This summer marks one hundred years since Lars Halvorsen and his family of boatbuilders and sailors immigrated from Norway to Australia, initiating the love of a boating holiday to non-boating Australians.

The Halvorsen legacy is woven into the maritime identity of Australia. Their beautifully crafted timber cruisers became a staple on waterways from Sydney to the Hawkesbury, and were cherished by generations for leisure and exploration. Beyond their recreational impact, the Halvorsen family also played an essential role in Australia’s wartime efforts, supplying naval vessels during WWII, and later, contributing to competitive sailing with Olympic representation.

This centenary is not just a tribute to a family, but a reflection on how one cultural tradition — boatbuilding — was adapted, shared and embraced in a new country. The exhibition celebrates not only the craftsmanship and innovation of the Halvorsens, but also the broader story of migration, community, and the enduring Australian love for the water.