From the hulking behemoths of the HAL and IBM era that filled entire rooms to today’s quantum machines that slip into other dimensions to discover the riddle of life, the universe, and everything, computers have changed enormously over the past 60 years. This weekend, the Canberra Vintage Computer Exhibition at Daramalan College offers visitors a chance to explore — or rediscover — retro machines from the 1960s to the early 2000s.
Organized by James McNeill, the event promises to educate attendees on how computers functioned in different eras and the nature of evolving technology. “It’s a fun event,” McNeill explains. “It’s going to have a lot of people that are excited about technology, who spend a long time restoring and experimenting with this old hardware… It’s a great way of learning from people who are there solely for the pleasure of passing on knowledge.”
Spotlight on Iconic Machines
The exhibition will showcase a range of iconic machines, including Cold War-era university computers and mainframes that once powered banks and major institutions. However, the spotlight is on the Amiga PC, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. David Pleasance, a former senior executive at Commodore, Amiga’s manufacturer, and author of “Commodore: The Inside Story,” will deliver the keynote address.
McNeill himself will contribute his SGI Octane from 1997, a high-end graphics workstation famously used by Pixar to create “Toy Story 2.” Originally priced at $100,000, McNeill acquired his for just $350.
Interactive Experiences and Nostalgia
The event will feature classic games, interactive exhibits, presentations, panel sessions, and music composition demonstrations. Last year’s event included a spirited DOOM match, and this year promises even more engaging experiences.
Exhibitors will share insights about bulletin board systems they operated, modern Amiga builds, and modifications made to vintage machines to function with contemporary technology. “For some people, the appeal of retro technology is nostalgic,” McNeill notes. “This was the computer I wrote my first program on when I was a child, or this is the thing I played games on at home when I was first exposed to computers.”
Retro Technology’s Modern Appeal
Interestingly, today’s youth are forming retro computer clubs, diving into the history of technology. “It’s an interesting look into a different world of technology from a different time and place,” McNeill reflects. “Computing has gone from a highly scientific and specialized tool for only the most extreme of calculations to a commodity that includes every part of our lives. Children learn to use computers almost as they speak.”
“Computing has gone from a highly scientific and specialized tool for only the most extreme of calculations to a commodity that includes every part of our lives.” — James McNeill
Event Details and Future Prospects
The Canberra Vintage Computer Exhibition will take place at Daramalan College in Dickson on Saturday, July 19, from 10 am to 3 pm. Admission is free, and the event is organized by the Canberra Vintage Computer Enthusiasts with support from the Australian Computer Museum. For more information, visit Visit Canberra.
As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, events like these serve as a reminder of the rich history and innovation that have shaped the digital world. The exhibition not only celebrates past achievements but also inspires future generations to appreciate the journey of technological advancement.
