Tomaree Museum Association turns focus to developing a virtual museum collection

TMA chairperson Ian Farnsworth said that work - including a range of new initiatives and achievements - on the museum project had been progressing through the use of electronic communication.

"We have managed to secure a number of new members [numbering 46 in total] and we have organised to run our meetings via teleconferencing. The outcomes of a planned meeting with NSW Environment Minister Matt Kean will set our future project planning priorities," he said.

"The project team is also focused on developing a virtual museum collection at tomareemuseum.org.au and communicating with stakeholders and the community."

TMA aims to develop a regional museum which documents, protects and promotes the history and changing natural environment of Port Stephens, while identifying the challenges, risks, opportunities and a sustainable future for the region.

The museum hopes to house a Port Stephens historical display and regional history roadmap, in addition to a visitor information facility, cafe, shop, offices and a learning centre with a focus on a sustainable future for the area's koalas and dolphins, etc.

Mr Farnsworth said that the project team had come up with a five-point plan.

"The first is to resource the TMA committee and encourage all members to offer project suggestions and contributions," he said. "TMA is now an associate organisation of Econetwork and has applied to be a member of the Friends of Tomaree. We are also pursuing a closer relationship with Port Stephens Historical Society and other associations which are seen by TMA as important for unifying the community effort."

He said that TMA was pursuing funding for its activities through government grants.

"Funds gained through a Port Stephens mayoral grant have been used to cover registration, website and facility costs, while an application has been made through The Saluting Their Service program to cover the anticipated cost of transporting, collating and storing the Carrol family museum donation," he said.

"Secondly, we are seeking to gain government and community support. John Clarke has made presentations to Rotary and Lions clubs and secured the participation of a considerable number of new members."

TMA also aims to secure a long-term partnership with the state government and Port Stephens Council, and to accept virtual historical and environmental contributions (e.g: histories and environmental stories).

Thirdly, the TMA hopes to secure the best possible site for the museum, including Tomaree Headland at Shoal Bay and Fly Point, Nelson Bay.

"Government and community consultation will be crucial in securing agreement on the final site. The opportunities for management of historical and heritage listed assets such as Tomaree Lodge and the Outer Lighthouse will be considered in the selection process."

Steps four and five including the gathering and securing of museum treasure; and developing museum infrastructure.

"The committee has secured the donation of several display cabinets from the Canada Bay Museum and a memorabilia freezer from Salamander Bay Recycling. Community contributions of stories using a simple vignette format are encouraged," Mr Farsworth said.

The committee comprises of chair Mr Farnsworth, deputy chair John 'Stinker' Clarke, secretary Alex West, treasurer Tim Meharg, database David Wilson, historian/grants Chris Peters, assistant secretary Mary Sillence, assistant historian Warwick Mathieson, marketing Mr Clarke and volunteer Doug Cross.