Dictionary reveals great Australian tales

The life stories of hundreds of significant and celebrated Australians will be revealed at the launch of the online version of Volume 18 of the Australian Dictionary of Biography tonight at The Australian National University.

Featuring articles on 670 individuals with surnames from L to Z who died between 1981 and 1990, the Australian Dictionary of Biography (ADB) presents a colourful mosaic of twentieth-century Australia.

Included in the ADB are explorers, farmers, criminals, ballet dancers, speedway drivers, authors and politicians such as Patrick White, Christina Stead, William McMahon and Billy Sneddon.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Young, who will officially launch the latest version of the online Dictionary, said that the stories and lives featured in the ADB illuminate major themes in our recent history.

“A vast range of people are consulting the Australian Dictionary of Biography online – researchers, students at primary, secondary and tertiary level, genealogists, and people watching documentaries and historical dramas on TV,” he said.

“Since going online in 2006, the ADB now attracts 70 million views a year. There has even been a huge rise in the number of hits for criminals on the ADB after the crime series Underbelly was shown on TV.”

Three ADB medals will also be awarded on the night for long and distinguished service. Geoffrey Bolton AO, Michael Roe and John Lack will all be recognised for their long-term support of the Dictionary. 

Visit the Australian Dictionary of Biography website.

What: Online launch of Volume 18 of the Australian Dictionary of Biography
When: Tuesday 11 December, 6-8pm
Where: Common Room, University House, Balmain Crescent, ANU