After the impact of COVID and two years of cancellation of the Abbey Medieval Festival, the Abbey Museum’s largest fundraiser, the Museum’s future was not looking bright.
Faced with the prospect of losing staff and closing its doors, Museum Director Edith Cuffe sought the advice of local Federal Member Terry Young MP who is truly a trusted advocate for the Museum.
Thanks to his guidance, support and advocacy, the Museum successfully applied for $200,000 under the Federal Government’s Arts and Cultural Development 2021/22 program.
This funding for the annual operation of the Museum will ensure the Museum is able to continue to employ staff and present its suite of education and school holiday programs and activities.
The Director, Edith said, “This funding came at a very opportune time for the Museum and we are extremely grateful for the support. Like many not for profit Arts organisations we were struggling financially after the impacts of Covid closures and the ongoing aftermath.”
The Abbey Museum is looking forward to presenting a full program of events and activities and continuing to engage and inspire our visitors.
We are excited that the federal government’s support will enable improved accessibility for our visitors. Our small museum will lead the way in accessibility with audio descriptive text accessible by QR codes in our displays and a social story available on line to assist neurodiverse visitors.