A new exhibition at the Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG) is showcasing the varied work of the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
Museum Curator at AFP, Chris Cranston said the Threads of Policing exhibition celebrated the AFP’s achievements, while honouring the dedication and commitment of its members.
Ms Cranston said the exhibition team had painstakingly selected over 100 items from the AFP’s vast holdings, which were on display until 5 March.
“The exhibition features AFP members’ contributions to the AFP 40th Anniversary Quilts,” she said.
“The quilts were a collaborative effort by AFP members who contributed patches that represented what the AFP meant to them.
“We had such a wonderful response from the organisation with these quilts, it illustrates how proud our members are of the work they do to help keep Australia safe.”
Ms Cranston said the exhibition included items from significant AFP operations, including the response to the 2002 Bali bombings; the downing of Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17; the 2018 cave rescue in Thailand; as well as peacekeeping in Afghanistan, Cyprus, Timor-Leste and the Solomon Islands.
“What’s reported in the media, the pictures and interviews are important, but I think these items can help convey the personal involvement of our people,” she said.
“The world was captivated by the story of the Thai cave rescue, but to see in person the equipment they used, to get a sense of how demanding the job was for our AFP divers, really helps people understand the work the AFP does.”
The AFP Curator said the exhibition featured two events at the Gallery, a recount of the Thai cave rescue with AFP divers and a Curator’s talk to give an in-depth look at the exhibition.
She said the first presentation was scheduled for 16 February and tickets were free, but bookings were essential.
“We are dedicated to preserving significant moments in AFP history and ensuring future generations know of the incredible work and achievements of AFP members throughout our 40-year history,” Ms Cranston said.
