‘The Big Dig’ was the name popularly given to the major archaeological dig that occurred on the site in 1994, and has been carried forward as the name for the new Archaeology Education Centre. The site has an on-going historical and educational role as the remnants and artefacts uncovered from the site reveal the style and manner in which people lived in colonial Australia in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre is available for use by domestic and international education groups who are interested in learning about the archaeological and historical significance of the site. This includes schools and tertiary education groups and archaeological and heritage groups, many of whom choose to stay at the hostel above the site.

The Facility

The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre is a free-standing purpose built educational facility located on the south-eastern corner of the site, between Carahers Lane and Gloucester Street. The centre uses the archaeological remnants visible on the site and a selection of artefacts discovered there alongside historical interpretation to offer visitors a fascinating insight into The Rocks and Australia’s early settler’s history.

The centre consists of two classrooms, each seating up to 36 students, which can be combined to seat 100 people theatre style. The centre provides bathroom facilities, a kitchenette, luggage storage and a simulated archaeological dig areas for students in years 1-4. Students are also given access to the observational areas withing the dig site. The classrooms are fitted with stackable chairs, tables, digital projector and screen, hearing loops, whiteboard and flipcharts, and for a small additional charge wi-fi internet access.

The location for the education centre was chosen as it did not impinge on the area of George Cribb’s property, allowing this area to remain open and fully visible to visitors.

The education programs offered by Sydney Learning Adventures and the Historic Houses Trust concentrate on the history of the Cumberland/Gloucester Street neighbourhood in the wider context of The Rocks, as well as archaeological excavation methods and the 1994 Big Dig.

Groups Accommodation at Sydney Harbour YHA

Groups coming to Sydney to take part in an education program at The Big Dig can also stay above the dig site in the new Sydney Harbour YHA. The hostel caters for groups of up to 120 people, with a separate level for school groups of up to 38 students. Groups have their own dining and lounge room and full catering is available. All bedrooms have an en-suite bathroom and, on request, some bedrooms can be located in a separate area, away from the main group. The facility also has luggage storage, laundry and Internet facilities as well as 24-hour reception and security.

The Rocks Education Network

Groups staying at Sydney Harbour YHA are encouraged to consider visiting some of the many wonderful educational experiences available nearby in The Rocks and Circular Quay. For more information visit The Rocks Education Network website.

hiring The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre

It is possible to hire the centre for meetings and presentations in the evenings and on weekends, when the centre is not being used for educational programs.

For further information please contact Alison Frappell, Education Officer, on (02) 8272 0915.