Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander servicemen and servicewomen from the Redlands will be honoured in an exhibition at Cleveland Library during NAIDOC Week (6 – 13 July).
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the exhibition had received an amazing support and uncovered some fantastic stories about the role locals had played in Australia’s war efforts.
“Since we put the call out for display items, the response from the community has been extraordinary and emotional,” Cr Williams said.
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“We have received treasured family items, medals, artwork and touching personal accounts and stories of living through times of war including two Dead Man’s Pennies, commemorative medallions presented to the next-of-kin of those who have died during war.
“We believe this is the only exhibition of its type during NAIDOC Week, and it’s already receiving interest from historians and national media.
“When the display closes on 14 July, all items will be returned to families, so it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view this rare collection of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander war memorabilia.”
Redland Art Gallery is also launching Yunggulba (floodtide) an exhibition by Quandamooka artist Megan Cope on Sunday 6 July.
Redland City Arts, Culture and Innovation spokesperson Cr Paul Bishop said the exhibition also had ties to the 2014 NAIDOC theme of Serving Country: Centenary and Beyond.
“Megan’s exhibition combines military topographical maps from the 1930’s and 1940’s with symbology to create a multi-layered landscape,” Cr Bishop said.
“The pieces in Yunggulba reflect the dual histories and identities of key landscapes, recognising what they were, what they have become and the vulnerability of the coastline of Australia.
“Opening an exhibition created by a Quandamooka artist during NAIDOC week provides a wonderful and meaningful local connection to celebrations.”
Event details
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander War Memorabilia Display: Monday 7 July (from 12pm) to Monday 14 July, Cleveland Library, Middle Street, Cleveland
- Yunggulba (floodtide): Sunday 6 July to Sunday 17 August, Redland Art Gallery, corner of Bloomfield and Middle Streets, Cleveland.
