LEGO RSV Nuyina docks at the State Library

Description

It’s sailed across the sea from the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery and now a massive LEGO model of Australia’s new icebreaker RSV Nuyina has anchored in the State Library's foyer.

The model is on loan from the Australian Antarctic Division and was brought to life in LEGO by Ryan “The Brickman” McNaught. It’s 3.2 metres long, uses 117,612 LEGO bricks and took a team of three people 328 hours to build. Most recently it was featured on the hit TV show LEGO Masters Australia.

The inspiration to build the model came to Mr McNaught while he was in Hobart in 2016 where he learned that a new icebreaker was under construction. RSV Nuyina is the main lifeline to Australia’s research stations and the central platform of Australia's Antarctic and Southern Ocean scientific research. ‘Nuyina’ (pronounced noy-yee-nah) means ‘southern lights’ in palawa kani, the language of Tasmanian Aboriginal People. 

FAQs

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid metered street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

There is on-street disabled parking available in the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays.  The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include quiet study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.