Story perspectives

Tasmania Apologizes for Unauthorized Autopsy Specimens to Museum

5/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

Pathologists collected 177 specimens from autopsies and gave them to the University of Tasmania’s Rodda Museum without consent.
Tasmanian Health Minister Bridget Archer apologized in parliament for unauthorized retention of the specimens.
Coroner Simon Cooper reported that the late Dr Royal Cummings supplied most of the specimens and other pathologists also participated.
University deputy vice-chancellor for health Prof Graeme Zosky expressed regret, confirming the specimens were removed from display in 2018.

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Story summary

Pathologists collected 177 specimens from autopsies and gave them to the University of Tasmania’s Rodda Museum without consent.
Tasmanian Health Minister Bridget Archer apologized in parliament for unauthorized retention of the specimens.
Coroner Simon Cooper reported that the late Dr Royal Cummings supplied most of the specimens and other pathologists also participated.
University deputy vice-chancellor for health Prof Graeme Zosky expressed regret, confirming the specimens were removed from display in 2018.