Francis de Groot

Francis de Groot was an Australian military officer and political activist best known for interrupting the official opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932. Acting independently, he cut the ceremonial ribbon ahead of the state government in protest at the exclusion of the Crown from the ceremony, believing the bridge should be opened in the name of the monarch rather than by a political representative.

The incident has endured in Australian history as a symbol of contested authority and legitimacy during a period of political and economic tension. De Groot’s action transformed a civic ceremony into a lasting moment of dissent, embedding his name permanently in Australian historical memory.

This work forms part of an ongoing Australian identity series that places controversial and formative figures into a contemporary visual language without instruction or resolution. The series does not judge or resolve history; it presents it.

Printed in Melbourne on high-quality, heavyweight satin photo paper and designed for indoor display, the composition is deliberately minimal and direct.

Part of a contemporary Australian history and identity series — disruptive, symbolic, and open to interpretation.

A0 is 841 mm x 1189 mm - this is the original size of the posters on the street, but will be printed in a far higher quality grade of paper. 

A1 is 594 x 841 mm - this is a more standard size for decorative posters

A2 is 420 x 594 mm