Geelong Sports Museum now in play

GEELONG’S sporting history is now on show following the official opening of the Geelong Sports Museum.

Kardinia Park Stadium Trust opened the museum, which features more than 80 historical artefacts from more than 30 sports, at GMHBA Stadium earlier this month.

Geelong Sports Museum manager Jessica Reid said the inspirational qualities of the museum and its content set the venue apart from other sports museums.

“When people leave the museum, they feel inspired after reminiscing about stories they might have known from the past.

“The connection with the community is also something that many are commenting on, the museum is really about community for community.

“We’re also really grateful for the support we’ve had from other museums regionally as well as in metro.

“The Australian Sports Museum is heavily involved, Geelong Gallery and the Australian Surf Museum are also some of the museums assisting us.”

Among the artefacts are Cadel Evans’ Tour De France yellow jersey from 2011, Wathaurong runner Dan Dan Nook’s medal at the 1860 Highland Games, and Barwon Heads skier Jakara Anthony’s 2022 Tokyo Olympic Games gold medal.

The museum has announced its featured collection exhibit is about the life and achievements of Chas Brownlow, a Geelong born and raised footballer whose name now adorns the AFL league best and fairest medal.

Ms Reid also confirmed local athletes competing in this year’s Paris Olympics will be recognised, as well as previous locals who have attended the Olympics.

Kardinia Stadium Park Trust chief executive officer Gerard Griffin said the feedback from visitors had already been overwhelmingly positive.

“I’m incredibly proud of everyone that has made this happen, including Jess and Kim Forbes, but also the contributions and assistance of Bob Gartland, the volunteer reference group and all of the donors themselves.

“The public willingness to contribute to the formation of the museum has been exceptional and I think we’ve created a real jewel within the stadium as a result.

“My reaction echoes the reactions of people who have already seen the museum over the past week, and I’ve already witnessed people moved by the museum. I’m just extremely proud.”

Opening hours for the museum, which is located next to the Polly Farmer Gate on the stadium’s Moorabool Street side, are from 10am to 4.30pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

For more information, head to geelongsportsmuseum.vic.gov.au