Michaela Harkins Foster

Michaela Harkins Foster, a curator at the National Museum of Australia, sheds light on the explosive Australian Gold Rush ignited by Edward Hargraves' discovery in 1851. She discusses the chaotic rush as thousands left their lives behind, explores the harsh conditions miners faced, and addresses its significant yet often overlooked impact on Australia's First Nations people. Foster also highlights the tensions leading to the Eureka Rebellion, which fought for miners' rights and reshaped Australian democracy. The echoes of this transformative event still resonate today.