Through Mununjali Eyes

Through Mununjali Eyes: photojournalist Wayne Coolwell, a fascinating showcase capturing the life and legacy of the late Mununjali broadcaster, author and community leader Wayne Coolwell, is on display at State Library of Queensland from March 28th to October 18th.

Photojournalist Wayne Coolwell (1956–2025) forged a remarkable career spanning broadcasting, writing, visual arts and community leadership. Through Mununjali Eyes: offers a vital visual archive of over 5 decades of Aboriginal political, social and cultural life told through Wayne’s personal photography.

From professional beginnings at just 15 years old, Wayne’s voice would become best known to national audiences as an ABC sports broadcaster and through Speaking Out, the pioneering program that gave First Nations perspectives a national platform.

The exhibition includes rare photographs of First Nations icons including Neville Bonner, Archie Roach, Stan Grant, Ernie Dingo and Ruby Hunter, alongside portraits of Wayne's family and community.

Through Mununjali eyes: photojournalist Wayne Coolwell began as a partnership between State Library and the late Wayne Coolwell, whose leadership, insight and cultural authority shaped its development. Following Wayne's passing in May 2025, this showcase has been created in close consultation with co-curator Jo-Anne Driessens and Wayne’s family. It is presented in Wayne’s honour, acknowledging his life, his stories and the enduring legacy he entrusted to this work.

Need to know – For info on how to get to the exhibition and accessibility, go here.

State Library of Queensland is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com 

Image tributes - top to bottom:

Wayne Coolwell 1994, ABC Studio, New York City, 34172 Wayne Coolwell archive, John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland.

The return of Tambo’s remains to Palm Island 1994, 34172 Wayne Coolwell archive, John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland.

Uluru 1995, 34172 Wayne Coolwell archive, John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland.

Brothers in Arms 1982, Musgrave Park in central Brisbane. Left to right: R Colin Hopkins, Tony Gray, Norman Skeen, Jeffrey Hopkins, (front) John West. 34172 Wayne Coolwell archive, John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland.

A Village on the Rhine Germany 1979, 34172 Wayne Coolwell archive, John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland.