State Library of Queensland

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Through Mununjali eyes celebrates the life and legacy of Wayne Coolwell, a trailblazer of his generation and a powerful voice for his people. A proud Mununjali man with a sharp eye for a story, he captured moments that bridged cultures and inspired connection. Known affectionately as the “Cool Cat of journalism”, Wayne moved effortlessly among the greats, between the media and community, treating every encounter as part of his day’s work behind the lens and microphone. Respected by his peers and cherished by audiences nationwide, Wayne was among the first Aboriginal voices to grace Australia’s airwaves. His talent, humility and fearless curiosity made him a true pioneer. This exhibition celebrates Wayne’s life and legacy through his own photography, revealing the people, places and moments that shaped his remarkable journey. It invites audiences to remember not only his professional achievements but the warmth, wit and cultural pride that made him unforgettable. Through Mununjali eyes brings together 5 decades of Wayne’s photographs, honouring his legacy – where story, culture and connection continue to resonate across generations.

Join us for a conversation with acclaimed Australian artist Helga Groves, whose multidisciplinary practice spans painting, sculpture, weaving, drawing and animation.Grounded in extensive research, Groves’ work explores deep geological time, natural phenomena and the physical properties of the environments she encounters. Through meticulous mark-making, layered tonal fields and abstract forms, her practice translates first-hand observations of diverse landscapes into immersive compositions that evoke the rhythm, luminosity and materiality of place.In this discussion with art historian Michele Helmrich, Groves will reflect on her creative process, the role of field research in shaping her work, and how memory, environment and abstraction continue to inform her evolving practice.About Portrait of an artistThis event is part of Portrait of an artist, a series showcasing the James C Sourris AM collection of artist interviews held at State Library. Audiences will experience a screening of Helga Groves' interview, followed by an in-conversation and Q&A session.Generously supported by James C Sourris AM through the Queensland Library Foundation.Image: Helga Groves studio portrait standing in front of a painting titled Undersea, 2026, photographer unknown.

Our second Heritage Talk of the year celebrates 150 years of the Royal Queensland Show, or Ekka, a much-loved Queensland tradition since 1876. What began as an agricultural exhibition has grown into a major annual event, bringing together regional and urban communities and reflecting the changing life of the state. From livestock and produce, to showbags and sideshow alley, we invite you to consider how the Ekka has evolved and why it continues to matter. Our 2025 and 2026 Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) fellows Bronwyn Bridgewater, Dr Kaya Barry, and Emily House will explore the Ekka’s place in Queensland’s social and agricultural history as part of a panel facilitated by journalist and author David Fagan, who is a Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland (RNA) Councillor.About Heritage talksOur Heritage Talks connect audiences to our extraordinary collections by inviting speakers to share their expertise and perspectives on topics relating to Queensland history.