2025 Annual Appeal
Help us to conserve and archive the Graeme 'Bluey' Thomson Collection.
The newly acquired Graeme ‘Bluey’ Thomson Collection offers a rare insight into the changing role of the press photographer. It contains hundreds of photographs taken by Thomson while he worked in the Press Gallery at Parliament House in Canberra, and objects such as his press passes and awards.
The photographs reveal how he honed his craft as, over several decades, he captured the political story of Australia. They include candid behind-the-scenes shots as well as striking images of well-known people and landmark events.
Your donation will enable us to research, conserve, archive and share the collection.
Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser and Treasurer John Howard before the start of the 1980 Premiers' Conference in Canberra.
Photograph Graeme Thomson / Newspix
Graeme 'Bluey' Thomson (left) taking notes with another photographer.
Photograph Unknown
Women's refuge demonstrators attempt entry to Parliament House.
Photograph Graeme Thomson / Newspix
Bill Hayden pretends to curtsy to Prime Minister Bob Hawke after arriving late for the group photo.
Photograph Graeme Thomson / Newspix
Queen Elizabeth II meets people during a walk through City Hill in Canberra.
Photograph Graeme Thomson / Sydney Morning Herald
World water speed record holder Ken Warby and his 'Spirit of Australia' on Lake Burley Griffin.
Photograph Graeme Thomson / Newspix
Donations over $2 are fully tax deductible. Donations of $50 or more will be acknowledged on our website and in our Annual Report.
You may also be interested in...
Donations in action
Recreating the Clerk of the Senate's office to evoke 1975.
Partnerships
We offer unique and rewarding opportunities through creative and collaborative partnerships.
Donate to our collection
Frequently asked questions about the donation process and what we collect.