Exhibition
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Explore Antarctica at the Gallery & Museum
A rare collection of Antarctic artefacts is on display at the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum as part of a national touring exhibition that celebrates Australia's connection with the icy continent. Traversing Antarctica: The Australian Experience was developed by the National Archives of Australia, in collaboration with the Australian Antarctic Division and the Western Australian Museum.
Officially opening 6pm, Friday 19 September, the exhibition marks the centenary of the 1911–14 Australasian Antarctic Expedition (AAE), led by Sir Douglas Mawson, and the achievements of Australia in Antarctica over the past 100 years. Special guest speaker Michelle Hughes, Exhibitions Coordinator from National Archives of Australia, will speak to the visitors at the launch about this touring exhibition.
“Antarctica is a significant place of cultural, historical and scientific value to Australians and this exhibition celebrates our continuing connections with it," said Ms Hughes.
Some of the original equipment from early expeditions, such as a man-hauling sled and harness, is on show, as well as letters and diaries kept by expeditioners.
“Rare documentary material and previously unknown film footage from the National Archives tell the fascinating story of life in Antarctica," said Ms Hughes. “As well as examining Australia’s historical relationship with Antarctica, the exhibition also features scientific contributions in areas such as oceanography and the study of ice, and the challenges faced by those living in Antarctica.”
Other popular features are time-lapse photography of the aurora australis on the interactive touchscreen and a real-time web cam set up at Davis Station.
"We are thrilled to be showing this unique exhibition here in Gladstone and we are sure that the public is going to love it," said Jo Duke, Curator of the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum.
"We are also delighted by this exhibition's appeal for families. There are fun activities for children including a ‘Would you survive?’ quiz and the opportunity to dress the Antarctica expeditioners from various periods."
Traversing Antarctica: The Australian Experience is available in the Region from 20 September until 25 October. If you would like to come the official launch at 6pm, Friday 19 September, please RSVP on (07) 4976 6766 or email gragm@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au by 5pm, Wednesday 17 September. The Gallery & Museum is located on the corner of Goondoon & Bramston Streets, Gladstone and is open 10am - 5pm, Monday to Saturday with FREE entry.