State Library of Queensland

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Paula Stafford, Sarah Jenyns, Olive Ashworth and Ivy Hassard fashioned legacies that would long outlive them, shaping Queensland’s fashion industry by harnessing their creativity and business acumen. Join us for a hands-on collection experience where the contributions and stories of these stylish entrepreneurs come to life. More about the event Designer Paula Stafford is known for bringing the bikini to the Gold Coast, popularising what is now a staple across Australian beaches. Sarah Jenyns designed and manufactured a range of health and fashion garments, under her own business which operated for over 100 years. Both Stafford and Jenyns are inductees into the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame. Further stitching together stories of Queensland’s fashion history are our collections on Olive Ashworth and Ivy Hassard, whose entrepreneurial spirits defied conventional expectations of women in mid-century Queensland. Hassard, a pioneering fashion designer and pilot, is known for her flair for style and creativity. She opened one of the Gold Coast's first boutiques in Surfers Paradise in 1946. Whereas Ashworth, a visual artist, designer, and businesswoman, is known for her contribution to Australian design and incorporating unique elements of the natural landscape into her work. This event is presented as part of Brisbane Fashion Month, Queensland’s premiere fashion event for Brisbane and Queensland designers.

Join us for a compelling discussion on how Indigenous artists harness their craft to convey cultural identity, share ancestral stories, and challenge historical narratives. Discover the profound ways these artists use their medium to reflect their heritage and push back against historical misrepresentations. Through their work, they preserve and celebrate their rich traditions while offering new perspectives on history and identity.

Join us for an unforgettable day of cultural celebration and community connection at the GATHAA First Nations Markets family fun day on Saturday, 28 September 2024. Explore the lineup of activities designed to engage, educate, and entertain. From First Nations markets along the Knowledge Walk, where you'll discover unique and handcrafted goods, to live performances, bushfood yarns, and immersive arts workshops, this day is all about celebrating the world’s oldest surviving culture. GATHAA First Nations family fun day has something for the whole family. Whether you're participating in a workshop, joining in traditional Indigenous games, grabbing a delicious bushfood inspired lunch, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, this event promises to be a special celebration of First Nations culture and community spirit. Join the Facebook event to receive program updates and make sure you don’t miss out on this special event! Program details: Welcome to Country, Shannon Ruska, Tribal Experiences Stomp, sing and dance with Aunty Sharron Bushtucker Yarn with Aunty Dale Chapman, My Dilly Bag Artisan markets including bushfoods, wearables and creative products Food trucks serving up delicious bushfood infused tucker Bushfood Cooking on fire with Chris Jordan, Three Little Birds and Aunty Dale Chapman, My Dilly Bag Jarjums arts and craft activities Traditional Indigenous games Cultural arts and sound workshops by Cultural Collaboration Subscribe to be the first to know about our future events. No bookings are required. Information on program sessions and sign-ups will be available on the day at our registration stall on Level 1 in the Knowledge Walk. Please note: all children must be accompanied by an adult during these activities. Privacy information We respect your privacy. Personal information we collect is used only for our internal activities and functions (Libraries Act 1988 (Qld)) and will not be disclosed unless required by law. For more information, please read State Library's privacy statement.