Digitising heritage

A hand holds a 3D scanner over a metallic object on a desk

Cutting-edge Technology

Council has been looking at ways to make the City’s collection of fragile, rare and unique artefacts and their stories more accessible.

Using cutting-edge technology, heritage items from the City’s collection, and the collections of heritage partners, have been digitally scanned in 3-dimensions (3D).

The pilot project was a collaboration between the Parramatta Heritage and Visitor Information Centre and Council’s Future City program, using emerging technology to build our digital capabilities, experiment with 3D scanning technology, and promote Parramatta’s rich history.

Scanned Items

Among the items scanned in the initial program are:

  • Mayoral regalia
  • a medal from the Juvenile Industrial Exhibition held in Parramatta Park in 1883
  • a cedar commode chest circa 1880 from Old Government House
  • a hand-powered vacuum cleaner from the Newington Armoury
  • a military ration tin from the New South Wales Lancers Memorial Museum.

Each of these items were selected because of their historical connection to the area and storytelling opportunity online.

Explore Scanned Items

3D scanning initiative in collaboration with Macquarie University

In late 2020, the City of Parramatta’s Heritage and Visitor Information Centre partnered with Macquarie University to expand the collection of 3D-scanned objects.

Learn more about the collaboration

Back to top