BREAKING: Albury Library Museum has just unveiled a stunning new exhibition featuring over 550 objects, drastically expanding its display capabilities. The exhibition, titled Bungambrawatha Stories of Albury, officially opened on July 25, showcasing a rich tapestry of local history including items from the COVID-19 pandemic and significant Indigenous artifacts.
Curators Kate Eastick and Kat Kitch have dedicated more than five years to this transformation, significantly enhancing the visitor experience. The new layout replaces the previous exhibition, The Crossing Place, which had been displayed since the museum’s launch in 2007. Eastick noted, “We had about 350 objects displayed in the former exhibition, and that’s now closer to 550,” highlighting the expanded storytelling potential offered by new acquisitions.
The exhibition features a variety of displays, including soil samples representing the ancestral lands of Albury’s Indigenous community. Previously locked away, these samples are now showcased in customized containers, allowing visitors to appreciate the stark contrast between the red soil of Alice Springs and the brown dirt of Mount Pilot. Kitch, a Wiradjuri woman, emphasized the importance of representation: “It’s just so important that that voice is heard.”
The exhibition also presents a poignant section dedicated to the COVID-19 pandemic, featuring face masks, a cross-border entry permit, and photographs of border checkpoints. This area connects the histories of Albury and Wodonga, showcasing artifacts like a Sanyo television and Borg-Warner uniform to illustrate the intertwined heritage of the Twin Cities.
In his speech at the exhibition’s opening, Mayor Kevin Mack expressed 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 150 years or more.” His remarks resonated with attendees, including local historians, community leaders, and representatives of the Wiradjuri community.
The formal ribbon-cutting ceremony was performed by Wiradjuri elder Aunty Edna Stewart and didgeridoo player Darren Wighton, marking a significant moment in the museum’s history. The exhibition is housed in a spacious 400-square-metre area, allowing for a more comprehensive display of the museum’s collection, which totals around 30,000 objects.
A celebratory opening event is scheduled for Saturday, July 26, from 10 AM to 2 PM, featuring tours and activities from the Mailyan Mob. This event will provide further opportunities for the community to engage with the new exhibition and its stories.
This revitalized exhibition not only honors Albury’s rich history but also serves as a platform for ongoing narratives, ensuring that the voices of its diverse communities are heard and celebrated. Visitors are encouraged to experience this engaging showcase of Albury’s past, present, and future.
