A hard hat, a child’s pair of shoes, a unicorn and a compass are among the objects chosen by the 2024 Australian of the Year (AOTY) state and territory recipients, who include the ACT’s own champion for women in construction, Joanne (Jo) Farrell, now on display at the National Museum of Australia.
The Museum and the National Australia Day Council today launched an exhibition of significant objects chosen by the 2024 AOTY state and territory recipients, which reveal personal stories about their lives, aspirations and experiences. Other recipients include include an environmental scientist, an Indigenous health leader and an advocate for victims of crime.
The 2024 ACT AOTY recipient, Ms Farrell fought hard to pursue her dream job as a builder – even working for free to gain an apprenticeship. She ultimately succeeded, becoming a qualified carpenter and builder working on major projects in Australia and overseas. In 2020, she founded Build Like a Girl, a not-for-profit organisation that mentors women and matches them with training and employment in the construction industry. She also works with government, industry bodies and unions to help them recruit and train women in trade roles.
Her chosen objects for the exhibition are an industry-best steel hammer she bought at the end of her hard-earned apprenticeship, and a hard hat she wore on site every day. For Jo, they are more than the tools of the trade; they are symbolic, representing her perseverance, leadership and belonging in the male-dominated construction industry.
National Museum acting director Katherine McMahon said all the AOTY recipients had chosen deeply personal objects that reflected their life’s story, work and experiences.
“We are delighted to display these captivating objects selected by the extraordinary state and territory recipients. These objects underpin their personal history, reveal significant moments in their lives and connect to the broader social and political impact they have. We invite all Australians to view the objects on display, discover the remarkable stories of the Australians who selected them and reflect on the issues they raise,” Ms McMahon said.
National Australia Day Council CEO Mark Fraser AO CVO said, “In these challenging times, these objects give us a sense of hope that our brightest days are ahead. Our Australians of the Year from each state and territory are, in their own way, making an impact – socially, environmentally or politically. They remind us of what can grow out of small seeds of action.”
According to National Museum curator Coen Ramalli, “this exhibition allows all Australians to connect with the remarkable state and territory recipients, shining a light on their lives, illuminating their achievements, and inspiring us all. It has been a joy and a privilege to work with them on this project, and I can’t wait for visitors to see their objects and hear their stories.”
Each year, the Australian of the Year Awards celebrate the achievements and contributions of eminent Australians who are role models for us all.
The 2024 Australian of the Year exhibition will be on display at the National Museum until Sunday 11 February 2024 and will then tour nationally.
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