The Director-General of the National Archives of Australia, Ross Gibbs today announced the winners of the 2005 Frederick Watson Fellowship and Margaret George Award.

‘The three winners of the Frederick Watson Fellowship are Robert Burrell, Dr Frances Miley and Dr David Lawrence. Dr Nick Richardson and Dr Sean Brawley have each won a Margaret George Award,’ Mr Gibbs said.

‘These five talented researchers will help to unfold new stories and uncover new aspects of history by basing their research firmly on the original archival resources held at the National Archives,’ he said.

Details of each winner appear on the following page.

Federal Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp, congratulated the National Archives for promoting the value of Australia’s historic parliamentary records through the fellowship and awards.

‘The National Archives has many hidden gems with a significant insight into decisions made by governments gone by which have helped shape our country today.’

The National Archives Frederick Watson Fellowship and Margaret George Awards were established to encourage use of the National Archives’ extensive collection of files, photos, films and other records dating from Federation in 1901.

The awards are an annual event open to applicants in Australia and overseas who have demonstrated high levels of achievement in their chosen profession and who submit original research proposals. The 2004 winner of the Frederick Watson Fellowship was well-known novelist Frank Moorhouse.