State Library of Queensland

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There is so much on offer at State Library. Explore ways to make the most of your visit before you arrive.

Camp Columbia in Brisbane's west is a symbolic location connecting US, Australian and Dutch histories during WWII in the South West Pacific. It is the location where plans were made to re-occupy Indonesia at the end of WWII and to formulate the new relationship between the Netherlands and its former colony. The Dutch operated from this camp between 1944 and 1947 and established the Netherlands East Indies (NEI) Government-in-Exile, the only foreign government ever operated from Australian soil. The Camp was used for POWs and refugees from the Japanese Camps in the NEI. After the war part of the site was taken over by the Australian Defence Force many of the former barracks were transformed into the Wacol Migration Centre, the largest in Queensland. Join Paul Budde, Chair of the Camp Columbia Heritage Association as he discusses plans to preserve the history of this important heritage site through the creation of a heritage trail along the last remnant of the area – the major staging camp for the war in the Pacific from US General MacArthur. After the talk, visitors can stay to explore the Memorial Galleries, embarking on an interactive journey from the First World War to today, before taking time to reflect on the remarkable stories of bravery and sacrifice in the tranquil parklands. Anzac Square Memorial Galleries is located at 285 Ann Street, Brisbane. Entry is through the double brass doors located beneath the Shrine of Remembrance.

Explore the captivating evolution of portraiture throughout history, from classical to cutting-edge. Join our panel discussion as we uncover how artists are pushing boundaries and redefining this traditional art form to reflect the complexities of our modern world.

Looking for a fun and eco-friendly way to get creative with sewing? Our upcoming workshop series is just for you. At State Library we often reuse our large vinyl banner signage to create new and innovative products for personal use and in this workshop, we’ll show you how to make your own bag from the repurposed material. You'll be guided through every step of the process by our experienced facilitator, who will provide a sewing induction for all participants and teach you how to work with vinyl material to create a functional bag that you will take home with you (bag style will differ from the one pictured in this listing). Our sewing workshop is open to all skill levels, so whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete newbie, you're sure to have a great time and learn something new. Sign up today and join us for a fun and rewarding day of sewing, creativity, and sustainability! This is a 3-part workshop and you must be able to come to all the dates as each session builds upon the work of the previous. 1 - 5 pm Saturday 26 October 1 - 5 pm Saturday 9 November 1 - 5 pm Saturday 23 November REQUIREMENTS TO VISIT SOME OF THE SPACES AT THE EDGE Participants must be over 16 years of age. Enclosed, flat footwear must be worn at all times in the Innovation lab. BEFORE YOU BOOK Please read through our Getting Started at The Edge page which includes terms of use. You’ll find answers to age restrictions, what to bring, what to do if you’re running late, refunds and more. Please become a State Library member before you arrive. If you already have a State Library member account, make sure you know your login details as you may be required to login during the workshop to access State Library computers, and to make bookings for equipment. Please contact us if you need support to participate in this event and consult State Library of Queensland's conditions of entry before making your booking. To find out more about what else is on offer, read up on The Edge and our make and design space. You can also subscribe to be the first to know about our future events.