The Heritage Awards is a highlight of the Australian Heritage Festival. It’s run by the National Trust of Australia (NSW) in partnership with the NSW Government through Heritage NSW.
The Awards celebrate and showcase the best practice in the field of heritage conservation, education, publishing, events, interpretation and advocacy. The National Trust Heritage Awards commenced in 1994.
Recognising excellence in the conservation, interpretation, education or celebration of Aboriginal Heritage to promote greater understanding and appreciation in the community.
Blacktown Native Institution
Conservation Management Plan
Blacktown
GML Heritage
Hill 60 Aboriginal Community Stories
Port Kembla Wollongong City Libraries
Anaiwan Grinding Grooves: Investing in the past to guide the future at New England Solar Uralla
Anaiwan Registered Aboriginal Parties, ACEN Australia
Bullanginya Daborra Dunggalla – Bullanginya Dreaming
Barooga
Barooga Sports Club
Dhuluny: 200 years of Wiradyuri resistance Bathurst
Wiradyuri Traditional Owners Central West Aboriginal Corporation (WTOCWAC)
A Wiradyuri word meaning the direct or gospel truth, Dhuluny, developed by the Wiradyuri Elders group, was a week-long series of events held in August 2024 to commemorate the 200-year anniversary of the Declaration of Martial Law and the frontier violence on Wiradyuri Country. Judges’ comments: “A compelling commemoration that has brought important histories to the forefront. The significance of this series cannot be underestimated.”
To recognise the extraordinary commitment of an individual or community group who have pursued the protection and conservation of key heritage places, items or objects.
State Heritage Listing of Hayden
Orpheum Picture Palace
Cremorne
Cremorne Conservation Group
Ensuring the future of Port Macquarie Museum
Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie Historical Society Inc.
Caring for a significant building requires an ongoing commitment to maintenance, conservation and advocacy, particularly when that building is owned by the community.
The Port Macquarie Historical Society has been a fearless champion for the museum by maintaining its public profile, highlighting its heritage values to the community and advocating for funding.
Judges’ comments: “True champions of heritage in the community. Their impressive efforts are to be commended.”
For projects which are sympathetic to the heritage significance of a place or complement and utilise existing built heritage, including adaptive reuse or new work in historic contexts.
Fig Tree House
Marrickville
Potter & Wilson Architects
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Back to Front House
Potts Point
Ian Moore Architects
Gleebooks
Glebe
AN+A
Pumphouse Maker Space & Artist Workshop
Albury
AlburyCity
Rosebery Engine Yards
Rosebery
Goodman Group
Former Workmen's Dwellings Lower Fort Street Dawes Point
Neeson Murcutt Neille
Located in Dawes Point, this row of State Heritage-listed former social housing flats was expertly adapted to create a unique offering of 27 apartments that balance contemporary liveability with the retention of heritage fabric. Judges’ comments: ‘’A cleverly executed, architecturally challenging project that has taken the original fabric and made a considered new insertion, enhancing the dwellings' livability while beautifully conserving the streetscape.’’
For projects that relate to conservation of our built heritage including capital works and repair.
Heathcote Hall
Heathcote
Tasman Storey Architects and Pariter Pty Ltd
Hornby Lighthouse Restoration
Sydney
Port Authority of NSW
Malachi Gilmore Hall
Oberon
Lucy & Johnny East
S.H. Ervin Gallery Facade
Conservation
Sydney
Property and Development NSW
Silchester – Juliet Balcony
Bellevue Hill
Cracknell & Lonergan Architects Pty Ltd
Frazer Mausoleum Restoration
Rookwood
Metropolitan Memorial Parks
Old Menangle School Site
Menangle
Wollondilly Shire Council, Civille, G3 Architecture, Sue Rosen Associates, Growth Civil Landscapes
Tathra Wharf
Tathra
Bega Valley Shire Council
Old Bega Hospital Bega
Design 5 – Architects, Old Bega Hospital Reserve Land Manager, NSW Public Works, Leser Build
Extensively damaged by fire in 2004, the Old Bega Hospital was expertly repaired and rebuilt to the specifications of the original 1888 building. Following years of community fundraising and guided by archival drawings and historic photographs, the building is now revitalised, returning again as a valuable community facility. Judges’ comments: “This very impressive project shows a high level of refinement in the conservation philosophy applied, and appropriately balances the delicate question of when to retain and when to replace.”
For projects that serve to educate about or interpret our heritage in an engaging way. This may include curriculum-based educational projects and resources, and specific interpretation projects relating to a place or item.
From
Schools Reconciliation Challenge
State-wide
Reconciliation NSW
Middle Head Gubbuh Gubbuh to Georges Head Walking Track
Mosman
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
HIGHLY COMMENDED
More Bonegilla Stories
Albury
Simon Reich
NSW Rail Museum Education Program
Thirlmere
Transport Heritage NSW
Pirie Chambers Heritage Trades Training Program and Conservation Broken Hill
HSR (Aust) Group and Elizabeth Vines OAM, Architect and Heritage Advisor
A lack of skilled conservation trades can be a challenge in rural and outback communities. This project took an innovative approach by using training labour to realise an ambitious project in Broken Hill’s civic centre. The upper façade of the Argent Street building benefited from stone and render conservation, and its historic verandah was reconstructed on the street level.
Judges’ comments: “Innovative, impactful and inspiring, the project has taught traditional skills and revitalised a significant Broken Hill landmark.”
Recognising the ongoing care and conservation of built, natural or cultural heritage across time.
Forty Bends Farm
South Bowenfels
Sarah and Brendan Childs
Mildura House
Georges Plains
Linda Appleford and Terry Jones
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Ongoing Conservation of the Marionette Theatre of Australia Puppets
Neutral Bay
The Seaborn, Broughton & Walford Foundation
Cockatoo Island Heritage
Steam Cranes: from Restoration to Activation
Cockatoo Island
Sydney Harbour Federation Trust
Preservation of Cox Cottage
Mulgoa
Friends of Fernhill and Mulgoa Valley Inc. nominating Dr James Broadbent AM
From
Minister's Stonework Program State-wide
NSW Public Works
Over the past 34 years, the Minister’s Stonework Program has conserved more than 300 significant government assets, promoting and safeguarding the sandstone heritage of NSW. Since 1987, 40 stonemasons have completed apprenticeships through the program, which plays a key role in benchmarking technical expertise and in continuing the tradition of heritage trades skills.
Judges’ comments: “The longevity of the program speaks to its quality and importance in the ongoing conservation and maintenance of sandstone buildings and monuments across NSW.”
For events, exhibitions and tours that emphasise and promote education, interpretation and community engagement in heritage.
Callan Park's Veterans: A Century of Connections
Lilyfield
Friends of Callan Park
Hardy Wilson's Old Colonial Architecture 1924–2024
Sydney University of Sydney & Hector
Abrahams Architects
Royal National Park Shack Open Day Weekend
Era Beach, Royal National Park
Royal National Park Coastal Cabins Protection League
Omnia: All and Everything
Murwillumbah
Tweed Regional Museum
Royal Flying Doctor Outback Heritage Experience
Broken Hill
Freeman Ryan Design
Below from left: Callan Park's Veterans: A Century of Connections; Hardy Wilson's Old Colonial Architecture 1924–2024.
Opposite, clockwise from top: Omnia: All and Everything; Royal Flying Doctor Outback Heritage Experience; Royal National Park Shack Open Day Weekend.
Transport Heritage Expo 2024 Sydney
Transport Heritage NSW
The Transport Heritage Expo 2024 drew over 12,000 visitors to Sydney's Central Station, offering immersive experiences like steam train rides, vintage bus tours, and harbour cruises. The event, showcasing NSW's transport history, demonstrated successful collaboration and has become a key cultural highlight in Sydney. Judges’ comments: “Strong collaboration between local heritage organisations and the NSW Government resulted in an impressive offering that attracted record visitation levels. An exceptionally engaging and immersive display of NSW’s rich transport heritage.”
Flood Level 1955 – A Historical Exhibition Maitland
Maitland City Council
A thought-provoking display commemorating the 70th anniversary of the 1955 Hunter Valley Floods, a defining moment in Maitland’s history. The exhibition presents a multifaceted narrative using rare archival footage, personal testimonies and historic artifacts to educate and engage the community. Judges’ comments: “An engaging showcase of the strength of those who endured and rebuilt. The exhibition served as a compelling tribute to the past and an inspiring reminder of Maitland’s enduring spirit.”
For projects that relate to the conservation of historic interiors and objects. Movable objects are included in this category.
The Garrison Church Historic Bell Restoration
Dawes Point
Anglican Parish of Church Hill
HIGHLY COMMENDED
The Great Synagogue –Relocation of Bimah
Sydney
The Great Synagogue
Opposite, clockwise from top left: Binowee Bayles welcomed guests to Country; People's Choice Award winner, Transport Heritage Expo; Judges' Choice winner, Old Bega Hospital, presented by Jury Chair, Matt Devine; Hon Penny Sharpe MLC with Aboriginal Heritage Award winner; keynote delivered by Professor the Hon Bob Carr.
From top: The Garrison Church Historic Bell Restoration; The Great Synagogue – Relocation of Bimah.
Parliament of NSW Rum Hospital Project Sydney
Department of Parliamentary Services
Originally constructed between 1811 and 1816, the interiors of the northern wing of the former Rum Hospital required extensive repairs and upgrades. Carried out following with the restoration of the building’s façade, this project is the final piece in the restoration of one of Australia’s oldest public buildings. Judges’ comments: “A project of precision that has overcome a number of challenges and expertly integrated conservation with contemporary safety and accessibility standards to deliver a fantastic end result.”
Conservation of the Barangaroo Boat Sydney
Sydney Metro with Silentworld Foundation and York Archaeological Trust
Uncovered in 2018 during excavation work for the new Sydney Metro Barangaroo Station, the Barangaroo Boat is believed to be pre-1830s and is the earliest known Colonial-built boat made entirely of local Australian timbers. During the six-year conservation process, the timber was treated with Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) to reinforce its structure, the first time Australian timbers had been conserved using this internationally recognised process. Judges’ comments: “An incredible and extensive undertaking by skilled experts that has resulted in a conservation project of national significance. Australia hasn’t seen anything like it before.”
For projects that relate to the conservation of our landscape heritage including management and conservation. This includes natural, urban and cultural landscapes; Indigenous and non-Indigenous.
Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track
Lake Macquarie
Lake Macquarie City Council
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Glow Worm Tunnel Pathway
Construction
Wollemi National Park
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
Middle Head Gubbuh Gubbuh to Georges Head Walking Track Mosman
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
Nielsen Park Seawall Vaucluse
OCULUS with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
Nepean River Trail Camden
Camden Council
The Nepean River Trail in the historic township of Camden weaves ecological sustainability with cultural heritage. It fosters biodiversity through native plantings, thoughtfully avoids sensitive archaeological zones and integrates evocative public art, inviting community connection and a deeper reverence for place. Judges’ comments: “A substantial project with big ambitions and big impact. Layered storytelling, impressive ecological conservation, strong collaboration and partnerships – this holistic project has it all.”
For any publication or resource that promotes the conservation of our heritage. This may include research, websites, archaeological resources, heritage guidelines, fact sheets, field guides and heritage studies, both in print and online.
Fame and Blame - A Brief History of the office of the NSW Civil, Colonial, and Government Architects
David Churches
Historic Heritage Bushfire Vulnerability Assessment Framework
GML Heritage
Ryde History Hub
City of Ryde Libraries
NSW Courts of Cultural Heritage Significance: Guidelines for Conservation, Repair & Replacement
PTW Architects in partnership with The NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ)
The Secrets Of Anzac Ridge: In Flanders Fields
Patricia Skehan Publishing
Opposite, clockwise from top: Maitland In Focus; Preserving and Promoting the Priceless Collections of the National Herbarium of New South Wales: Mass Digitisation and Free Public Access via an Online Herbarium Search Portal; Treasures of Old Jewish Sydney: The story of a visual heritage.
Maitland In Focus
Maitland City Council
Preserving and Promoting the Priceless Collections of the National Herbarium of New South Wales: Mass Digitisation and Free Public Access via an Online Herbarium Search Portal
National Herbarium of New South Wales, Botanic Gardens of Sydney
Treasures of Old Jewish Sydney: The story of a visual heritage
Jana Vytrhlik
Australia's Earliest Timber Houses
Christopher and Deborah Hallam
This digital publication documents more than 180 timber houses built in Australia between 1788 and 1850, offering rare insight into early construction. Drawing on their decades of conservation work, the authors undertook extensive research and site visits, creating a richly contextualised architectural record, available at hawkesburysettlement.com Judges’ comments: “A phenomenal research effort that has demonstrated amazing commitment. Packed with detailed photography and descriptions, this is a very valuable resource that is completely accessible.”
The Australian Ark: The Story of Australian Wine, 1788–2023 by Andrew Caillard MW David Longfield, Longueville Media & Angus Hughson, The Vintage Journal
The Australian Ark is a landmark three-volume history charting the evolution of Australian wine. Rich in cultural, social and economic insight, it reframes Australia’s wine story as a vital thread in the nation’s heritage, reshaping global perceptions of its historical significance. Judges’ comments: “An excellent publication that is both captivating and beautifully designed. This work transcends the topic of wine, intricately weaving together the unique social histories of Australian settlement, communities and immigration. It is truly a labour of love.”
Celebrating individuals who have dedicated their career and passion to the conservation, care, promotion and protection of New South Wales’ built, natural and cultural heritage.
Celebrating individuals who have dedicated their career and passion to the conservation, care, promotion and protection of New South Wales’ built, natural and cultural heritage.
For individuals aged 35 years and under who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to heritage excellence.
A heritage consultant trained in planning and architecture, Sheridan’s illustrious career and enduring commitment to heritage are to be celebrated. Her work has traversed government, NGOs and the corporate sector. Sheridan is a highly respected author, teacher and mentor. Sheridan has expertly served on a number of advisory boards, panels, and committees, including positions as the Deputy Chair of the Heritage Council of NSW and Vice President of ICOMOS.
Heritage Specialist at Transport for NSW, Steven Barry is the lead author of the Sustainable Heritage Buildings Guide. Steven’s work addresses the complex topic of the sustainable adaptation of historic buildings in the face of climate change. His ongoing leadership and dedication to heritage and sustainability is invaluable, and he has already made an exceptional contribution to integrating sustainability into heritage management practice.
Recognising dedication, mastery and consistent application of heritage skills and practices: this individual award shines a light on not only the accomplishments and craft of the winner, but the need to sustain heritage.
BEN ELLIOT
Fleet Maintenance Manager at Transport Heritage NSW, Ben is a nationally recognised expert in heritage railway maintenance. A valued leader and mentor, he is instrumental in safeguarding the priceless heritage of iconic NSW railway items, and ensuring safe operation and enjoyment of all. Key achievements include returning locomotives 6029, 2705, 3001, 3265, and 3526 to service and leading 3801’s journey over the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Acknowledging the outstanding endeavours and achievements of women who are heritage specialists, architects, curators, authors, historians, presenters and producers.
DR LISA MURRAY
Dr Lisa Murray volunteered with the National Trust Cemeteries Committee in 1996 while completing her PhD, before working with the organisation fulltime from 1997–2001. She then joined the City of Sydney as a research historian, becoming City Historian in 2010, where she led the city history program and co-curated key engagement projects. She has since rejoined the Cemeteries Committee and continues to work as a consulting historian.
Recognition of one outstanding project, initiative, exhibition, event or campaign from across all categories, to be named best in show for the year.
Old Bega Hospital Bega
Design 5 – Architects, Old Bega Hospital Reserve Land Manager, Public Works NSW, Leser Build
From fire-damaged walls and chimneys, and only remnants of the roof, floors, and joinery, to an accessible and communal multi-space hub, the Old Bega Hospital has been completely revitalised.
Judges’ comments: “A superbly planned and executed project, bolstered by grants and strong public advocacy, that has completely revived this historic building. The retention of fire-damaged fabric offers a powerful nod to its history. A true symbol of resilience.”
Awarded at the discretion of the National Trust President, this prize acknowledges a project that warrants particular recognition.
Preserving and Promoting the Priceless Collections of the National Herbarium of New South Wales: Mass Digitisation and Free Public Access via an Online Herbarium Search Portal
National Herbarium of New South Wales, Botanic Gardens of Sydney
A remarkable five-year project to photograph and digitise over one million flora specimens including common, rare, threatened and now extinct species. Completely accessible, the Herbarium Search Portal helps to accelerate research and reduce physical handling of these precious specimens. Visit herbariumcollection.botanicgardens.org.au
President's comment: “An awe-inspiring project that will advance research and conservation efforts globally. It has delivered unparalleled insight into more than 250 years of botanical research.”
Recognition of a shortlisted entry with significant community impact, determined by public vote.
Transport Heritage Expo 2024 Sydney
Transport Heritage NSW
Congratulations to Transport Heritage NSW - the winner of the National Trust (NSW)'s inaugural People's Choice Award.
We thank the thousands of people who took the time to cast a vote for their favourite finalist in 2025.
The National Trust (NSW) acknowledges the generous support of the following organisations and individuals who have made the 2025 National Trust Heritage Awards possible.
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
The National Trust Heritage Awards are proudly supported by the NSW Government through Heritage NSW.
EVENT SPONSOR
MEDIA SPONSOR
OUR VENUE
THANK YOU
Welcome to Country Binowee Bayles
Master of Ceremonies
Richard Morecroft
Keynote Speaker
Professor the Hon Bob Carr
NATIONAL TRUST HERITAGE AWARDS JUDGES
Matthew Devine (Chair)
Barrina South
Ann Toy
David Burdon
Dr Caitlin Allen
Dr Libby Gallagher
Kathryn Pitkin AM
Peter John Cantrill
Sophie Canaris
Thank you to everyone who entered the National Trust Heritage Awards in 2025, to the people involved in these projects, their partners, supporters and to the community for continuing to appreciate the wonder of our heritage in New South Wales.
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