Photos: Volunteer Symposium for Regional and Community-Run Museums

The Volunteer Symposium for NSW Regional and Community-Run Museums gathered more than 70 volunteers from across the state, alongside regional museum staff, MHNSW and M&G NSW teams. Over two days, participants enjoyed four keynotes, 20+ breakout sessions, and a packed program of presentations, discussions, and hands-on workshops.

Held at The Mint in Sydney, the event built skills and connections, highlighted the vital contributions of volunteers to the cultural life of NSW and discussed some of the sector’s key challenges.

Topics such as succession planning, storytelling, collections care, engaging First Nations communities, and school learning programs in museums were particularly well received.

Despite the many obstacles facing volunteer organisations, attendees reinforced the resilience, dedication, and passion of those working on the ground, and underscored the importance of continued investment in the people who keep our museums open and thriving.

This event was proudly presented by Museums & Galleries of NSW and Museums of History NSW.