Setting the Scene
By Celeste Alderson-Fletcher

Recently, I visited the National Centre for the latest component of my volunteer service*. It’s always an absolute pleasure to come in, and this visit was no exception. After a friendly and helpful introduction from Belle, Rose and Ruth, the business of the day began – or should I say, the business of The Midnight Gang.

Guided by Belle, I travelled around the Centre office space and the University of Canberra’s library for a lovely and immersive look at the preparations currently occurring for the upcoming The Midnight Gang Exhibition and its grand opening, Midnight Madcaps.

My aim was to chronicle these preparations through a series of images, and get a real sense of just how much effort and care goes into preparing for an exhibition such as this one. Ultimately, I was struck by the realization that, while this kind of work doesn’t just get done by wishing on a star, the levels of collaboration and commitment that go into it are genuinely magical.

The original artwork for The Midnight Gang was donated to the National Centre by The Literature Centre Fremantle, Western Australia. It arrived in a unique storage box and created a great deal of excitement for the volunteers who opened it, unleashing a splash of vibrant colour into the room.

Belle negotiated with the University of Canberra Library for a date to host the exhibition in the Mura Gadi gallery. Happily, February was the month that worked for all. Promotional materials were designed over the December period. For a Christmas project, Belle updated Margaret Wild and Ann James‘ biographical details. The number of personal awards they have each received is testament to their creativity. When I was shown Margaret Wild’s holdings by Rose, I couldn’t believe how extensive they were.

Of course, a hanging system for the artwork was required. This was purchased, and volunteer Rowan Simpkin and her husband spent many productive hours readying the artwork for hanging. Emma Janssen created bespoke activities for two groups of very lucky children who have already booked in to the exhibition.

An exhibition wouldn’t be child-friendly without access to artworks and books. As NCACL holdings are unique, copies were purchased for all to enjoy.

As you can see in the featured image, an important component of any exhibition are the descriptive labels. These have been created by Ruth Nitschke. The labels detail all aspects of the art created, answering questions for those who are curious about what they see.

One thing is for sure – all of this scene-setting came from one inspiring team effort. It is sure to lead into a night of fabulous insights into The Midnight Gang. It’s the first time that both Margaret and Ann have been together to discuss the beloved children’s story, and they’ll do it with Dr Stephanie Owen Reeder OAM on the 18th February 2026 from 5:30-7:30pm.

Don’t miss out!

* Celeste is completing 52 hours of volunteer service for her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.  Dr Belle Alderman AM is her supervisor.

Celeste Alderson-Fletcher has been a teenage volunteer for the NCACL through the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award program since 2023. She enjoys all things literary and verbal and hopes to inspire that same enjoyment in others.

 

 

See also:
Wild, Margaret – NCACL
James, Ann – NCACL
James, Ann
The Midnight Snaps – NCACL an e-gallery of pre-exhibition images created by Celeste Alderson-Fletcher

Posted by: NCACL | Published: 01 Feb 2026