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Making a Bigger Difference

from National Trust NSW Magazine – April to June 2023

from National Trust NSW Magazine – April to June 2023, page 16

Ready, set... festival!

Behind every heritage property, gallery, museum and garden, there is our family of Patrons who share the National Trust’s commitment to heritage by generously contributing to our conservation and advocacy work. Emeritus Professor David Carment AM tells us about his experiences in the National Trust (NSW) Patron Program.

What attracted you to the Patron Program?

I joined the Patron Program because I saw it as an opportunity to deepen my involvement with the National Trust (NSW). As a professor of history I’ve always been fascinated by heritage, and I have an innate sense of always wanting to know more. Being a Patron means I can go to exclusive events and tours with people who share my passion for history, heritage and the arts, and learn more than I otherwise could. I enjoy the social aspect of the program immensely and love getting out and about and meeting new people.

What tours and events stand out?

Over the past few years I’ve been on some wonderful tours. One of my favourites was the Heart of Country: Arnhem Land Barks exhibition held at the S.H. Ervin Gallery. My many years working in and travelling around the Northern Territory have given me a strong appreciation of Indigenous art, and I found this exhibition breathtaking.

Another tour that sticks in my mind was visiting the International Conservation Services (ICS) office in Sydney and learning about art conservation through a thrilling talk by founder Julian Bickersteth. It’s opportunities like this that I particularly cherish.

Of course, there’s the added bonus of being able to contribute to the National Trust’s much-needed maintenance and repair work. I’m very much of the opinion that if the National Trust doesn’t protect our heritage, who will? That’s why I’m more than happy to make a financial commitment as a Patron.

Do you have an affiliation to any one National Trust property?

I’ve always been keen on Woodford Academy. My grandfather, Tom Sulman, was a student at Woodford over one hundred years ago. Back then, the boys were encouraged to leave their mark on the world, starting with engraving their names in their desks. In fact, you can still see his name on one of the desks today.