Research Team

Penny is an award-winning historian with a strong industry background and training in heritage preservation and museums. Her work focuses on transnational, colonial and Indigenous histories and cultural heritage in communities and museums.

Heather is a pre-eminent historical archaeologist with extensive experience in theorising the construction of identity through material objects and the relationships between local communities, heritage and place.

Tully is an expert in digitisation studies, especially in understanding digitisation as a cultural practice that influences the meaning we make from digitised objects and texts.

Kathy Sutton is a passionate advocate for Indigenous culture and heritage, and the niece of Vincent Copley Sr AM. Active in the museum sector, Kathy has dedicated her career to the preservation and promotion of Ngadjuri culture. She plays a vital role in various initiatives aimed at educating the public about the rich history and traditions of the Ngadjuri people. Through her work, Kathy strives to create meaningful connections between Indigenous heritage and contemporary society, ensuring that the stories and practices of the Ngadjuri community are honoured and sustained for future generations. 

Vince Copley Jr is a dedicated advocate for Indigenous heritage and has been actively involved in the Ngadjuri Indigenous Heritage Project since 2008. This project recorded over 600 archaeological sites on Ngadjuri lands. As the son of Vincent Copley Sr AM, Vince has embraced his family’s legacy of cultural preservation and community education. His work focuses on recording and safeguarding sites of significance within Ngadjuri country, contributing to a greater understanding of Ngadjuri history and traditions. Through his efforts, Vince aims to promote respect and awareness of Ngadjuri culture, ensuring that its rich heritage is recognised and celebrated for future generations.

Kara McEwen is a proud Ngadjuri woman and the daughter of Vincent Copley Sr. With a deep-rooted passion for her heritage, Kara is dedicated to integrating Indigenous history and knowledge into contemporary contexts. Her work focuses on promoting cultural understanding and preserving the stories of her people. Kara is actively involved in community initiatives that highlight the significance of Ngadjuri traditions and values, fostering a greater appreciation for Indigenous perspectives. Through her efforts, she aims to bridge the gap between past and present, ensuring that the wisdom of her ancestors continues to inspire future generations. Kara’s commitment to cultural education and advocacy makes her a vital voice in her community in championing the importance of heritage in a rapidly changing world.

Claire is an internationally recognised archaeologist who has worked with the Ngadjuri since 1998.

Margaret has extensive experience applying a transnational approach to South Australian colonial history. Her work focuses on subaltern Indian figures moving from India to Australia, as well as Australian big-game hunters and the horse traders who catered to the ruling British elite in India.

Ania is a specialist in spatial analysis and landscape archaeology.

Mick and Sharon Morris have been the managers and caretakers of Martindale Hall since 2014. They are passionate about the importance of Martindale Hall for the Mintaro community. They have welcomed and hosted thousands of people to the Hall as well as understanding the importance of opening up the Hall for research and bringing its wonders to the world through story and digitisation.

Jarrad is a researcher in Archaeology, Geospatial Science and Machine Learning. He holds a PhD in Archaeology as well as a Masters in Maritime Archaeology and an Honours degree in Applied Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

Denise is a research assistant on the project. She comes from a broad interdisciplinary background with recent archival research focused on South Australian Indigenous and colonial histories. 

Fiona is a research assistant, web designer and communications specialist for the project. She has worked in cultural heritage, tutored in Urban Design, and has been a research assistant for projects including RMIT PlaceLab and Climate Resilient Honiara.