The Heritage Centre runs almost exclusively on volunteer energy and, in preparation for the opening on 29 March 2013 assistant, Curator Lorraine King and Manager Nic Jones held a informative training day for the 19 volunteers who keep the Centre open seven days a week in the season. Lismore is very lucky to have so many volunteers as many places struggle to get the numbers needed to stay open.
Nic Jones instructing
Thorough instruction was given in fire safety and first aid, before the curators – Bob Hay (Archive), Jennifer Baker (Museum) Ann Livingstone (Photos) and Freda Drysdale (The Cottage) – covered their areas of expertise. In addition Maureen Mitchell explained how the volunteer roster works, Barbara McDougall updated library information, Lesley Hamilton spoke about the shop which is taking over after it had been so competently run by Ina MacColl for several years, and genealogy enquiries are still to be covered by Laura Gloag.
After soup and sandwiches provided by Beth Campbell, volunteers visited all areas of the centre for further instruction. Lesley explained the workings of the shop including the sometimes dreaded till operating, Barbara the library, Bob and Jennifer the Museum room Freda the Cottage, Beth how the heating worked.
Lorraine King – Safety
Bob Hay – Exhibits
Bob Hay – Exhibits
Freda Drysdale – the spinning wheel
A great deal of volunteer cleaning and sprucing up also went on before the opening.
Stuart Ross painting
Barbara McDougall in the library
Jennifer Baker and Eileen Ferguson in the museum room