The AFP is pleased to launch the Threads of Policing exhibition at the Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG). The exhibition will open on Saturday, 6 November 2021, and run until 5 March 2022. It will showcase the varied work of the AFP, and celebrate its achievements, while honouring the dedication and commitment of its members.
The exhibition has been a labour of love for AFP Museum Curator Chris Cranston and the team, who have painstakingly selected over 100 items for display from the AFP’s vast holdings.
“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,” she said.
The exhibition features AFP members’ contributions to the AFP 40th Anniversary Quilts. 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.”
Items on display include those from significant AFP operations such as 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. 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.”
CMAG Director Sarah Schmidt said she is delighted for CMAG to host this important exhibition which recognises and celebrates the vital, often overlooked contribution of the AFP in keeping Australia safe.
“Our visitors will be moved by the objects and stories in the show, which highlights the work the Australian Federal Police,” Sarah said.
The exhibition will feature two events at the Gallery, one a recount of the Thai cave rescue with AFP divers and the other a Curator’s talk to give an in-depth look at the exhibition. The first presentation is scheduled for 16 February 2022; tickets are free but bookings are essential.
