Regional Victoria’s goldmining history is set to shine with a showcase of treasured jewellery visiting in partnership with the National Gallery.

An intricate colonial-era gold brooch with goldfield motifs.
Image: Brooch, unknown silversmith, c. 1860

The latest partnership announced under the Sharing the National Collection initiative will see 12 pieces on display at the Maryborough gallery for two years from 27 June 2024.

They include 3 contemporary works in gold and silver by Victorian jewellery designer Rowena Gough, a Maryborough local whose works are collected by major galleries across the country.

An intricate mid-19th century Australian goldfields brooch crafted by Godfrey and Abraham will also be on show, alongside several sparkling pieces of a similar vintage from unknown artists.

The loan is a nod to the history of the region and highlights how the scheme can use pieces from the national collection to tell local stories.

Sharing the National Collection is part of Revive, Australia's new national cultural policy, with $11.8 million over 4 years to fund the costs of transporting, installing and insuring works in the national art collection so that they can be seen across the country for extended periods.

Regional and suburban galleries can register their expressions of interest on the National Gallery of Australia's website.

Read the Minister's media release—Sharing the National Collection: Golden opportunity for Maryborough to host national treasures.