 2006

UC given century-old piece of customs history

A 100-year-old book that in its day was the customs officer's 'bible' will be presented to the University of Canberra's Centre for Customs and Excise Studies (CCES) on Monday.

Retired customs officer John Reilly will donate his original 1904 leather bound copy of H.N.P. Wollaston's Customs Law to the CCES chief executive David Widdowson on Monday at 2pm at the Centre.

"At the CCES our clients rely on us to prepare them for the future and we pride ourselves on being at the cutting edge of customs research and training, but we couldn't pass up the opportunity to add this remarkable book to our collection," Professor Widdowson said.

"Looking to the future is vital but it is even more valuable with a sound appreciation of the past. Wollaston's Customs Law is a defining piece of customs history and we are proud and privileged to be entrusted with a copy."

Mr Reilly was a customs officer from 1938 to 1982 and found the book in "mint condition" in a second-hand shop in the 1950s. He used the book in his work as a prosecuting officer until the 1960s.

"At 84 it's of no further use to me and I'm pleased to give it to someone who appreciates it," he said.

UC Communications

Gaye Morrison
T: 02 6201 5855
M: 0409 470 755

Kaddie Pass
T: 02 6201 2681

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Last Updated on August 1, 2005