1834 was the highest year for strike participation by workers apart from 1891.

Tasmania was at the heart of collective convict resistance.

Until now the story of how transported Convicts fought for their rights at work has not been told.

The Unshackled exhibition tells that story using groundbreaking research with interactive displays, videos and music.

You can watch a video promotion of the exhibition here.

Unions Tasmania is promoting a free union members day on Saturday June 1st at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery

Featuring

· Guided Tours of the exhibition from 10:30 am( 25 minutes length)

· Panel Discussion of the Exhibition 1-3pm in two 45 minute parts

1) Convict collective resistance to Unfree Labour: A Victory against the odds: Short speeches, selected videos and panel discussion with Hamish Maxwell-Stewart, Tony Moore and Steve Thomas.

2) Issues facing workers today and the role inspiration of past collective victories have with Prof Michael Quinlan, Jessica Munday, Secretary Unions Tasmania, and other speakers tbc

With performance of convict songs between the two sessions by Van Walker.

A reception with drinks for ticketed attendees of the panel discussion afterwards from 3 to 4pm.

Union members are encouraged to indvidually book tickets for both one of the guided tours times and both panel discussions 1-3 pm. Union members can book tickets also for family and friends. You can select what times and events suit you in your selection of tickets.

The Unshackled exhibition is sponsored by the Mineworkers Trust and the Maurice Blackburn. Cascades Brewery is generously providing beer for the reception.