Historical information

Victorian Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (VIOSH) Australia is the Asia-Pacific centre for teaching and research in occupational health and safety (OHS) and is known as one of Australia's leaders on the field.
VIOSH has a global reputation for its innovative approach within the field of OHS management.
VIOSH had its first intake of students in 1979. At that time the Institution was known as the Ballarat College of Advanced Education. In 1990 it became known as Ballarat University College, then in 1994 as University of Ballarat. It was 2014 that it became Federation University.
VIOSH Australia students are safety managers, senior advisors and experienced OHS professionals. They come from all over Australia and industry.
Students are taught active research and enquiry; rather than textbook learning and a one-size fits all approach. VIOSH accepts people into the Graduate Diploma of Occupational Hazard Management who have no undergraduate degree - on the basis of extensive work experience and knowledge.

Letter gives the history of the "Big Tree" at the heart of the University of Ballarat, Mount Helen. The seedling was planted in 1896 by Mrs Elizabeth Downing who lived on what was their farm. The land was purchased in 1966 as part of a site for the location of the new campus It was decided that the tree should remain as a central landmark.

Physical description

Letter typed on cream flecked paper - A4 size. Image of tree
A4 card, folded into three, deep burgundy.
Letter attached with small packet of seeds. These have been removed.