Da Vinci exhibition opens in City of Moreton Bay

An internationally renowned exhibition, which brings Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions to life, will feature at all museums across the City of Moreton Bay from August 9.

The Da Vinci Machines: Inventions Brought to Life has been officially opened this afternoon at Redcliffe Museum.

The interactive exhibition is on loan from the Museum of Leonardo da Vinci in Florence and includes 60 of da Vinci’s original inventions.

Alongside the inventions are replicas of some of da Vinci’s most famous paintings, including the Mona Lisa, ‘the lady with the secret smile’.

Moreton Bay City Council Mayor Peter Flannery says the exhibition is a rare opportunity to experience something truly extraordinary from one of history’s greats.

“Hosting this exhibition is a huge win for City of Moreton Bay,” Mayor Flannery says.

“Bringing this world-renowned collection to our city gives families, students, history lovers and curious minds of all ages the opportunity to step inside the mind of a true genius.

“I’m proud that our local museums can offer such a high-calibre, world-class experience in our own backyard – sparking ideas, curiosity and creativity across the community.”

Special guest Tom Rizzo, Director of Exhibitions at Artisans of Florence, will be at all three museums throughout the weekend to share insights into the recreation of some of da Vinci’s ingenious machines.

“There's a lot to surprise people in this exhibition. Leonardo was not just a great artist, but an incredible engineer, scientist, botanist and designer,” Mr Rizzo says.

“I think people are often astonished by the breadth of his work and the many fields of study he innovated. Visitors often marvel at the innumerable designs that we recognise from modern life such as helicopters, hang gliders, parachutes, tanks, the bicycle and many more.”

Free programs and workshops will run across all City of Moreton Bay museums for the duration of the exhibition including a special opening weekend event.

Da Vinci Machines runs from August 9 to November 2 2025 at Pine Rivers Heritage Museum, Bribie Island Seaside Museum and Redcliffe Museum. Entry is free.

More information about the exhibition, visit the website.

Photo gallery

By Dominika Lis