New tech and renovations part of launch

After a three-month hiatus, the Sisters of St John of God Relationships Exhibition officially opened last month and showcased a number of new additions.

During the temporary closure, staff were busy behind the scenes overseeing renovations including upgrades to ceilings and the installation of display lighting in the three small back galleries in preparation for the opening.

A new music gallery was also unveiled and more than 50 scanned photos have been put on display throughout the exhibition.

Visitors will also have greater access to archival documents, thanks to the arrival of three new touch screens.

Community members joined staff and volunteers for the launch of the exhibition, which was blessed by Bishop Christopher Saunders and opened by long-time volunteer Ellen Puertollano.

During the event, guests had the chance to link up to the newly installed wi-fi system on their mobile phones, which will now be available to visitors during exhibition opening hours.

A new documentary called Cracking the Code - Archive to Architect, created by volunteer Willi Lempert and local artisan Lachlan Fraser, was also screened.

Staff also highlighted the revamped SSJG website which aims to increase visitor participation and provide up to date information. SSJG curator and researcher Sister Pat Rhatigan said the Relationships Exhibition continued the century-old tradition of the Sisters of St John of God who have continued to be actively involved in the Broome community in many ways.

"In 2015 we continue to fulfil our mission statement to gather, preserve and make available social history relating to the story of the Sisters and those with whom they came into contact over those years," she said.

"We seem to achieve an improvement in access and expansion of the story each year with the support of the community."

For more information visit http://www.heritage.ssjg.org.au.