Accolades for WA museums

10/4/05
A display of cloud images, a museum at an old whaling station and a woman working to preserve the history of Rockingham were the big winners at the annual 2005 Museums Australia (WA) Awards presented last night.
The awards were presented by Heritage Minister Francis Logan, who congratulated the winners for their dedication to best practice standards in museums, galleries and cultural centres.
The WA Institution Award was won by the Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery at the University of Western Australia for its exhibition 'Clouded Over', a visual investigation of clouds in historical and contemporary art.
The WA Museum Partnership Award was won by Albany's Whaleworld for its work in building relationships with like-minded groups and businesses to ensure the long-term sustainability of the site.
The WA Individual Award was won by Wendy Durant for her dedication and innovative work for the Rockingham District Historical Society and Museum. High commendations were presented to Maggie Myers and Carol Mansfield from the Kalamunda Historical Society and Museum.
"Making museums more accessible to the general public not only helps educate us all, but breathes new life into WA culture and its communities," Mr Logan said.
"Museums have a vital role in helping the Gallop Government protect and enhance Western Australia's unique lifestyle and environment.
"It is encouraging to see a regional museum site among those honoured in the awards and I believe that museums State-wide will be inspired by the State's great showing."
The Museums Australia Awards were introduced to highlight the importance of museums, galleries and cultural centres and those who work in them to the enrichment of WA communities and in the preservation of the natural, social and cultural heritage of this State.
Museums Australia (WA) scholarships were awarded to Gary Martin (Greenough Pioneer Museum), Jan Eva (Brookton District Historical Society), Judith Parker (Rockingham Historical Society), Bill Moore (Shire of Coolgardie and WA Museum Kalgoorlie), Philip Rennie (Mundaring Weir Pump Station), Meryl Gardiner (Bunbury Historical Society), Ruth Harloe (Old Farm Strawberry Hill, Albany) and Robyn Offer (Shire of Roebourne Local History Office).
Minister's office: 9222 9850