Every weekend sporting contests around the country generate stories that we tell and retell, and Grit & Gold: Tales from a Sporting Nation will be exploring some of Australia’s many favourite sporting stories.
The exhibition will feature many magical sporting moments including Belmore gymnast Philippe Rizzo on the Pommel at the Sydney Olympics 2000 in photograph captured by Garrie Maguire, and a photo by Wendy McDougal of Milperra-born Ian Thorpe during the ticker tape parade in central Sydney following the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
A selection of Emma McKeon’s gold medals from various Olympic and Commonwealth Games; the outfit worn by Ash Barty during her victorious 2021 Wimbledon campaign; an autographed cricket bat used by Don Bradman; the ‘State of Origin’ shield awarded from 1980 to 1991 depicting Brett Kenny and Wally Lewis; and an Olympic torch from the Sydney 2000 Olympics, are among the highlights on display.
Dr Guy Hansen, Director of Exhibitions at the Library and one of the exhibition curators, says sport is a storytelling machine, and looking at photographs, pictures and objects relating to Australian sporting history reminds us how powerful these stories are.
“Watching the contest is an immersive experience – the rest of the world disappears. There is suspense and surprise, there is exaltation and despair,” he said.
“You are taken on a journey which has a definite end, even though you might not always like the result.”
The free exhibition at the National Library in Canberra will run until Sunday, November 5.
