The Future of Heritage – Symposium 2014

The Future of Heritage?
A symposium for the ACT and Region

‘The Future of Heritage’, theme of the 2014 ACT & Region Australian Heritage Partnership
Symposium on 19 July, will highlight contemporary heritage achievement in Canberra and our region and consider the next steps in conserving it for future generations.

This annual Symposium has been running for several years and is jointly organised by the Canberra Archaeological Society, National Trust of Australia (ACT), Canberra & District Historical Society, Institute of Professional Practice in Heritage & the Arts, and Significance International. The Symposium will be held in the Sir Roland Wilson building, Australian National University (ANU).

Spokesperson for the National Trust, one of the key organisations coordinating the event, Mr Eric Martin AM said: “This year we welcome government administrators, managers, professionals and community members to have an informed conversation about where heritage conservation might lead us. The sponsorship of ANU and the University of Canberra and two heritage consultancy companies is also appreciated.”

Heritage is a very broad topic including natural and cultural places, collections, strategic directions by government and organisations, modern architecture and community interest. New questions are arising from this mix as we all hurtle towards an arguably more technological future. Presentations are specifically invited around two major heritage initiatives of the Commonwealth Government – the draft Australian Heritage Strategy which is due for release in April, and the revitalisation of the ‘Green Army’ scheme aimed at creating a large environmental and conservation workforce of young Australians working in the field. Presenters are encouraged to discuss these initiatives in regard to their implications for the ACT Region; heritage collections in organisations whose core business is not collecting; our intangible heritage, ‘heritage as process’, and social media engaging new audiences.

“The day always culminates in a lively panel-led discussion which records ideas/concerns for later follow-up” says Mr Martin “so there’s no better way for enthusiastic heritage workers – paid or unpaid – to spend a Saturday in the middle of winter!”

For further information contact
Mr Eric Martin AM (02) 6260 6395