It will be of no surprise to learn that historical collections don’t like water!

With the River Murray in flood in 2022-23, several museums in South Australia’s History Network faced the potential disaster of losing their significant collections.

The Barmera National Trust Museum, Renmark Paringa Community Museum, Loxton Historical Village and Mannum Dock Museum all had to relocate their collections. With just a few weeks warning to plan and move, there was a lot to do in a short amount of time.

The impact of any disaster on a community is extensive and there is a necessary focus by many government agencies and emergency services on protecting people and properties.

The History Trust’s role is quite different. With our focus on history and heritage, the Trust has, through its Museums and Collections (MaC) program, grant funds and other community programs, a long and strong relationship with the South Australian History Network.

River museums and their collections are an important part of the History Network, and the Trust was pleased to be able to support them with specialist advice, knowledge and hands-on assistance. Many curators make light work!

Ultimately, the historical collections of river communities were saved from the floods by the dedication and hard work of the many museum workers and community volunteers who stepped up to the enormous challenge of the rising river.

An amazing effort all round that is preserving significant collections for the future!

Amanda James
Senior Community History Officer

More information from the 2023 History Festival edition of WeekendPlus: