THE Bunker Cartoon Gallery in Coffs Harbour is home to more than 22,000 original cartoons, some dating back as far as 1949.
They tell the stories, in pictorial satire, of Australia’s many political, sporting and other major events.
It’s a history not replicated anywhere else in the world.
Each year the gallery adds to its collection through the Rotary Cartoon Awards, which it hosts and is now in its 29th year.
Over that time the Bunker has built a significant collection representing most of Australia’s well known cartoonists. And rather than have these stay buried for the lucky few who get to thumb through the catalogues of works available, they have created a tribute to some of the more popular works from over the years in the exhibition, A Rotary Retrospective.
On show from June 16-August 6, it contains an eclectic collection of submitted works from the beginning of the Rotary Cartoon Awards in 1988 up until 2016.
Overlooking Coffs Harbour on City Hill, the gallery is located in an underground World War II bunker, which alone is worth a visit. Visitors will be transported back in time by the building and the artworks.
The Bunker is mainly staffed by volunteers, who can provide a wealth of information. There’s also a video that details the history of the building and its role in the region’s defence in the war.
The gallery is open daily from 10am-4pm; entry is $5. If you book ahead, for a little extra you can even be offered morning or afternoon tea.
- Phone (02) 6651-7343 or email bookings@thebunkercartoongallery.com.au
