Image: SMSA President Winsome Allen with SMSA Medal recipient, Jim Lowden.
The Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts Medal
William Bruce James (Jim) Lowden
Jim has had a long association with Mechanics’ Institutes, both in his home State of Victoria, and at a national and international level. In Jim’s early years, he managed the Kilmore Mechanics’ Institute library and its collection, and following its demolition, helped transform it into ’The Institute without Walls’. This has grown into a life-long commitment.
Jim’s vision, passion and dedication to research has uncovered fascinating tales, histories, connections and people involved in or with Mechanics’ Institutes from all around the world. He has inspired, encouraged and supported Institutes globally through his tireless letter and email writing. Jim has made numerous contributions as an author, publisher and presenter to conferences both locally and around the world. Jim remains a selfless researcher more than happy to share his work with others and encourage their research projects.
In 1973, Jim was awarded a prestigious Churchill Fellowship to study issues concerning scholarly publishing houses across several countries.
Following the State Conference of 1998, Jim was instrumental in the founding of the Mechanics’ Institutes of Victoria, of which he is now a Life Member.
Jim was recognised locally as Citizen of the Year for the Shire of Kilmore in 1994 and for the Shire of Mitchell in 2001.
The Board is delighted to present Jim with the Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts Medal in recognition of the extent, quality and nature of his tireless contribution to the broader community through education and participation locally, nationally and internationally.
The Board voted unanimously to make this award on Monday 11 February 2019. Jim is a most worthy recipient of the Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts Medal, and a valued friend and colleague of the School. The medal is the highest award given by the School to an individual.
Winsome Allen
President
12 March 2019
SMSA (Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts)