Special announcement: Peter’s next book will be published by University of Queensland Press. This means his research on Mayne Hall will culminate within the building’s 50th anniversary year.
The book’s release date is likely to be during October 2023 – further details will be provided when available.
The exact anniversary of the official opening of Mayne Hall was 31 March 2023. A special event, hosted by Professor Deborah Terry AO, Vice-Chancellor and President of The University of Queensland, recognised this significant milestone.
An online article also appeared during March 2023, in UQ News – click here to read the article. This features several photographs as well as comments by Peter and several other people associated with the building at various times. It also includes a link to a short film from 1960 which launched the public fundraising appeal for a ‘Great Hall’ at The University of Queensland. Even before construction commenced, its name was confirmed as Mayne Hall.
Peter was also featured in an interview on ABC Radio 612 – click here to listen to the interview or read the transcript.
Mayne Hall was a public and university venue for concerts, graduations, conferences, lectures and other events. Peter’s research has confirmed that Mayne Hall resonates strongly with many people. The forthcoming book will include a cross-section of these personal reminiscences. It also provides many fascinating details of the story of the building and its many users. In addition, some of the book’s numerous photographic illustrations have not been previously published.
To register interest in obtaining a copy of the book, please click here to contact Peter directly.
This research and its publication has been proudly supported by Brisbane City Council through its Lord Mayor’s Helen Research Award for Local History Grants Program. Further assistance has been provided by The University of Queensland, where Peter is an Honorary Fellow at the Fryer Library.