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Not Just Ned: A True History of the Irish in Australia revealed the extraordinary influence of the Irish in Australia, from the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, to the continuing influx of young Irish backpackers today. From politics and religion, to industry, art, music and dance, the Irish have had a far-reaching influence on Australia.

Featuring nearly 500 rare and unique objects from Australian and international collections, this exhibition remembered the Irish immigrants, and their descendants, who made this continent their home, and helped create a uniquely Australian way of life.

Not Just Ned: A True History of the Irish in Australia was on show at the National Museum of Australia from 17 March to 31 July 2011.

Behind the scenes

Go behind the scenes to discover how curators overcame the challenges involved with handling the objects in Not Just Ned.

Go behind the scenes
Welcome messages Welcome messages from Ambassador of Ireland Máirtín Ó Fainín and Museum Director Andrew Sayers.
Irish in Australia background An essay by senior curator Richard Reid on the Irish in Australia.
Bushrangers Irish bushrangers, from the infamous Ned Kelly gang to gentleman bushranger Martin Cash.
Personal stories Visitors to Not Just Ned tell their own Irish stories through video.
Acknowledgements Not Just Ned was put together with the enthusiastic cooperation of many individuals and organisations.
Irish Studies Conference Exploration of the impact of Irish culture, religion, language and music in shaping Australian identity.
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