An introduction to the CSIRO Oral History Collection

This paper describes the taking of specialised oral histories of key individuals to complement official governance documents in detailing the history of Australia’s principal scientific research organisation, CSIRO. Oral histories typically include perspectives on family backgrounds and early lives, professional training and career histories. Of particular interest in these interviews is the involvement of interviewees in the management of CSIRO and their reflections on the place of CSIRO in the Australian and international scientific environments. The interviews were conducted mainly by two of the authors (Spurling and Healy), both of whom were well known to the interviewees because they were themselves senior managers in CSIRO and familiar with the topics discussed. These histories are intended to illuminate important personal factors which have influenced decision-making in CSIRO. Also covered are plans to use other collections of interview materials including those conducted by CSIRO historian Boris Schedvin, the Australian Academy of Science and the National Library of Australia. Details are provided of preparations for interviews, recording and transcription and preparation of materials for public availability through CSIROpedia.