The National Cartoon Gallery @The Bunker in Coffs Harbour is the only gallery of its kind in the world! The recent completion of a major addition to the attraction comprising a second gallery above the existing underground bunker, plus a boutique café, small theatre and a community meeting room, has expanded the visitor experience. Where else could you visit an attractive regional city and find a venue filled with cartoons – and be sure to leave with a smile on your face?
The history of this building alone makes a visit worthwhile. The unique heritage listed World War II underground communications bunker, converted to a gallery in 1996, has a story of its own to tell and memorabilia items on display assist the visitor to explore a little more of its history.
Exhibitions in both galleries change regularly, comprising works from the gallery’s collection of 24,000 works plus traveling exhibitions and themed events. The Rotary Cartoon Awards, now in their 33rd year, add hundreds of works annually, ensuring the gallery continues to represent current opinions and events, with a humorous or cynical perspective.
Ironically today, the bunker continues its role of communication, from the seriousness of its wartime purpose back in 1943-45, to its current humorous look at the world. Definitely, a place to allow some time to take it all in.
The National Cartoon Gallery is housed in an authentic underground WWII bunker converted into a unique exhibition space, containing an archive of Australian political cartooning history.
