Bradman Collection Museum
The Bradman Collection Museum
In the late 1960s Sir Donald Bradman was persuaded to place much of his personal material in the State Library of South Australia. Fifty-two scrapbooks documenting his playing career were organised by library staff over several years as photographs, menus, newspaper cuttings and telegrams were copied and mounted in chronological order.
In return Sir Donald donated a significant number of personal items of memorabilia to the library including various bats, balls, trophies, clothing and other pieces which became known as the Bradman Collection. Some were originally displayed at the Mortlock Library of South Australiana from 1986 before a larger selection of pieces was moved to a permanent exhibition site in the library’s Institute Building in 1998. It was originally Sir Donald’s wish that a home for the collection might one day be found at Adelaide Oval and this took place in August, 2008 to coincide with the centenary of his birth.
The South Australian Cricket Association is now the custodian of the collection in conjunction with the Premier’s Department, State Library and the Bradman Family. The State Library retains the archival materials and management of the Bradman Collection website. The Bradman Collection Museum follows Sir Don's progress from club cricketer on to the interstate and international stage. It notes his rise to hero status in the 1930s and how that status has been maintained. It explores his major role in cricket administration and provides glimpses of the family man and all-round sportsman.
The Bradman Collection Museum at Adelaide Oval was opened on Friday 22nd August 2008 by South Australian Premier Mike Rann MP, John Bradman and SACA President Ian McLachlan. The Bradman Collection Museum follows Sir Don's progress from club cricketer on to the interstate and international stage. It notes his rise to hero status in the 1930s and how that status has been maintained. It explores his major role in cricket administration and provides glimpses of the family man and all-round sportsman.
Museum opening times
Monday 9.30am – 4.30pm
Tuesday 9.30am – 4.30pm
Wednesday 9.30am – 4.30pm
Thursday 9.30am – 4.30pm
Friday 9.30am – 4.30pm
Saturday closed
Sunday closed
Test match from gates open until 4.30pm
One Day International from gates open until 4.30pm