Somerville woman named on honour roll

HOPE Black of Somerville is among 20 exceptional Victorians who have been inducted onto the Victorian Honour Roll of Women.

Women’s affairs minister Mary Woolridge honoured the new inductees at a function at Parliament House on Tuesday, ahead of International Women’s Day.

The Curator Emeritus at Museum Victoria, Ms Black is known her groundbreaking efforts in the field of science.

Hastings state Liberal MP Neale Burgess said he commended Ms Black for her lasting contribution in the fields of malacology and marine ecology.

“Her research and survey work remain critical for the management of Victoria’s marine environments,” Mr Burgess said.

“Before entering the field of science Hope was the first female curator at the National Museum of Victoria, but had to resign in 1965 due to the prohibition on employment of married women in the Victorian Public Service.

“Hope soon retrained as a science teacher and established a biology course for blind children.”

Ms Woolridge said the Honour Roll provides ongoing recognition of the role of women and their success in making a difference for women and the broader community.

The honour roll now contains almost 500 names with some women honoured posthumously.

For further information about the Victorian Honour Roll of Women and its inductees, visit dhs.vic.gov.au/for-individuals/women