The Power of Giving

Age: Recommended 18+

• 6pm: Light refreshments
• 6.30pm: Presentation and panel discussion
• 8pm: Event ends

Join us for an evening of insight and inspiration at this special event held for Australian Museum Members and Volunteers.

The Australian Museum Foundation Grant Program is powered by philanthropy, distributing funds from donations each year to museum-led projects. Hear directly from recent grant recipients as they share updates on their scientific research and cultural projects and how philanthropy has helped bring these projects to life. This will be followed by a panel discussion hosted by Australian Museum Foundation Director, Gillian Fullilove.

Enjoy light refreshments in Hintze Hall before heading to the Theatre for this insightful presentation and discussion.

As the end of financial year approaches, donations to the Foundation ensure we can continue to fund world-leading Museum projects and be a beacon of knowledge, curiosity and impact. Donate today

Not a member? Join now to receive free or discounted entry to special exhibitions, exclusive events, access to our Members Lounge and a range of benefits.

Dr Patrick Smith is an invertebrate Palaeontologist and Biostratigrapher at the Australian Museum. Patrick will talk about his work on the grant project Unearthing an Ancient Amphibian - a unique and scientifically important fossil recently discovered by members of the Fossil Club of Australia at a quarry near Bowral, NSW. Patrick will talk about his work in fossil preparation, photography and stratigraphy.

Melissa Malu, is Head of Pasifika Collections & Engagement at the Australian Museum. Melissa is dedicated to integrating traditional Indigenous knowledge into contemporary frameworks, ensuring these valuable perspectives gain rightful recognition in mainstream institutions. Melissa was lead curator for the Australian Museum’s Wansolmoana Gallery and has developed impactful initiatives highlighting the effects of climate change in the Pacific. She has also led projects dedicated to revitalising and preserving Pasifika cultural practices in response to environmental challenges. Hear her talk about her recent grant project - Motifs, Marking, Weavings and Meanings - deepening cultural understanding and respect across the Museum's programs.

Gillian Fullilove, was appointed as a Director of the Australian Museum Foundation in 2023. Gillian is a professional non-executive director who previously served in senior positions with leading non-profit organisations and universities. From 2015 to 2022, Gillian was the Executive Director of Rhodes Scholarships in Australia (RSA). She oversaw all RSA activities, namely alumni relations, fundraising, events, media relations and publications. Gillian holds a BA (First Class Honours) in History and English Literature from the University of King’s College, Canada and an MA in Modern History from the University of Oxford.