REFLECT
The National Trust of Australia (New South Wales) Annual Report 2021/22 An extraordinary year of conservation, celebration and community.
Contents
President’s Report It’s pleasing to present the achievements of 2021/22 and report on how the National Trust (NSW) responded to unprecedented challenges of COVID-19, labour shortages, market fluctuations and extreme weather events. I’m immensely proud and humbled by what we have achieved together. In a tumultuous year, it is thanks to the extraordinary support and the dedication of hardworking staff, committees, branches, volunteers and supporters that this year’s achievements are being reported. While juggling lockdowns and reopenings, the National Trust pushed ahead with the Strategic Plan, continuing the ground work for a more sustainable organisation. I had the opportunity to travel across the state to congratulate recipients of the 2021 National Trust Honours Awards. It was a highlight to visit our properties and volunteers and to see the enthusiasm in person. Championing better outcomes for our natural, cultural and built heritage, the National Trust made over 40
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President’s Report
2
Chief Executive Officer’s Report
3
In Review: Advocating for Heritage
4
In Review: Conserving Heritage
6
In Review: Celebrating Heritage
8
In Review: Bushland Management Services
9
In Review: Our People
10
In Review: Membership and Giving
12
In Review: Finances
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major submissions this year. Working together with the community, the National Trust’s work has seen a number of wins. An unsolicited proposal for the former Chief Secretary’s building in Sydney was denied and I’m pleased that many other wins are detailed in this report. Following the timely Heritage Act Forum in mid-2021, more than 40 community and government meetings took place, spurring on momentum and strengthening strategic relationships in the review of this critical Act. Our branches, committees and volunteers were busier than ever protecting, conserving and promoting local heritage. More than 70 submissions were made. The National Trust Branches leveraged a ‘Local Election Heritage Priorities’ document to canvass support from local candidates on heritage issues and build ongoing relationships with Councillors and Mayors. We were delighted to see the Australian Heritage Festival and Heritage Awards come to life this year. A fanstastic opportunity to be curious and celebrate heritage. I’m proud our vision ‘bringing heritage to life’ is represented in this report, and we will continue this momentum thanks to the work of our dedicated staff, volunteers and supporters.
Neil Wykes OAM, President
Chief Executive Officer’s Report Cumulative factors made for a challenging year. Property closures due to COVID-19 averaged 18 weeks. Flood and storm damage forced select properties to close for additional weeks. Three quarters of all staff spent at least one week in isolation. Bush Management Services lost significant time to COVID-19 shutdowns and extreme weather events. The organisation’s financial results have been impacted by these events and global market fluctuations.
damaged structures and trees have been removed, while infrastructure, native gardens and fencing has been replaced.
Despite these challenges, the National Trust focused on delivering its vision and Strategic Plan 2020-24 priorities. Initiatives were actioned to grow, diversify and better engage our supporters and the wider community. Virtual tours of the Australian Wildlife Sanctuary and Salon des Refusés exhibition engaged audiences throughout lockdowns. Member and community research was undertaken to better understand current and potential audiences.
There was strong investment in our people and systems. The IT roadmap rolled out with new computer hardware, phone systems, Office365, secure cloud environment, and improvements to both the Customer Relationship Management database and property IT infrastructure.
Our gardens, house museums and galleries were showcased in a new state-wide brochure. Member rewards drove acquisition and retention initiatives through new partnerships with the Caravan and Camping Association and Art Gallery of NSW. A volunteer recruitment campaign welcomed over 80 new volunteers. The website was refreshed with new user-friendly navigation, improving the visitor experience. We directed resources to key strategic areas including a content specialist, senior curator, conservation officer, conservation administrator and property positions. More than 40 property projects were funded thanks to grants, donors and appeals. These valuable works conserve properties and improve the visitor experience. It’s pleasing to report the rebuilding of the Australian Wildlife Sanctuary at Bargo post bushfires is progressing. Fire
A number of strategies contributed to our financial sustainability. A targeted approach to fundraising appeals and bequests has been successful. Venue hire opportunities were reviewed, with product development underway. Bushland Management Services expanded in the South Coast, bringing in new clients.
There was extensive staff and volunteer engagement on COVID-19, re-opening and operating safely in a COVID-19 environment. Volunteer and staff training included compliance, customer service and guiding. Significant investment was made into governance and compliance. The National Trust Rules underwent a review to modernise and respond to a rapidly changing world. Committee and Branch Charters were also developed with the view to make them more flexible to respond to local needs. This year’s achievements are thanks to the dedication of staff, committees, branches and volunteers, with the support of donors and partners. Thank you.
Debbie Mills, CEO
Above: Board of Directors (left to right); Debbie Mills; Chief Executive Officer, David Collingridge LVO, Kylie Winkworth, Dr Clive Lucas OBE, David Pratt; Treasurer, Elizabeth Farrelly, Ian Stephenson, Neil Wykes OAM; President, Susan Hunt: Deputy President, Fenella Kernebone, Kathryn Pitkin AM, Caroline Mackaness, (John Richardson absent).
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In Review: Advocating for Heritage The National Trust acted as a strong voice for heritage, engaging with communities and government to identify, conserve and protect important built, cultural and natural heritage.
LEGISLATION
WINS
Election candidates were called on to make commitments to heritage conservation in the run-up to both the local and federal elections in 2021/22. The National Trust sought to ensure heritage was given a voice through proactive involvement in Legislation Reviews, draft Bills and new State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPP).
Championing better natural and built heritage outcomes, the National Trust made over 40 major submissions, multiple letters of support and more than a dozen comments on heritage nominations. Working together with the community, the National Trust’s work has seen a number of wins this year.
Campaigning aimed to ensure the review of the Heritage Act would strengthen, not weaken, the Act. This included a detailed submission, a response to the submissions paper, meetings with relevant Ministers and Parliamentary members and engagement in the Draft Heritage Bill targeted consultation. Once tabled, the National Trust will review and respond to any changes to the Act.
• An unsolicited proposal for the former Chief Secretary’s building in Sydney was denied following scathing submissions from the National Trust, Sydney City Council and ICOMOS Australia.
Submissions were also made on the Greater Sydney Parklands White Paper, including the draft Exposure Bill and the Inquiry into NSW Biodiversity Offsets, and also the proposed Design and Place SEPP. Working with the National Trust Branches, key Local Election Heritage Priorities were developed. The branches canvassed support from local candidates on heritage issues and built ongoing relationships with Councillors and Mayors for better outcomes. A national “2022 Federal Election Heritage Priorities Statement” was also developed by the Australian Council of National Trusts. This shared the Trust’s perspective on threats facing heritage and presented solutions to current and prospective governments.
• The NSW Education Department reversed unsympathetic changes to the Fort Street Public School design. •N ational Parks and Wildlife Services reconsidered the West Head Lookout upgrades to reflect the significance of the landscape. • ‘ Glenlee’ on the Georges River was locally listed and is currently recommended for the State Heritage Register in response to an application to demolish the homestead and subdivide the land. •T reo Resources withdrew its mining application once aware of the Bylong Landscape Conservation Area listing on the National Trust Register, reinforcing the importance of listing significant places, items and landscapes. •N SW Premier responded to calls for heritage to be elevated into the portfolio title, appointing the Hon. James Griffin MP as Minister for Environment and Heritage.
‘In the committee’s view, the next steps for the review of the Heritage Act 1977 should give greater priority to the principles of protection, conservation and celebration as the bedrock principles to guide any review of heritage legislation.’ Standing Committee, Social Issues Inquiry on the Review of the Heritage Act 1977.
4
Following submissions the proposal for the former Chief Secretary’s building was denied.
Visualisation of potential impact to public views at Central Barangaroo. Source: Millers Point Resident Action Group.
LOSSES In August 2021, despite extraordinary advocacy efforts, the historic Parramatta house “Willow Grove” was demolished. The Trust has been unsuccessful in attempts to advocate against “turning off” the Heritage Act for State Significant Development. The Trust will continue to advocate strongly on this issue and campaign against proposals which damage important places such as Central Station, Central Barangaroo and Bays West. OUTREACH The Trust supported regional advocacy, restoration of local heritage items and assisted the community as a trusted source of heritage expertise and assistance. •B ranches made more than 70 submissions on local heritage issues.
ON THE LIST The National Trust Heritage Register remains truly independent, identifying places of significance. New listings this year include: • Cottage, 64 Lawson Street. Mudgee • Cottage, 65 Lawson Street, Mudgee • Huskisson Anglican Church • Canterbury Public Pool •W adi Shaifa apartments and Kingsford Smith Gardens, Katoomba • Ellengowan, Parramatta • Lisgar Gardens, Hornsby – update to existing listing •N orth Sydney Courthouse and Police Station – update to existing listing
•F ormal training commenced with branches, providing advocacy tools, tactics and strategies.
The National Trust supported or nominated the following to the State Heritage Register:
•S trategic relationships were strengthened through meetings with associated organisations, government agencies, MPs and industry experts.
• Corrimal Coke Works, Corrimal • Glenlee, Lugarno
•P ublic heritage enquiries (averaging 30 per week) were actioned to assist with listings, advocacy and conservation advice.
• World War II Aeroplane Hangar, Tocumwal
•M ore than 270 conveyancer due diligence enquiries were processed in relation to the Trust Register status of properties. •M ore than 60 Heritage Restoration Appeals were supported, enabling important historic properties to accept tax deductible donations for restoration works.
• Kurumbede Homestead Complex, Gunnedah
70+
60+
Submissions on local heritage issues
Heritage Restoration Appeals were supported
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In Review: Conserving Heritage From fencing to framing and everything in-between, staff and volunteers have been hard at work ensuring properties and collections are protected and conserved.
ARCHIVES
COLLECTIONS
A priority has been to make the archives collection more accessible to the public. The entire National Trust Register is now scanned, secured and searchable for the first time. Photographs, publications and records are regularly being digitised and are now searchable on the National Library’s Trove catalogue. This has assisted many researchers to access the full breadth of the National Trust’s resources.
Mould and pests are one of biggest threats to collections. Property inspections and treatments were a priority throughout the year.
PROPERTIES
A report on the significance of the contents of the 1840s Bedervale Homestead found original manuscripts, rare hand drawn maps, high quality artworks, books, photographic albums, and fine-crafted furniture to be of National Significance. Owned by the National Trust, the Bedervale collection still resides in the homestead built by Captain Coghill and designed by John Verge in 1836.
Protection and conservation projects helped bring buildings and landscapes to life in 2021/22. Norman Lindsay Gallery: Gallery-quality lighting was installed thanks to the Maple Brown Foundation. This has dramatically improved the presentation of works at this much-loved property. Woodford Academy: External timber was painted thanks to combined funding from Heritage NSW and the Dr Flynn Bequest. This has greatly improved the property’s presentation and ensures the original features will remain intact for many years to come.
Staff and volunteers were trained in safe and effective mould remediation procedures. Workshops on cleaning artworks and the care of fine furniture were run by International Conservation Services as part of a National Trust partnership.
The sketchbooks of Emily Rose Twynam, held by her descendants, were scanned and copies are now displayed at Riversdale. Conservation of four chandeliers at Lindesay included reinstating detached beads, replacing corroded pins and adhering broken fragments.
Grossman and Brough Houses: Lamp posts were repainted, repaired and electrical components made operational, thanks to the Chart Grant funding through AMGA. Signage was also upgraded to improve the appearance from the street. Everglades House and Gardens: Evidence-based planning is underway to inform repairs and reinstate many original features. Thanks to our generous donors, over $200,000 was raised through an appeal for this impressive Art Deco house. Saumarez Homestead: External repainting has been completed and solar panels installed thanks to the kind generosity of a donor, significantly lowering the power bills. A unique collection of 1930s travel posters discovered in the property archives have also been conserved and are on display, thanks to a recent art conservation appeal.
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Emily Rose Twynam sketchbook
Still Life 17th century attributed to Gerrit Willemz. Heda
DUTCH MASTER REVEAL The remarkable discovery of a 400-year-old Dutch Master painting was made possible by the incredible support of donors and members. Housed inside Woodford Academy and known simply as Still Life, the restorers from International Conservation Services spotted two microscopic signatures and knew that this was no ordinary piece. The valuable 17th century work has been attributed to Gerrit Willemz. Heda, son of the famous Dutch Master still life painter Willem Claesz. Heda. The building currently known as Woodford Academy in the Blue Mountains, was gifted to the National Trust, along with its contents. It is possible that the artwork was introduced to the house in Woodford by Alfred Fairfax, nephew of James Fairfax, the founder of the Sydney Morning Herald. Alfred, successful in business, purchased the building in 1868. At the time art collecting was a widely shared past-time and Dutch works were particularly popular.
The story captured imaginations, generating interest both locally and internationally. More than 350 news articles were published on the discovery. Expert considerations of the Still Life’s creator are ongoing, with suggestions that it may be a father-and-son collaborative artwork being investigated. Willemz Claesz. Heda’s works are typically valued in the millions of dollars. The Trust is proud to have collaborated with experts to help identify and conserve this unique item in our collection.
‘Once-in-a-lifetime discovery: 400-year-old Dutch masterpiece discovered in the Blue Mountains’ Sydney Morning Herald, 16 April 2022
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In Review: Celebrating Heritage The National Trust has strong regional connections. Thanks to our diverse collection of state listed heritage galleries, gardens and house museums, and the people who bring them to life, celebrations were far reaching.
VISITORS
AUSTRALIAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL
The National Trust properties felt the strain of extreme weather events and for the third year running, the impact of COVID-19. A range of steps were taken, including visitor number limits and property closures, to keep our visitors, volunteers and staff safe. These necessary steps, along with declining volunteer numbers has had a significant impact on our programming, events, exhibitions and visitation.
Australia’s largest community-driven heritage event, the Australian Heritage Festival, was celebrated across Australia. This year’s theme ‘curiosity’ featured 430 events across Australia, attracting visitors to celebrate cultural, Aboriginal, natural and built heritage. New South Wales hosted 210 events, attracting in excess of 74,000 visitors. There was a combination of walks, talks, performances and learning opportunities. 16% of the activities were Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander themed.
Despite the challenges, we invited visitors to discover heritage stories, events, museums, galleries and beautiful gardens at different times throughout the year. In 2021/22 we welcomed 62,000 visitors. This is a decrease on pre-pandemic 2018/19 visitation levels (139,000).
62,000
160
Visitors welcomed to our properties
Events Curated
NATIONAL TRUST HERITAGE AWARDS
EVENTS This year the National Trust curated more than 160 events and tours. A colourful array of events brought heritage to life through workshops, exhibitions, open days, talks, walks, garden parties and more. New initiatives engaged communities including the artist in residence programs at Woodford Academy and Brough House and ‘Travels with Mary – Stories from the Suitcases’ at Saumarez Homestead.
The National Trust Heritage Awards attracted 108 entries, with 41 projects shortlisted and promoted. The ceremony took place on 13 May at Doltone House with more than 300 in-person attendees. The standard was exceptional; 100% of ceremony attendees are planning to attend again and 95% believe the Heritage Awards is a valuable program. EXHIBITIONS HIGHLIGHTS S.H. Ervin Gallery: Portia Geach Memorial Award, Destination Sydney: the natural world, Steve Lopes Encountered and Salon des Refusés Norman Lindsay Gallery: Springwood Cats Exhibition and Between Friends Old Government House: Making Good, Convict Artisans in Exile The winner of the Holding Redlich People’s Choice Award from 2021 Salon des Refusés. ‘Chakita’ (Nikita Majajas and Charlie Villas) by Tania Wursig.
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In Review: Bushland Management Services Through a tough year of floods, persistent wet weather, COVID-19 and labour shortages, our hardworking and dedicated Bush Management Team achieved delivery of projects to 98% completion.
HIGHLIGHTS • 98% completion of projects, despite extreme weather, staffing and pandemic disruptions • 200 projects completed for 30 clients • 8 tenders submitted (5 successful and 3 pending) • Successful tender submissions included Bankstown Council, Mosman Council, Shoalhaven Council, Local Land Services South Coast and Eurobodalla Council • NSW South Coast expansion, with nine projects awarded within three months and four local, enthusiastic field staff employed.
Before (left) and after (right) works to control African Olive at Glen Regent Reserve.
CASE STUDY: GLEN REGENT RESERVE BUSH REGENERATION
200 projects completed for 30 clients, despite extreme weather, staffing and pandemic disruptions.
Problem The Glen Regent Reserve had become dominated by woody weeds particularly African Olive (Olea europaea car. Cuspidate) inhibiting native growth, diversity and regeneration. Solution Bush Management Services undertook bush regeneration works. The solution included canopy protection, removal of juvenile woody weeds, spraying herbaceous annuals and grasses and the introduction of native ground cover. Results • 29,000 groundcovers planted, including 20 different native species • Removal of 1,200m2 of woody weeds, plus vines • 80–100% reduction in priority weeds • 80–100% reduction of all other environmental weeds • All vines and weeds treated and regrowth controlled to protect native regeneration • Nil fruiting of the priority weed species after control works • Post weed mulching and revegetation activities with 90% plant survival rates.
Lucy Adjei, Bushland Management Services
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In Review: Our People
VOLUNTEERS
At the heart of everything we do are our staff, volunteers, committees, branches, members and supporters who champion conservation and contribute to building a stronger organisation.
DIVERSITY AT THE NATIONAL TRUST The National Trust achieved equal gender representation at the leadership level. Seven of the 13 board members are female, while six of the 12 members of executive management team are female, including the CEO.
Close to one thousand volunteers kindly donated over 42,000 hours of time to deliver events, education programs, welcome visitors, care for collections and fundraise. Technical Committees provided expert advice, strategy and input to key areas of the organisation. The Volunteer Property Committees and Branches kept the doors open, ran events and delivered advocacy submissions. They are central to the organisation and we can’t thank them enough for their support and service. Volunteers were recognised at the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards. Marie Kennedy from Riversdale, Goulburn was named NSW Southern Inland Senior Volunteer of the Year. Deloitte were named Corporate Volunteer Team finalists.
800
42,000+
Volunteers
Hours of time
There’s been a significant shift from what has historically been a male-oriented area, Bush Management Services (BMS), to an equal gender balance. BMS make up 44% of the Trust’s workforce.
62%
38%
FEMALE
MALE
TRAINING A partnership with TAFE NSW provided an online solution to the challenges of rolling COVID-19 lockdowns and property closures, delivering over 1,200 hours of compliance and skills training. Volunteers signed up for a range of courses from Collection Care to Customer Service to Event Management, diversifying their skills across heritage conservation, management and activation. From top: Volunteers at Lindesay, Darling Point and Old Government House, Parramatta
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BOARD APPOINTED TECHNICAL COMMITTEES AND TASKFORCES •B utler Bequest Committee •C ollections Committee •C onservation Policies Taskforce •F inance, Audit & Risk Management Committee (FARM) •P roperties Committee •S .H. Ervin Gallery Advisory Committee •N ational Trust Honours Committee TECHNICAL COMMITTEES • Built Heritage Conservation Committee • Cemeteries Committee • Industrial Heritage Committee • Landscape Conservation Committee BRANCHES AND COMMITTEES • Bathurst and District Branch • Blue Mountains Branch • Far South Coast Branch • Friends of Ahimsa • Friends of Grossmann & Brough House • Friends of Old Government House and Experiment Farm Cottage •F riends of Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts • Gulgong Mudgee Rylstone Branch • Harpers Mansion Management Committee • Hawkesbury Branch • Hunter Regional Branch • Illawarra Shoalhaven Branch • Lachlan Branch • Lindesay Management Committee • Lithgow Branch • Miss Porter’s House Management Committee • Miss Traill’s House Management Committee • No Time To Spare Volunteer Group • Norman Lindsay Gallery Advisory Committee • Parramatta Branch •S .H. Ervin Gallery Events Committee • Southern Highlands Branch • Tours Committee • Vienna Cottage Management Committee • Women’s Committee • Woodford Academy Management Committee The Friends of Everglades House and & Gardens ceased operation this year. Our sincere thanks goes to the Friends for their many years of support.
NATIONAL TRUST HONOURS The following volunteers and staff were recognised for their outstanding contribution. Honorary Life Membership Carol Edds – Hawkesbury Branch Brian Powyer – (Posthumously) Meritorious Service Award More than 15 Years of Outstanding Service Pamela Millard – Norman Lindsay Gallery Deborah Hallam – Hawkesbury Branch Matthew Devine – Landscape Conservation Committee Claire Daggett – Harper’s Mansion Merryleigh Brindley – Harper’s Mansion Iain Stuart – Industrial Heritage Committee Voluntary Service Award Over 10 Years of Service Peter Dadswell – S.H. Ervin Gallery Christina Anderson – Women’s Committee Ros Thomas – Old Government House Anna Brotherhood – S.H. Ervin Gallery Mhairi Clark – Southern Highlands Branch Margaret Guy – Friends of Grossmann House Grant Holmes – Blue Mountains Branch Roger Walker – Everglades House & Gardens Patricia Connell – Lithgow Branch National Trust Commendation Over Five Years of Service Sandra Nicholson – Miss Porter’s House Sue Northey – Blue Mountains Branch Suzanne Douglass – Harper’s Mansion Jan Taylor – Miss Porter’s House David Williams – Friends of Grossmann Marie Kennedy – Riversdale Barbara Foster – Cooma Cottage Graham Attridge – Old Government House Noel Burgess – Woodford Academy Yvonne Kattell – Woodford Academy Lyn Campbell – Dundullimal Dubbo Support Crew Dianne Ivey – Women’s Committee Honours Committee Discretionary Award Highly Commended Award for Outstanding Service to the National Trust (NSW) Robert Elliott Staff Distinguished Service Award Anne Weinman – Director, People Special Commendation for Staff Jane Griffiths – Lindesay Les Davies – previous Saumarez property manager Soma Somavarman – Director, Finance – acknowledging 25 years of service
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In Review: Membership and Giving This year members and supporters have had an exceptional impact. To all who support the work of the National Trust, we thank you.
MEMBERSHIP
GIVING
This year National Trust welcomed 1,096 new members, 75% joining in the first half of 2022, spurred on by the return of local and international travel.
We are thankful for the philanthropic support from members, donors, trusts, foundations and bequests, with revenue of more than $2.8 million. This revenue has been invaluable and has helped off-set declining revenue caused by months of extreme weather and COVID-19 property closures.
Membership numbers were 16,305, a decrease of 13% on the previous year. This was caused by the impacts of the pandemic and the reduced ability to travel and utilise membership benefits. Special member events, days out and tours, coupled with dedicated communications such as the National Trust magazine, eNews and videos, kept members engaged and informed throughout the year. A new reciprocal arrangement with the Art Gallery of NSW provided additional benefits for art-loving members and has been successful in attracting new members. Additional member benefits were on offer through the Caravan and Camping Association. In 2021/22 membership revenue was more than $660,000 with a record 83% member retention. Strong retention levels indicate membership value, despite restricted movement and activities.
16,305
1,096
Members recorded
New members were welcomed
Gifts in Wills Gifts in Wills play a critical role in the ongoing restoration and maintenance work necessary to keep heritage properties and gardens open for all to enjoy. A number of projects have been possible thanks to the generosity of some very special people. The Annie Wyatt Bequest Circle members are committed to conserving heritage for future generations. This dedicated group grew by 20% this year through a campaign to encourage Will writing amongst National Trust members. The National Trust is grateful to its members and supporters, with over $2.2 million received this year from bequests. FUNDRAISING In 2021/2022 fundraising revenue was more than $649,000 from 1,673 individual donors, which was humbling in the current economic climate. Major Gifts Major Gifts continued to contribute to fundraising revenue with over $100,000 received. These gifts
We are thankful for the philanthropic support of members, donors, trusts, foundations and bequests. This support has been invaluable at a time where financial impacts of property closures, extreme weather events and COVID-19 are being felt. 12
Supporter Day, Norman Lindsay Gallery
fund both operational expenses and important projects. Much-needed maintenance and upgrades at Riversdale will be funded by a descendant of former Riversdale owners. A large research project of our textile collections, across four properties, has been funded by a foundation. Appeals Appeals are an important revenue stream accounting for half of all fundraising revenue this year and exceeded the target by 29%. The ‘Garden Appeal’ in Spring 21 raised more than $109,000 for gardens and landscapes at Norman Lindsay Gallery, Tomago House and Vienna Cottage. The end of financial year appeal generated more than $214,000 and will be used to re-imagine the interiors of Everglades House in the Blue Mountains. Revitalising the original Art Deco ambience through painting the interiors, new lighting, decorative arts and furniture in a number of the rooms, will enhance the visitor experience. One donation of $100,000 was received thanks to the generosity of a guest donor at a Supporter Day, who witnessed first-hand the possibilities of what could be achieved. Patrons and Guardians Program Patrons and Guardians make an annual contribution which enables general funds to be directed to where they are needed most. These individuals enjoy invitations to special events, previews and guided tours of exhibitions. Revenue from the program exceeded the target by 10% this year. Regular Giving A committed group of donors contribute to our Regular Giving program on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis. Every gift makes a difference and regular donations contributed more than $34,000 to the ongoing operations in 2021/22.
CONNECTING COVID-19 continued to present challenges to safely engage with members and supporters in-person across significant parts of the year. Despite the challenges, Patrons and Guardians and supporters enjoyed the Retford Park Alfresco Afternoon Tea and Christmas House Tour in December. This included a private tour of the festively decorated house and a delicious afternoon tea on the beautiful veranda. The National Trust Tours Committee held a number of well-attended day tours to sites of historic significance from Rookwood Cemetery to the Hyde Park Memorial. An eight-day Tour to Norfolk Island in April was a sell-out, with more tours planned. A special member morning tea and tour took place at Old Government House in March. Members enjoyed a sunny day and were treated to a curator’s guided tour of the Making Good exhibition. This was followed by a Patron and Guardian afternoon tea, including an exhibition tour and meet and greet with National Trust management. A group of supporters enjoyed a day in the Blue Mountains in May, touring Everglades House & Gardens and Norman Lindsay Gallery. Guests experienced a magical autumnal day, informative property tour and a detailed briefing on the works to be undertaken at Everglades House, made possible through the Everglades House Appeal. May marked the opening of the Salon des Refusés exhibition, together with a private member’s tour hosted by the Galleries Director. This was followed by a delicious morning tea in the Trust Café.
Everglades House & Gardens
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In Review: Finances Income streams were significantly reduced by COVID-19 and extreme weather. Investment income and bequests saw good returns. However, the downturn in international markets, has resulted in a net deficit.
Operating Income
FY2022
FY2021
Bushland Management
Grants
Visitation
Enterprises – Rental and Venue Hire
Membership
The National Trust is a charity and a not-for-profit organisation. The financial results presented are for the consolidated entity of The National Trust of Australia (NSW), together with the National Trust of Australia (NSW) Heritage Foundation Limited. Revenue was generated through: • Native bushland regeneration services • Visitation to art galleries, historic properties and gardens • Membership, donations and bequests
Donations
Other
Merchandising
Event
• Conservation fees and restorations appeals • Events and merchandise • Venue hire and commercial and residential rentals • Grants from Government and other organisations SUMMARY • COVID-19 and extreme weather impacted visitation, membership, events and merchandise sales. • Bushland Management Services committed contracts equaled $3m however, again COVID-19 and rain challenged delivery. • Despite the year’s impacts, investment continued in the Strategic Plan from the prior year funds, in particular the Neville Grace Bequest. This included upgrades to computer hardware and phone systems, website improvements and finalisation of the digitisation of the National Trust Register. • The year’s operating results, including investment income and bequests saw a net surplus of approximately $800k. However, the decline in global markets impacted heavily upon our investment portfolio resulting in a $5.7m unrealised loss on investments. • At a consolidated level, which includes the National Trust of Australia (NSW) Heritage Foundation, there was a net deficit of $4.9m.
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0%
10%
Operating Expenditure
20%
FY2022
30%
40%
FY2021
Employee and Related
Bushland Management
Other
Repairs and Maintenance
Property Operating
Merchandising
Event
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
FY 2022 $000’s
FY 2021 $000’s
Grants
INCOME Bushland Management
SUPPORTERS
2,797
2,735
Conservation Services
330
246
Donations
700
723
Enterprises (including rental and venue hire)
642
545
Events
223
146
Grant Revenue
824
2,371
Membership
651
734
Merchandising
471
583
Visitation
634
883
We were grateful for the NSW Government grant that supported the retention of the National Trust’s workforce during this time. The NSW Government and Heritage Council of NSW supported the Australian Heritage Festival and National Trust Heritage Awards as continuing principal sponsor in 2022, providing $75,000 in grant funding.
21
22
429 144
429 351
7,438
9,341
The National Trust would also like to recognise the grant support from Australian Museums and Galleries Association; Create NSW; Department of Industry, Department of Premier and Cabinet, Infrastructure NSW; Federal Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources; Federal Department Social Services and Community; Museums and Galleries NSW; National Library of Australia; Office of Environment and Heritage; Orica Australia Pty Ltd; Reconciliation NSW and The Copland Foundation.
2,482
2,327
Support (including in-kind support) was also received from Armidale, Dubbo, Maitland, Lithgow, Tenterfield, Wingecarribee Shire and Yass City Councils.
Cost of Merchandising
285
338
Employee and Related
4,860
4,693
Events
266
209
Legal Fees
222
129
Heritage Consultancy Fees
169
156
We acknowledge the generous support provided to the S.H. Ervin Gallery by Allen & Unwin, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Holding Redlich, the Margaret Olley Art Trust, National Trust Wine Service and Perpetual Trustees.
Other Office
686
724
Corporate Partners and Supporters
Postage and Printing
247
240
Property Operating
944
939
1,324
1,346
416
517
Operating Expenses
11,901
11,618
Net Operating Result
(4,463)
(2,277)
A special thank you to our Corporate Supporters; International Conservation Services, Laithwaites Wine People, Museums & Galleries NSW and Safewill. We are also very grateful to our Corporate Members; Allen Jack + Cottier Architects, Cox Architecture, Design 5 Architects, GML Heritage, Hector Abrahams Architects, Lucas, Stapleton, Johnson & Partners, Melgrand, Sydney Metro, Winten Property Group and Wollongong City Council.
2,6 3,023
2,6 1,772
(1,440)
(505)
7,2 2,221
7,2 3,673
Gain/(Loss) on Revaluation of Investment
(5,712)
5,259
Gift - Collections
429 18
429 195
Non-Operating Income
(3,474)
9,126
Sponsorship Insurance Claim (directly offest additional repairs and maintenance) Operating Income
EXPENSES Bushland Management Services
Repairs and Maintenance Other
Investment Income Net Operating Surplus / (Deficit)
Net Bequest
S. H. Ervin Gallery
FURTHER INFORMATION Net Surplus / (Deficit)
3, (4,914)
3, 8,621
The full details of the Audited Financial Statements can be found at nationaltrust.org.au/about-us-nsw
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About us The National Trust (NSW) is the largest independent conservation organisation in Australia. Founded in 1945, the National Trust's vision is to bring the heritage of New South Wales to life for future generations. The National Trust (NSW)'s mission is to: • Advocate for the conservation of built, cultural and natural heritage by engaging with the community and government • Identify, conserve and protect our built, cultural and natural heritage by example, advice and support • Educate and engage the community by telling our stories in ways that awaken a sense of place and belonging We achieve our mission in accordance with our values that uphold our independence, trustworthiness, inclusivity and inspiration. CONTACT US National Trust of Australia (NSW), GPO Box 518, SYDNEY NSW 2001 Phone: (02) 9258 0190 Email: info@nationaltrust.com.au nationaltrust.org.au/nsw @nationaltrustau @nationaltrustau @nationaltrustnsw ABN: 82 491 958 802 Printed on sustainability sourced paper, independently certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.
Front cover from top, left to right: Everglades House & Garden (photo: SGR Photo), The Great Cobar Museum and Visitors Information Centre (photo supplied: Dunn & Hillam Architects), S.H. Ervin Gallery (photo: Chloe Ferres), Wylie Baths, Coogee (photo: Nicole Larkin), Retford Park (photo: SGR Photo), Retford Park (photo: SGR Photo), Dundullimal Homestead (photo: Barbara Scott), Norman Lindsay Gallery (photo: SGR Photo), Old Government House (photo: Eddy Summers). Above: Exterior of Cooma Cottage (photo by SGR Photo).
