From Ruin to Renewal: Hidden Histories of Melbourne’s Plains

A National Archaeology Week event

Western Melbourne’s open plains may look like blank space between suburbs—but dig a little deeper and you’ll uncover stories written into every ruined homestead. These forgotten landmarks tell of colonisation, survival, and cultural change, connecting today’s fast-growing communities with the region’s layered past.

In this fascinating talk, we’ll explore how heritage experts are reimagining the role of ruins—from forgotten relics to vibrant community hubs and storytelling spaces. Through real case studies like Doherty and Missen Houses, discover how creative conservation blends history, design, and ecology to breathe new life into what remains.

You’ll see how these half-lost homesteads spark conversations about memory, identity, and belonging in a changing landscape. Perfect for anyone passionate about architecture, local history, or the power of place.

Roger Beeston is a Registered Architect and Associate of the Australian Institute of Architects AIA. He is actively engaged in both the contemporary building and heritage management fields. In doing so, he has acquired expertise in traditional and contemporary building technologies, developing authentic and sustainable remedial conservation interventions. This expertise has been central to establishing his expertise and reputation in the conservation of stone facades, for which his detailed and attentive work has earned his practice the AIA John George Knight Award for Heritage Architecture at multiple places, including at the State heritage listed Maryborough Railway Station and South Melbourne Town Hall.

Phillipa Hall is a UK registered architect with diverse experience on all stages of projects, from small residential extensions to the adaptive reuse and conservation of large public buildings. She believes that architecture should be accessible to all members of society, enhancing the existing situation while considering the long-term social, economic, physical and environmental outcomes.

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