Gerringong Historical Society recently brought local history to life with its ‘Defining Images of Australia’ exhibition - a celebration of the nation’s icons and stories.

The event, held in collaboration with the National Museum of Australia, began with museum provided panels showing definitive Australian symbols such as the wattle, the kangaroo and the humble suitcase - representing migrants arriving in the 1950s.

“Our curator reached out to the community for items that represent Australia,” said Historical Society president Geoff Webb. “The response was enormous."

Photo: Supplied

Locals contributed everything from 1850s table decorations shaped like palm trees to thongs found on Werri Beach with a bottle opener cut into the sole in the shape of Australia.

Vintage Women's Weekly cookbooks, Jenny Kee jumpers, and Arnott’s biscuit tins also featured among the nostalgic collection.

Students from Gerringong Public School added a creative touch, crafting Opera House inspired artworks and papier-mache models deco Gerringong rated with fireworks.

Local artist Emma Jespers Brush spoke about her works exploring Australian flora, fauna and colonial history

A highlight of the night was an English trunk from 1785, lined with pages from Hansard, believed to have links to the Berry family.

The event also showcased a quilt voted by Marilyn Pearce inspired by Margaret Preston’s wildflower paintings which is being raffled to support community projects.

Photo: Supplied

Looking ahead, the society is preparing for the centenary of the Werri Beach estate next January, with an exhibition and walking tours planned later on in the year.

“People think history is old,” Webb said.

“But it’s happening every day. Our job is to remember it for future generations and share it with the community.