Future of our Heritage

BY NEIL WYKES OAM AND DEBBIE MILLS

Dear Members, All eyes are on the review of the NSW Heritage Act. First introduced in 1977, the Act has not been reviewed in 14 years. The current review comes at a time when many of our members are expressing concern about the future of our state’s heritage.

They are worried about the surge of development state-wide. They are worried about the degradation of the Murray-Darling. And they are worried about plans for Central Station in Sydney. The community’s concerns are understandable when the impact on the places they treasure is so destructive.

So when the NSW Government starts reviewing the legislation meant to defend and protect heritage, the community can rely on us to respond.

The National Trust is – first and foremost – a community organisation. We are a charity with a clear vision and mission to be the guardian of heritage in New South Wales, and we have served that mission for 75 years. Over the past six months, we have celebrated our mission at special events with thousands of heritage-minded people, from children to grandparents and every age in between.

Increasingly, our members are asking us to speak up on issues that matter to them: climate change, diversity and inclusion, Reconciliation, and the continued protection of their heritage. The community’s desire to protect heritage is substantial and growing. This year, we received over 100 examples of best practice in conservation, events and publications and advocacy initiatives for the National Trust Heritage Awards.

The review of the NSW Heritage Act comes at a critical time. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, heritage is coming under intense pressure from development and economic uncertainty. The review offers a chance to reshape the protection of heritage for the coming decade or more. That’s why the National Trust is making a robust and detailed submission to the review. Our submission will be representative of the community and for the community. It’s what we are here to do.

Neil Wykes OAM, President

YOU ARE INVITED TO THE

National Trust (NSW) Annual General Meeting

Date: Saturday 27 November 2021 Time: 3.30pm – 5pm Location: S.H. Ervin Gallery, Observatory Hill, Millers Point, Sydney

BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION 2021

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. The role of a Board member is to provide sound governance to the National Trust and uphold the organisation’s vision and mission while ensuring its ongoing sustainability. Before nominating, please ensure you review the information pack relating to the legal obligations and commitments of a Board member. To receive the information pack and details on the nomination process, 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, 10 September 2021.

MOTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

Members are welcome to submit Motions for Consideration at 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. Motions for Consideration must be received in writing to the National Trust (NSW), GPO Box 518, Sydney NSW 2001, at least 42 days before the AGM, by Saturday 16 October 2021.

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 2021 Awards to the Trust Honours Committee by Friday, 27 August 2021. The nomination process is available online at nationaltrust.org.au/honours-nominationnsw