Myra Juliet Farrell, a remarkable “inventress” who often solved problems in her sleep, is among the celebrated figures in a new exhibition at the National Archives of Australia in Canberra. Born in Ireland and raised in Broken Hill before settling in Sydney, Farrell recorded at least 25 patents throughout her life, showcasing her inventive prowess.
Farrell’s journey as an inventor began at the tender age of 10 with the creation of a self-locking safety pin. Her diverse inventions include a tuberculosis inhaler, a boneless corset, a mulberry picker, stitch-less buttons, and a baby carrier inspired by a marsupial. Notably, she even proposed a bulletproof fence to the military, reflecting her wide-ranging creativity.
A Remarkable Creative Process
National Archives of Australia curator Lucie Shawcross described Farrell as somnambulant—a sleepwalker with a unique problem-solving method. “She would have a problem in her head before she went to bed and while she was asleep, she would figure out how to solve that problem and then she would write the solution backwards to the problem,” Shawcross explained.
Farrell’s habit of jotting down ideas on any available surface, from walls to sheets, was noted in an article from the Dubbo Western Age in August 1915, which described her as possibly “the most versatile woman in the Commonwealth.” Despite her talents, Farrell remained largely unknown, a fact that surprised Shawcross, who speculated that a lack of marketing or timing might have played a role.
“I have never made my fortune from them because I’m not a good businesswoman,” Farrell admitted in a 1945 article from the Sun.
Celebrating Australian Innovation
The exhibition, titled “In Real Life,” highlights Australian inventors, patents, and trademarks, with Farrell’s work taking center stage. Visitors can explore a variety of inventions, from the Hills hoist and the goon bag to Tupperware and polymer banknotes, all of which underscore Australia’s rich inventive history.
Among the showcased items is the stump camera, invented by Warren Berkery, which revolutionized TV coverage of cricket. “The exhibition is about inventors, innovators, and opportunists. I’m not sure which one of those applies to me,” Berkery remarked, emphasizing the practical necessity that drove his invention.
Another notable invention on display is the CSIRO-designed Aerogard, which gained fame after being used by Queen Elizabeth II during her 1963 visit to Canberra. The product’s effectiveness in repelling flies quickly made it a household name.
Inspiring Future Generations
The exhibition also features a section for young inventors to draw their own creations, encouraging the next generation to embrace the Australian spirit of innovation. Shawcross hopes the exhibit will inspire visitors to explore the untold stories within the archives.
“Digging into the archives makes you think—what other stories are out there?” Shawcross pondered.
As the exhibition continues, it not only celebrates past achievements but also serves as a reminder of the potential for future innovation. The stories of inventors like Myra Juliet Farrell highlight the creativity and perseverance that define Australia’s inventive legacy.
