Jane Goodall: A Century-Defining Figure and Her Legacy in Australia

The history of science is shaped by individuals whose impact transcends their respective disciplines. One such figure is undoubtedly Jane Goodall, who passed away in 2025 at the age of 91. Her decades-long work in primatology and conservation has inspired a global movement. The Australian Museum in Sydney pays tribute to Goodall’s deep ties to Australia and her tireless advocacy for environmental protection.

Introduction: Jane Goodall and the Anthropology of Compassion

Born in 1934 in London, Jane Goodall revolutionized the understanding of human-animal relationships through her pioneering work. Her groundbreaking studies of wild chimpanzees in Tanzania in the 1960s revealed their complex social structures and tool-using abilities. Goodall’s approach, marked by proximity and empathy, not only opened new scientific perspectives but also raised public awareness about the interconnectedness of humans and nature. Australia played a special role in her mission, a connection that the museum compellingly illustrates.

Key Themes: Goodall’s Relationship with Australia and Her Global Legacy

The exhibition explores Goodall’s numerous visits to Australia, including her close collaboration with Sydney’s Taronga Zoo. Notably, it highlights her outspoken criticism of Australia’s environmental mismanagement, such as the degradation of the Murray-Darling Basin and the treatment of dingoes, which she described as “absolutely horrible.” Goodall was known for fearlessly addressing ecological issues, and Australia served as a platform for her global message: the responsibility of every individual in combating environmental destruction and species extinction.

Curatorial Concept and Presentation: A Tribute to Activism and Science

The exhibition at the Australian Museum is more than a retrospective. It is an interactive homage to Goodall’s life’s work. Through photographs, video footage, and personal stories, the connection between her scientific research and activism is vividly brought to life. Central to the narrative is the work of the Jane Goodall Institute Australia, established in 2007 to preserve and further her vision. The presentation focuses on emotional engagement, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in Goodall’s world.

Highlighted Artefacts: A Life Dedicated to Chimpanzees

Among the exhibition’s highlights are original recordings of Goodall’s work in Gombe National Park and personal items documenting her travels and research. Particularly moving is a video sequence of her 2006 visit to Taronga Zoo, where she expressed her deep connection to the chimpanzees there. “If I were a chimpanzee in a zoo, I’d want to be here,” she remarked emphatically.

Contextualization: Goodall’s Legacy in the Present Day

Jane Goodall remains a symbol of hope and change. Her findings on chimpanzees as social beings that use tools redefined the boundaries between humans and animals. In an era when climate change and species extinction are more pressing than ever, her message resonates with renewed urgency: the planet’s future hinges on individual responsibility. The museum underscores this relevance by linking Goodall’s vision to today’s environmental challenges.

The Australian Museum: A Space for Learning and Reflection

The Australian Museum, the oldest museum in the country, is centrally located in Sydney and renowned for its interdisciplinary collections and exhibitions. With its focus on natural sciences, Indigenous cultures, and environmental issues, it provides the ideal setting to convey Goodall’s message. The museum’s modern architecture, thoughtfully curated spaces, and accompanying programs such as workshops and lectures make the visit a multidimensional experience.

Practical Information

The exhibition is now open at the Australian Museum in Sydney and can be visited daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is free, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience. The museum is easily reachable by public transport, and on-site amenities include a café and a gift shop featuring thematic items.

Conclusion: A Moving Exhibition

The Australian Museum’s tribute to Jane Goodall is more than a memorial; it is a powerful call to action to engage actively in the preservation of our environment. The exhibition celebrates both her scientific achievements and her relentless activism. For those reflecting on humanity’s place in nature, this exhibition is essential. Goodall’s legacy endures, and this showcase provides it with a compelling stage.

(Photo: Dean Lewins/AAP PHOTOS)