Elly Mackay
10 March 2021: University of Canberra Professor of Cultural Heritage Tracy Ireland has been elected a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries for her extensive research and knowledge of archaeology and heritage.
The society, which has a membership of around 3,300 fellows, retains a highly selective election process. Nominations can only come from other society members and must be supported by at least five current fellows.
“I am thrilled to have been nominated and elected by my peers for this honour,” Professor Ireland said.
“My work in heritage and archaeology has been a life-long passion, and I feel privileged to have worked in many different roles, from museums and universities to private consulting. It is very exciting to have my contributions recognised in this manner.”
The Society of Antiquaries, London, which was founded in 1707, is an educational charity that promotes the understanding of the human past and recognises distinction in this field through election to its Fellowship.
Professor Ireland is also the Director of the Centre for Creative and Cultural Research in the Faculty of Arts and Design.
She was nominated for her extensive work in the fields of heritage and archaeology, having spent 24 years as an innovative heritage practitioner before joining the University of Canberra in 2009.
In her time at the University, she has established a nationally renowned, industry-linked heritage studies program. More recently, Professor Ireland conducted internationally-recognised research in archaeology and heritage studies, and has influenced heritage policy and practice in Australia and abroad.
Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Design Professor Jason Bainbridge says the Fellowship represents the culmination of Tracy’s heritage work.
“Tracy’s election is an enormous honour and a wonderful testament to her ongoing work,” he said.
“The Society of Antiquaries is highly regarded, and for Tracy to be nominated by her peers from within the society itself is a great gesture of recognition.”
