You could’ve heard a pin drop this morning at the National Museum of Australia when puppeteer Tom Hetherington-Welch, grandson of the famous creator of Mr. Squiggle, Norman Hetherington, introduced a crowd of over excited kids to Mr. Snowman and other favourite characters.

To squeals of delight, Hetherington-Welch asked, “anyone ever seen a bear in roller skates?” One minute later, he produced one, as well as Mr. Plum Pudding.

Tom will be featuring in an on-screen guide to the exhibits as part of the exhibition.

This show kicked off the National Museum’s big winter blockbuster, Mr Squiggle and Friends: The Creative World of Norman Hetherington.

Deputy director of the museum, Sophie Jensen, told those present about the many different generations who had appreciated The famous ABC TV character, and said it had been Mr. Squiggle who had taught her to draw, noting that the exhibition gives ample opportunity for everyone to do their own drawings.

Before the kids dispersed, it was time for Rebecca Hetherington, the custodian of her late father’s work, and Mr. Squiggle’s on-screen companion from 1989-1999, to tell everyone a joyous Squiggle story.

Mr Squiggle and Friends: The Creative World of Norman Hetherington, National Museum of Australia, July 4-October 13. Free exhibition.