The Minister for Sport and Recreation, Graham Annesley, officially unveiled the new gallery at Bowral’s International Cricket Hall of Fame which pays tribute to the game’s greatest player and key moments in history, including the infamous Bodyline series.
“On behalf of the NSW Premier, Barry O’Farrell, I’m delighted to open to this marvellous addition to the International Cricket Hall of Fame, which has fast become one of the most popular tourist attractions in regional NSW,” Mr Annesley said.
The Origins Gallery tells the story of cricket’s evolution from the 1300s up to the 1900s, highlighting how cricket shaped communities as it spread around the world.
The new Bradman Gallery features items from the Bradman Museum never before exhibited, including interactive displays and Sir Donald’s presentation coaching slides.
“One of the most enjoyable and exciting aspects of this wonderful facility is the educational opportunities it presents. Through video forums and virtual classrooms it will reach students across Australia and around the globe,” Mr Annesley added.
The Bodyline theatrette features a short film, helping a new generation understand how two Captains’ decisions on the field impacted on the relationship between two countries.
The NSW Government has provided $7.4 million to develop the International Cricket Hall of Fame, including $4.49 million for the new galleries.
“The International Cricket Hall of Fame honours Sir Donald Bradman’s vision that ‘cricket continue to flourish and spread its wings’,” Mr Annesley said.
“I congratulate and commend the Foundation’s Board of Directors, Executive Director, staff and volunteers for their diligent, meticulous work and their ongoing commitment to ensuring Sir Donald Bradman’s legacy lives on,” Mr Annesley said.
