Woodford Academy
Heritage Interpretation Strategy
National Trust (NSW)
Blue Mountains, NSW
Dharug and Gundungurra Country
Woodford Academy has a textured and fascinating history, with an extraordinary story to tell.
GML Heritage was engaged by the National Trust (NSW) to develop the Interpretation Strategy for Woodford Academy, the oldest surviving complex of colonial buildings in the Blue Mountains.
In 2000 the National Trust undertook a major restoration of the property and the Friends of Woodford Academy was established. The National Trust together with a team of dedicated volunteers have developed an impressive array of exhibitions, events and open days, celebrating the Woodford Academy’s history, but also its importance to the contemporary community and a range of local artists, including Darug man Chris Tobin, who develops artworks and educational workshops on site.
The GML team has worked closely with the Woodford Academy Management Committee and the National Trust and Friends to devise an interpretation strategy. The strategy will enhance the existing initiatives at Woodford Academy, through a range of simple devices designed to captivate audiences. We can’t wait to see the next chapter in this extraordinary property’s story.
The project was supported by the Department of Premier and Cabinet’s Caring for State Heritage Grants 2019–2021.
