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

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. 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

GIVING

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.

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.

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.

Everglades House & Gardens Supporter Day, Norman Lindsay Gallery

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.