2024 Goulbourn Museum Volunteer Award Winners

At the Contributors Event and Annual General Meeting held on May 15, 2025, Goulbourn Museum proudly recognized the outstanding efforts of its volunteers with the 2024 Goulbourn Museum Awards. These awards celebrate individuals whose dedication, leadership, and passion have significantly enriched the Museum’s work and deepened its connection with the community. From preserving local history and enhancing public access to collections, to fostering inclusive engagement and contributing vital behind-the-scenes support, this year’s recipients exemplify the spirit of volunteerism. We are honoured to share and celebrate the accomplishments of these remarkable individuals who help bring Goulbourn’s heritage to life.

2024 Goulbourn Museum Award Winners

Heritage Champion Award – For exceptional commitment to preserving Goulbourn’s local history through research, collections, or interpretation.

Linda Preston – is posthumously awarded the Heritage Champion Award in recognition of her exceptional dedication to preserving Goulbourn’s local history through her leadership at the Goulbourn Museum and her work documenting community stories in Voices of Goulbourn’s Past. Her passion, service, and legacy continue to inspire and enrich the community.

Amber McCoy accepts the Heritage Champion Award on behalf of her aunt Linda Preston, presented by Goulbourn Museum Executive Director Tracey Donaldson.

Community Engagement Award – For volunteers who foster strong connections between the museum and the wider community through outreach or events.

Tara Bourgoin – Tara Bourgoin is recognized for her outstanding contributions to the Collections Working Group, where her thoughtful participation and enthusiasm have helped shape a more inclusive and community-driven collection. Her insights, curiosity, and care strengthen the Museum’s connection to the public and ensure our stories reflect diverse local perspectives.

Tara Bourgoin receives the Community Engagement Award from Goulbourn Museum Registrar Sarah Holla.

Youth Leadership Award – For outstanding contributions by a volunteer under 25 demonstrating initiative, creativity, or leadership.

Adison Terai – Adison Terai is recognized for their outstanding dedication and leadership as a young volunteer. With over 140 hours contributed and 28,000 words transcribed, their work has significantly improved access to Goulbourn’s historical records. Adison’s initiative, consistency, and care have made a lasting impact on the Museum’s digitization efforts and community heritage preservation.

Adison Terai receives the Youth Leadership Award from Goulbourn Museum Registrar Sarah Holla.

Behind-the-Scenes Star – For volunteers who provide essential but often unseen support in administration, digitization, or maintenance.

Nancy Dale – Nancy Dale is recognized for her exceptional behind-the-scenes work transcribing over 109,000 words of historical documents. Her dedication, accuracy, and over 345 volunteer hours have greatly enhanced the accessibility and preservation of Goulbourn’s heritage, supporting the Museum’s digital initiatives and connecting our community to its rich past.