Heritage Changes –A Global Perspective

BY FELICITY WATSON, HERITAGE SPECIALIST

A significant global event coming up in Sydney will challenge delegates to explore heritage through the prism of resilience, responsibility, rights and relationships. Heritage specialist Felicity Watson reflects on what these concepts mean in a rapidly changing world, and some Australian examples that will be showcased.

More than 1,500 heritage experts and enthusiasts from around the world will converge on Sydney in September, when the ICOMOS Triennial General Assembly and Scientific Symposium (GA2023) comes to Australia for the first time. ICOMOS is the International Council on Monuments and Sites – a global organisation of cultural heritage professionals and Advisory Body to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

The first years of this decade have already witnessed climate emergencies, conflict, a worldwide pandemic, lockdowns, closed borders and powerful social movements such as Black Lives Matter. The ICOMOS General Assembly offers an opportunity to consider heritage in the context of these events. What is changing in the field of heritage and what needs to change? What does heritage change, for example, in civil society, the environment, the economy and in politics? And in what ways is heritage a force for change and integral to creating a sustainable future?

‘Heritage Changes: Resilience – Responsibility – Rights – Relationships’ is the theme of the five-day Scientific Symposium, reflecting the tumultuous changes taking place in the world, but also a positive message about the role of heritage in supporting rapid recovery and inclusive approaches.

Resilience

The concept of resilience is linked to sustainable development, including issues such as changing climate, disasters and risk management. Key to achieving sustainable conservation is giving heritage places a life in the community – a core requirement of the World Heritage Convention. Adapting and repurposing heritage buildings present significant opportunities to achieve this, as showcased by places such as the Walsh Bay Precinct, where Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects designed an adaptation of the original 1920s timber wharves. Saved from demolition through community action, the wharves now house premium 21st century performance spaces and a thriving arts community.

Responsibility

Responsibility for heritage places, practices, collections and systems is shared by local communities, governments, and both private and non-profit sectors. What role do communities play in responsible heritage management, and how can heritage be a force for positive change?

The continuing relevance of grassroots organisations like the National Trust demonstrates the ongoing importance of civil society and the actions of communities in the protection of heritage.

Rights

Rights to heritage are deeply enmeshed in politics, ethics and social (or cultural) justice. Recognition of heritage values as diverse, contested and powerful can instigate wider discussion about human and planetary rights. Rights are at the forefront of thinking about heritage internationally as well as in Australia, particularly in relation to the increasing recognition of the rights of Traditional Owners to make decisions about the conservation and management of their cultural heritage.

The integration of natural and cultural heritage has been a recent focus for the World Heritage Advisory Bodies. An important example in Australia is the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape covering 7,000 square kilometres of Gunditjmara Country in south-western Victoria. Australia’s most recently inscribed World Heritage area, it includes the Budj Bim volcano (Mount Eccles); Tae Rak (Lake Condah); the Kurtonitj component, characterised by wetland swamps, and Tyrendarra in the south, an area of rocky ridges and large marshes. Lava flows connect these locations, enabling the Gunditjmara people to develop one of the largest and oldest aquaculture networks in the world, which provided an economic and social base for six millennia. The inscribed area also incorporates the Budj Bim National Park, Victoria’s first co-managed national park, overseen by the Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation and Parks Victoria.

Relationships

There is a growing awareness of the importance of centring community values, voices and experiences in heritage planning and management, to respect connections between non-secular and sacred heritage values and their associated diverse communities.

The Kinchela Aboriginal Boys Training Home in the Macleay Valley is a perfect example. The heritage-listed site connects important stories relating to the Stolen Generations and its deep personal and social impacts, as well as the legacies of colonisation in the Macleay Valley more broadly.

Get Involved

Join the National Trust at these ICOMOS General Assembly public events:

4 SEPTEMBER

Heritage Lecture at Sydney Town Hall.

5 – 9 SEPTEMBER

Heritage Exposition and Traditional Trades

Fair at the International Convention Centre in Darling Harbour.

For more details visit icomosga2023.org

Although the days are shorter, there’s still so much happening at our special places this winter. From star gazing and artist exhibitions to unique displays of historic books and garden memorabilia, you’re invited to rug up and join us at these great events.

Vicki Cornish Artist In Residence Exhibition

BROUGH HOUSE, MAITLAND

UNTIL 16 JULY, WEEKENDS, 10AM – 3PM

Inspired by an extensive historical collection of textiles and soft furnishings, as well as Grossmann and Brough houses and their gardens, Artist-in-Residence Vicki Cornish will display her site-specific works for you to view.

Tickets: Free, but donations gratefully accepted

Event details are correct at the time of printing. To purchase tickets and check for venue updates visit nationaltrust.org.au/whats-on-nsw

2023 Salon Des Refus S

S.H. ERVIN GALLERY, OBSERVATORY HILL

UNTIL 23 JULY, TUESDAY – SUNDAY, 11AM – 5PM

The Salon des Refusés is the ‘alternative’ selection of entries to the annual Archibald and Wynne prizes. Browse contemporary works, different approaches to portraiture and responses to landscape selected for quality, diversity, humour and experimentation. (Artwork: Sleep School (Self-Portrait) by Vanessa Stockard).

Tickets: Members free, adults $15, concession $12, family $42, children under five free

UNDER ONE SKY – NSW SCHOOLS RECONCILIATION CHALLENGE EXHIBITION

EVERGLADES HOUSE & GARDENS, LEURA

UNTIL 24 JULY, WEDNESDAY – MONDAY, 10AM – 4PM

BROUGH HOUSE, MAITLAND

5 AUGUST – 27 AUGUST, WEEKENDS, 10AM – 3PM

The Schools Reconciliation Challenge exhibition showcases a powerful selection of stunning artworks and writing by school students inspired by First Nations peoples’ understanding of Country. (Artwork: A Flame Under Stars , by Mikayla Kerestesi, Nepean Creative and Performing Arts School).

Tickets: Prices vary

TWO JOURNEYS, DIFFERENT PATHS

THE WHITE COTTAGE, RETFORD PARK, BOWRAL

UNTIL 30 JULY, THURSDAY – SUNDAY, 10AM – 4PM

Browse a stunning collection of watercolours, oils, mixed media, printmaking and encaustic painting exploring flowers, trees, landscapes and animals as well as abstract interpretations by Southern Highlands artists Elizabeth Burton and Gillian Baldock.

Tickets to exhibition: Free

FAMILY TOUR OF THE RIVER: BURRAMATTA TO COCKATOO

OLD GOVERNMENT HOUSE, PARRAMATTA

4 JULY – 13 JULY & 26 SEPTEMBER – 5 OCTOBER, TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS, 11AM – 12PM

This special family-focused guided tour of Old Government House’s latest exhibition explores the history of the Parramatta River over centuries of use for transport, food, fun and Indigenous culture.

Tickets: Members free, adults $15, concession $12, family $42, children under five free

INFILL HOUSING IN GLEBE: THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY TOUR

GLEBE

8 JULY, 1:30PM – 4PM

Join this fascinating guided tour to explore the changing face of Glebe through the infill development that has been inserted into the suburb’s historic streetscapes over time.

Tickets: Members $20, adults $25, concession $20, family $45

LIONEL’S PLACE

NORMAN LINDSAY GALLERY, FAULCONBRIDGE

UNTIL 10 SEPTEMBER, THURSDAY – MONDAY, 10AM – 4PM

Delight in etchings, engravings and watercolour paintings by Lionel Lindsay, brother of Norman Lindsay and one of Australia’s most successful printmakers. View works rich in visual texture that depict local and international scenes, flora, fauna and portraiture. (Artwork: Macaws (1938) by Lionel Lindsay).

Tickets: Members free, adults $17, concession $15, family $49, children under five free

THE RIVER:

BURRAMATTA TO COCKATOO

OLD GOVERNMENT HOUSE, PARRAMATTA

UNTIL 26 NOVEMBER, TUESDAY – SUNDAY, 10AM – 4PM

Uncover centuries of use of the Parramatta River, beginning with the Burramattagal people. Discover stories of colonisation, industrialisation, conservation and recreation through time, and reflect upon your own connection to the river as you explore this World Heritage-listed property.

Tickets: Members free, adults $15, concession $12, family $42, children under five free

OPEN DAYS AT MISS PORTER’S HOUSE

MISS PORTER’S HOUSE, NEWCASTLE WEST

9 JULY, 13 AUGUST, 10 SEPTEMBER, 1PM – 4PM

There’s always something unique to see at Miss Porter’s House, opening with a different theme each month. In July, view a collection of rare and historically significant documents and objects. Uncover the history of the Porter family in August, then delight in their connection to the garden as the season changes in September. Free children’s activities, stalls and a new audio experience will complete your visit.

Tickets: Members free, adults $12, concession $10, family $34, children under five free

Book your tickets or find out more at nationaltrust.org.au/whats-on-nsw

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE AT WOODFORD ACADEMY: CHRIS CAINES

WOODFORD ACADEMY, WOODFORD

15 JULY, 10AM – 4PM

Chris Caines explores transformational new technologies with cinematic practices and applies them to the art of storytelling. He showcases the outcomes of his residency which was funded by the Blue Mountains City of the Arts Trust Grants Program.

Tickets: Members free, adults $12, concession $10, family $34, children under five free

IN SEARCH OF JANETTE GRACE GROSSMANN – A GROSSMANN LECTURE

BROUGH HOUSE, MAITLAND

22 JULY, 2PM – 4PM

Be inspired by the life and career of Janette Grace Grossmann (1862–1924), the pioneering principal and teacher of the Maitland Girls High School in the late 19th century, and enjoy refreshments in the gardens.

Tickets from: Members $20, adults $25, concession $23

SKYWATCHERS: CELEBRATION OF THE APOLLO LANDING

LINDESAY, DARLING POINT

20 JULY, 5PM – 7PM

On the 54th anniversary of the Apollo 11 landing on the moon and with Mercury, Venus and Mars visible in the night sky, enjoy a glass of wine and canapés on the lawn of historic Lindesay while listening to interesting insights about the iconic mission into space.

Tickets: $35

GHOST NIGHT

OLD GOVERNMENT HOUSE, PARRAMATTA

21 JULY, 18 AUGUST, 15 SEPTEMBER, 20 OCTOBER,

7:30PM – 10:30PM

With more than 200 years of history, Old Government House is no stranger to eerie encounters. Learn about our colonial past as you retrace the steps of those who walked its corridors – if you dare!

Tickets: Members $32, adults $35

WOODFORD ACADEMY BOOK FESTIVAL WOODFORD ACADEMY, WOODFORD

19 AUGUST, 10AM – 4PM

Browse the unique and diverse collection of more than 1000 books dating from the 1860s to the 1970s, including Latin text books, Belle Monde fashion books, early 20th century agricultural gazettes, classic fiction, religious and political pamphlets. Listen to a short presentation and tour the house.

Tickets: Members free, adults $12, concession $10, family $34, children under five free

Art In Conflict

S.H. ERVIN GALLERY, OBSERVATORY HILL

29 JULY – 10 SEPTEMBER, TUESDAY – SUNDAY, 11AM – 5PM

View an impressive showcase of works addressing conflict, both past and present, from leading contemporary Australian artists. On display are more than 70 paintings, drawings, films, prints, photographs and sculptures from artists such as Ben Quilty, Susan Norrie and Megan Cope, to name only a few.

Tickets: Members free, adults $15, concession $12, family $42, children under five free

2024 National Trust Desk Diary

Celebrate Australia's built, natural and cultural heritage with the latest edition of our popular annual desk diary, featuring a different inspirational, sometimes off-beat, image every week.

One diary $25, two for $40 or ten for $160 plus postage. To order, please email ntdeskdiary2024@gmail.com or phone 0416 039 235 or (02) 9363 2401. Orders by 31 July appreciated.

DESMOND FREEMAN:

SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS IMPRESSIONS IN INK

THE WHITE COTTAGE, RETFORD PARK, BOWRAL

3 AUGUST – 24 SEPTEMBER, THURSDAY – SUNDAY, 10AM – 4PM

An incredible collection of intricate pen and ink works exploring a mixture of Colonial Victorian, Federation and contemporary architecture in the Southern Highlands by acclaimed artist Desmond Freeman.

Tickets to exhibition: Free

60 YEARS CELEBRATION: LINDESAY AND THE WOMEN’S COMMITTEE

LINDESAY, DARLING POINT

4 AUGUST, 6PM–7:30PM & 10 AUGUST, 2PM–3:30PM

Join the Women’s Committee to celebrate the generous gift of historic Lindesay to the National Trust of Australia (NSW) by Mr Walter Pye. Festivities include a sunset drinks party and an afternoon high tea overlooking Sydney Harbour.

Tickets: Drinks party $60, high tea $30

CARRINGTON HOTEL GUIDED TOUR

CARRINGTON HOTEL, KATOOMBA

10 AUGUST 1:45PM – 4:30PM

Join a special tour of Carrington Hotel, an exclusive retreat for Sydney’s elite in the early 20th century. Explore the hotel’s magnificent rooms and appreciate the elegant Art Deco architecture as you unravel the history of this iconic Blue Mountains building. Afternoon tea included.

Tickets: Members $50, adults $60, concession $55

VIENNA COTTAGE’S ANNUAL HERITAGE LECTURE

AND MUSICAL PROGRAM

ALL SAINTS CHURCH, HUNTERS HILL

20 AUGUST, 2PM – 4:30PM

Enjoy a musical performance on the grand Bevington organ followed by a fascinating address by Professor Kate Fullagar about the significant relationship between Arthur Phillip, first Governor of NSW, and Woollarawarre Bennelong, a Wangal man born on the south shore of the Parramatta River. Morning tea included.

Tickets: $25

HAWKESBURY HISTORIC DRINKING HOLES: HERITAGE PUB TOUR

WINDSOR AND RICHMOND

24 AUGUST, 9:30AM – 4PM

Take a unique guided walk to discover the hidden secrets of two of Governor Macquarie’s historic towns. Visit a range of heritage buildings including several pubs and access some rarely seen internal spaces along the way.

Tickets: Members $30, adults $40, concession $34

Art And Architecture At Sydney Modern

SYDNEY MODERN, ART GALLERY OF NSW

16 AUGUST, 10:30AM – 12:30PM

Experience ‘State of the Art’ at Sydney’s exciting new architectural landmark and art gallery. Discover the secrets of its design, large-scale installations and selection of significant art works. Morning tea included.

Tickets: Members $75, adults $85

SAVE

Lindesay Christmas Gift Fair

LINDESAY, DARLING POINT

16 – 18 NOVEMBER, 10AM – 4PM

Mark your diaries for the 21st annual Lindesay Christmas Gift Fair! Held in beautiful heritage grounds overlooking Sydney Harbour, this event is the perfect place to find handmade jewellery, clothing, gourmet foods and special artisan gifts. While you’re there, enjoy a bite to eat and relax in the stunning gardens.

Tickets: $5 at entrance. Free shuttle bus available from Edgecliff Station. Enquiries: lindesay@nationaltrust.com.au

Book your tickets or find out more at nationaltrust.org.au/whats-on-nsw