Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts, Cinema, Theatre and Museum.

Rel. Thursday 20 July 2023

Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts (SHPMSoA) Closure

At the 30 June Ordinary Council meeting, Council resolved to withdraw the management of operations from the Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts (SHPMSoA) Cinema, Theatre and Museum.

Tenterfield Shire Council recognises the importance of this nationally significant museum and historical asset and shares in the disappointment being expressed by the community at this difficult but necessary decision. Unfortunately, budgetary constraints mean difficult decisions are needed to be made to ensure long term sustainability of core Council services.

Council commenced discussions with the asset owner, the National Trust Australia (NSW), in August 2022 with the aim to negotiate a mutually workable solution for the continuation of the SHPMSoA services under the management of the National Trust Australia (NSW). The National Trust Australia (NSW) is the leading heritage conservation charity organisation nationally and are best placed to appropriately manage this significant national asset for future generations of Australians.

Tenterfield Shire Council is committed to working with the National Trust Australia (NSW) to find a way of supporting them to re-establish operations of the SHPMSoA into the future.

The SHPMSoA, under management of Tenterfield Shire Council will cease operations on Sunday 30 July 2023 at 4.00pm. It is the sincere wish this is a temporary closure whilst discussions continue with the National Trust (NSW).

The last Cinema film screening will be on Saturday 22 July and movie vouchers are redeemable up to this date. The Museum will continue to operate as normal until 5.00 pm Sunday 30 July.

Council wishes to confirm that all venue equipment and collection items will be secured and retained on-site and remain under the governance, care and protection of Tenterfield Shire Council pending a resolved outcome and further instruction from the National Trust Australia (NSW).

During this time, and to ensure the care and security of the facility and all venue equipment and Museum collection items, the venue will not be available for hire or open to the public.

The Courtyard Café and Tenterfield Public Library will continue as normal and the SHPMSoA foyer remain open for wheelchair access to the Courtyard Café.

Council appreciates the outpouring of community support for the SHPMSoA and are committed to working with the National Trust Australia (NSW) for them to re-establish operations.

For further updates or further information contact the Chief Executive Office by email at council@tenterfield.nsw.gov.au