Investment to preserve history at naval museum

AN INVESTMENT worth almost $500,000 at the Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum would help preserve and showcase the facility with much needed upgrades.

The project would go ahead under a Coalition government, Nationals candidate for Richmond Kimberly Hone announced this week.

The $472,000 funding boost would help deliver a modern, accessible museum with a new entry and exit, disability-compliant amenities, expanded display space, and a protective enclosure for the historic PV Richmond.

It is one of only two remaining wooden-hull ex-naval vessels in Australia with the total project worth $822,000.

“This museum is a cherished community icon, run by passionate volunteers who educate visitors and locals on our region’s naval and maritime heritage,” Ms Hone said.

“I’m proud to support a project that will create a more accessible and engaging experience for visitors of all ages while protecting one of our most historic vessels, the iconic PV Richmond.”

The museum has 5000 artefacts, including one of Australia’s oldest surviving timber craft, an 1880 riverboat Florrie.

It is a vital part of history in the region with more than 90 recorded shipwrecks along the Richmond River between 1840-2024.

Pieces of another shipwreck recently washed up at Shelly Beach during Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which highlighted further interest in the facility.

Ballina Naval & Maritime Museum has several volunteers who have been working for years to raise funds for the upgrades.

“People are amazed at the number of quality exhibits we have and this fascinating step back in time to the early days of the Northern Rivers,” volunteer Margery Fitzgerald said.

“We are so proud of what we have to offer local, national and international visitors, from school groups to bus tours, and people looking for an affordable tourist attraction.”

Ms Hone said construction could be completed within 12 months with minimal disruption to museum operations.

“This dedicated team of volunteers have tirelessly fundraised for years to protect the PV Richmond and enhance the exhibits. This upgrade will preserve our heritage and offer a journey through the Northern Rivers’ maritime past,” she said.

“This investment backs Ballina’s volunteers, our history, and our future.”

The project will also include upgrades at the reception and gift shop, air conditioning with polished concrete flooring and an external pathway.