National Trust of Australia (NSW) July - September 2020 Magazine by The National Trusts in Australia

NATIONAL TRUST NEW SOUTH WALES JULY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SEPTEMBER 2020 MAGAZINE

IN THIS ISSUE POWERHOUSE: STOPPING THE MOVEMENT NO TIME TO SPARE: REMEMBERING RACHEL ROXBURGH MISS PORTER'S HOUSE: A POIGNANT SURVIVOR

CONTENTS

Inside The COVID-19 emergency was still having a significant impact on the heritage, culture, arts and tourism sectors when this edition of the New South Wales National Trust Magazine was being produced.

NATIONAL TRUST NEW SOUTH WALES JULY – SEPTEMBER 2020 MAGA ZINE

Our magazine for July to September 2020 includes articles that illustrate how the National Trust is caring for our properties and collections during the coronavirus crisis, and our ongoing advocacy for heritage under threat, including the much-loved Powerhouse Museum at Ultimo. It also pays tribute to two conservation warriors from the past – Rachael Roxburgh and Jack Mundey. IN THIS ISSUE POWERHOUSE: STOPPING THE MOVEMENT NO TIME TO SPARE: REMEMBERING R ACHEL ROXBURGH MISS PORTER'S HOUSE: A POIGNANT SURVIVOR

From the President Neil Wykes OAM

From the CEO Debbie Mills

Member moments Celebrating our 50–year members

Protect The National Trust at Work

Tribute Tribute to Jack Mundey

Cover image

Conserve National Trust properties closed with care

Conserve The influence Rachel Mary Roxburgh

Reflect Remembering the Newcastle Earthquake

Reflect Celebrating 75 years of the National Trust

Calendar Events and tours celebrating heritage

Horizon 23 Find out what’s coming up in the next edition of the New South Wales National Trust magazine

National Trust (NSW)

The Rocks area at the foot of the Sydney Habour Bridge is one of the precincts saved during the famous green bans movement of the 1970s, led by conservation activist Jack Mundey. We pay tribute to Jack Mundey on page 9 (photographer Didier Marti/ Moment Collection via Getty Images).

National Trust (NSW) Observatory Hill, Millers Point, Sydney 2000 GPO Box 518, Sydney 2001 Telephone: (02) 9258 0123 Fax: (02) 9251 1110 www.nationaltrust.org.au/nsw President: Mr Neil Wykes OAM CEO: Debbie Mills Editor: Andrew Sedger Designer: Lauren Sutherland Editorial Committee: Nicole Crabb, Debbie Mills, Graham Quint, Yarran Quint, Gaetano Sanacore, Richard Silink, Soma Somavarman, Anja Stride, Lyndal Stuart, Anne Weinman. The New South Wales National Trust Magazine is published by the National Trust of Australia (New South Wales). Published articles reflect the opinions of the authors and are not necessarily reflective of the views of the National Trust. This magazine is printed by Enviropress, a division of Bright Print Group, on paper that is independently certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), carbon neutral and made with 100% recycled post-consumer waste in a chlorine-free environment.

VISION

From the President BY NEIL WYKES OAM

Dear Members, As we all emerge from a long stretch of isolation, the voices of solidarity have come from across every region of New South Wales and even from Clarence House. On behalf of the National Trust (NSW) and other Australian charities, I have received a letter from His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, offering words of encouragement as we continue to serve the community through the COVID-19 crisis, in the aftermath and during recovery. Renowned for his philanthropic support and patronage of more than 400 charities in the United Kingdom, Prince Charles is an avid supporter of conservation and environmental causes. He also champions children and young people, disaster relief, education, health, human rights and eradicating poverty. All of these causes will require as much support as they can get, as the world faces the challenging road to recovery. We have taken stringent measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of people at the National Trust, which has meant a challenging year so far for all of us. We have missed seeing you all at our events and sharing our properties with the wider community – but we have continued to care for them. I would like to personally thank those who donated to our ‘Ready for

Rain’ appeal, with the aim of drought-proofing Saumarez, Riversdale, and Dundullimal homesteads. We appreciate you sharing our vision and keeping our cause in your hearts. Our doors may be closed, but our advocacy efforts continue. Read the article about the Powerhouse Museum by our Director, Conservation, Graham Quint, on page 6. Our former President, Dr Clive Lucas OBE, has contributed an interesting personal reflection on a significant period in our history. I hope we can entice others to provide similar reflections in future. Of course we also pay tribute to Jack Mundey. May his memory and lifelong dedication to protecting our heritage never be forgotten. Read the story of how the National Trust played a key role in the Green Bans, with Jack regularly meeting then Chief Executive Officer, John Morris, in secret, to seek advice on what buildings should be saved. May also saw the passing of an inaugural member of the Women’s Committee, Mavis Sommerlad, aged 101. She and her late husband, Lloyd, who served as President in 1960/61, both made significant contributions to the conservation of our heritage.

July – September 2020

WHAT’S HAPPENING

From the Chief Executive Officer BY DEBBIE MILLS

Dear Members, In decades and centuries to come, this chapter of our history will be the subject of much reflection. How did people respond? How did everyone remain in isolation and most importantly, how did the community remain connected through this and emerge with a refreshed perspective? The National Trust (NSW) is part of writing that history. I have been overwhelmed with messages of support and heartfelt appreciation that, while it has been heartbreaking to keep our doors and garden gates closed, people understand we have acted responsibly. People appreciate that the care of our community, volunteers, staff, Members and visitors has been of the utmost importance to us at all times. Our volunteers have been extraordinary – continuing to step forward and find ways to bring their energies to the National Trust, from afar and virtually. Our Members have renewed, donated and encouraged us to keep going. Our staff have continued to work diligently, and take on extra responsibilities to care for our properties. Conservation works have continued unabated, which our Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Richard Silink, writes about on pages 10 and 11.

At the time of publishing this edition of the New South Wales National Trust Magazine, we were at a crossroads, with government restrictions related to COVID-19 relaxing in many respects and across the arts, entertainment, tourism and leisure sectors. It's refreshing to see the world re-opening and we have every intention of doing so, we just need to do so with a very strict regime of health, safety and spatial considerations in mind. We are working hard on making that happen as soon as possible. The pause has allowed us to fast forward and imagine a refreshed and inspiring events program. We are considering how we can re-open our beautiful gardens and heritage properties, so you can come together in safe spaces and reconnect with your community. We will have to approach this step-by-step. We will provide you with the latest information, as and when we can. We urge you to stay in touch with us on Facebook @nationaltrustau and subscribe to our eNews online so you receive our monthly updates nationaltrust.org.au/enews-nsw We will also keep you up to date on all our reopening news and events on our website. Thank you for your ongoing support.

MEMENTO

Goulburn 200 Years It was 1820 when Governor Lachlan Macquarie and his fellow explorers made their way across the Goulburn Plains and set up camp at the current day Landsdowne Estate, near the banks of the Wollondilly River. In the same year that the National Trust (NSW) is celebrating its 75th Anniversary, Goulburn is commemorating the bicentenary of Macquarie’s first visit. Among events planned to mark the European, Aboriginal and natural heritage of this area is an exhibition at Riversdale, leading into the homestead’s renowned Rare Plants and Grower’s Garden Fair. With so much heritage to celebrate in Goulburn, we hope the community is able to come together to mark this important milestone in the city’s history.

National Trust (NSW)

Check our website homepage and news section for updates on openings and future events.

MEMBER MOMENTS

Celebrating our 50-year Members BY JESSIE BODOR, RELATIONSHIP MANAGER

More than 660 people have been members of the National Trust (NSW) for 50 years or more. So what motivated these heritage enthusiasts to join and why are they still involved? The National Trust first welcomed membership subscriptions in 1945. Since then, we have grown primarily because of our members, whose combined advocacy has helped save countless buildings and landscapes across the State. The importance of this work is a key reason Alan Burton initially joined the Junior Group in the late 1960s. “I could see old places being pulled down and appalling buildings being put up in their place. I wanted to join an organisation that would fight for the preservation of our history,” Alan said. Long-standing Patrons & Guardians Program participant, Beverley Roden, has maintained her involvement in the National Trust since the 1960s because she believes it is vitally important future generations have the opportunity to learn about the past. “I wanted my children to be able to visit our buildings and see exactly how things were,” she said. “It's also worthwhile to keep alive the tales, and for people to keep telling them. It makes the character of the country and adds real depth to our history.” Eleanor Sydney-Jones sees even broader value in preserving significant buildings and

gardens. “It's important for the nation to know its history, in order to move forward. If you don't remember your past, you are in danger of making the same mistakes again,” she said. For Southern Highlands resident Merryleigh Brindley, volunteering provides the added benefit of helping her to connect with the wider community. Merryleigh has been a tour guide at Harper’s Mansion in Berrima for many years, educating everyone from school children to international visitors. “Giving tours of Harper’s is great because when you take people around, you can tell them about all the amazing work that the Trust does and you are having fun,” she said. “It’s such a pleasure to be working alongside like-minded people.”

PATRONS & GUARDIANS The Patrons & Guardians Program provides in depth insights for our key supporters through exclusive updates and access to special events. Join the Program by annually contributing $1,000 or more (tax deductible). For more information contact Jessie Bodor on (02) 9258 0131or at jbodor@nationaltrust.com.au.

IN MEMORY

Mavis Sommerlad (1919 – 2020) The National Trust (NSW) is sad to learn of the passing of Mavis Sommerlad, a founding member of the Women’s Committee. Born in 1919, Mavis studied geology at university, maintaining a lifelong interest in this field, and graduated with an Arts degree. Her first job was at the ABC, carrying out a range of research and program roles. In 1943, she married Lloyd Sommerlad, who became a member of the NSW Legislative Council in 1955, and presented the National Trust Act to Parliament. Lloyd served as President of the National Trust in 1960–61, and suggested forming the Women's Committee with encouragement from Mavis, who served on the executive for several years. She was also a member of the Folk Collection Committee in the 1960s. Mavis passed away on 4 May 2020 at Lansdowne Gardens, Neutral Bay, aged 101 years. Our deepest sympathies to her family and friends.

July – September 2020

PROTECT

Stop the Movement BY GRAHAM QUINT, DIRECTOR, CONSERVATION

By definition, ‘perpetual motion’ is the hypothetical continuous operation of an isolated mechanical device or closed system without a sustaining energy source. It’s not a bad metaphor for the decision to move the Powerhouse Museum at Ultimo to Parramatta. On 27 February 2015, then NSW Premier, Mike Baird, announced that Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum would be moved to Parramatta as a means of creating an arts and cultural precinct in western Sydney. It was a State Election promise should the Coalition Government be voted back in the following month. They were. At the time, a site in Parramatta had not been chosen and there were plans to sell the existing site at Ultimo to developers. It appears that Mr Baird considered his Government’s re-election gave it a mandate for the sale and move, rather than going through traditional public consultation processes. Powerhouse of Opposition The National Trust expressed its deep concern and shock at this announcement, and its opposition to the sale of the Powerhouse Museum site at Ultimo for redevelopment. We also strongly opposed any demolition of the existing historic Ultimo Power House structures, the purpose-built 1988 extension and the Ultimo Tramsheds. We supported the establishment of a Parramatta branch of the museum with its own distinct function and style, but strongly opposed the closure of the Ultimo Powerhouse Museum. Why did we take this position? Worldwide, major city museums such as the Louvre in 6

Paris, the Smithsonian Institute in Washington (the world’s largest museum with 19 associated museums) and the British Museum in London, have satellite museums established. Britain’s Natural History Museum began as an annex of the British Museum but has now forged its own identity. To our knowledge, almost never is a major institution closed for redevelopment of the site with that museum moved to another place as is being proposed in Sydney. Seeing Something Special The Ultimo Power House was magnificently repurposed just 30 years ago as a world-class museum. Since it opened in 1988, the building and its exhibitions have won many awards. The Powerhouse Museum belongs in its Ultimo technology context where it is a vital part of an education and innovation precinct, and easily accessible via The Goods Line walkway and light rail, and from Darling Harbour, and the rail and bus hub at Central Station. The cultural value of the Powerhouse Museum is more than just the buildings – it is also the collection. The two are intrinsically linked by the 1980s development project, which repurposed and extended the former power house to be used as a contextual and responsive setting to the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences’ (MAAS) collection. The vaulted ceiling of the Galleria inspired by the designs of Borromini and, more locally, the Normanton Railway Station, is a dramatic display space for the 1863 No 1 Locomotive with tender and carriages, the Boulton and Watt steam engine and the Strasburg Clock. The Boiler House is the largest building in the museum complex and its generous volume, with the Catalina Flying Boat Frigate Bird II suspended from its lofty ceilings, evokes a sense of wonder and awe. The Engine Room retained its industrial ambience, showcasing the original overhead National Trust (NSW)

Opposite page, from left The proposed new Powerhouse design for Parramatta, created by French-Japanese firm Moreau Kusunoki and Australian company Genton (image supplied by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences); perspective view of the Powerhouse Museum, 2020 (photo by Ruben Ramos/Alamy Stock Photo).

cranes and the stark white wall tiles, and providing a fitting backdrop to the Steam Revolution exhibition of working steam engines and steam-powered machines. The old power house is not just a shell. The museum has brought life and purpose to the buildings, providing a befitting and meaningful home for the MAAS collection. That is why the Powerhouse Museum, both the buildings and the collection, are of high heritage value to the people of New South Wales. It’s a Keeper The closure of the Powerhouse Museum at Ultimo and the permanent disbandment of the collection from this site into storage will have a detrimental impact on the Powerhouse site. It will erase a significant layer of history and take a valued cultural institution from the people of New South Wales. In a post-pandemic world, people will need to reconnect with places they remember and cherish. So much will change in this period of personal and economic uncertainty. The National Trust supports a new museum in Parramatta that does not involve the demolition of the historic buildings, Willow Grove and St. George’s Terrace, and which meets the needs and aspirations of the people of Parramatta. We also strongly believe that the historic Ultimo Powerhouse Museum should be maintained and conserved intact for people to visit and enjoy when the present horrors subside.

The Community Speaks In May 2020, the National Trust (NSW) conducted a short survey to gain insights on the importance of the Powerhouse Museum to the community. We received 1,320 responses and have since nominated the site at Ultimo for the State Heritage Register. People in every state across Australia, and some from overseas, responded to the National Trust’s survey, with 98 per cent of respondents indicating they had previously visited the museum. An overwhelming majority had visited with their family. This much-loved and popular place attracts an average of more than 500,000 visitor per year (based on the mean of visitor numbers for the years 2008/09 – 2017/18). Ninety-four per cent of respondents indicated that the Powerhouse Museum was an important cultural institution, with just over 91 per cent indicating that the buildings and its exhibits are of significance to the people of NSW. In describing their first visit to the museum many people spoke about the volume of the exhibition spaces and the large exhibits. The survey asked which words people associated with the Powerhouse Museum. The most common words to describe the museum experience were ‘interesting’, ‘educational’ and ‘fun’. The history and historical items in the collection are highly valued by visitors You can read our full report here: issuu.com/nationaltrustsaustralia/docs/the_powerhouse_ museum_your_say_2020

July – September 2020

PROTECT

National Trust (NSW) Advocacy News Positions on Fires and Forests The National Trust has made a submission to the NSW Independent Bushfire Inquiry. Our submission recognises Climate Change as a key contributor to bushfires. It sets out our support of greenhouse gas reduction targets, and increased investment in a New South Wales aerial fire fighting fleet. It also explains that we support the use of best-practice bushfire hazard reduction (cool) burning, and identifies opportunities to expand understanding of Aboriginal cultural burning and the funding of training in this practice by Aboriginal practitioners. We have also developed two Position Papers on Bushfire Hazard Reduction Burning and Deforestation.

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999 The National Trust has made a submission to the Senate Standing Committee inquiry into the operation of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC). We have strongly urged that completion of the review be delayed.

Harbourside, Darling Harbour The property developer, Mirvac, revised its plans to redevelop the Harbourside Shopping Centre in Darling Harbour, submitting a new concept proposal to the NSW Government in response to objections raised by the National Trust and the community. The National Trust has made a further submission on the revised plans.

Snowy 2.0 The National Trust (NSW) is in the process of publishing a Position Paper on Snowy 2.0, calling for a review of this project and that alternative, less environmentally damaging and more effective proposals should be considered.

Native Vegetation Clearing Policy We have recently published a policy calling for a moratorium on code-based clearing of native vegetation until an independent review of the laws and enforcement resources is conducted, and strongly opposing the use of bushfire hazard-reduction programs supplying timber for new biomass power plants.

COVID-19 Revised Planning Powers The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment has invited the National Trust (NSW) and other conservation and advocacy groups to regular meetings that will provide updates on the changing planning processes and policies instituted as a result of COVID-19. We will regularly update our website with information here: nationaltrust.org.au/news/nsw-govplanning-covid-response

National Trust (NSW)

From top Harbourside Complex, Darling Harbour, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (photo Alamy Stock Photo); the power station on the Tumut River has quite the view (image by Snowy Hydro Limited).

TRIBUTE

Jack Mundey On 10 May 2020, we lost a hero of heritage with the passing of Jack Mundey AO, at the age of 90. The National Trust (NSW) pays tribute to his memory and tireless advocacy for conservation, social and environmental justice. Born in 1929 at Malanda in Queensland, Jack Mundey was appointed leader of the NSW Builders Labourers Federation (BLF) in 1968, just as construction was set to boom at the expense of some of our most prized historic precincts and buildings. Many people know the story about Jack and the BLF leading the famous 'green bans' movement during the 1970s, to save our heritage. To quote Wendy Bacon’s tribute in The Guardian following his passing: ‘The nub of the green bans argument was that communities should have the right to shape and protect their environment, and that the workers whose labour was used to create the built environment should have a say in what was built.' The result was 42 bans on planned construction sites across the State. The story rarely told is how the sites were selected, and that it was the result of a secret alliance between Jack and then National Trust Director, John Morris. The pair were unlikely partners given Jack’s communist politics and the National Trust’s politically independent and neutral position, so they held a clandestine meeting at the Royal George Hotel in Sussex Street, Sydney. Legend has it that Jack was told John would be ‘the fellow with a red beard, wearing glasses and a checked sports coat’.

Glebe, Redfern, Newcastle, various heritage buildings in Sydney’s CBD, Kelly's Bush Park in Hunters Hill, and Centennial Park and the Botanical Gardens.

Below Jack Mundey being removed from The Rocks by police during a protest in 1973 (Getty Images).

In his later years, Jack continued to support various campaigns for the protection of heritage and the environment. He joined the Greens and supported a students’ sit-in to save the College of Arts at Callan Park. He also lent his voice to the movement for the protection of the Bondi Pavilion. As Chair of the NSW Historic Houses Trust, he campaigned to save Finger Wharf, the Female Factory at Parramatta and, until very recently, was a key voice in the successful push to ‘Save Sirius’ at The Rocks. Of the many roles Jack Mundey fulfilled, he was a labourer, a City of Sydney councillor, a rugby league player for the Parramatta Eels, a lifetime member of the Australian Conservation Foundation, a National Trust Living Treasure and guest of honour at the annual National Trust Heritage Awards. We will miss him, and we continue to stand as guardians of the State’s heritage in honour of his memory. Our deepest condolences are with Jack’s family and friends at this time.

For John and the National Trust it was imperative that sites of great heritage significance were saved for future generations. John knew Jack would lead the BLF to down tools in the name of what was socially and environmentally responsible, while Jack knew John would provide guidance on the priority sites for the campaign.

‘Jack Mundey was an Australian hero who saved Sydney from the bulldozers and shaped a generation of activists’, by Wendy Bacon, The Guardian (Australia edition), 12 May 2020. https://bit.ly/2WCcCBR The House That Jack Built: Jack Mundey, Green Bans Hero, by James Colman, NewSouth Books, 2016.

The green bans saved from destruction The Rocks precinct, Woolloomooloo, Darlinghurst, July – September 2020

CONSERVE

Closed with Care BY RICHARD SILINK, DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

An unprecedented series of disasters has created enormous challenges for the National Trust in recent months, but special measures are making sure our valuable collections and properties are receiving the care they need. What a monumental six months it has been. In a series of events of almost biblical proportions, the drought brought billowing sandstorms and rivers choked with dead fish. We've witnessed the worst fire season in living memory, with palls of smoke so thick they seemingly turned day into night. Then came torrential rain and extensive flooding. There were even reports of the dreaded cane toad (not frogs), spreading ever further southwards. And now, of course, there is the pandemic. Many of these events have directly affected our historic properties and collections, our precious natural environment, and the lives of our volunteers and staff.

landscapes, buildings, gardens and collections from Tenterfield in the north, to Yass in the south and out to Dubbo in the west. During the closures, we have focussed on keeping these places and collections safe and well-tended, to ensure they will be available for the public to enjoy when conditions allow. This has involved finding new ways to care for them. Normally, we are highly reliant on a large, dedicated cohort of volunteers. In the interests of safety, our volunteers have not been able to work at our sites. Since the closures, our small team of staff, local tradespeople and contractors, have stepped up to take on many of the duties our amazing volunteers usually fulfil. This includes cleaning and airing the interiors of our buildings to prevent outbreaks of mould; covering, dusting and inspecting our collections; and mowing, trimming and weeding our gardens. Meanwhile, the National Trust has continued its program of major conservation works, funded by generous donors. In fact, if there is a positive to come out of the current situation, it is that this work has become a little easier and has been able to progress a little faster.

On 19 December 2019, the National Trust's wildlife sanctuary property in Bargo was significantly damaged by fire. Although the animals had been moved to a safe place, native vegetation and infrastructure was destroyed. The very next day, in a monumental effort by staff and specialist contractors, we evacuated all the artwork from the Norman Lindsay Gallery at Faulconbridge, in a matter of hours, as another fire threatened from the north. Heavy rain and hail extinguished many of the areas still burning in February, however extreme conditions cut the vital train line connecting Sydney to our Blue Mountains and western properties, further disrupting visitor numbers.

Perhaps the most significant project in scale and cost has been repairing the roof and the repainting of Lindesay at Darling Point. Scheduling major work at the property has been difficult in the past because, aside from regular openings, the house and gardens are extremely popular as a venue for private events, such as weddings.

By early March we seemed to be through the worst, then along came COVID-19. On 19 March, the National Trust (NSW) closed all our properties to visitors, members and volunteers as part of the nationwide effort to curb the spread of the pandemic. The closures resulted in the cancellation of a raft of autumn exhibitions, education programmes, events, tours and private bookings.

Critical structural repairs have also been made to the exterior of Brough House at Maitland. Carried out over a period of about two months, the work repaired historic damage to the external timbers, caused by termites.

The National Trust normally opens 22 of our highly significant heritage properties across the state on a regular basis, with more than 130,000 visitors enjoying them annually. We have

Preparation began late last year. Scaffolding was erected around the entire building and unstable stonework on the chimneys was repaired. Repairs were also made to the slate roof and guttering, using traditional skills and materials. At the time of publication, the work was on schedule to be completed by the end of May.

The National Trust would like to thank our members, volunteers, venue hirers and would-be visitors for their understanding and support while the properties have been closed, and the generous donors who've made the preservation work possible. We're looking forward to welcoming everyone back when circumstances allow.

National Trust (NSW)

From left National Trust honorary conservation architect, Dr Clive Lucas (left), inspects progress on repainting Lindesay (photograph by Stephen Buckland); a room under dust covers at Retford Park, Bowral (photograph by Rebecca Pinchin).

Help us get our heritage homesteads ready for rain Due to the severe drought, many heritage NSW homesteads, including Saumarez, Dundullimal and Riversdale are under threat. While some rain has fallen, these properties have

Dundullim al

Homestead

not been ready to harvest it. Urgent funds are needed to make these homesteads drought resilient with new irrigation Saumarez Homestead

systems, tanks, bores and guttering. So that every drop of rain that does fall is captured.

PLEASE DONATE TO THE NATIONAL TRUST (NSW) DROUGHT APPEAL TODAY.

dale Rivers

Donate securely online at www.nationaltrust.org.au/donate-nsw or call our Gift handling team on (02) 9258 0156

July â&#x20AC;&#x201C; September 2020

CONSERVE

No Time to Spare BY DR CLIVE LUCAS OBE, HONORARY CONSERVATION ARCHITECT AND BOARD DIRECTOR

The early 1960s was a seminal period in the history of the National Trust (NSW). In this special story published as part of a series celebrating the organisation's 75th Anniversary, leading heritage architect Dr Clive Lucas reflects on the influence of artist, conservationist and heritage campaigner, Rachel Mary Roxburgh BEM (1915 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 1991). At the beginning of the 1960s, the biggest battle being fought by the National Trust was to save The Vineyard, later known as Subiaco. The great John Verge-designed mansion on the Parramatta River was built in 1833-35 for politician, pastoralist and businessman, Hannibal Macarthur. The campaign failed and the magnificent house came down in 1961, for construction of the Rheem factory. St. Malo at Hunters Hill

was also lost that year, demolished to build the Figtree Bridge, despite years of campaigning. Outraged by the loss of The Vineyard, the newly-formed Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Committee mounted a superb exhibition called No Time to Spare, in the David Jones Art Gallery. Featuring superb photographs by Max Dupain, it drew attention to the importance of the then 38 buildings on the National Trust's 'A' list. You entered the gallery past half a dozen photos

National Trust (NSW)

from the same angle showing, blow by blow, the demolition of The Vineyard until nothing was left. It was very stirring. The chief organiser of the exhibition was National Trust councillor and Women's Committee member, Rachel Roxburgh. Miss Roxburgh styled herself secretary of the Historic Buildings Committee. As an architecture student, I used to meet her in the Mitchell Library and get myself invited back to her house in North Sydney, where she kept all the National Trust listing cards in her front room. In 1963, Miss Roxburgh led the campaign which raised funds to save Francis Greenway’s St Matthew’s Anglican Church at Windsor from dereliction. I will always remember then National Trust President, Mr Justice McClemens, thundering from the pulpit at the dedication of the repaired church, that ‘If it hadn’t been for Rachel Roxburgh there wouldn’t be a St Matthew’s at Windsor’. These events, in effect, put the National Trust on the map and, in 1963, we appointed our first Director — R.N. Walker. The No Time to Spare exhibition saved all 38 buildings and led to a National Trust book, Georgian Architecture in Australia, published the same year. By that time, the National Trust had succeeded in saving Macquarie Field House. Beautifully restored, it appeared in the book photographed by Dupain, who had been sent to Tasmania to photograph the best colonial buildings there.

Miss Roxburgh’s failing was that her interest in architecture stopped circa 1840. I met her at Rouse Hill near Windsor and asked why this 1813 house, lived in by the same family for 150 years, was not on the 'A' list. 'It's so Victorian,' was her reply, so I set about getting it on the 'A' list and myself on the Historic Buildings Committee, then chaired by Professor Max Freeland. I stayed on the committee for the next 18 years and was Chairman for eight. I also secured Rouse Hill a place in the Australian Council of National Trusts’ book, Historic Homesteads in Australia, published in 1969; and in 1978 convinced the NSW Government to resume the property. My aim was always that the National Trust should not have to acquire such buildings. Its principal role was advocacy not house museums. Instead, responsibility should fall to the Historic Houses Trust (now Sydney Living Museums), which I convinced the Government to establish in 1980.

Clockwise from top left Rachel Roxburgh at home in Riley Street, North Sydney, November 1963 (photograph from the Sunday Mirror, courtesy Caroline Simpson Library & Research Collection, Sydney Living Museums); Subiaco, June 1961 (photograph by Max Dupain for the National Trust, courtesy Eric Sierins, Honorary National Trust Photographer); looking along the verandah of St. Malo, c. 1930 (photograph by Harold Cazneaux, from the National Trust (NSW) Archives). Opposite page Macquarie Field House after restoration, November 1960 (photograph by Max Dupain, courtesy Eric Sierins, Honorary National Trust Photographer).

Despite our differences of opinion, I retained the greatest admiration for Rachel Mary Roxburgh, a conservation warrior of strong conviction and not given to compromise. I made it my business to have her awarded a national honour — she received the British Empire Medal (BEM) in 1979. Much later I suggested that her portrait, by Adelaide Perry, should be purchased by the National Portrait Gallery in Canberra. There it now hangs. There is still no time to spare.

July – September 2020

REFLECT

A Poignant Survivor of Tragedy BY PAM MARLEY AND GREG GILES

One summer morning in 1989, Newcastle was shaken by a small but shallow earthquake, changing the city forever, in a matter of seconds. The disaster killed 13 people, injured more than 160 others and damaged some 50,000 buildings. Ella and Hazel Porter were still in their dressing gowns when the earthquake hit Newcastle at 10.27am on Thursday, 28 December. Like the sisters, the city in which they lived was unprepared. Many landmark buildings and older residences were built of unreinforced brick and masonry, bonded by lime mortar. The sea air had corroded the steel ties between the double brick walls. As the earth literally rippled beneath them, they cracked and tumbled. Seventy heritage items in the city centre suffered some ‘distress’. Many other unlisted but significant buildings were damaged, leading to their hasty demolition, despite objections from residents and heritage experts, including the National Trust. The Porter sisters were determined their beloved two-storey brick terrace at 434 King Street, Newcastle West, would not be among them. One of the very few standalone residences in the area, the house had been designed by their uncle and built in 1909 by their father Herbert, on land at the back of their grandfather’s grocery shop in Hunter Street, where Herbert worked. 14

Ella Porter was born there in 1911, one year after the house was completed. Hazel followed a few years later. After Herbert died in the 1919 flu pandemic, his wife Florence and their two daughters remained there for the rest of their lives. Ella and Hazel were both working women, with careers in office administration that financially supported themselves and their widowed mother, but the house was the centre of their busy domestic and social worlds, the place in which all three women did their craft work and from where they were involved in church and other community activities. Living modestly, they kept household items while ever they continued to be useful, and carefully preserved mementoes and personal items. So the house became not just a building, it reflected their lives. ‘My sister and I were born there, so there is a lot of sentiment attached to (our home),’ Hazel wrote. ‘When we were young, we were told if the house was destroyed we would have to live in a tent or shed.’ Now it lay in ruins, the outer brick walls peeled off and the verandah hanging perilously loose over the footpath. A relative described the scene: ‘I was about two thirds up the staircase when I saw the light, the gaping crack in the wall. The dust was amazing; it was like some grey film world.’ Minutes after the earthquake, Leone Barnett found the sisters sitting on the kerb with their little dog, Cooee. The Porters were on nodding terms with Leone's architect husband, Don, a 'nice

National Trust (NSW)

Clockwise from right The house a few days after the earthquake (courtesy Geoff Horn); young visitors testing the sad-irons in Miss Porter’s kitchen (From the Miss Porter's House collection); Florence Porter (seated) with her two daughters, Ella (left) and Hazel (from the Miss Porter's House collection).

man' (according to Hazel), who worked next door, but the earthquake changed the relationship. Don and Leone took them and Cooee to their home and found them somewhere to rent, thus beginning a lasting friendship. The sisters were advised the house might have to be demolished, but they wanted their family home retained. In a letter outlining why the house should be restored, not demolished, Hazel highlighted its special aspects, especially the stencilled ceilings. With help from the Barnetts (Don designed the renovations), an insurance payout, a loan and donation from the Lord Mayor’s Earthquake Fund, and their own capital, the sisters were able to rebuild. On 28 December 1990, one year to the day after the earthquake, Hazel and Ella returned to King Street. Perhaps because of this experience, Hazel seemed to understand that her modest family home, and the lives it reflected across

a century, might be of interest to others. She offered to leave the house and contents to the National Trust. Ten years after the earthquake, Hazel's generous offer was accepted. Today Miss Porter’s House is maintained and run by local National Trust volunteers. If you have an extra hour or two, as a special treat, they can take you through the paperwork required for the rebuild after the earthquake. From time to time, there are also activities such as Heritage walks of Newcastle West, afternoon teas and themed exhibitions. For more details keep an eye on the 'What's On' section of the National Trust website.

VISIT To protect the health, safety and well-being of the most vulnerable people in our community from the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Trust has temporarily closed Miss Porter’s House. We look forward to welcoming the community back soon.

July – September 2020

REFLECT

Curating the Past… into the Future BY SIMONE PARROTT, PROGRAM MANAGER, SPECIAL EVENTS

Curating our 75th Anniversary exhibition has presented one significant challenge – how do we condense our not-so-short history of nearly everything into just 14 display panels? The answer is simple… we couldn’t! The Celebrating 75 Years Exhibition showcases our story of the National Trust’s establishment, the people who built it, and campaigns won and lost. As well as the acquisition of properties and collection items, and the contribution of our supporters and donors, it also explores the National Trust's role influencing broad policy and the cultural value of artefacts; and the challenges of our current-day advocacy. Exhibition Curator Robert Griffin and National Trust Archivist, Julie Blyth, have been instrumental in diving back into our archives to uncover unseen images, including some of the more quirky aspects of our diverse history. Unsurprisingly, we found more than we needed so we are sharing more of our unique stories with you here. Following establishment of the National Trust of Australia (NSW) in 1945, the organisation was still searching for a permanent home nine years later. As referenced in a letter to the editor published in the Sydney Morning Herald in 1954, the provisional committee continued the

ongoing battle to preserve the now treasured buildings in Macquarie Street, while advocating for the use of the Hyde Park Barracks as an ideal historical museum or a most appropriate headquarters for the National Trust. Further west, Experiment Farm Cottage played a crucial role in the establishment of the greater Sydney food bowl. Made circa 1811, James Rouse’s plough was on loan at the cottage until 2007, in a nod back to the future, a precursor perhaps to our backyard vegie patches and the verge gardens, which now feature across our suburbs. In the 1950s, the National Trust lent its voice and strength to one of the first campaigns preserving the unique Australian natural environment, and fought and saved Montagu Island Nature Reserve (the spelling was changed to 'Montague' in 1972), home to our own fairy penguin colony. Eileen and Joan Bradley’s conception of a three-step bush regeneration technique, as documented in Joan's 1971 bible, Bush Regeneration, is still being used by the National Trust today to conserve native bushland. Committee and branch excursions, such as the Central West Women's Committee excursion in 1994, have provided significant social activities and a chance to facilitate interaction, mobilise the troops, and promote shared passions and lifelong friendships.

National Trust (NSW)

Left to right from top Study of a Possum, c. 1860, by Louisa Atkinson (1834 – 1872); parliamentary buildings, Macquarie Street, 1871; Eveleigh’s Carriageworks c. 2008; James Ruse's plough c. 1811; cover of Joan Bradley’s Bush Regeneration, 1971 (© Mosman Parklands and Association); Dundullimal Homestead's resident possum, c. 1988; the Central West Women’s Committee excursion in 1994; and Montague Island Nature Reserve’s penguin colony in the late 1950s. Images from the National Trust archives.

Carriageworks has once again entered the headlines in 2020 as it fights to survive current economic challenges. Now a cultural precinct, it's had many incarnations, including use as the set and costume workshop for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games Opening and Closing Ceremonies. You can’t help wonder what its new identity will be as it moves into the future, but be proud it is still standing. Over the years many of our properties, communities and collections have played host to an array of visitors, most welcome, but not all of them. Who could resist the resident possum at Dundullimal Homestead, found curled into the heritage structure during restoration works as though it was always meant to be there? Perhaps more appreciated is Study of a Possum, a watercolour by littleknown early Australian illustrator, Louisa Atkinson, housed in our Old Government House collection. A sculpture celebrating the memory of Louisa Atkinson now resides in the garden at Harper’s Mansion.

The Story Continued… For more about our diverse history and stories, visit the Celebrating 75 Years Exhibition which will be on display from late 2020 to May 2021 at the National Trust Centre at Observatory Hill in Sydney. Entry is free. You can also view the exhibition from home via our website at nationaltrust.org.au/75years

July – September 2020

JOIN US FOR THE MUCH LOVED

Lindesay Christmas Fair 19 – 21 NOVEMBER 2020, 10AM – 4PM | $5 ENTRY Over 50 stalls – new and regular favourites. Beautiful Christmas gift options. Enjoy gourmet food and enter the raffle. Enter via Lindsay Avenue, Darling Point. Complimentary shuttle bus from Stand M, Edgecliff Railway Station Bus Interchange 9.30am – 4pm.

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July â&#x20AC;&#x201C; September

Calendar Many arts, culture and tourism destinations are re-opening following the COVID-19 closures that have been in place since March 2020. It feels like it is going to be a long and lonely winter, and we are sad we cannot welcome you to National Trust (NSW) properties for a cup of tea just yet. However, we are planning for the warmer months, when we can once again celebrate heritage with you at our properties, branches and through our various events and tours. The events listed here have been programmed in the hope that we will be able to host them safely â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and to give people a chance to put these dates in their diaries. We are currently undergoing a thorough review across the National Trust (NSW) to ensure that we can proceed, and keep everyone safe and well in line with regulations.

FIND OUT MORE Information about the reopening of our properties will be updated on the News section of our website, as and when we are able to open our doors: nationaltrust.org. au/news/national-trust-nsw-covid-19-reopening Updates on events at our properties, and for the events featured on these pages, can be found at nationaltrust. org.au/whats-on-nsw

In the coming months, people will need to book in advance to visit our properties and attend our events, to ensure that we can contact you in the event of cancellation, monitor numbers to help maintain safe distances, and to maintain responsible records of interactions in the interests of infection control. Please note that all bookings must be made online.

Clockwise from top left Cooma Cottage (image from the National Trust archives); Lose yourself in Tasmania (photograph Pixaby); Ghost Tour at Old Government House (image from the National Trust archives); Salon des Refuses (image by Kerry McInnes Drawn in Steel by Harrie Fasher).

We look forward to a brighter time ahead when we can celebrate heritage together.

July â&#x20AC;&#x201C; September 2020

Calendar

Looking at Architecture

BRAIDWOOD COUNTRY WEEKEND COACH TRIP 16 – 18 OCTOBER 2020 Join the Braidwood Country Weekend Coach Trip, leaving Sydney on Friday 16 October. The coach will depart from Central Station.

Looking at Architecture is a long-running, highly successful program created by the Women’s Committee of the National Trust in 1961. It gives lovers of heritage the exclusive privilege of visiting private houses of architectural, historical or cultural interest, by courtesy of the owners.

Tickets: Members $570 per person twin share, $580 per person single. Friends of members $620 per person twin share, $630 per person single (includes all meals and house entry). Bookings: By 6 October via trybooking.com Enquiries: Email lindesay@nationaltrust.com.au or phone (02) 9363 2401

BRAIDWOOD COUNTRY WEEKEND SELF-DRIVE TOUR 17 – 18 OCTOBER 2020 The historic town of Braidwood is listed on the Register of the National Estate and State Heritage Register of New South Wales. Originally settled in 1833, it is largely unchanged since colonial days. Due to the criminal activities of bushrangers and convicts, a courthouse and lock-up were constructed and the town built around them. Aside from the properties listed, ticket holders will be directed to other properties in the area. CHARLESTON LODGE, FARRINGDON BY COURTESY OF WAYNE MACTIER AND DEBBIE HERMAN This 1830s Georgian cottage with sympathetic 1970 additions designed by architect Hugh Gordon, is now a comfortable family home. Set in landscaped gardens overlooking a lake, it enjoys panoramic views of the Great Dividing Range. It is a cattle property, with architect-designed stables, surrounded by 14 kilometres of iron-bark post and rail fencing.

GLEBE DAY 8 SEPTEMBER 2020, 10:30AM – 12:30PM OR 1PM – 3PM With the passing of Sir George Wigram Allen in 1885, the Toxteth Park Estate in the Sydney suburb of Glebe was slowly subdivided into housing blocks. Most of these were speculative ventures by local builders, who had their plans approved by the Estate's Trustees to ensure a higher standard of building to that of earlier Glebe. TOXTETH LODGE, TOXTETH ROAD, GLEBE BY COURTESY OF MORAN AND ELIZABETH STANBURY A fine example of the Picturesque Gothic style, the design of this house draws on an architectural pattern book published in the 1850s. Built as a gatehouse for the Toxteth Park Estate, it was lived in by the Estate's owner, George Wigram Allen, in 1878 whilst a third story was added to the main house on Toxteth Park. MARRANA, TOXTETH ROAD, GLEBE BY COURTESY OF PAUL AND EMMA CLEARY

Probably built to serve as the gatehouse at the entrance to Bedervale, this 1860s cottage has recently been restored to become a comfortable home, with extensive views towards the Budawang Mountains. NITHSDALE, BALLALABA BY COURTESY OF THE OWNERS This 1830s cottage with later additions is now a family home of great charm. The area was settled by the Wallace family from Scotland in the colonial days, when bushrangers frequented the region. The present owners have restored the old jail, circa 1860, located on this beautiful cattle property. BEDERVALE, BRAIDWOOD BY COURTESY OF MARK AND SONIA HORAN

A late Victorian, double-fronted villa, built in 1905, as part of Toxteth Park Estate's final subdivision.

This important colonial house and outbuildings contain a unique collection of family possessions dating from 1840 to the 1900s. The large country homestead, which Captain John Coghill had built for his wife and family, was designed by John Verge in 1836 and described as a colonial cottage of Colonial Georgian design, with cedar joinery and sandstone and marble fireplaces. Later additions were undertaken in 1905. The stables, circa 1840, horse stalls, grain silo and tack room, are still intact. The famous racehorse Archer, the winner of the first two Melbourne Cups in 1861 and 1862, is buried nearby. (Contents vested to the NSW National Trust).

Tickets: Members $40, youth (12–20 years) $20. Bookings and enquiries: Email lindesay@nationaltrust.com.au or phone (02) 9363 2401

Tickets: Members $85, friends of members $105, youth (12–20 years) $25. Bookings: Via trybooking.com Enquiries: Email lindesay@nationaltrust.com.au or phone (02) 9363 2401

This gracious freestanding, two-storey Victorian Italianate villa, was built in 1895. It is now a family home, complete with classic details but updated for contemporary living. AVONDALE, ALLEN STREET, GLEBE BY COURTESY OF THE OWNERS

MONKITTEE STREET, BRAIDWOOD BY COURTESY OF SHEELAGH NOONAN

National Trust (NSW)

July – September

YOU ARE INVITED TO THE

National Trust (NSW) Annual General Meeting Date: Saturday 28 November 2020 Time: 3.30pm – 5pm Location: S.H. Ervin Gallery, Observatory Hill, Millers Point, Sydney

BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION 2020

HABERFIELD DAY 10 NOVEMBER 2020, 10:30AM – 12:30PM OR 1PM – 3PM Haberfield was Australia’s first planned garden suburb, the concept of real estate entrepreneur Richard Stanton, who saw the need for a better environment for the citizens of Sydney. The first residents moved into the suburb in 1901. Residents found themselves in lovely detached cottages, with wide streets and individually designed homes, including front and back gardens. Besides the two properties listed, ticket holders will be directed to a third property on the day, and an added attraction will be the garden at Yasmar. AYLESBURY, STANTON ROAD BY COURTESY OF PETER AND LISSA TWOMEY Built in 1905, as part of the second subdivision, this 'Domestic Gothic' dwelling was designed by D. Wormald, Stanton’s initial architect. It features a most unusual oriel window beneath the front gable. Further extensions were made to the house in the late 1990s. WOODROW VALE, DALHOUSIE STREET BY COURTESY OF DR DEREK AND LEAH MAHONY Built in 1906, as part of Stanton's third subdivision, this house was used in advertising by Richard Stanton to promote sales in the garden suburb. A grand Federation home, it reflects American architectural influences with its timber shingles on the side gables. Tickets: Members $40, friends of members $45, youth (12–20 years) $20. Bookings and enquiries: Email lindesay@nationaltrust.com.au or phone (02) 9363 2401

Members are invited to nominate individuals for election to the National Trust of Australia (NSW) Board of Directors. Candidates must be Members and eligible to serve as a Director. Each candidate must be nominated by two Members. To obtain an information pack, which clearly outlines the requirements of nominations and important information about being a Director, please contact Soma Somavarman by email, ssomavarman@ nationaltrust.com.au, or phone (02) 9258 0152. Nominations must be received by writing to the National Trust (NSW), GPO Box 518, Sydney NSW 2001 by 5pm, Friday, 11 September 2020. MOTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION Members are welcome to submit motions for consideration at the AGM. Motions for Consideration must be received in writing by the National Trust (NSW), GPO Box 518, Sydney NSW 2001, at least 42 days before the AGM. You must include your signature, full name and membership number on your Motion for Consideration, and ensure this is seconded by another Member. Other matters for discussion must be outlined in writing, signed by the member submitting, and received by the National Trust (NSW), GPO Box 518, Sydney NSW 2001 at least seven days before the AGM. Please contact Soma Somavarman by email, ssomavarman@nationaltrust. com.au, or phone (02) 9258 0152 if you have any questions. NATIONAL TRUST HONOURS National Trust Honours are presented annually to deserving Members of the National Trust (NSW). The President of the National Trust (NSW) invites all staff and Members to submit nominations for the 2020 Awards to the Trust Honours Committee by Friday, 28 August 2020. The nomination process is available online at nationaltrust.org.au/honours-nominationnsw.

National Trust Desk Diary 2021 ODE TO THE BUSH Featuring a collection of images and stories, which highlight the rich diversity of our beautiful country. Produced by the NSW National Trust Women’s Committee as an annual fundraising project. Single diary: $25; Two diaries: $40; Box of 10: $150 (for orders received by 31st July) To order, please email ntdeskdiary@gmail.com or phone (02) 9363 2401

July – September 2020