Queensland Firsts

Queensland Firsts

Queensland State Archives

Queensland State Archives will unveil 50 history-defining milestones as firsts for Queensland in a unique exhibition to highlight the State’s 150th celebrations.

The Queensland Firsts exhibition includes rarely seen archival records chosen by eminent Queensland historian, Professor Kay Saunders and Dr Julie Ustinoff from the Brisbane Institute and Dr Shirleene Robinson from Bond University. The records, from the collection held at Queensland State Archives, present a rare glimpse into pivotal moments in Queensland’s history, including pioneering events recognised as world firsts. 

From the world’s first Labour government, to Queensland’s first world exposition, and the State’s inaugural land rights case, these important milestones provide a window into social, political and cultural events of the past to map a journey that has defined us as Queenslanders.

Presented by Queensland State Archives as part of Queensland’s 150th celebrations.