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On Saturday 9 September, the WA Maritime Museum officially unveiled its highly anticipated exhibition ‘Australia II — 40 Years On’ to the public. The Deputy Premier, Hon. Rita Saffioti addressed the gathered media and formally opened the exhibition.

Open until 4 February 2024, this exhibition is a pivotal part of the State Government’s month-long celebrations, commemorating the 40^th anniversary of Australia II’s historic victory in the America’s Cup in 1983. The exhibition takes viewers on the journey through history of the America’s Cup race, the creation of the winning team, the construction of the winning yacht, the exuberant celebrations following the win and the subsequent challenge that took place in Fremantle in 1987.

The WA Maritime Museum is the permanent home of Australia II and the only place you can see the yacht and its famous winged keel. Among the other iconic artifacts on display are the original Boxing Kangaroo flags and the keel plug for Ben Lexcen’s famous winged keel. Visitors will also have the chance to try on a replica ‘Bob Hawke’ jacket and view the newly commissioned Lego model of Australia II made by The Brickman, Ryan McNaught. The model contains 16,512 bricks and is nearly 2 metres tall.

Later this month, on Sunday 24 September, Victoria Quay will come alive with a free concert and drone show. The recent announcement of free public transport on this day will ensure that everyone everyone has the opportunity to join in the festivities. Gather your family and friends and celebrate what remains an iconic victory for Western Australia. Tuesday 26 September officially marks 40 years since the momentous victory.

Left to right: Damian Fewster, Skip Lissiman, Jody Fewster, Steve Ward, Lesleigh Green, John Longley, Hon. Samantha Rowe MLC, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Culture and The Arts, WA Museum CEO Alec Coles.

Images: Luke Riley creative, courtesy WA Museum.