TERRITORIANS still have a chance to learn about the life and service of the Top end’s only Victoria Cross recipient with the free exhibition Borella’s War: the making of a legend at the Northern Territory Library.
Arts and Museums Minister Gary Higgins encouraged locals and visitors to visit the exhibition when the Northern Territory Library reopens after the Easter break before the display is closed.
“Albert Borella was an outstanding Territorian who served his country proudly and his remarkable story is told through the library exhibition,” Minister Higgins said.
“The impressive collection showcases rare photographic material and explains Albert Borella’s remarkable personal story within the broader context of Northern Territory development and the significant contribution made by Territorians to World War One,” he said.
Albert Borella walked, swam through flooded rivers, rode horses and eventually travelled on a mail coach and a train to Darwin. Unable to sign on there, he travelled by ship to Queensland and then went on to Western Australia for training before serving at Gallipoli and then the Western Front.
He received the distinctions of Mention in Despatches and the Military Medal for his services in action. Wounded, he was commissioned in the field. In 1918 he received the highest military honour, the Victoria Cross, for most conspicuous bravery in attack.
“The Anzac Centenary is an opportunity to commemorate Albert Borella’s proud contribution and to share his amazing military story with a new generation of Territorians.”
The exhibition complemented the re-enactment of Albert Borella’s journey from Tennant Creek to Darwin in February.
Borella’s War: the making of a legend, is open at the Northern Territory Library in Parliament House until 31 May.
