Grassroots to Glory: exhibition celebrates our sporting spirit

The Sunshine Coast’s rich sporting heritage takes centre field in a dynamic new display, Bounce! A Grassroots to Glory exhibition, officially opening on Friday, June 6 at the Landsborough Museum.

Part of the ongoing Grassroots to Glory series leading up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, this year’s exhibition celebrates the region’s passion for ball sports – from backyard games to international glory.

Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community Portfolio Councillor Taylor Bunnag said the exhibition spanned more than a century of local sporting history.

“Bounce showcases the innovation, community spirit, and unforgettable moments that have shaped our region’s sporting identity,” Cr Bunnag said.

“The exhibition is thoughtfully curated into three themes – Innovation, Supporters, and Sporting Moments—featuring objects and stories from the 1900s to the 2000s.”

Exhibition highlights

Divisional Councillor Jenny Broderick, who will officially open the exhibition, said many of the items on display had been generously loaned by the local community.

“This exhibition wouldn’t have been possible without our local community kindly sharing their prized memorabilia. These items offer a deeply personal and authentic glimpse into our region’s sporting past.”

Highlights include a new film by Chris Peckham, featuring interviews with local legends such as:

• Lorna Whelan, sharing the story of the Pickering sisters and their field hockey legacy in Kenilworth;
• Kevin Briggs, recounting the poetic 1904 tennis match between Buderim and Nambour;
• Gordon Plowman, reflecting on Wilfred Bratton of Flaxton, one of the original Socceroos;
• Don Fewquandie, who played and coached footy across the region, including with Mal Meninga;
• Rex Eggmolesse, who shares his family’s deep roots and triumphs in rugby league.

Visitors can explore a wide array of fascinating objects, including a sport wheelchair, a WWII coach whistle, a Victorian-era tennis outfit and memorabilia from the Sunshine Coast Lightning’s first netball game. A portrait of George Eggmolesse and a tennis court line marker from former Queensland Governor Sir Leslie Orme Wilson also feature prominently.

The exhibition is designed for all ages, with interactive elements like a foosball table, Wii sports games, and craft activities for younger visitors. And of course, there’s jerseys and trophies.

Bounce! A Grassroots to Glory exhibition is on display at the Landsborough Museum, located at 4 Maleny Street, Landsborough, and is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am–3pm. For more information, call 07 5420 8600 or visit heritage.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.