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 scenesIrish family history
The exhibition may be over but you can still explore your Irish family history on our website. We've sorted through some of the many websites developed by and for family history researchers to bring you a quick overview with tips to get you started, a gateway to Irish family history sites, a timeline of key events and surprising pathways to research Irish convict history.
Not Just Ned was curated by Dr Richard Reid. The National Museum thanks all private and institutional lenders who contributed to the exhibition.
The History Channel was major sponsor of the Not Just Ned exhibition. The Museum's partner was the Embassy of Ireland in Australia. Resource room supporters were Ancestry, the Department of Foreign Affairs of Ireland, Heraldry and Genealogy Society of Canberra, Tourism Ireland, Waterford Crystal, Plush Sofas, Buttlers Chocolates. Culture Ireland supported public programs.