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Unopened bottle of Tooth's Draught Ale

The Beer They Never Shared

One of Australia’s oldest unopened bottles of beer has been donated to the National Collection.

Second World War 1939 - 1945
General Hans-Jürgen von Arnim and other senior officers arrive at Trent Park

The Walls Have Ears

Eavesdropping on German prisoners in England provided crucial intelligence.

By Dr Helen Fry

Second World War 1939 - 1945
An ornate and fastidiously decorated fascist eagle clasping a Roman fasces, from which are suspended the symbols of the three Axis allies, each contained within a decorated wreath - from left to right, the Nazi swastika; the Italian arms and the Japanese 'rising sun' flag.

An Axis ornament

Trench art created at the POW camp in Cowra, NSW.

By Kerry Neale

Second World War 1939 - 1945
A group of seven Australians standing around a microphrone. Squadron Leader James Catanach is in the centre.

The Great Escape

The Great Escape, the largest Allied prisoner of war breakout of the Second World War.

Second World War 1939 - 1945
HMAS Perth at sea in a camouflage scheme.

The Perth sail

In early 1942, HMAS Perth was sunk during the Battle of Sunda Strait.

By Amanda New

Second World War 1939 - 1945
Portrait of Agnes Betty Jeffrey

Forbidden diaries

Sister Betty Jeffrey's story of survival, courage, and comradeship as a prisoner of war.

By Robyn van Dyk

Second World War 1939 - 1945
Chick Nagasaki

A terrific flash of light

Corporal Allan Chick’s story is one of survival against the odds.

By Meghan Adams

Second World War 1939 - 1945
Portrait of Flight Sergeant Keith Mills in his uniform

Australian airmen at Buchenwald

Downed Australian airmen were sent to a concentration camp, instead of to a military prison.

By Emily Hyles

Second World War 1939 - 1945