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

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. 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).

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Visitors welcomed to our properties Events Curated

NATIONAL TRUST HERITAGE AWARDS

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

AUSTRALIAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL

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.

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 winner of the Holding Redlich People’s Choice Award from 2021 Salon des Refusés. ‘Chakita’ (Nikita Majajas and Charlie Villas) by Tania Wursig.