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Secrets: Objects of Intrigue
Recommended for ages 12+
About the exhibition
Secrets are at the heart of what it means to be human. What we reveal, and conceal, from others shapes our identity.
On display for the first time, this Queensland Museum exhibition presents the deeply individual and universally human phenomenon of secrets.
Secrets: Objects of Intrigue explores secrets through the varied lenses of daily home life, from behind bars, in popular culture and throughout military and political history.
Objects with hidden compartments, personal stories of surveillance, spy gadgets, and covert weapons. Each showcase reveals more than meets the eye. This layered exhibition will reward visitors who linger for a closer look.
Special Event - Secret Communication and Social Change
Join us for an engaging in-conversation event featuring First Nations activists Gail Mabo and Milton Walit, facilitated by Dr Bianca Beetson. Together, these influential figures will unpack the personal, political, and cultural forces that fuelled the Blak activism movement in Queensland—from secret methods of communication, to the surveillance of legendary land rights campaigner Eddie Mabo and the impact that had on Gail Mabo growing up.
Presented as part of the Secrets: Objects of Intrigue exhibition, this discussion underscores our commitment to sharing and celebrating the untold stories that have shaped Queensland’s history. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear firsthand accounts from those who were instrumental in a critical chapter of the struggle for justice and equality.
Queensland Museum would like to advise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples this panel discussion may contain stories of people who have passed, and detail experiences that some audience members may find confronting or triggering.
10.30am - 12pm, Thursday 1 May 2025
Theatre, Queensland Museum Kurilpa
This event is free. Recommended for ages 15+. Bookings are encouraged but walk-ups are welcome.
Presented in Partnership with University of Queensland.
Tell us a secret...
Do you have a secret to share? Did you cheat in an exam? Is your pet a secret from your landlord? Do you have a secret love?
Secret submissions form
Submit your secret in one or two sentences below for a chance to have it featured anonymously in our exhibition.
More information
- Your secret will be anonymously displayed.
- Secrets will be moderated.
- While we appreciate all submissions, we may not be able to exhibit all of them.
- Submissions are governed by our Privacy Policy.
#secretsqm #tellusasecret #shareasecret
Subject matter
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander visitors are advised that this display contains images and objects of people who have died.
The exhibition gallery contains histories of government surveillance of First Nations and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Queensland Museum is committed to sharing all histories and invites visitors to exercise their discretion.
Accessibility
This exhibition features:
Very low light
For accessibility assistance and resources for this exhibition, including a Large Print Guide, please visit our accessibility page or contact the museum on (07) 3153 3000.
Learn more
Plan your visit
Plan your visit to Queensland Museum Kurilpa, centrally located at the Queensland Cultural Centre, South Bank.
How to get here & parking
Queensland Museum Kurilpa is easily accessible by foot, on public transport or by car.
Accessibility
Accessibility and sensory information to help you plan your visit to Queensland Museum Kurilpa.
What's on
View our calendar of exhibitions, events, activities and school programs.
Discovering Ancient Egypt
Journey back through time to explore the mysteries, artistry and rituals from one of the world's most captivating civilisations.
Secrets: Objects of Intrigue
Explore the deeply individual and universally human phenomenon of secrets. On display for the first time.