A “much-loved” Sunshine Coast museum needs more volunteers to ensure it can stay open often.
Nambour Museum board members have urged people to help at the Mitchell Street venue, which is in its 30th year.
They issued a community notice appealing to the public.
“Nambour Museum is seeking volunteers of all ages to help keep this much-loved historical icon up and running.
“Men and women of all ages and skillsets are most welcome to assist with tasks including reception, visitor engagement, maintaining exhibits, research and computer work, gardening and general maintenance.”
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A spokesperson stated that the museum was not at risk of closing but it may have to reduce its hours of operation if more helpers can’t be found.
“Like all voluntary organisations, getting enough volunteers to operate effectively is challenging.
“A majority of the volunteers at the museum are aged in their 70s, 80s and 90s. A new cohort is required for succession planning, as the most senior members can no longer contribute like they used to.
“What we are seeing is that the museum can only open for limited hours on certain days because it does not have the manpower to handle more days, longer opening hours, or catering for frequent large-group visits, such as school programs or bus trips.”
A special event will be held to mark venue’s three-decade milestone on July 25.
It opened in 1996, after a public meeting to gauge the support for it, and a long-term lease was signed with the state government.
The museum showcases the rich history of the local district through permanent collections, special exhibits and community events.
The building has an extensive collection of publications, reference materials and documents pertaining to the area. Visitors can inspect the library and conduct personal research during office hours, for a nominal sum. Upstairs, there are 18 rooms showcasing a range of historical items from kitchens, schools, hospitals, military spaces and more. Many of the objects and research library materials were generously donated by local families.
Outside, visitors can see locomotives, the original engineers’ rooms from the Moreton Sugar Mill, farm machinery and replicas of a post office and communication room.
Secretary Di Deane said there are 21 volunteers now, but more are needed.
“Their commitment can’t be overstated, but limited staffing sometimes means the back sheds aren’t open every day,” she said.
“We invite anyone interested in volunteering to join us. More people make a big difference, and the demographic of our volunteers is aging. There are plenty of different roles available.
“Our experienced volunteers, many who’ve served for years, are happy to share their knowledge about the district with newcomers.
“The museum is key to educating school groups and sparking an interest in local history among future generations.
“If we don’t get more volunteer support, we may have to cut back on our opening hours.”
The museum is currently open from Wednesday to Friday, 1pm to 4pm, and on Saturday from 10am to 3pm.
The venue also depends on government and community grants to keep its doors open.
“Grant funding helps us maintain and restore some of our exhibits, as well as cover insurance and general operating expenses,” Ms Deane said.
People interested in volunteering can contact the museum on 5441 2119 or email nambourmuseum@gmail.com.
