NEW South Wales History Week starts September 6, with the theme Water Stories – and Moree and District Historical Society has timed the launch of its newly-created Water Room perfectly.
Society members will host an open day at Moree Plains Museum on Saturday, September 6 to celebrate the start of History Week.
Society researcher, Michael McNamara, said all rooms and displays at the museum will be open from 9.30am to 12.30pm.
Of particular interest is the Water Room, which has been established in time for History Week and Water Stories.
“This is the perfect opportunity for locals and visitors looking for something special to do on the Father’s Day weekend,” Mr McNamara said.
“The entire museum will be open to the public, and offers an ideal chance to visit for the first time, or to return as a repeat visitor, as our displays are always changing.
The September 6 open day, a free event, includes guided tours of the museum’s research section, an area not usually accessible to the public.
Highlights of the morning will include a trash-and-treasure stall and raffle draw.
“We’ve been selling raffle tickets for quite a few weeks and have some great prizes, thanks to the generous support of Harvey Norman, Nicole Alexander, Maslina Bar and Grill, and various Historical Society members. The official opening of the brand-new Water Room will take place at 11am.
The Water Room has been made possible through funding provided in partnership with the Gwydir Reconnecting Watercourse Country Program – part of the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water – and the Moree Plains Museum.
“This support has allowed the museum to bring to life a long-term vision, a dedicated space celebrating the history of water in our region,” Mr McNamara said.
“The Water Room collection will continue to grow as further contributions are added.”
To close History Week and the museum’s focus on Water Stories, the following Sunday, September 14 at 2pm, local cemetery enthusiasts will lead a walk through the cemetery to share its history.
“We’ll share stories about people whose lives were marked by particularly tragic water events,” Mr McNamara said.
“The walk is suitable for all ages, and afternoon tea will be provided.”
For further information on either event, or to contribute photographs or stories to the Water Room, please contact Moree Plains Museum at admin@moreehistory.org or Mr McNamara on 0429 608244.
Moree and District Historical Society Open Day – Water Stories
When: Saturday, September 6
Where: Moree Plains Museum
Time: 9.30am to 12.30pm
Cost: Free
Moree and District Historical Society Cemetery Walk
When: Sunday, September 14
Where: Moree Cemetery
Time: 2pm
Cost: Free, with morning tea provided