The National Trust of South Australia is a community-based organisation established in 1955.
We work to preserve, protect and promote our built, natural and cultural heritage with the support of our members, volunteers and supporters.
Acknowledgement of Country
The National Trust of South Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners and ongoing occupants of the lands and waters in South Australia. We respect their spiritual, cultural and heritage beliefs and pay our deep respect to Elders past and present.
Message from the President
Paul Leadbeter
This financial year has been one of renewal for the National Trust of South Australia. We were pleased to welcome Simon Ambrose, whose leadership as our new Chief Executive Officer has already brought fresh energy to the organisation.
Highlights of the year include the passage of legislation giving the National Trust ongoing permanent custodianship of Ayers House, building positive relationships with key stakeholders, and overseeing the completion of the largest grant project in our history – the Silver to Sea Way.
Continuing with this theme of renewal, this is my final year as President. While the journey has had its challenges, I am proud of the outcomes the National Trust has delivered for both the organisation and the South Australian community.
I am continually amazed by the important work the National Trust accomplishes as a non-government, not-for-profit organisation with such a small but dedicated team. Though I am stepping down as President, I look forward to continuing my involvement as a councillor and supporting the National Trust in the years ahead.
Message from the CEO
Simon Ambrose
Since joining the National Trust of South Australia in March 2024, my focus has been on activating our properties and building a dedicated team to bring our strategic vision to life. I have been visiting many of our regional branches, getting to know our members and volunteers, and fostering stronger communication with our branch committees.
This year has been marked by significant achievements, including the completion of the Silver to Sea Way project in December 2023, which establishes a vital new touring route from Port Pirie to Silverton. This initiative not only celebrates our State’s rich regional history but will boost local economies through immersive experiences at key heritage sites. In addition to these accomplishments, we are extending the Moonta Mines project to ensure we execute it to the highest standards. Another significant multi-million-dollar project, it involves conserving the mining precinct and creating new visitor experiences.
I am also pleased to report that we have successfully recruited a diverse team with a range of skills, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to our mission. Strengthening our internal operational procedures and enhancing our volunteer management system will be key as we navigate future challenges and improve our outreach efforts. Together, we can ensure that the National Trust of South Australia continues to safeguard our heritage for generations to come. I appreciate the support of our members, volunteers and partners as we embark on this journey together.
To protect, promote and conserve South Australia's natural, built and cultural heritage.
Promotion Conservation Engagement
Sustainability Community Authenticity Adaptibility Innovation Integrity
More people experiencing, enjoying and valuing our heritage.
Being an influential and independent voice for heritage conservation. Develop strategic alliances and relationships.
Promoting best practice in heritage protection and conservation. Tourism opportunities.
Enhancing community engagement with natural and built heritage. Valuing our staff, members and volunteers.
Working through collaboration, teamwork and partnership. Asset management.
Managing our built and natural resource assets for sustainability. Improving communications.
Building a robust, vibrant and resilient organisation. Financial strength.
Strategic Directions
The Strategic Plan sets the direction and high-level objectives for the Trust. For 2023-34, the six strategic objectives were:
• Being an influential and independent voice for heritage conservation.
• Promoting best practice in heritage protection and conservation.
• Enhancing community engagement with natural and built heritage.
• Working through collaboration, teamwork and partnership.
• Managing our built and natural resource assets for sustainability.
• Building a robust, vibrant and resilient organisation.
The business planning framework is a tool for planning the activities of our programs, sites and branches, including the development of asset management plans and destination management plans for major sites.
Seven key result areas are used to set and measure local objectives. These key areas cover conservation, destinations, experiences, learning, advocacy, information and governance, finance and administration. By applying a consistent planning framework aligned to the Strategic Plan, the Trust will be more effective in achieving its purpose in a co-ordinated and integrated way.
Business Planning Framework
Being an Influential and Independent Voice for Heritage Conservation
The National Trust of South Australia remains steadfast in its mission to protect, promote and conserve the State’s natural, built and cultural heritage. Over the past year we have made significant strides, highlighted by the establishment of a new branch and the historic return of Ayers House. These developments reflect our ongoing commitment to safeguarding South Australia's unique heritage for future generations.
Legislative success of great significance came with the passing of the Ayers House Bill in April 2024, thanks to the Malinauskas Government. This landmark legislation guarantees the ongoing use of Ayers House by the National Trust, with the government also allocating $5.7 million for upgrades and conservation work. Environment Minister Susan Close acknowledged the tireless work of the National Trust to protect and promote heritage, noting the new legislation would safeguard the organisation from eviction at the whim of future ministers. The resulting new Ayers House Act solidifies the symbiotic relationship between the National Trust and Ayers House, allowing the public to appreciate the heritage-listed building in its full glory for generations to come.
Another major achievement was the creation of a new branch in Yankalilla, bringing our total number of branches to 45. This expansion reflects the National Trust’s recognition of the growing need to address destructive development and neglected buildings across the State. With strong support from the local community, the new branch will focus on advocating for heritage conservation, particularly in areas where historical structures face potential threats.
For example, the Aspen Group recently acquired 10.6 hectares of land at Normanville that includes the heritage-listed Fergusson’s Mill. Aspen has expressed intentions to pursue adaptive reuse of the site, an approach that has proven successful in many cases across South Australia. By working closely with the local branch, the National Trust can provide valuable expertise and guidance to ensure that the adaptive reuse is carried out in a way that preserves the mill’s historic significance and prevents further neglect.
The Yankalilla branch will also play an integral role in engaging with the wider community, including First Nations groups, in preserving and promoting heritage. Plans are underway to connect with local communities to upgrade the Tjilbruke Dreaming Track markers, establish educational programs for schools, create an archive of heritage items in partnership with the Yankalilla and District Historical Society and local historical museum, and collaborate with artists to develop a visual record of both lost and existing heritage.
Although much of the National Trust’s advocacy this year has occurred behind the scenes, we are proud of the substantial progress made in both expanding local engagement and securing long-term institutional stability. The creation of the Yankalilla branch and the legislative victory for Ayers House reflect our ongoing dedication to being an influential and independent voice for heritage conservation. As we look to the future, we will continue our efforts to protect South Australia’s irreplaceable heritage, ensuring its stories live on for future generations.
Promoting Best Practice in Natural Heritage Conservation
Twenty-three spectacular nature reserves encompassing around 2000 hectares are held in the custodianship of the National Trust of South Australia. These reserves are precious oases for native flora and fauna, including many threatened and rare species. The value and significance of these spaces are emphasised now more than ever with increasing land clearance, and climate change intensifying natural disasters.
We are committed to restoring the health of a variety of ecosystems once widespread in the State. This involves a considerable number of dedicated volunteers making sustained and substantial contributions; working to enhance community participation and learning; developing and fostering strong partnerships with First Nations people; and upholding shared relationships with stakeholders, non-government organisations and government departments.
This year we successfully secured numerous grants totalling more than $65,000 for works at nature reserves in the Murraylands, Riverland and Adelaide Hills. The grants included funding for batteryoperated equipment, tools, personal protective equipment, signage and pest plant and animal control. We also continued promoting the wonderful work of the National Trust by spreading the word amongst South Australian communities at various regional shows and fairs, focusing on encouraging visits to our properties and reserves.
Our ongoing, monthly working bees continued this year at several nature reserves. It is always heartening to see young families attending with enthusiastic children and our future environmentalists getting stuck into weeding. We continue efforts to recruit more volunteers. Even people unable to attend the working bees are welcome to join the team and contribute when they can, enjoying time spent in nature at their own pace.
Weed control works were completed at Watiparinga Reserve with funds from the Native Vegetation Council. We’ve been busy at other reserves too, carrying out repairs and maintenance as well as ongoing pest plant and animal control. This has involved working with local Landcare groups, TAFE SA, and River Murray and Mallee Aboriginal Corporation (RMMAC) rangers, as well as many other community groups.
We embark on new adventures in the coming year as a stronger and more resilient team supported by our incredible volunteers, branches and communities. The National Trust of South Australia is dedicated to ensuring our extraordinary natural places continue to inspire curiosity and wonder for generations to come.
Enhancing Community Engagement with Natural and Built Heritage
The National Trust of South Australia is deepening its connection with the community by fostering greater engagement with the State’s natural and built heritage. Through a diverse array of events and experiences, we are inviting people to explore, appreciate and celebrate South Australia's rich history. From iconic properties to immersive tours, our focus this year has been on bringing heritage to life in new and exciting ways.
The calendar included a spectacular lineup of events to breathe life into our Adelaide properties – Beaumont House, Stangate House & Garden, and the North Adelaide Baptist Church precinct. From wine tastings and high teas to exquisite costume exhibitions and inspiring artistic workshops, there was something for everyone. Additional effort was also put into increasing bookings for weddings at Beaumont House.
Another focus has been promoting private group bookings for our immensely popular tours of Z Ward and the Old Treasury, which are conducted by a team of enthusiastic and capable volunteer guides. These tours captivated the interest of schools and community groups, providing an enriching educational experience that offered insights into the history, architecture and social significance of these historical sites.
Planning for our much-anticipated return to Ayers House has been a major priority, with the intention of transforming this State Heritage-listed property into a vibrant hub for unforgettable experiences, from classical concerts to dazzling fashion parades and captivating performances during the Adelaide Fringe.
This year has been pivotal in expanding the National Trust’s commitment to enhancing community involvement with South Australia’s unique heritage. By offering engaging events, tours and experiences, we continue to inspire a deeper appreciation for our historical treasures. As we look to the future, and with the return to Ayers House on the horizon, we are committed to creating even more opportunities for the public to connect with and enjoy the heritage that shapes our State's identity.
Working Through Collaboration, Teamwork and Partnership
Building stronger relationships has expanded our reach during the past year, helping the National Trust of South Australia to make significant progress in preserving South Australia’s natural, built and cultural heritage. Whether longstanding or newly established, these partnerships are playing a pivotal role in ensuring the success of our activities and enriching initiatives at local, state and even global levels.
At an international scale, the National Trust in 2023 joined the Regional Council of Goyder and the Copper Coast Council in forming a new consortium to support the UNESCO World Heritage bid for mining sites at Burra and Moonta. The Australian Copper Mining Sites (ACMS) Consortium was launched in September 2023, when the bid was also promoted during the International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) 21st General Assembly and Scientific Symposium held in Australia.
The consortium has engaged a renowned world heritage consultant to prepare essential documents for the bid process, which highlights the importance of collaboration in protecting places of global significant. The State Government committed its support in March 2024. Since then, the sites have been placed on the Australian Government’s Tentative List, with work now underway on a detailed nomination dossier.
At a local level, one of our most successful collaborations continues to be with Haunted Horizons at Z Ward, where more than 4,000 visitors explore the fascinating history of this heritage-listed site annually. The partnership provides unique, immersive experiences for visitors, blending education with entertainment. This collaboration has been instrumental in driving interest and foot traffic to one of our most intriguing locations.
At both Stangate House & Garden and Beaumont House, a partnership with BubbleWrap Events has flourished, bringing these properties to life with engaging events that have attracted almost 2,800 visitors per year. From wine tastings to artistic exhibitions, these events have transformed our historic homes into lively cultural hubs. The partnership has allowed us to reach new audiences and ensure these properties are appreciated by the broader community.
A new partnership with the South Australian branch of the Australian Rhododendron Society was also established during the year, opening up enormous potential to develop and add value to the garden at Stangate. This collaboration has been warmly welcomed by the Camellia Society Adelaide Hills, which has been actively contributing to the garden since 1977, nurturing and expanding the property’s world-renowned collection of camellias.
Ongoing collaboration with the Hahndorf Branch and local councils has also ensured the success of the Pioneer Women’s Trail Walk – the largest annual event on the National Trust of South Australia calendar, which drew more than 1,500 participants this year. This event celebrates the pioneering women who played a vital role in the State’s history, connecting the past with the present in a deeply meaningful way.
Through partnerships, teamwork, and collaboration, the National Trust of South Australia has achieved tremendous success over the past year. These alliances have allowed us to breathe new life into our properties and engage with a wider community. As we continue to work with our valued partners, we remain dedicated to building stronger connections that will ensure the lasting protection and appreciation of South Australia's heritage.
Managing our Assets for Sustainability
Significant strides have been made by the National Trust of South Australia in managing our heritage assets for sustainability, ensuring that our historical and natural sites are preserved and enhanced for future generations. This year, our commitment to sustainable heritage conservation has been demonstrated through several key projects and partnerships that not only protect our assets but also promote community engagement and economic vitality.
A hallmark of our efforts is the Silver to Sea Way project, realised through $6.6 million in funding from the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund. This highly ambitious project focussed on developing a heritage tourism route spanning 450 kilometres from Port Pirie to Silverton, following the historic railway line that transported ore from Broken Hill and Silverton.
Extensive restoration work has breathed new life into the Peterborough Roundhouse, Gladstone Gaol and Port Pirie Railway Station, simultaneously boosting regional tourism and fostering economic growth. These major capital works were completed within weeks of the original December 2023 deadline, despite the scale of the project and the impact of COVID, thanks to the hard work of volunteers, contractors and staff. The project has also created immersive new experiences for visitors, using the latest audio visual techniques.
Heritage Conservation Grants were successfully secured from the Department of Environment and Water during the year for two other regional assets. These grants provide much-needed funds for essential restoration projects at the historic Police Stables in Robe and the Bon Accord Mines Museum in Burra. By preserving these vital heritage sites, we are ensuring that their historical significance is maintained, while also promoting sustainable practices in heritage conservation.
Two lots of funding were also received from Green Adelaide’s Grassroots scheme. An $18,000 grant will support the improvement of green spaces at Z Ward, improving butterfly habitats in a project that promotes native vegetation and fosters biodiversity at this historic inner-city site. Another grant will be used to reduce threats at Sandison Reserve. Infrastructure will be upgraded at this important community space and local biodiversity will be encouraged through native plantings. These improvements will not only increase accessibility but also foster a greater appreciation for the reserve’s natural heritage.
Through all these initiatives, the National Trust continues to prioritize the sustainable management of our heritage assets. By securing critical funding and collaborating with partners, we are dedicated to preserving these significant sites while ensuring they provide enriching experiences for communities and visitors. Our efforts not only safeguard our historical and natural treasures but also contribute to local economies and foster a deeper connection to South Australia’s unique heritage.
Building a Robust and Resilient Organisation
Building a robust and resilient organisation begins with cultivating a strong, cohesive team. To this end, the National Trust of South Australia has implemented a thoughtful recruitment process during the past year, bringing on board dedicated professionals who share a passion for preserving the stories and places that define our cultural landscape.
At the helm of this dynamic team is our new Chief Executive Officer, Simon Ambrose. With extensive experience from the National Trust of Victoria, Simon brings a fervent commitment to advocating for natural, cultural and Indigenous heritage. His vision and leadership is driving the organisation forward as we expand our reach and impact across South Australia.
In alignment with goals to enhance operational efficiency and governance, we began transitioning to new accounting software (XERO) that is designed to improve financial management across the State Office and our 45 branches. This software provides a streamlined approach to managing finances, enabling better tracking of budgets, expenses and financial reporting. Once completed, this transition will not only increase our operational efficiency but support our commitment to transparency and accountability. We also began introducing a new volunteer management system, which will allow us to better understand the invaluable work of our volunteers and strengthen our relationships with them.
Several initiatives have been introduced to build stronger relationships and communication between State Office and our 45 branches. The first in what will become a regular series of branch meet-ups was held in Adelaide in April 2024, to update branch representatives on the latest developments and give them the opportunity to meet new staff. A regular e-newsletter specifically for branches was also introduced, with the first edition of Branch Connect being distributed in July 2024. Both these measures facilitate direct dialogue with branch leadership, ensuring that regional voices are heard in the State Office.
Re-establishment of the Members, Regions and Branches Committee (MRBC) of State Council has also been crucial in fostering collaboration among our branches. Composed of branch representatives , this committee serves as a vital link between regional interests and the State Office, ensuring that the perspectives of all branches are taken into account in our decisionmaking processes.
This outreach is essential to creating a more resilient and connected organisation as we strive to protect and promote South Australia’s rich cultural heritage. By investing in our team, improving our financial management, and enhancing communication with our branches and volunteers, we are better positioned to navigate the challenges ahead.
Our People & Places
National Trust branch volunteers preserve and manage buildings, reserves and collections across South Australia. Some present public programs through museums, tours and events. Other branches are primarily focussed on advocacy work to protect heritage places, and most participate in local as well as state-wide events.
Volunteers and Members
As a community-based organisation, the National Trust of South Australia relies on a vibrant network of members and volunteers to bring our work to life and achieve our strategic goals.
As of June 30 2024, we have more than 2000 memberships. Many of them are shared across households, bringing family and friends together in their commitment to safeguarding the past.
Our members enjoy a range of benefits, from complimentary access to National Trust properties around the globe to exclusive event discounts and access to our tri-annual magazine, Heritage Living. Each edition is filled with stories that explore South Australia's rich history, tackle important heritage issues, and showcase the innovative spirit that shapes our state.
Over the past year, hundreds of volunteers have generously given their time and energy to the National Trust, contributing thousands of hours to care for our collections, tend our reserves and gardens, and preserve our historic sites. Their passion also shines through when they welcome visitors to our properties, lead guided tours and host events, bringing South Australia’s heritage to life for the wider community.
Some of the highlights have been:
• The Port Elliot Branch unveiling a new marker on the Port Elliot Heritage Trail.
• Recognition in the annual Alexandrina Council Heritage Awards, with a Heritage Tourism award going to the Strathalbyn National Trust Museum and Heritage Centre, and Goolwa member Anthony Presgrave receiving the Lorraine Pomery Service to Heritage Award.
• Renmark Branch Chair Ann Ryan receiving the 2024 Renmark Paringa Council Award for Active Citizenship.
• Recognition in the 2024 Bernadette Bean SA Records Management Service Excellence Awards, with Willunga Branch volunteer Faye Lush named runner-up, and a merit award going to the volunteer team at Tumby Bay Branch.
2023 Volunteer Awards
Service Award
The Service Award is given to volunteers who have contributed to the National Trust of South Australia over a significant period of time.
Don and Kay Lambert
For 100 years of combined service as founding members of the Auburn Branch, founded in 1973.
Glenn Haydon
For 10 years of service with the Tea Tree Gully Branch, where he is always prepared to lend a hand with any task.
Graham Bull
For 10 years working on individual projects and providing team support at the Tea Tree Gully Branch.
Jan Dolling
For 10 years at the Tea Tree Gully Branch, where she is the collection and mosaic manager.
Janet Ashton
For 10 years at the Tea Tree Gully Branch, where she is a committee member, school liaison officer and manages the museum office.
John Vanderwould
For 10 years at the Tea Tree Gully Branch, providing electrical expertise, maintenance and support.
Wendy Stevens
For 10 years at the Tea Tree Gully Branch, contributing enthusiastically to design and maintenance of the museum garden and displays.
Achievement Award
The Achievement Award is for volunteers who have worked, either individually or as a group, to successfully undertake a specific project or activity.
Geraldine Smedley
Geraldine Smedley has been a dedicated member of the Burra Branch for more than 25 years, including more than 10 years as secretary. She has consistently shown her willingness to organise and participate in working bees and fundraising events.
John Berger and Carol Grbich
John and Carol have jointly worked to build and lead the Glencoe Branch, which is based in a small rural community. Leveraging John’s significant skills in architecture and Carol’s extensive skills in researching, they have been responsible for giving the branch the impetus and momentum that have made it so productive and successful.
Josephine Petchell
Josephine Petchell is a long-serving member of the Willunga Branch Committee. She has undertaken a variety of roles including secretary, and managing weddings, public tours and bookings. Josephine is held in high esteem within the branch because she takes time to assist others in their roles while completing her own.
Linda Gissing
Linda Gissing has revitalised the Willunga Branch’s school program and been a major force in creating the Wirra Creek Community Garden. The schools program is now extremely popular and the community garden has been a catalyst for more interaction in the community.
Mark Staniforth
Mark has created, established and managed three significant programs for the Willunga Branch, namely the Willunga heritage and art tours, the Government Reserve Archaeological Survey Project, and the Waverley Park Homestead and Heritage Art Project. These projects have increased community engagement amongst many other positive outcomes.
Richard Higgins
For the past 12 years, Richard has taken on the responsibility of organising displays in the Victor Harbour Museum, harnessing his eye for arranging objects and making enough room for collection items. Richard has also brought essential administrative skills to the role of Branch Secretary for many years.
Dr. Mildred Mocatta Award
The prestigious Dr Mildred Mocatta Award recognises an individual volunteer who has made an exceptional contribution to the National Trust. This year, it was awarded to Merilyn Kuchel OAM. Merilyn is a horticulturalist consultant and leads a dedicated group of volunteer gardeners who have worked hard to redevelop and maintain the gardens at Beaumont House and Stangate House and Garden. She also coordinates students and volunteers for harvest at Beaumont House’s heritage-listed olive grove and supervises bottling the oil for sale to the public. We cannot thank her enough for her efforts with the National Trust of South Australia.
Patrons and Supporters
In 2013, then President, Professor Norman Etherington AM, initiated a patron program for the National Trust of South Australia. Over the past eight years, the Trust has welcomed the support of more than 60 individuals, couples and families. In 2023-24, many current patrons renewed their commitment and several new patrons joined the program. We greatly appreciate their support.
Sir George Kingston Patrons
$5000 and above
Prof Norman Etherington AM
Mrs Joan Beer
Mrs Deborah Morgan
Mrs Susan Morgan
Mrs Patricia and Mr Edwin Michell
Edmund Wright Patrons
$3000 – $4999
Mrs Mary Lou Simpson
Colonel Light Patrons
$1500 – $2999
Mrs Elaine and Mr Andrew Davies
Mrs Barbara Brummitt
Mr James Harvey
Mrs Doody and Mr Jim Taylor
Mrs Lilly and Mr Skip Lipman
Dr David Shannon
Mrs Carsla and Mr Derek Carter
Mr Hugh MacLachlan
Ms Glenda Couch-Keen
Leith Cooper at the sculpture at the top of the conservator’s walk at Bundaleer Forest.
The National Trust of South Australia Council and staff comprise of members whose diverse expertise span education, business, agriculture, government, law, nature and the built environment.
Our Staff
Simon Ambrose
Leanne Plews
Laura Evans
Louise Stanford
Our Council
President
Paul Leadbeter
Vice President
Millie Nicholls
Treasurer
James Harvey
Office Bearer
Tully Brookes
Office Bearer
Elaine Davies
Office Bearer
Alice Fitch
Office Bearer
Alison Stillwell OAM
Office Bearer
Di Wilkins
Office Bearer
Chris Guille
Office Bearer
Jo Lokan
Office Bearer
Catherine Peacock
Office Bearer
Brett Bowden
National Trust of South Australia Council's report
30 June 2024
The Council members present their report together with the financial report of the National Trust of South Australia ('the Trust') for the year ended 30 June 2024 and the auditor's report thereon. This financial report has been prepared in accordance with the National Trust of South Australia Act 1955 and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012.
Council
members
The following persons were council members of the Trust during the whole of the financial year and up to the date of this report, unless otherwise stated:
Mr Paul Leadbeter (President)
Ms Millie Nicholls (Vice President)
Mr Tully Brookes
Ms Elaine Davies
Ms Alice Fitch
Mr Chris Guille
Mr James Harvey
Ms Jo Lokan
Ms Catherine Peacock
Ms Alison Stillwell
Ms Di Wilkins
Professor Brett Bowden
The Council members have been in office since the start of the year to the date of this report unless otherwise stated.
Principal activities
During the financial year the principal continuing activities of the Trust (comprising of the State Head Office and the 44 Branches) consisted of:
• Managing heritage buildings, places and collections
• Policy advocacy in respect of heritage and environmental conservation; and
• Developing community awareness and engagement through events, education and public programs.
Results
The total comprehensive income of the Trust for the year amounted to$ 8,026,736. (2023: $2,145,773)
Review of operations
The Trust continued to engage in its principal activities, the results of which are disclosed in the attached financial statements.
Significant changes in the state of affairs
There were no significant changes in the Trust's state of affairs that occurred during the financial year, other than those referred to elsewhere in this report.
Likely developments
The Trust expects to maintain the present status and level of operations.
Events subsequent to the report date
There has been no matter or circumstance which has arisen since 30 June 2024 that has significantly affected or may significantly affect:
(a) the operations, of the Trust, or (b) the result of those operations, or
National Trust of South Australia Council's report
30 June 2024
Mr Paul Leadbeter
President
1/&tt, �October 2024
Mr James Harvey
Chair - Audit, Finance & Governance Co mittee
.I'
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NATIONAL TRUST OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Opinion
We have audited the financial report of National Trust of South Australia (“the entity”) which comprises the Statement of Financial Position as at 30 June 2024, the Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income, the Statement of Changes in Equity and the Statement of Cash Flows for the year then ended, Notes to the Financial Statements, including material accounting policy information, and Council’s Declaration.
In our opinion, the accompanying financial report of National Trust of South Australia is in accordance with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profitsCommissionAct2012 and the National Trust of South Australia Act 1955; including:
(i) giving a true and fair view of the entity’s financial position as at 30 June 2024 and of its financial performance and its cash flows for the year then ended; and
(ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profitsCommissionRegulations2022.
Basis for Opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor'sResponsibilitiesfortheAuditoftheFinancialReport section of our report. We are independent of the entity in accordance with the independence requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board's APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the financial report. We have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Other Information
The Council Members are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises of the information in the Council’s report for the year ended 30 June 2024, but does not include the financial report and our auditor's report thereon.
Our opinion on the financial report does not cover the other information and accordingly we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.
In connection with our audit of the financial report, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial report or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NATIONAL TRUST OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA (CONT)
Other Information (cont)
If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.
Council Members’ Responsibility for the Financial Report
The Council members of National Trust of South Australia are responsible for the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profitsCommissionAct2012 and the National Trust of South Australia Act 1955. This responsibility includes such internal control as the Council members determine is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view so that it is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial report, the Council members are responsible for assessing the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Council members either intend to liquidate the entity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial report as a whole is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of this financial report.
As part of an audit in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards, we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:
• Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.
• Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control.
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NATIONAL TRUST OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA (CONT)
Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report (cont)
• Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the Council members.
• Conclude on the appropriateness of the Council members’ use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the financial report or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the entity to cease to continue as a going concern.
• Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial report, including the disclosures, and whether the financial report represents the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.
We communicate with the Council members regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.
Nexia Edwards Marshall Chartered Accountants
Damien Pozza Partner
Adelaide South Australia
24 October 2024
AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION UNDER SECTION 60-40 OF THE AUSTRALIAN CHARITIES AND NOT-FOR-PROFITS COMMISSION ACT 2012 TO THE COUNCIL MEMBERS OF NATIONAL TRUST OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
In accordance with section 60-40 of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profitsCommissionAct2012, I am pleased to provide the following declaration of independence to the council members of National Trust of South Australia.
As lead audit partner for the audit of the financial statements of National Trust of South Australia for the financial year ended 30 June 2024, I declare that to the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.
Nexia Edwards Marshall Chartered Accountants
Damien Pozza Partner
Adelaide South Australia
24 October 2024
Finance Results
For the year ending 30 June
2024
Income Sources
Admissions and Tours
Grants and Sponsorship
Sale of Memorabilia
Dividends & Interest
Lease & Rental
Donations, Memberships & Fundraising
Gain on Property Evaluation
Expenditure
Employee Benefits
Administration
Contractors & Consultants
Repairs & Maintenance
Occupancy
Advertising & Fundraising
Depreciation & Amortisation Other Income
Grant Expenditure
Sundry Expenses
The financial results for the 2023-2024 year show a surplus of $8,026,736 compared to a surplus of $2,145,773 the previous financial year. The National Trust’s operating and customer contract revenue rose by 80% compared to 2023.
Other revenue was 50% lower, due to a lack of bequests and assets transfers from other entities. Revaluation of major assets valued at $8 million is included as recognised income in the Profit and Loss Statement, raising total net comprehensive income to $8,026,736.
Overall, general operating expenses are around 15% higher than last year, predominantly due to finalisation of Silver to Sea Grant expenditure, and increased assets amortisation and depreciation value.
Employee benefit expenses are lower for the second consecutive year, constituting around 25% of total operating expenses, exclusive of grants. The National Trust’s Balance Sheet continues to strengthen due to the rising value of its property assets.
Cash reserves are 50% down compared to last year due to the completion of Silver to Sea funding in December 2023 and continuing work on the Moonta Mines Grant, due for completion in December 2024. Financial assets value is on par compared to the previous year.
Total assets value is up $5 million compared to the same period last year. Net assets value is $61.8 million as at 30 June 2024.
The organisation’s Liabilities are 50% lower compared to the previous financial year, as a result of a reduction in Grant obligations, and the value of trade and other payables.
The year 2024/2025 will be a challenging year for the National Trust, with finalisation of the Moonta Mines project, establishing services at Ayers House, expansion of the NTSA existing and establishment of new strategic operational service areas such as property and natural resource management, member and sponsor engagement, and promotion of the organisation at local, national and international levels
