Australian Archaeological Association facts for kids
The Australian Archaeological Association (AAA) is a group for people interested in archaeology in Australia. Anyone who wants to help archaeology grow in Australia can join.
People sometimes call the association Triple A. It started in 1973 at a meeting in Perth, Western Australia. Before that, there were talks in 1972 at other big meetings in Sydney.
The main goal of the association is to help archaeology in Australia. They want to:
- Make archaeology better;
- Give people a place to talk about archaeological ideas;
- Hold regular meetings;
- Tell everyone why we need to protect old archaeological sites and collections;
- Share what the Association does.
Journal and Yearly Meeting
The association has published a magazine called Australian Archaeology since 1974. It started as a newsletter. Over time, it became a proper peer-reviewed academic journal. This means experts check the articles before they are published.
The AAA also holds a big meeting every year for its members. This meeting moves around different Australian cities. At this yearly meeting, they usually give out four main awards:
- Rhys Jones Medal for Outstanding Contribution to Australian Archaeology (started in 2002, named after Rhys Jones)
- Life Membership for Outstanding Contribution to the Australian Archaeological Association
- Bruce Veitch Award for Excellence in Indigenous Engagement
- John Mulvaney Book Award (started in 2004, named after John Mulvaney)
National Archaeology Week
The AAA supports "National Archaeology Week." This is a special week each year that helps more people learn about Australian archaeology. It also shows what Australian archaeologists do, both in Australia and other countries. The week highlights why it's important to protect Australia's unique old sites.
National Archaeology Week starts on the third Sunday in May every year. During this week, there are many events and activities. These include public talks, workshops, exhibits, and demonstrations of how archaeologists dig.
