The Western Australian Museum – Albany will celebrate one of their hardest working volunteers on International Volunteers Day on Wednesday, December 5.
Western Australian Museum – Albany regional manager Rachael Wilsher-Saa said volunteer Richard Harloe’s contribution to both the Museum and community has been priceless.
“Three years ago, the Western Australian Museum – Albany decided to make the 9800 historic images in its photographic archive more accessible to the general public by digitising them,” Ms Wilsher-Saa said.
“The project required the images to be scanned, collated, and edited with descriptions added, requiring a committed person to see it through
“Richard has dedicated many long and sometimes frustrating hours chipping away at the pile of images so future generations will be able to access and enjoy the images of the past.”
In digitising the collection, Richard has played detective, using a magnifier to search for minute details to determine when or where the images were taken.
“Richard has helped piece together the stories captured in the collection and created a tool by which the historical images of Albany and the surrounding district can be made available for all,” Ms Wilsher-Saa said.
“Without him, this task wouldn’t have continued as smoothly as it has; his contribution to both the Museum and community truly is priceless.”
When asked what he took away from volunteering, Richard said “I really enjoy keeping my mind active, I have always liked photography and this assignment is so interesting.”
The images are available for members of the public to view via appointment at the Museum. To make an appointment visit the WA Museum - Albany on Residency Road, Albany, or call 9841 4844.
Media contact
Niki Comparti
Western Australian Museum
6552 7805
Niki.comparti@museum.wa.gov.au
