Emerging from the sugarcane farms of tropical Queensland to cut a path to freedom, the stories of Australian South Sea Islanders are steeped in strength and resilience.

Through never-before-seen original photographs, rare and restricted historical papers, and newly commissioned artworks, Plantation Voices repatriates the living history of the unknown names and faces of people tricked or kidnapped into servitude as cheap labour in Queensland’s cane fields.

More than 150 years later, the exhibition also charts the pathways of descendants in reclaiming their lost past and forging their identities into the future.

Through this free exhibition, State Library’s heritage collections give voice to the untold stories of a community that played a vital role in the shaping of our nation, and fought so fiercely to call Australia home.

Please note: this exhibition is closed on Good Friday.