Community Event - Archaeological Excavation - Historic Guildford Post Office 1897
Description
DIGGING INTO GUILDFORD’S HISTORY
Guildford’s much loved 1897 Post Office is ready to reveal a new layer of its story — and the community is invited to help uncover it.
Hosted by Bilgoman Property, with support from the Swan Guildford Historical Society and the University of Notre Dame Australia, the excavation will run from Saturday, 8 August 20226 to Monday, 10 August 2026.
Be part of living history. Work alongside archaeologists, students, Society volunteers, and heritage supporters in small 2-hour sessions exploring Guildford’s past. Places are limited so register early.
Led by Dr Shane Burke, Vice President of the Swan Guildford Historical Society and Senior Lecturer in Archaeology, the excavation will investigate the site of the former Convict Depot Hospital and historic well at the rear of the Post Office.
What lies beneath may reveal the everyday traces of people who lived, worked, recovered, laboured, and passed through the site.
"We know the historical record of the site's general use, but history does not describe all functions or small details about people's lives. The community excavation will discover artefacts that will give a richer understanding of the areas use," Dr Burke said.
“By undertaking this dig, with the Swan Guildford Historical Society and University of Notre Dame Australia, and inviting the local community to participate, we feel we are demonstrating our commitment to honour and preserve the heritage of Guildford and to reactivate the Post Office to serve the Guildford community in a meaningful way.” Chris McLoughlin of Bilgoman Property said.
WHY JOIN?
Get hands-on in one of Western Australia’s most historic towns.
Help uncover clues linked to Guildford’s past
Learn from archaeologists, students, Society volunteers, and local heritage champions.
Play a part in bringing a beloved Guildford landmark back to life.
Excavate. Discover. Belong. Explore Guildford’s layered past and help bring a treasured landmark back to community life.
VIEWING THE DIG
If you don’t wish to participate in the excavation but are interested in learning about archaeology and what is involved in an excavation, you are welcome to come along to view the works. Register early as places are limited.
DIG INFORMATION
Places are limited, with small public sessions available across three days.
Saturday, 8 August 2026: 12.30 pm–2.30 pm
Sunday, 9 August 2026: 9.30 am–11.30 am and 12.30 pm–2.30 pm
Monday, 10 August 2026: 9.30 am–11.30 am
Come ready to excavate, ask questions, meet local history champions, and help shape the next chapter of the Post Office restoration.
FURTHER INFORMATION
If you would like more information, please email us at sghs@swanguildfordhistoricalsociety.org.au.
Please note: Photographs and videos will be taken at the event and may be used by the event organisers for promotional purposes. Please notify the photographer or team on the day if you do not wish to have your photograph taken.
FAQs
- If the weather is bad, will the digs still happen?
Yes, the excavation will proceed unless extreme weather conditions are forecast. In the event of extreme weather, the Swan Guildford Historical Society will provide 24 hours’ notice of cancellation.
- What do I need to wear?
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and enclosed shoes.
- Can I bring food and drinks to the dig?
Yes, you can bring a snack with you. Water will be available, but we recommend you bring an enclosed drink bottle. Please note this is an alcohol, smoking and vape free event.
- Will people with mobility issues be able to participate?
Archaeological excavations may be challenging for people with mobility issues. Participants should have a general level of fitness, similar to what is required for activities such as gardening at home.
- Can I bring children?
No, we ask that children under 16 do not attend this dig due to the work involved. Children are able to view the excavation work but must be chaperoned at all times.
- Can my teenager participate in the dig?
We recommend that participants are 16 years old and older to ensure that they can follow the instructions provided by the archaeology team.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
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