THE Port Macquarie Museum is celebrating two major wins.
On Wednesday, 26 November, its Barayal Bila (River Song) exhibition won a 2025 IMAGinE award.
The following day, Curator Debbie Sommers was back in the spotlight, accepting Silver in the Cultural Tourism category at the NSW Tourism Awards.
Both ceremonies were held in Sydney.
The IMAGinE Awards, presented annually by Museums & Galleries of NSW, celebrate the outstanding achievements of museums, galleries, and Aboriginal cultural centres across NSW.
They recognise excellence and innovation in exhibitions, public engagement, learning and access, and individual contributions to the sector.
“Winning an IMAGinE Award and having a project recognised by our peers is always very special”, said Port Macquarie Museum Curator Debbie Sommers.
“This year’s award for Barayal Bila is even more special, recognising the collaborations, connections and partnerships developed with Birpai and other community stakeholders during the project.”
Barayal Bila (River Song), which was awarded in the Exhibition Projects category, celebrates the cultural and environmental significance of Dungang (the Hastings River).
Through audio and visual storytelling, the exhibition includes poetry, artworks, Birpai voices and Gathang language, highlighting the deep connections of local people to the river and inviting reflection on its natural and cultural history, and future.
This year’s judges universally commended the achievements of smaller and volunteer organisations.
The NSW Tourism Awards on Thursday 28 November, were announced in Bicentennial Park, Sydney, and recognised outstanding commitment to tourism excellence.
There were 30 categories, spanning excellence in business practices, visitor experiences and sustainability.
Port Macquarie Museum received Silver in the Cultural Tourism category.
“Entering the NSW Tourism Awards is part of our commitment to continuous improvement”, Ms Sommers said.
“As an independent community museum, our business relies on a strong tourism industry, and we are continually working on improving visitor experiences.
“The Silver award recognises our amazing team of volunteers who bring our stories and culture to life.”
The awards cap off a big year of wins for the Museum that have included Bronze at the Australian Tourism Awards, the National Trust (NSW) Advocacy Award, Gold at the North Coast Regional Tourism Awards, and the History Council of NSW Inaugural History Week Award.
The Museum is located in Port Macquarie’s cultural heart at 22 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie, and is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
Admission charges help the museum care for its heritage Store building and collections.
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