Major Philanthropic Gift to Science Gallery Melbourne
Science Gallery Melbourne is thrilled to announce a $4million gift from philanthropists Peter and Ruth McMullin to build our future home.
The $4 million gift is offered under the expectation that Science Gallery Melbourne leverage the gift to match those funds through other donations.
In 2020, Science Gallery Melbourne will come to life through the generosity and leadership of this significant gift from philanthropists Peter and Ruth McMullin.
In announcing their challenge gift during National Science Week, Peter and Ruth McMullin said Science Gallery Melbourne is a vital and important new addition to the city for young people.
“We’ve experienced Science Gallery in its original home in Dublin as well as the pop-up programs in Melbourne and have witnessed young people’s minds being opened to new possibilities. By placing young people at the centre of programs the gallery genuinely reflects their voices and concerns,” Peter and Ruth said.
“The Gallery provides experiences that are transformative at a crucial time in a young person’s life. We believe Science Gallery will have a lasting impact on the future and consider this gift an investment in Australia’s next generation of scientific and creative trailblazers.”
The gift to Science Gallery Melbourne is the second major donation to the University of Melbourne from the McMullins, who in 2017 supported the establishment of the Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness.
The University of Melbourne has secured the rights to the first and only Australian node of the acclaimed international Science Gallery network. The Gallery will open in late 2020 as part of The University’s innovation precinct, Melbourne Connect.
The gallery will include over 3500 sqm of cutting-edge, immersive exhibition and learning spaces. Designed by William Smart at Smart Design Studios, the gallery will deliver modular exhibition spaces, theatres, workshop and social spaces. It will be accompanied by an immersive digital experience that allows interaction and connectivity for young people.
Located on the former Royal Women’s Hospital site, at the intersection of Swanston and Grattan Streets, Melbourne Connect is a new precinct for research, industry, government and students in a single, purpose-built site.
In thanking Peter and Ruth McMullin for their gift, Director Science Gallery Melbourne Rose Hiscock said:
“Peter and Ruth are passionate contributors to Australia’s cultural sector. They are generous in their philanthropy and their engagement. Through this gift, Science Gallery will impact the lives of young adults and we hope it inspires other partners to donate.”
Thank you Peter and Ruth, we can’t wait to open the Gallery with you!