Council will celebrate Maitland City’s unique role in the nation’s founding storyline, via a new public exhibition this month.
Federation 125: Maitland’s Federation Story is now on display, until 28 January, in the Sunken Foyer at the Maitland Administration Centre in High Street.
It offers a hometown lens on the events, people and ideas that influenced Australia’s journey to Federation.
Visitors will be guided through key moments before and after the process, which enabled the six separate British self-governing colonies – NSW, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia – to unite to form the Commonwealth, courtesy of a curated collection of historical objects, photographs, documents and video content.
Maitland City mayor Philip Penfold said the exhibit highlighted how national decisions were experienced at a local level.
“Federation is often told as a national story,” he explained.
“But, Maitland played a significant role in that journey.
“This exhibition brings that history closer to home, showcasing the people, ideas and events from our city that helped shape Australia in its earliest years.
“By reflecting on where we came from, we gain a deeper understanding of how our system of government has evolved and what Federation means for us today.”
The exhibit also explores the stories of influential figures, women involved in the suffrage movement, Maitland’s political leaders and the city’s contribution to the first federal Parliament.
Presented by council, the display boasts contributions from the Maitland and District Historical Society, Australian Museum of Clothing and Textiles, Maitland Coin Club, Maitland Regional Museum, Parliamentary Education Office, Museum of Australian Democracy and local historians.
“Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a resident or simply curious about the stories that shaped our region, the exhibition offers a rich and insightful journey through Maitland’s Federation heritage,” Cr Penfold said.
The free exhibit is open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm.
For more information, visit mait.city/Federation125Years
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