Western Australia Minister for Heritage John Castrilli

Nominate Your Heritage Champion For State Awards

Victor P Taffa

The State Government is seeking nominations for this year’s Western Australian Heritage Awards.

Heritage Minister John Castrilli said the awards presented an opportunity to honour the leading contributors to heritage conservation, promotion, adaptive reuse and interpretation in WA.

“Now in its 19th year, the awards acknowledge the exceptional contribution of many volunteers and professionals, committed to ensuring that our cultural heritage is secured and valued in the future development of this State.” Mr. Castrilli said.

This year’s Awards have been expanded to include three new Categories:

• Outstanding Heritage Tourism Product;
• Outstanding Heritage Practices by a Local Government;
• Outstanding Newcomer:  The Professor David Dolan Award.

The Minister said the Outstanding Newcomer Category was in memory of former Heritage Council board member Professor David Dolan in recognition of his commitment to fostering young talent in the heritage industry.

“The new awards have been especially established to recognise best practice by Local Governments and Heritage Tourism Operators.” Mr. Castrilli said.

Last Year’s Winners Included:

• The Rottnest Island Hotel,
• Bunbury Historian Phyllis Barnes,
• Dryandra Woodland Village,
• The Fremantle Prison.

Mr. Castrilli said the heritage awards showcased excellence in revitalising heritage places and supported owners who lead the way in conserving their own properties.

The Award Winners will be announced on Thursday, April 14 to coincide with the start of Australian Heritage Week.

Nominations close at 5pm on Friday, March 18.  For more information or to download a nomination form visit http://www.heritage.wa.gov.au, call (08) 9221 4177 or Freecall 1800 644 177.