Andrew Binyon

Current position

Cultural Heritage Advisor

Where did you study?

University of Queensland

How did you become interested in archaeology?

As a kid, I loved history and the idea of adventures across the world looking for treasure. By the time I reached university I was studying a history degree and took some archaeology electives and soon became fascinated with the idea of being an archaeologist.

What archaeological projects are you working on at the moment?

In my current role I work with several Aboriginal parties across Queensland in development of new energy resources and projects. At the moment we are working closely with the Barunggam people near Kogan and the Gaangalu People near Biloela.

Tell us about one of your most interesting archaeological discoveries.

While working in north Queensland, I was fortunate enough to work with the Wik Waya People of the Cape and we completed a number of surveys of these immense shell mounds along the shoreline that were fascinating and the stories around the mounds were incredible.

Tell us about a funny / disastrous / amazing experience that you have had while doing archaeology.

While working with the Githabul People near Warwick on a renewable energy project, we were surveying an area of dense bushland along some previously cleared farmers tracks. Halfway through the survey we were joined by a group of 10 or so camels from the adjacent property who were looking for food. The camels joined us on the rest of the walk and were very friendly. A serial experience to walk through bushland with these animals from an Indiana Jones adventure!

What’s your favourite part of being an archaeologist?

I love working with different people and learning new things every day. My career so far has let me work on a variety of projects, from Indigenous archaeology to historic assessments, all of which have taught me something new about archaeology and about the importance of history to the people that care about it.