Tweed Regional Museum Collection Policy

Review of collection policy

The Collection Policy guides the decision-making process for shaping the collections of Tweed Regional Museum and outlines principles that guide collecting, loans and de-accessions. It is also a reference document that should be used in conjunction with appropriate available professional expertise and resources.

Background

In 2004 an amalgamation of the historical societies of Murwillumbah, Tweed Heads and Uki and South Arm formed the creation of the Collection of Tweed Regional Museum.

Each separate collection evolved over time and a range of factors lead to the shaping of the collections as they are today. Over many decades, museum volunteers in the Tweed Shire have built an outstanding cultural resource about the people, places and history of the area. This includes significant object and photograph collections as well as archives, research files and oral histories.

The Collection Policy was first adopted in 2006 and aims to enhance the depth and importance of the Collection by approaching collecting in a manner that reflects the Tweed Region as a whole, single entity. A previous review and update occurred in 2013.

This latest review and update, which began in 2020, included consultation with partner historical societies and TRM Advisory Committee, and a review of related industry policies and best practice, as well as a review of relevant Council policies and strategies

It recommends amendments to Acquisition Criteria and Acquisition Procedures, updates the introductory narrative and includes other minor changes.

Purpose of review

This review has recommended amendments to the Policy to reflect evolving practices within the museum sector generally, align with other Council Policies and strategies and reflect the evolution of Museum programs.

The Collection Policy - Tweed Regional Museum was adopted by Council at its meeting on 15 July 2021.