Newcastle’s Macquarie Pier highly commended in prestigious awards

Port Authority of New South Wales today was honoured to receive a Highly Commended accolade in 2023 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards in the category of Education and Interpretation for its innovative audio tour encapsulating the history of Newcastle’s iconic Macquarie Pier.

Port Authority of NSW’s CEO Philip Holliday said he was thrilled that Port Authority’s work bringing the many stories surrounding Nobbys-Whibaygamba Headland and lighthouse to life was recognised by the National Trust.

“Receiving a Highly Commended award is a testament to the power of storytelling,” said Captain Holliday.

“Following our $1.85 million revitalisation of Macquarie Pier, one of our key objectives was to work out how to protect and share the many important historical facts and cultural stories associated with this important area.

“To meet this communication challenge, we worked with a team of experts, from local researchers, knowledge holders, videographers, signage makers and media and communications teams. “We couldn’t be prouder of the result.”

Port Authority developed a series of ten educational interpretative signs along Macquarie Pier walkway. A self-guided audio tour, complemented with a visual guide, is accessible through QR codes.

The immersive tour covers the history of the area, dating from the prehistoric volcanic activity that created Nobbys-Whibaygamba Headland. It shares the area’s significance to the Awabakal and Worimi as Traditional Owners of the land and sea, as well as Macquarie Pier’s role in Newcastle’s maritime history, and the shelling of Newcastle during World War II.

The interpretation and heritage signage project complemented Port Authority’s $1.85 million multistage restoration, improvement, and revitalisation project at Macquarie Pier, which included reconstructing a new wider pathway with continuous sandstone seating, maritime style handrail, upgraded lighting and a new activation area for community events.

“As the owners and operators of Macquarie Pier and Nobby’s Headland Lighthouse Precinct, we are so pleased to be able to pass on such an important part of Newcastle’s history to visitors and the community today and into the future,” Captain Holliday said.

“Congratulations to all finalists and winners at this afternoon’s awards ceremony – we are honoured to be in your company.”

Port Authority was recognised as one of five finalists in the category Education and Interpretation. The winner of this category was Remembered and Revisited – Victoria Theatre Newcastle.

The National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards recognise excellence in conservation, protection, and interpretation of Aboriginal, built, natural and cultural heritage over the past year.

*Source: Anthea Desmond , Senior Media & Communications Advisor, Port Authority of New South Wales E: adesmond@portauthoritynsw.com.au
www.portauthoritynsw.com.au