But his work does not end there - Brian also visits schools, clubs, community and church groups and hosts tours of heritage in the region. Brian's ability to communicate important and interesting facts and stories is what makes him a unique asset to the region.

Coalfield Heritage Group

Like so many mission sites little is left to show what was there and of the lives lived within and around it. However, their undying involvement of community Elders, the CDEP and the local community has assisted them in their conservation work. The project will ensure that the memories and remaining infrastructure and relics of this special place are not lost.

Recent projects include Clarence on Display, in which Nita provided and interpreted many relics and important memorabilia. Nita not only undertakes heritage studies but is the key local identity in promoting the values of heritage to her community and its visitors.

Director Corporate Services, Copmanhurst Shire Council

Vince's commitment to researching the history, architecture, buildings and sites of Haberfield has extended over more than 25 years.

Her efforts have been not only remarkable, but also innovative. An initial lack of resources meant that Marguerite had to 'strike a deal' with the local RSL Club, exchanging free rent for the writing of its history.

Since this time Marguerite has been involved in many events promoting and celebrating local heritage. She has also contributed to the conservation of the Society's current home, Crawford House.

At this time he uncovered Beckett's Cataract - a waterfall described by Oxley and lost for over 185 years. But this is not where his contribution ends. He is also a keen model maker of historic scenes and he serves on various community committees.

Janet is always ready to give advice or to assist where she is needed. Her deep interest in conserving our heritage has been of enormous benefit to the National Trust.

She has been an active member of the National Trust's Hunter Regional Committee since the 1980. One of her major achievements was to save much of Newcastle's heritage following the devastating earthquake in 1989.

The Jindera Pioneer Museum and Historical Society is a group of volunteers that manage and run the complex. Remarkably, some of its volunteers have been working at the complex since its inception 35 years ago.

It was largely through the efforts of Douglas and his committee that the Minister approved the listing of the precinct on the State Heritage Register last month.

Rae has been exceptional in this role, and for the past 7 years he has managed the 30 volunteer guides. Rae's important contribution has produced a consistently high quality of interpretation from all volunteers at the site.

Tom became a member of the club in 1936, and researched and recorded its history for its 75th Anniversary. He has also been involved in the conservation of many sailing vessels, some of which are now on display at the Australian National Maritime Museum, and the conservation of the important Tingara memorial at Rose Bay, where he enthused the local community about their collective history.

The project has included conservation work to this tree, which is now an interpretation centrepiece in the park.

The site is important not only to the Yorta Yorta people of Cummeragunja, but also to the general Australian population, and has become a fine example of practical reconciliation.

In recent times Heather has been working on numerous projects voluntarily, including "Tracking the Dragon" which aims to record Chinese graves through Nyngan and Bourke, and "100 lives..." also based on local cemeteries.

Heather's infectious enthusiasm and hard work have resulted in renewed enthusiasm towards heritage among the community of Orange.

Jillian initiated the National Trust classifications in the New England area. She also played a pivotal role in securing the White family's gift of Saumarez homestead for the National Trust.

Not only did Bob raise the profile of these waterfalls, he also persuaded Pittwater Council to list them on its local environment plan, ensuring their protection.

The team has put in an incredible 12,500 hours of work to conserve the church, the oldest public building in Penrith. Because of the efforts of these men, its future is now assured.

The new information collected throughout the project has expanded the historical record and also enhanced the community's understanding of the town's history.

Peg has been instrumental in the conservation and interpretation of the Port Macquarie Court House.

As finance manager, Peg has kept the Courthouse afloat and economically viable, so that it continues to be enjoyed by the local community and visitors alike.

She organised and managed the "Save Linnwood Hall" campaign to retain the property in public ownership and to enhance its value to the community.

In her new role as President of Friends of Linnwood she has organised many successful open days and community functions there, raising its profile as a major community asset. She is also a member of its management committee with Holroyd City Council and the Heritage Council.

Bessie has been strongly involved in many heritage projects through her community organisations, particularly the Glenreagh Memorial Museum, Pristine Waters Heritage Advisory Committee and Glenreagh Mountain Railway.