Exhibition tells story of State Archives' growth

Minister for Public Works and Information and Communication Technology
The Honourable Robert Schwarten
18/11/2009

Exhibition tells story of State Archives' growth

Queensland State Archives is celebrating its 50th anniversary year and welcomes members of the public to a special exhibition at its Runcorn facility.

Public Works Minister Robert Schwarten said today the exhibition, For the record - celebrating 50, told the story of State Archives' evolution since 1959 and would engage anyone with an interest in Queensland's 'modern history'.

"The display covers not only the story of State Archives in terms of buildings and documents, but how its role has changed and expanded over half a century," Mr Schwarten said.

"In 1959, the historic Commissariat Store building in Brisbane first housed our documentary heritage.

"Later moves to Dutton Park and then Runcorn are captured, along with the significant contributions of successive State Archivists.

"There is also a special feature on records relating to Indigenous people, for whom a research service operates at Runcorn through the Department of Communities, assisted by archivists."

Mr Schwarten said the exhibition reflected State Archives' increased role in government information management planning.

"In recent times this has been driven by Queensland's Right to Information reforms, which recognise the need for a whole-of-government information management policy," he said.

"It is the Archives' responsibility to research and provide policy advice on a wide range of recordkeeping issues associated with government activities. It works closely with public authorities to improve recordkeeping practices within a whole-of-government framework."

The exhibition is in the foyer of State Archives' facility in Compton Road, Runcorn, which is open between 9am and 4.30pm from Monday to Friday and at these times on the second Saturday of every month.