A new exhibition which explores 145 years of great moments and achievements of the South Australian National Football League (SANFL) was opened on Friday (3 June) at the State Library of South Australia (SLSA).
Unveiled by the Director of the SLSA, Geoff Strempel said the State Library and the SANFL History Centre had joined forces to bring the Our footy, our people, our stories part of South Australia’s sporting history alive.
Mr Strempel said the exhibition which was curated by Exhibitions, Media & Marketing Librarian at the SLSA, Mark Gilbert, included recognition of the football career of the late great Russell Ebert (pictured); video highlights of SANFL football, including grand finals, interstate games, Magarey Medal telecasts and some never-before-seen match footage; and a seven-metre wide panoramic Showdown photo at Adelaide Oval.
He said the exhibition also featured a sketchbook from GW Cox jewellers showcasing their Magarey Medal designs dating back to 1932; the phenomenal contribution and evolution of women’s football; and rare items from the SANFL History Centre’s vast collection, including medals, posters, photographs, trophies and fan memorabilia.
“The State Library has complemented this material by including items from the library’s collections,” Mr Strempel said.
“Stories connect the past to the present and into the future for the next generations to enjoy and learn from,” he said.
“Tapping into emotions, stories connect people from all walks of life.
“We know football is much loved in South Australia and we look forward to welcoming supporters of the game who might not have been to the State Library before.”
The exhibition will be on display until 16 October and is open Monday to Tuesday from 8am to 7pm; Wednesday to Friday, 8am to 5pm; Saturday and Sunday, noon to 5pm; and is closed on public holidays.
