The National Trust of Australia (New South Wales) Annual Report 2024/25
The National Trust acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which we work, celebrate and share the stories of heritage. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and we support the Uluru Statement.
I am delighted to report on the achievements of the National Trust (NSW) for 2024/25 and the events, activities and outcomes that defined this year.
While heritage celebrates the past, to endure, it also looks to the future. This year was defined by transition as the National Trust delivered the final stage of its current strategic plan and developed a new five-year plan. Our focus moving forward is sustainability and continuing to engage audiences and deliver our mission of promoting, protecting and preserving the heritage of NSW.
A month-long celebration, the Australian Heritage Festival expanded to 227 engaging events this year. From dazzling lightshows to compelling lectures, the number and diverse range of activations is testament to the ongoing importance of this community-driven event. Closing the festival, the National Trust Heritage Awards offered a rare opportunity to bring together the many members of the industry and wider community championing heritage. The ceremony for 2025 was particularly inspiring. It was wonderful to see the jubilation of the finalists and winners, with outstanding representation from regional areas including Old Bega Hospital, which took home the Judges’ Choice Award. I attended the official opening of this remarkable restoration project which is the result of long-term advocacy and
collaboration. It is a brilliant testament to conserving the past with a view to the future.
The spotlight shone on creativity and collaboration at the galleries of the National Trust this year. Opening the annual Portia Geach Memorial Award and Salon des Refusés exhibitions at S.H. Ervin Gallery is a personal highlight, and it is clear to see the high esteem in which they are held in the industry. In a unique partnership for Retford Park, the Salon des Refusés travelled to White Cottage Gallery, while Ngununggula simultaneously housed works from the Archibald Prize. At Norman Lindsay Gallery, the iconic BBC program, Antiques Roadshow, recorded an Australian pilot during the sell-out Vintage Fair event.
Important work on the National Trust’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) was undertaken. Having completed the first stage, ‘Reflection’, we look forward to moving towards the next phase ‘Innovate’. Advocacy also continued at pace with 19 new listings on the National Trust Heritage Register.
I am always impressed by the generosity of our donors, members and supporters. We are grateful for your support. Transformative restorations of Cooma Cottage and Old Government House unveiled this year exemplify what can be achieved together.
I would like to thank the Board of Directors who have brought passion and expertise to their work with the National Trust.
Finally, thank you to our volunteers, committees and branches. Without your enthusiasm and indispensable donation of time, the National Trust’s important work would not be possible.
Kathryn Pitkin AM, President
This year, a new strategic plan mapped out the future direction of the National Trust. Developed by the National Trust Board together with staff, volunteer, member, committee and branch engagement, this important document charts the course of the organisation from 2025-29. Building on the momentum of the previous 2020-24 Strategic Plan which centered on modernisation and governance, the focus of the new plan is sustainability. Revolving around the tenets of stability, resilience and financial efficacy, it empowers the organisation to look confidently ahead.
Planning for the future is central to the National Trust’s role as a leading advocate for heritage. This year saw 25 major submissions, including a detailed response to the NSW Government’s new draft heritage strategy. While it is encouraging to see a plan for heritage, the National Trust has called for clear commitment to responsibilities, actions, and timeframes for the five-year plan. The proposed rezoning of Parramatta North Precinct also prompted immediate action by the National Trust. The 42-hectare development threatens to irrevocably impact the outstanding heritage of this area. An objection was submitted following many meetings with NSW Government, Parramatta Council and the community and we continue to monitor this planned development. Pleasingly our advocacy work is having impact. This past year has seen significant positive outcomes due to our efforts. Large-scale proposals threatening historic sites, including Central Station and Central Barangaroo, have been either amended or withdrawn altogether.
Our bi-annual appeals play a vital role in raising funds for critical projects. Thanks to the remarkable generosity of members, donors and supporters, appeals for the National
Trust collection and Riversdale both exceeded their targets this year. These funds ensure the National Trust can continue to safeguard the more than 60,000 treasures under our care while critical repairs and restoration work will be undertaken at Riversdale. Maintenance and conservation work continued at National Trust places across the state, ensuring house museums, gardens and galleries go on to inspire and educate. At Saumarez Homestead, work is drawing to a close on an innovative, large-scale tourism project. Accommodation has been created and restoration of existing spaces undertaken, creating new engagement opportunities for this historic site situated on Anaiwan Country, in Armidale.
Through creative collaboration and strategic communications, we continued to grow our community, amplifying our mission of preserving and protecting NSW’s natural, built and cultural heritage. Our email subscribers now surpass 44,500 in total while 543,000 website visits were recorded this year. 2,500 new members joined the National Trust in 2024/25, bringing our membership base to more than 21,000. Modernisation of our systems continued. Important updates to our volunteer system facilitated direct communication with the more than 1,000 people across NSW who generously donate their time to the National Trust.
The results of this year would not be possible without the dedication of staff, committees, branches, and volunteers together with the support of members, donors, sponsors and partners. Thank you.
Debbie Mills, CEO
The National Trust’s vital role as a leading advocate for heritage was reflected in 25 major submissions, consultation with government and media features shining a spotlight on heritage.
The National Trust welcomed the opportunity to review the NSW Government’s draft heritage strategy. The five-year plan comes at a critical time for heritage. While the government’s commitment to a strategy is encouraging, in a detailed submission, the National Trust called for clear responsibilities, actions and outcomes, with timeframes for compliance. The necessity for adequate funding to ensure that obligations can be achieved was also highlighted.
Prior to the 2025 federal election, the Australian Council of National Trusts released a joint Heritage Priorities Statement communicating concerns, presenting solutions, and making candidates aware of the importance of heritage both in their local area and the wider community.
The National Trust submitted an objection to the Parramatta North Precinct state-led rezoning proposal, outlining a range of concerns regarding adverse impacts on heritage. The large-scale development plans for the 42-hectare site fall inside three State Heritage Registered precincts and if approved, will significantly alter the current low-density, parkland setting. The National Trust is advocating for an active and exciting future for this area, however the current proposal threatens to sever the connection between the two sides of Parramatta River and jeopardise the World Heritage listing proposal for the Parramatta Female Factory and Institutions Precinct. We will continue to be the voice for heritage, together with the community, as this development unfolds.
The National Trust and National Trust Parramatta Branch addressed the committee at the parliamentary inquiry into the Greater Sydney Parkland Trust Act 2022. The National Trust noted that Centennial Parklands, Callan Park, Fernhill Estate and Parramatta Park are all significant heritage assets, much used by the public and worthy of ongoing support for their continued conservation.
• Central Barangaroo
Thanks to strong community advocacy, including the National Trust and Millers Point community, the approved building envelopes for Central Barangaroo have been reduced to protect the important views of the harbour, as seen from Observatory Hill.
• MBC House, Parramatta
A proposal for a large and intrusive addition on top of MBC House was rejected by the NSW Land and Environment Court. The heritage of the building and public view lines of adjoining Centenary Square are now protected.
• Newcastle Ocean Baths
The Newcastle Ocean Baths were listed on the State Heritage Register in 2025. The Newcastle-Hunter Branch of the National Trust have long advocated for the conservation and protection of this stunning heritage place.
• Central Precinct Rezoning
Plans to build towers over the platforms at Central Station have been abandoned. This positive outcome ensures the open-air setting will be preserved and the station’s heritage form and character retained.
• 25 major advocacy submissions.
• 8 letters of support for nominations to the State Heritage Register.
• Heritage representation at the parliamentary inquiry into Greater Sydney Parkland Trust Act 2022.
• Meetings with local, state, and federal members.
• Strategic meetings with heritage stakeholders, including community, advocacy groups and tertiary institutions.
• Shining a spotlight on heritage through strong media relations and regular media stories.
• 25 expert technical committee meetings for advisory and technical submissions.
• Paragon Cafe, Katoomba
The National Trust Blue Mountains Branch has long advocated for the conservation of this historic building which has steadily been falling into disrepair. Thanks to local community advocacy, Heritage NSW is now investigating neglect of this State heritage listed site.
• MLC Building, North Sydney
A revised development proposal for this State heritage listed building continues to threaten the heritage quality of the site through extensive demolition of what was once Australia’s largest office building.
• Gosford Library
This rare, mid-century building remains at risk of demolition. The National Trust has made a submission to Central Coast Council campaigning for adaptive reuse of this architecturally significant modernist building to better serve community needs.
• Powerhouse Museum, Ultimo Plans for the museum’s revitalisation continued to move forward, despite the lack of holistic conservation measures for the site’s rich heritage. The National Trust’s advocacy is ongoing to protect this significant institution.
• Roxy Theatre, Parramatta
The future of the Roxy Theatre continues to remain uncertain, with various proposals under consideration. The National Trust has called for a high-quality heritage conservation of the building that will activate the site and allow it to be celebrated by generations to come.
The critical role of the National Trust Heritage Register is reflected in the diversity of the 19 new listings added this year.
• 17 Wylde Street, Potts Point
• Adereham Hall, Elizabeth Bay
• Anglican Cemetery, West Bogan
• Birtley Towers, Potts Point
• Boomerang, Elizabeth Bay
• Cahors, Potts Point
• Cemetery, Byrock
• Del Rio, Elizabeth Bay
• Kingsclere, Elizabeth Bay
• Kingsley Hall, Elizabeth Bay
• Macleay Regis, Potts Point
• Marlborough Hall, Elizabeth Bay
• Quambone Cemetery, Quambone
• St Ursula, Elizabeth Bay
• The Anglican Cathedral Church of St Alban The Martyr, Griffith
• Twenty, Elizabeth Bay
• War Memorial Hall, Finley
• White Cliffs General Cemetery, White Cliffs
• White Cliffs Children’s Cemetery, White Cliffs
‘Our heritage can and should be presented as part of the solution, not identified as the problem.’
The National Trust submission on the NSW Government’s draft heritage strategy
Preserving heritage is central to the mission of the National Trust. This year transformative works were undertaken and unveiled at historic places across the state.
Cooma Cottage
The former home of Australian-born explorer Hamilton Hume and his wife Elizabeth, Cooma Cottage was transformed in a large-scale conservation project. Work was carried out over 12 months and extended to every element of the site. Critical works to the exterior of the building were completed, while inside, rooms were repainted, floors waxed, and original features conserved. Remnants of original historic wallpapers were a key focus, with specialist conservators carefully cleaning and re-adhering delicate layers of paper dating from the 1860s. Additional items from the National Trust’s collection, plus four acquisitions of furniture, including a chest of drawers provenanced to Hamilton Hume, joined the existing furniture on display. A new lighting scheme, signage and gallery rail system has enhanced the visitor experience. Thanks to the generous support of donors, the Copland Foundation and a NSW Government grant, Cooma Cottage has returned to a remarkable state of repair.
Gardens of the National Trust
In a valuable collaboration, the gardening teams of several National Trust places came together to work on the Heritage Rose Garden at Saumarez Homestead. Significant pruning and weeding ensured that the collection of historically significant roses continues to draw inspiration and admiration. Our garden teams came together again at Norman Lindsay Gallery to mulch, replant and fill the urns with flourishing blooms. A restoration of the Dogwood Terrace by staff and dedicated volunteers had a transformative effect at Everglades House & Gardens. Seven tonnes of dead trees and weeds were removed by hand, while new dogwood and azalea plantings were established.
Harper’s Mansion
Following strong support for the Harper’s Mansion appeal in 2024, the first stage of conservation works at the charming Georgian-era house and garden have started. New matting has been laid in the hedge maze, ensuring it can be used in all weather, while filling, painting and re-stencilling in the upper rooms has brought the interiors of this heritage building back to life.
Norman Lindsay Gallery
Work was completed to revive the grounds and house of this popular heritage landmark in the Blue Mountains, the former home of artist Norman Lindsay. Inside the gallery the striking oil room was repainted in its signature crimson red, while outside, the driveway and pathways of the property were restored with new gravel. Works in the sculpture garden received specialist conservation treatment, while Norman Lindsay’s iconic Sea Horse Fountain was brought back to life. Following repairs, the fountain was reburnished in bronze, restoring the much-loved work to its former splendor.
Saumarez Homestead
As part of the sustainable strategy for Saumarez Homestead, funded through the Create NSW Regional Grant Program, significant works have been achieved. Comprised of 35 buildings, the extensive property has been the focus of both restoration and renewal. Existing spaces have been revived and new accommodation created, enabling exciting tourism opportunities. Guests will soon be able to book cabins, camping pods and RV parking.
The National Trust collection encompasses more than 60,000 treasures. This year, critical conservation work ensured this significant curation endures for future generations.
Collection Conservation
Thanks to the exceptional generosity of donors and supporters, over $170,000 was raised in the collections appeal. These funds enabled essential repairs and restoration work to be carried out on items under the care of the National Trust, including a rare 17th-century Mortlake tapestry, fragile books and an ornate gilded harp dating from c.1840.
Remarkable restoration
Discovered in the shearing shed of Dundullimal Homestead, a 19th-century furniture suite underwent a striking transformation, thanks to funding from the Dundullimal Dubbo Support Crew. Following extensive research, the chaise longue and two tub chairs were meticulously restored using traditional techniques. After an absence of 70 years, the elegant threepiece suite is now installed in the drawing room once more.
Retford Park refresh
Guided by a comprehensive pictorial survey commissioned by James Fairfax AC, a reinterpretation at Retford Park aligned interiors with the design of the house in 2011. In the gardens, large-scale sculptures by Inge King and Clement Meadmore received specialist cleaning and conservation treatment.
Dresses on display
Fashionable Silhouettes at Old Government House charted the course of fashion history through the changing form of clothing. Textiles were conserved ahead of display thanks to the Permsew Foundation. Dresses from the Back to Black exhibition were showcased at Saumarez Homestead, Grossman House and Riversdale, alongside collection items specific to each place.
Acquisitions
Several important acquisitions joined the National Trust collection this year, including a dress from the wardrobe of Rita Lee which features in works by artist Norman Lindsay. A unique collection of watercolors by artist and ornithologist Neville Cayley also joined the collection. The paintings feature Australian birds and are still in their original frames. A rare wooden secretaire owned by convict-turned-businessman Thomas West was gifted by his descendants, Harry and Wendy Brackstone, and is now on display at Old Government House.
‘The National Trust collection offers a fascinating link with the past. Thanks to the exceptional support shown to the collections appeal the longevity of many of these irreplaceable objects is now assured.’
Rebecca Pinchin, Collections Manager
The original floral bedspreads from the green room at Retford Park have been reinstated. Previously thought lost, their fate remained a mystery until they were discovered by chance under the stairs in the belvedere. Badly torn by James Fairfax’s dogs, they had been hurriedly stored away and replaced before guests arrived. Following much searching, the original chintz fabric was sourced from the US and the quilted covers carefully repaired by National Trust volunteers. The room has now returned to the presentation intended by designer Leslie Walford.
Oral histories
This year the National Trust’s Oral History Project recorded interviews with notable personalities including architect and heritage conservationist Louise Cox AO, journalist and artistic director Leo Schofield and historian James Broadbent amongst others. Interviews with the class of 1951 at Fort Street School (which neighbours the National Trust Centre) have also been documented, providing a snapshot of life mid last century.
The life of Rita Lee
Significant new material has painted a more detailed picture of the life of Rita Lee. The collection, on loan from the family of Marguerite Young, includes photos, documents, letters and even cassette interviews with the striking Chinese Australian model who inspired some of Norman Lindsay’s most famous paintings.
Interiors Inspiration
The Interior Decorators at Lindesay events were a series of fairs held at Lindesay from 1968 to 1996 by the Women’s Committee. Featuring design luminaries such as Leslie Walford and Ros Palmer, the fairs gave over rooms of the storied house to esteemed Australian decorators. Material from the fairs has now been archived, offering a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of interior design.
Generation next
Masters of Archives students from the University of South Australia have been working on special projects with the National Trust across 2025. The Hardy Wilson exhibition at the Fisher Library at the University of Sydney also offered the opportunity to share knowledge and ideas. Archive materials helped inform the display while reciprocal events were hosted for students and volunteers.
Exciting partnerships, growth in hallmark events and impressive media reach engaged communities and connected with diverse new audiences.
The National Trust welcomed an increase in visitation with more than 121,500 visitors in 2024/25, thanks to the enthusiasm and dedication of volunteers and staff.
Visitors had the opportunity to engage with heritage throughout the year via events, installations, exhibitions, galleries, historic properties, and flourishing gardens.
121k +
Visitors welcomed
Australian Heritage Festival events
Exciting and creative partnerships connected with new audiences this year.
• The Salon Des Refusés exhibition travelled to White Cottage Gallery, Retford Park while the Archibald Prize came to Ngununggula in partnership with the Art Gallery of NSW. The unique collaboration resulted in a 220% uplift in visitation to Retford Park.
• In a continuing partnership with Reconciliation NSW, a vibrant array of student artworks toured Everglades House & Gardens and Brough House.
• The Collections on Tour series in collaboration with Museums of History NSW saw historical items significant to National Trust places curated for display.
• Notable artworks from the original collection of James Fairfax AC returned to Retford Park. The two-year loan is part of the National Gallery of Australia’s Sharing the National Collection initiative.
Marking 45 years, Australia’s largest community-driven heritage event ran from 18 April to 18 May with over 69,000 people taking part in 2025. Inspired by the theme ‘Unearthed’, celebrations grew to a record 227 activations in NSW this year. From Lord Howe Island to Broken Hill, the geographical spread of the festival expanded with 136 organisers hosting a broad range of activities. Testament to the inclusivity and accessibility of the festival, 50% of events were offered free or by donation. The addition of experiences popular with a younger demographic led to expanded media coverage and new audiences. Media reach was 27m+ while 1m social media impressions were recorded.
A record number of entries were submitted for the National Trust Heritage Awards this year. 152 projects were entered with 58 finalists and 20 winners chosen, recognising excellence in heritage across the state. The ceremony took place on Friday 17 May at Doltone House with artist, author and broadcaster Richard Morecroft as MC and the Hon. Prof. Bob Carr delivering a keynote speech. Reflecting the ever-increasing impact of the awards in the wider community, the inaugural People’s Choice award received more than 2,700 individual votes while media reach climbed to a staggering 117m+.
• From exhibitions to walking tours, more than 100 events were planned and produced by the National Trust this year, offering members and the wider community diverse opportunities to celebrate heritage around NSW.
• The iconic BBC program Antiques Roadshow filmed an Australian pilot episode in the grounds of Norman Lindsay Gallery. Recorded during the sell-out Vintage Fair event, treasures were appraised by expert valuers from the show, while visitors perused classic cars, vintage fashion and market stalls to live jazz music.
• The Women’s Committee’s popular events continued to inspire support. This year the Lindesay Christmas Fair drew a notably younger demographic with an 11% increase in visitors.
• Over 500 people marked the 200th anniversary of the Hume and Hovell expedition with a jubilant celebration at Cooma Cottage. Transformative conservation work undertaken at the historic site was also unveiled on the day.
• Exhibition highlights this year included In Suburbia, Salon des Refusés and Portia Geach at 60 at S. H. Ervin Gallery, Pressing Desires – the Amorous Etchings of Norman Lindsay and Sirens Revisited at Norman Lindsay Gallery, the Botanical Art and Illustration Prize at White Cottage Gallery at Retford Park, and Big Skies – Wild Wings at Everglades House & Gardens.
Working across the diverse landscape of Greater Sydney and Regional New South Wales, our Bushland Management Services played a pivotal role in preserving and restoring our state’s natural heritage.
• 160+ projects completed for over 30 clients.
• 51,000 hours of work undertaken.
• 663 hectares of landscape restored across Greater Sydney.
• Six successful submissions from seven project tenders.
• 33,000 square metres maintained, safeguarding residential areas close to natural areas.
• 45 tonnes of weeds removed from popular natural areas.
• Improved endangered species and koala habitats.
160 +
Projects completed
Hours of work undertaken 51k
663ha
Natural areas restored
Weeds removed 45t
This year an exciting partnership has launched with Local Land Services in Razorback. Spanning three years, the project focuses on the restoration of Western Sydney Dry Rainforest, a critically endangered ecological community.
Situated in a steep gully, the site is only accessible by foot, requiring all equipment and materials to be transported by backpack. Despite logistical challenges the project promises to be immensely rewarding, yielding valuable ecological insights and even the potential for new sightings of rare and endangered flora.
Work has concentrated on the removal and control of invasive Lantana and African olive plants to allow sensitive understorey species such as orchids and rare ferns to flourish. This has been carried out with care to ensure that the habitat of the diverse fauna of the site, which includes echidnas, swamp wallabies, frogs, snakes and several rare birds, are not disturbed. Early results have shown clear improvement in the restoration of native plants.
‘It’s a huge privilege to be first to conserve and regenerate the extremely rare rainforest of Razorback. Our hard work over the last year will translate into decades of quality bush regeneration.’
Jack Holdsworth, Regional Manager, North
The expertise, enthusiasm and dedication of our staff and volunteers underpins the important work of the National Trust.
The National Trust’s continuing commitment to gender equality is represented in our workforce which consists of 41% male and 59% female employees in total. This equality flows from the top down. The National Trust Board encompasses seven female and six male directors while our Senior Management team is comprised of an even 50/50 split between male and female staff. Non-management staff have a 58% female and 42% male ratio.
The generous donation of time by volunteers is integral to the National Trust. This year our volunteers undertook a broad range of activities such as gardening, retail, open days, events, administration, maintenance as well as archives and collection care. We focused on enhancing our guiding experience with a dedicated workshop to develop and strengthen skills. Attended by volunteers from National Trust places across NSW it was described by attendees as ‘excellent, professional and relevant’. Our targeted digital campaigns continued to attract volunteers, with more than 200 new volunteers welcomed. Our team of volunteers currently exceeds 1,000, with a remarkable 87,500+ hours of service completed in 2024/25. We are extremely grateful to everyone who has donated their time to the National Trust this year.
1,000 + Hours of service
87,500 +
Volunteers
‘There is an idiom about volunteering in Chinese, ‘Happiness comes from helping others’, this describes how I feel after a day at Old Government House.’
Dr Christopher Chen, Volunteer
Volunteers were offered the opportunity to participate in a range of courses in 2024/25, completing more than 870 hours in training, including Collection Care and Work Health & Safety training.
BOARD APPOINTED COMMITTEES AND TECHNICAL COMMITTEES
• Built Heritage Conservation Committee
• Cemeteries Committee
• Collections Committee
• Conservation Policies Taskforce
• Finance, Audit & Risk Management (FARM) Committee
• FARM Investment Sub-committee
• Industrial Heritage Committee
• Landscape Conservation Committee
• S.H. Ervin Gallery Advisory Committee
NATIONAL TRUST BRANCHES AND SPECIAL PURPOSE COMMITTEES
• Bathurst and District Branch
• Blue Mountains Branch
• Butler Bequest Committee
• Far South Coast Branch*
• Friends of Ahimsa
• Friends of Grossmann & Brough Houses*
• Friends of Old Government House and Experiment Farm Cottage
• Friends of Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts
• Gulgong Mudgee Rylstone Branch*
• Harpers Mansion Management Committee
• Hawkesbury Branch
• Hunter Regional Branch
• Illawarra Shoalhaven Branch
• Lachlan Branch
• Lithgow Branch
• Miss Porter’s House Management Committee
• Miss Traill’s House Management Committee
• National Trust Honours Committee
• Norman Lindsay Gallery Advisory Committee
• Parramatta Branch
• Southern Highlands Branch
• Tours Committee
• Vienna Cottage Management Committee
• Women’s Committee
• Woodford Academy Management Committee
*We acknowledge the Branches and Committees, who retired this year, and thank them for their work.
NATIONAL TRUST HONOURS
The following volunteers and staff were recognised for their outstanding contribution.
Honorary Life Membership
Annette Blinco – Women’s Committee
John Richardson – Conservation Policies Taskforce
Meritorious Service Award
More than 15 Years of Outstanding Service
Timothy Cox – Miss Traill’s House Management Committee
Wayne Johnson – Industrial Heritage Committee, Conservation Policies Taskforce
Elizabeth Loneragan – Bathurst and District Branch
Mary Moore – Harper’s Mansion Management Committee
Elizabeth Saxton – Norman Lindsay Gallery
Nerida Scarborough – Old Government House and Soft Furnishings Group
Anthea Walker Smith – Harper’s Mansion
Management Committee
Voluntary Service Award
Over 10 Years of Service
Lenore Boronkay – Women’s Committee
Roslyn Burge – Landscape Conservation Committee
Angela Di Santo – Miss Porter’s House
Merilyn Dunn – Grossmann and Brough Houses
Yvonne Laki – S.H. Ervin Gallery
Suzanne Leslie – Archives and Library Services, National Trust Centre
Celene Murney – Old Government House
Glenys Nice – Women’s Committee
Fiona Reynolds – Illawarra Shoalhaven Branch
Edith Ziegler – S.H. Ervin Gallery
National Trust Commendation
Over Five Years of Service (or exceptional service)
Cameron Arkley – Human Resources, National Trust Centre
Wendy De Paoli – Hawkesbury Branch
Peter Ellis – Illawarra Shoalhaven Branch
Elaine Lawson – Collections Committee
Carla McKendry – Friends of Grossmann and Brough Houses
Gail Parrott – Women’s Committee
Robert Power – Landscape Conservation Committee
Colin Thompson – Retford Park
Eileen Ward – Norman Lindsay Gallery
Mark Wolff – Old Government House and Experiment Farm Cottage
Staff Distinguished Service Award
Leica Wigzell – Executive Office, National Trust Centre
Discretionary Award – Lifetime of Distinguished Service
Ian Stevenson – National Trust Board (Posthumously)
The National Trust’s vital work in advocacy and conservation was supported by a growing number of members and generous donations.
The National Trust welcomed almost 2,500 new members in 2024/25, bringing the total number of members to over 21,000. A range of exclusive benefits including curator talks, discounted entry to events and reciprocal visiting rights to over 1,000 historic places overseas brought heritage to life for members. Emails kept supporters updated on news, engaging stories and future happenings, while the National Trust magazine inspired and informed members. This year revenue from membership reached more than $910,000. Membership retention for the year was 65%.
Members 21k + New members 2,500
$2.8m was raised in 2024/25 thanks to the remarkable philanthropic support of members, donors, bequestors, trusts and foundations. This income is vital to funding the National Trust’s work protecting and conserving the natural, cultural and built heritage of NSW. Collection items donated were valued at $18,000.
Major gifts contributed more than $230,000 to fundraising revenue this year, in addition to appeals, supporting essential conservation work.
Revenue from the patron program increased this year to more than $170,000. Patrons of the National Trust contribute an annual donation with funds directed to the most critical projects. Sharing a passion for heritage and conservation, our patron community connected at exclusive events including behind-the-scenes tours and exhibition openings.
Annual appeals play a vital role in raising revenue for critical projects. This year appeals raised more than $435,000 in funds. The collections appeal enjoyed an exceptional response, raising over $170,000 in total, $20,000 over the target amount. With more than 60,000 items under the care of the National Trust, the collection is one of the most significant curations of historical objects in Australia. Funds from the appeal ensured urgent repairs and restoration of some of the most precious items in the collection have been undertaken. An appeal for Riversdale, the elegant Georgian property located on Gundungurra Country in Goulburn, enjoyed strong support, resulting in more than $265,000 in donations. These funds will allow for much-needed work to be carried out, including repairs to water-damaged walls and essential electrical upgrades.
Every gift makes a lasting impact. On a monthly, quarterly or annual basis, regular donations contributed $27,000 to support the work of the National Trust.
Creating a lasting legacy, gifts in Wills ensure heritage endures for future generations. Thanks to the incredible generosity of members and supporters, the National Trust received $1.7m in bequests this year.
Insightful and engaging events brought our community of members and supporters together throughout the year.
The conservation works at Old Government House were unveiled with an opening event attended by NSW Government officials and National Trust donors. Students from The Kings School, which once used the site as a boarding house, also attended the event to commemorate the occasion.
Held in the colourful surrounds of S.H. Ervin Gallery, the President’s Lunch has become a much-anticipated annual event. This year donors gathered to share in the National Trust’s vision for the future with a preview of the 2025–29 Strategic Plan. Also at S.H. Ervin Gallery, members and donors enjoyed expert talks on the Portia Geach Memorial Award and Salon des Refusés exhibitions. A behindthe-scenes tour with experts from International Conservation Services, offered donors insight into the intricate processes of conserving fragile items from the collections appeal. Donors also learnt about the fascinating history of Riversdale and the urgent conservation work needed.
$2.8m Individual gifts
2,000+
Total raised
The Women’s Committee gathered supporters and raised important funds across the year at drawcard events such as the popular Weekends Away and the Lindesay Christmas Fair.
A sound performance from the investment portfolio and strong support from bequests contributed to a $2m surplus this year.
The National Trust is a charity and a not-for-profit organisation. The audited financial results presented are for the consolidated entity of the National Trust of Australia (NSW) together with the National Trust of Australia (NSW) Heritage Foundation Limited.
Revenue was generated through:
• Native bushland regeneration services
• Visitation to historic museums, gardens and art galleries
• Membership, bequests and donations
• Venue hires and commercial and residential rentals
• Conservation fees and restorations appeals
• Investment returns
• Events and merchandise
• Grants from government and other organisations.
• Donations and Collections gifts amounted to more than $1.1m
• Bushland Management Services revenue totalled $3.2m – a $500k growth from FY24, with improved gross profit
• The investment portfolio provided an income of over $2.1m
• Bequests totalled $1.7m
• Total income from visitation numbered $1.2m
• Membership contributed close to $1m
• Strong growth in conservation services, including restoration appeals
• Significant grant revenue for the Sustainable Saumarez Homestead Tourism Project
• The combination of rising costs and caring for our places resulted in a net operating loss, after investment income. The Strategic Plan 2025–2029 aims to reduce this operating loss in future
• A $2m net surplus was achieved in FY25, being an improvement on the $1.5m deficit in FY24.
Grants
We are grateful for the NSW Government support through Heritage NSW of the Australian Heritage Festival and National Trust Heritage Awards as the continued principal sponsor providing $75,000 in grant funding.
The National Trust would also like to recognise the grant support from the Australian Government –Department of Industry, Science, and Resources, NSW State Government – Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, Department of Communities and Justice and Restart NSW (with Armidale Regional Council), National Library of Australia, Museums & Galleries NSW, The Copland Foundation (for multiple projects), Gordon Darling Foundation, Maitland City Council and Armidale City Council. Support (including in-kind support) was also received from Armidale, Dubbo, Maitland, Parramatta, Tenterfield, Wingecarribee Shire and Yass City Councils.
S.H. Ervin Gallery
We acknowledge the generous support provided to the S.H. Ervin Gallery by Allen & Unwin, the Art Gallery of NSW, Holding Redlich, Margaret Olley Art Trust and Perpetual.
Corporate Members and Partners
A special thank you to our Corporate Partners; Art Gallery of NSW, International Conservation Services and Laithwaite’s Wine. We are also very grateful to our Corporate Members; Biosis Pty Ltd, Design 5 –Architects, GML Heritage, Hector Abrahams Architects, Long Blackledge Architects, Lucas, Stapleton, Johnson & Partners, Metropolitan Memorial Parks, Slate Roofing Australia, Sydney Metro and Wollongong City Council.
Category Sponsors
We appreciate the support of the National Trust Heritage Awards Category Sponsors; City Plan, Extent Heritage, GML Heritage and Museums of History NSW. Committees
We are thankful for the generous philanthropic support provided by the Women’s Committee to support properties, and the Dundullimal Dubbo Support Crew and the National Trust Heritage Foundation.
The
The National Trust of Australia (NSW) is a community-based, non-government organisation, committed to promoting and conserving New South Wales natural, built and cultural heritage. It is a statutory body corporate and charitable entity established under The National Trust of Australia (New South Wales) Act 1990
Bringing the heritage of NSW to life now and into the future.
Mission
• Advocate for the conservation of our built, cultural and natural heritage by engaging strategically with governments, industry, media and community.
• Identify, conserve and sustain our built, cultural and natural heritage by example, advice and support.
• Engage our diverse communities through inclusive programs and stories that bring our collective histories to life for all generations.
• Independent – be a leading voice for heritage and the natural environment.
• Trustworthy – act with professionalism, integrity and ethics.
• Inclusive – embrace and reflect NSW’s diverse communities and stories.
• Inspirational – deliver enriching and engaging experiences and positive heritage outcomes.
CONTACT US
National Trust of Australia (NSW), GPO Box 518, SYDNEY NSW 2001
Phone: (02) 9258 0123 Email: info@nationaltrust.com.au nationaltrust.org.au/nsw @nationaltrustau @nationaltrustau @nationaltrustnsw
ABN: 82 491 958 802
Printed on sustainably sourced paper, independently certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.
