History Buff Focus Group

Step Back in Time

Knowing, Protecting, Supporting and Promoting our Local History

Local history is more than just a reflection of the past, it’s a treasure chest of memories, knowledge and insights that have shaped our vibrant towns and communities. The stories of our roots and of those that came before us, should be honoured, celebrated, and accessible to everyone who lives, works, and visits the Shire of Ashburton.

What are we doing?

We’re developing the Shire’s first Local History Strategy, which will set out how we preserve, collect, document and promote the yesteryears of Tom Price, Paraburdoo, Pannawonica and Onslow, plus past towns of Old Onslow and Wittenoom.

This is an exciting journey, and we’re keen to know your ideas, and what’s important to you. We’ll be researching equipment that scans photos into digital format, and how to convert cassette tapes and video recordings into a digital format, as well as how to document and store these for future generations to enjoy.

Why is this important to you?

• Ignite your passion for local history
• Learn more about the evolution of our towns
• Tell us what you think we should be collecting from the past
• Give us ideas on how we can convert your photos, videos and audio recordings
• Share your thoughts on how we can protect and store old maps, books, artifacts etc
• Celebrate our local history collection and ensure it’s accessible to all

How can you get involved?

1. We're keen to talk with anyone interested in local history, so we've created a History Buff Focus Group. This is an online session for anyone in our towns to join in. We'll ask you questions about collecting, storing and sharing photos, videos, books and other types of historical materials, which will help us understand what's needed to develop the Strategy. 
2. You can also attend any of our Community Pop Ups at towns across the Shire, and make some suggestions or talk through any ideas. These start on Wednesday 20 March until Saturday 23 March and you'll find the details on our website - https://www.ashburton.wa.gov.a...
3. The Community Survey will be another important way to give feedback, so please take a few minutes to answer the questions. The link to the online survey will soon be on the website, and you can also get a printed survey at any Library or Community Pop Up.

Knowing the local history gives us a better appreciation of how our towns and communities evolved, as well as a better understanding of the resilience and diversity of those that came before us. It reminds us that we belong to something special, and can make us proud of our heritage.

Who do we contact if we have any questions or need help?

If you have any questions email local.history@ashburton.wa.gov.au or contact the facilitator hello@wickedstrategies.com.au