Honouring Country
In 2024 the National Trust launched our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). A collaborative partnership with Reconciliation Australia, the RAP formalises the National Trust’s ongoing commitment to advancing reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. With the first stage, Reflect, having come to a close, we look back at one of the key projects of this initial phase.
A new chapter
Located on Anaiwan Country, in Armidale, Saumarez Homestead is an Edwardian-era Homestead featuring graceful formal gardens and historic farm buildings. In 2025, a major $2.7 million project was launched to revitalise this heritage place into a premier regional destination.
In line with a deeper commitment to telling the multi-layered stories of National Trust properties, a research project in collaboration with local Aboriginal community representatives was undertaken as part of this project.
A shared history
Consulting with Anaiwan Elders and incorporating Aboriginal history and language, a new interpretation program for Saumarez Homestead was created. Telling the enduring story of the people who walked this landscape long before pastoral fences were laid, this multi-layered program will also guide new interpretation programs at other National Trust properties.
As part of the new interpretation program a Welcome to Country video was filmed with Anaiwan Elder, and community advocate Uncle Steve Widders. On display in the Saumarez Centre, the site from which visitors first enter the property, this beautifully-shot video illuminates the history of the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Saumarez Homestead stands.
Featuring striking artwork commissioned from a local First Nations artist, new dual language signage was created to guide visitors around the property, while an audio sound trail with Anaiwan language was recorded and a new property guide launched. Staff and volunteers at Saumarez Homestead also benefited from cultural training to enrich understanding of this special place.
