Important preservation works at the Goulburn Waterworks Museum will be given a boost with a community heritage grant from the Federal Government.

Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor said $3000 would be provided to Goulburn Mulwaree Council for a preservation needs assessment of documents held by the Goulburn Waterworks Museum.

“The Goulburn Waterworks was built about 1885 as the city’s first reticulated water supply. Its original buildings and engines are of national significance and listed on state and national heritage registers.

“This funding will provide support for the Goulburn Waterworks Museum to survey the collection of approximately 34 original plans, drawings and contracts relating to the construction of the waterworks - preserving and contributing to Australia’s national identity,” Mr Taylor said.

The Community Heritage Grants Programme is managed by the National Library of Australia and provides grants of up to $15,000 to community based museums, libraries, archives and historical societies.

Funded activities include:

·         assessments by qualified specialists of the significance and preservation needs of collections;

·         training for staff and volunteers in conservation and collection management;

·         the digitisation of historical material; and

·         the purchase of vital archival and storage equipment.

Minister for the Arts, Senator the Hon Mitch Fifield, has announced more than $430,000 for 75 community organisations to preserve and increase access to locally-owned and nationally significant collections.

More information about Community Heritage Grants and a full list of funding recipients is available at http://arts.gov.au/collections/community-heritage-grants.