Historical information

The Bendigo School of Mines was opened in 1873 following the first report of the Technological Commission in 1869 which recommended the establishment of schools of design and science to meet the scientific and technical needs of the mining industry on the local gold fields. Initially mining, chemistry, geology, metallurgy and art were taught while a separate school of design was established in c. 1870 but incorporated into the School of Mines around 1883 when it was renamed as the School of Mines and Industry. In 1904 The Mechanics Institute was liquidated and its assets and buildings acquired by the School of Mines. Around 1907 a Junior Technical School commenced to operate at the School of Mines and Industry but ceased operating in 1961 with that function being transferred to the White Hills and Kangaroo Flat Technical Schools.

Physical description

Obverse; Ornate relief design made up of a coat of arms with mining icons in each quarter flanked by flags on either side. Per varios usus artem experientia fecit written in scroll underneath. Translation: Practice has brought skill through different exercises. (Manilius)
Reverse; Outer wheel Bendigo School of Mines and Industries. Inner; 1873 /Jubilee /1923

Inscriptions & markings

Obverse; Per varios usus artem experientia fecit
Reverse; Outer wheel Bendigo School of Mines and Industries. Inner; 1873 /Jubilee /1923