Preserving local history through the Mayday Hills project

Charles Sturt’s Creative Practice Circle developed a website to preserve the history and surroundings of the Mayday Hills Mental Asylum and Beechworth Cemetery.

Associate Professor Dr Jennifer Munday, Dr Eileen Clark, Tim Crutchett and Patrick McKenzie from Charles Sturt, in collaboration with Dr Alison Watts (Southern Cross University) undertook extensive research to develop the website. The project included oral histories from former staff members, recounting patient activities within the buildings. Patients and families also contributed artefacts and stories, adding depth to this significant historical resource. The project culminated in a virtual tour of the grounds of the asylum and the cemetery.

This extensive research project has brought to light a landmark historical period and its contribution to the journey of psychiatric care, both historical and modern-day. In preserving and interpreting this site through digital storytelling, the project supports the protection of cultural heritage and its ongoing connection to place and community.