Perc Tucker Exhibition Opening of Wedgwood: Artists and Industry

Representing the Minister for the Environment, Tourism, and Minister for Science, Member for Thuringowa, Ms Natalie Marr MP; Acting Mayor of Townsville, Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney, and Townsville City Council leadership; Townsville City Galleries Director, Townsville City Council, Dr Holly Arden; Wedgwood Collection Archivist, Victoria and Albert Museum, Ms Lucy Lead; distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.

Thank you, Mr Brenton Creed, for your stirring Welcome to Country. 

I, too, wish to acknowledge the Original Custodians of the lands on which we gather this evening, the Gurambilburra Wulgurukaba, Bindal, Nywaigi, and Gugu Badhun peoples. I pay my respects to Elders past, present, and emerging, and extend that respect to all First Nations people here with us tonight.

As Governor of Queensland, it is my great pleasure to be here in Townsville this evening for the highly anticipated opening of Wedgwood: Artists and Industry, a remarkable exhibition exclusive to Australia in 2025.

Tonight, we celebrate not just centuries of artistic excellence but also the enduring connections between history, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage.

Wedgwood is a name that resonates across generations—a symbol of innovation, artistry, and refinement.

From its origins in England more than 260 years ago, Wedgwood has been intrinsically linked to the British monarchy, earning royal patronage and international acclaim.

This connection extends to Australia, where the influence of Britain and the Commonwealth has shaped aspects of our artistic and cultural landscape. Through its exquisite design and technical mastery, Wedgwood has long held a place in homes and collections across our nation.

It is particularly fitting that we gather here at the Perc Tucker Gallery, a space renowned for bringing world-class exhibitions to North Queensland.

And, of course, it was only recently that the Gallery’s influence was felt in Brisbane, when a stunning selection of portraits from The Percivals took pride of place at Government House during our annual Christmas Lights display. That exhibition, seen by many thousands of visitors, was a testament to the power of collaboration between institutions in celebrating and sharing art with the wider community.

Now, we turn our attention to this extraordinary collection from the Victoria and Albert Museum—a showcase of over two centuries of Wedgwood’s finest works. As we admire these pieces, we are reminded that art is not only an expression of beauty but also a reflection of history, tradition, and identity.

I encourage you all to take your time exploring this exhibition, to appreciate the craftsmanship, and to immerse yourselves in the stories that these remarkable ceramics tell.

Thank you to the Townsville City Council, the Perc Tucker Gallery, and all those who have worked to bring this world-class exhibition to North Queensland.

I have no doubt that Wedgwood: Artists and Industry will leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Thank you and enjoy your evening.