UPDATE: A groundbreaking new exhibition has just launched at the Albury Library Museum, featuring 550 artifacts that showcase the rich history and culture of the Albury region. The exhibition, titled Bungambrawatha Stories of Albury, officially opened on July 25, 2023, after more than five years of meticulous planning.
This permanent exhibition replaces the previous display, The Crossing Place, which had been in place since the museum’s inception in 2007. Curators Kate Eastick and Kat Kitch have worked tirelessly to revamp the space, enhancing the storytelling potential with new acquisitions and significant updates.
Curator Kate Eastick stated, “We had about 350 objects displayed in the former exhibition, and that’s now closer to 550. It has given us an amazing capability to tell stories that we weren’t necessarily able to before.” This new exhibition includes not just historical artifacts but also contemporary items like COVID masks and cross-border entry permits, reflecting the region’s recent challenges.
One standout feature is the Indigenous display, overseen by Wiradjuri curator Kat Kitch. “I’ve used a first-person voice because a lot of our stories are living stories,” Kitch explained. This approach ensures that the voices of the community are heard, emphasizing their ongoing connection to the land.
Visitors will find a compelling display of soil samples that illustrate the diverse origins of Albury’s Indigenous community, now showcased in customized containers highlighting the contrast between the red soil of Alice Springs and the brown dirt of Mount Pilot.
The exhibition also delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the community, including photographs of checkpoints and the memorabilia of the health crisis. Mayor Kevin Mack noted at the launch that the revamp was long overdue, stating, “It’s wonderful to see the story of our migrant populations and the ongoing challenges we’ve faced as a community for over 150 years.”
The opening ceremony featured a ribbon-cutting by Wiradjuri representatives, including elder Aunty Edna Stewart and didgeridoo player Darren Wighton, who underscored the importance of Indigenous representation in the exhibition.
A celebratory event is scheduled for July 26, 2023, from 10 AM to 2 PM, where visitors can participate in guided tours and engage with local Indigenous groups like the Mailyan Mob.
This new exhibition not only enriches Albury’s cultural narrative but also invites residents and visitors alike to reflect on their shared history and the evolution of their community. The Albury Library Museum stands ready to welcome the public to explore these significant stories and artifacts.
Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting initiative continues to unfold!
