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Queensland Memory Awards

About the fellowships and awards

The Queensland Memory Awards recognise contributions to the documentation, preservation, and celebration of Queensland’s memory – past and present – through fellowships and awards.    

Fellowships support researchers and creatives of all kinds to interpret the significant collections of the John Oxley Library. Through deep engagement and interaction with the collections, these interpretations provide new insights into the collection and contribute new knowledge about Queensland’s history.  

The John Oxley Library Awards recognise outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations in the advancement of our understanding of Queensland’s cultural heritage.  

Discover the latest research findings and insights from State Library's fellows on our John Oxley Library Blog or listen to past Research Reveals talks.

Purchase publications written by our research fellows from the Library Shop.

For more information, please email fellowships@slq.qld.gov.au or call (07) 3840 7887.

The Queensland Memory Awards are supported by sponsors and philanthropic donations through the Queensland Library Foundation.  

A message from State Librarian and CEO, Vicki McDonald AM FALIA.

Become a State Library research fellow

Applications for the 2025 Queensland Memory Awards are now open! As a resident researcher, you can explore State Library's collections, uncover untold stories, and document Queensland's rich history. With $145,000 in stipends and prize money available, applications open from 1 July 2024 and close midnight 14 August 2024.

For more information, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions or watch our Tips for Applying and Fellowships Information Night videos.

Curious about what it takes to become a fellow? Watch our Fellowships Information Night recording and hear insights from a distinguished panel comprising of past fellows, judges and State Library staff. Gain valuable knowledge about the program and learn first-hand what criteria the judges prioritise in successful applications, empowering you to craft the best application possible! 

An image taken from outside State Library of Queensland on a blue, clear day.

Apply now!

$145,000 in stipends available for research projects. Applications close midnight 14 August 2024.

Read the Guidelines and Selection Critiera before applying.

For more information, watch the recording from the Fellowships Information Night

Apply now!

Fellowships and residencies

Story Bridge in the fourth stage of construction Brisbane 1938
John Oxley Library Fellowship
$25,000 awarded to help discover Queensland’s rich history using our collections.
Learn more
Young man in costume holding small tree branches and leaves at the Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival, 2009.
Monica Clare Research Fellowship
$20,000 awarded to create new knowledge about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories.
Learn more
Smiling faces of two children and a person with rainbow clothing and flag.
Rainbow Research Fellowship
$20,000 awarded to create new knowledge about Queensland's s LGBTIQA+ histories.
Learn more
A. Mullers Shoe and Slipper Factory, South Brisbane, Queensland, ca. 1896.
Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame Fellowship
$15,000 awarded to delve into Queensland’s business and economic history.
Learn more
Digital Collections Catalyst map interface
Digital collections catalyst
$15,000 awarded to bring technology and cultural heritage together using our collections.
Learn more
Black and white photograph of a young Christina Boughen.
Christina Boughen OAM Fellowship
$10,000 awarded to research the legacy and career of the influential Queensland musician. Note no fellowship is being offered in 2025.
Learn more

Biannual and new fellowships

Letty Katts Fellowship
Biannual fellowship - $5,000 awarded to create new knowledge about Queensland's music history.
Learn more
Hunstanton, Kelvin Grove, Brisbane.
Queensland Heritage Register Fellowship
New fellowship - $20,000 awarded to create new knowledge about places on the Queensland Heritage Register.
Learn more
Men, women and children on the hill beside the grandstand at the Royal National Show, Bowen Hills, 1935-1940.
Royal Queensland Show (EKKA) Fellowship
New fellowship - $20,000 awarded to create new knowledge about Queensland's largest event, the EKKA.
Learn more

Awards

Dr Robert (Bob) Anderson  and Vicki McDonald AM
John Oxley Library Award
Recognises an individual who had made an outstanding contribution to the appreciation of Queensland history.
Learn more
2024 John Oxley Library Community History Award recipient, Pama Language Centre. Representatives Joshua McHugh, Tarmara Pearson and Xavier Barker with Manager Queensland Library Foundation, Anna Herbert.
John Oxley Library Community History Award
Recognises excellence in the preservation, recording and sharing of Queensland history by community organisations.
Learn more
2024 State Library Medal winner Grant Collins with Library Board of Queensland Chair, Debbie Best.
State Library of Queensland Medal
Recognises the valuable contribution and dedication of former staff and their work at the Library.
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Meet the 2024 fellows

Explore the winners of the 2024 Queensland Memory Awards and delve into the details of their groundbreaking research projects on our blog.
Learn more
2024 Queensland Memory fellows and award recipients.

Read blogs by our fellows

Discover the latest research findings and insights from State Library's fellows on our John Oxley Library Blog
Learn more
A collection of early Radio Times magazines held at the John Oxley Library.

More information

Group of people
Previous recipients and Research Reveals
Get inspired! Learn about previous fellows and their research projects.
Learn more
Woman accepting a framed award on stage.
Fellowships and residencies FAQs
Find out more information about applying for a research fellowship or residency.
Learn more
Man accepting an award on stage.
Awards FAQs
Find out more information about nominating an individual or group for a John Oxley Library Award.
Learn more
Row of people seated in an auditorium smiling and clapping.
Judging
Find out information about the judging processes and how applications are assessed.
Learn more
Man in a suit sitting and gesturing with hands.
Tips for applying for a fellowship or residency
Gain insights from past Queensland Memory fellows as they share their invaluable experiences.
Watch now
Woman sitting at home using a laptop.
Where your fellowship can take you
Find out how researchers and creatives contribute new knowledge about Queensland’s history.
Watch now

Supporters

The Queensland Memory Awards are supported by philanthropic gifts through the Queensland Library Foundation.

Queensland Library Foundation logoQueensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame logo