2 May 2025

The National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards shortlist was revealed on Wednesday 23 April, showcasing a vibrant range of heritage projects across New South Wales. Port Macquarie Museum has been shortlisted in the 2025 Advocacy awards section. The Awards recognise excellence in the conservation, protection and interpretation of natural, cultural and built heritage. Winners will be announced at the Awards ceremony on Friday 16 May in Sydney.

“Looking after a State significant building requires an ongoing commitment to maintenance, conservation and advocacy. With the support of the NSW Government through Heritage NSW and The Copland Foundation we have just completed a Conservation Management Strategy for our historic Store building”, says Debbie Sommers, Port Macquarie Museum Curator. “The project, completed by Design 5 Architects, has gone beyond the usual scope and we have learnt more about the Store building’s age, construction and uses over the past 9 months, than we have over the entire past 65 years.” The Museum is in the process of reviewing and updating its interpretation of the Store building to reflect these new insights.

The comprehensive strategy will guide the ongoing conservation and maintenance of the building ensuring its preservation for future generations and continuing its vital role as a cultural hub for locals and visitors alike. The Conservation Management Strategy report can be accessed on the Museum’s website.