The genius of Leonardo da Vinci lands in City of Moreton Bay
Published 07 August 2025
- City of Moreton Bay museums showcase free international exhibition that brings Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions to life
- Features 60 of da Vinci’s inventions including interactive models to see, touch, and explore
- Opening weekend celebrations feature special guests, live demonstrations, science shows, guest talks and hands-on activities
City of Moreton Bay museums will spark curiosity and imagination with Da Vinci Machines: Inventions brought to life, a spectacular international exhibition on display across all Council museums from 9 August.
The interactive exhibition has landed all the way from the Museum of Leonardo da Vinci in Florence and includes 60 of da Vinci’s original inventions.
Alongside his inventions are replicas of some da Vinci’s most famous paintings, including the Mona Lisa, ‘the lady with the secret smile’.
City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery said the exhibition was 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 said.
“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 said.
“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 9 August – 2 November 2025 at Pine Rivers Heritage Museum, Bribie Island Seaside Museum and Redcliffe Museum. Entry is free.
More information about the exhibition here: Da Vinci Machines: Inventions brought to life