Biosis is excited to host the 2025 edition of the Sydney Historical Archaeology Practitioners Workshop (SHAP). This year's theme is 'The future of investigating the past - archaeology as a diminishing resource'.

Archaeology has always grappled with the paradox of its own practice: to uncover the past, we must disturb or destroy it. Traditional excavation methods, though systematic and rigorous, are inherently invasive—displacing artefacts and digging through contexts in order to interpret what we find. Over time, research questions have evolved, shifting from a singular site or local approach to more nuanced, multidisciplinary inquiries. However, the finite nature of the archaeological record and the accelerating pace of development through pathways designed to ‘cut the green tape’ mean that the archaeological resource is shrinking faster than ever, and with it, our chances to answer new and emerging questions about the human past.

As archaeology becomes an increasingly scarce resource, we need to reflect on how the practice has already shifted and consider how the discipline could further adapt. Technological advancements have the potential to enable more non-destructive methods of investigation, helping us preserve while we analyse. The future of archaeological research may rely less on digging and more on…what? With less ground left to break, archaeology must become more strategic, precise, and innovative in the way it interrogates and conserves the past within the confines of consulting and academia.

Ticket prices include attendance at all sessions, all day tea and coffee, SHAP’25 goodie bag, morning and afternoon tea, lunch, and a complimentary drink at Mountain Culture after the event.

Bake It!

The SHAP baking competition is back! Register your entry via email to shap2025@biosis.com.au by Weds 21 May, bake a creation inspired by archaeology or the SHAP’25 theme, and deliver your delicious creation to the SHAP workshop on Friday 23 May. Details on the poster here. Remember that you can also enter a photo of your creation in the national NAW Bake It! Make It! competition.

SHAP'25 is presented as part of National Archaeology Week (18 - 24 May 2025).

When: 9am to 5pm, Friday 23 May 2025

Where: The National Centre of Indigenous Excellence, 180 George Street, Redfern NSW 2016

Cost: $110.71 (general admission), $95.05 (ASHA members), $63.73 (students)

Registration: https://events.humanitix.com/sydney-historical-archaeology-practitioners-workshop-shap-25

For more information: https://www.biosis.com.au/shap-2025/