Community Archaeological excavation

Event description

Be part of living history! Work alongside archaeologists, students, Society volunteers, and heritage supporters in small 2-hour sessions exploring Guildford’s past. 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.

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, August 8, 2026 | 12.30 pm–2.30 pm
• Sunday, August 9, 2026 | 9.30 am–11.30 am and 12.30 pm–2.30 pm
• Monday, August 10, 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.