Western Australian Museum Annual Report 2003-2004

6
A Message from the Minister
I am pleased to table in Parliament the 2003–2004 Annual Report of the Western Australian
Museum.
The past year has been a challenge for the Museum. The relocation of staff and over three
million collection items to interim facilities at Kew Street, to be completed by December 2004,
is one of the most significant events in the Museum’s 113-year history. When combined with
the planning for a new Museum of the 21st Century, it marks a turning point for the Museum.
The working and storage environment to be provided at Kew Street will allow the Museum and
its staff to continue to safeguard Western Australia’s social, cultural and natural heritage—a
heritage that is invaluable and irreplaceable. It also means that Industry and Government can
continue to rely on the knowledge and expertise of the Museum’s staff.
I recognise the Museum’s important role in scientific research. Studies, such as that carried out
on the Dampier Archipelago, continue to provide vital data informing environmental management
and conservation of Western Australia’s unique biodiversity and helping to protect it for future
generations.
The Maritime Museum continues to attract Western Australian, interstate and international visitors.
The Maritime Museum is an example of how a cultural facility can be integral to business
development, tourism and social interaction. The regional Museums in Albany, Geraldton and
Kalgoorlie-Boulder are also significant contributors to their communities and to the wider regions
in which they operate. Finally, I would like to acknowledge the efforts of the Trustees, the many
advisory committees, staff, associates and volunteers in continuing the invaluable work of the
Museum.
Sheila McHale MLA
MINISTER FOR CULTURE AND THE ARTS
WESTERN AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM ANNUAL REPORT 2003–2004