THE BEAUDESERT Historical Museum has just completed a year long review of how it was operating in a bid to improve its relevance and to streamline services.
As a result of the overview the museum has introduced new procedures and the resultant changes has been praised by Museum and Galleries Queensland (M&G),
Beaudesert Historical Museum President, Mark Plunkett, said they were aware they had to review current practices, but they were hampered because they needed expertise to create a new coordinated plan.
“The M&G Queensland staff and reviewers helped us clarify procedures and improve specific areas,” Mark said.
“We understood the value of our extensive and varied collection, however, we needed guidance to develop policies and practices around it.
“We particularly needed help with how to politely say ‘no’ to new donations.
“Completion of the program has given us a more strategic direction and has enabled us to update our business plans to guide the future of our museum.”
The Beaudesert Museum at 54 Brisbane Street is home to many thousands of objects that showcase the region’s rich history from Moreton Bay’s Settlement until the present.
Many historical buildings occupy the site, including the original Beaudesert Tramway office which became the Tabragalba Divisional Board Building, and later the Beaudesert Shire Council Chambers.
It also holds an original railway Tent Hut used during the construction of the Queensland Railway, a pioneer Slab Hut from the Kerry Valley, built in 1875, and many other fascinating historical buildings.
Within each building and across the site there is an array of collection items that range from small and delicate fine China crockery to large industrial equipment – much of which still operates.
The site is managed by the dedicated volunteers of The Historical Society of Beaudesert Inc. and is open between 10am and 2pm, seven days a week for visitors to enjoy.
