Ian Evans, well-known for his many books on the conservation of old houses, is currently researching deliberately concealed objects in old buildings. This recently-discovered folk magic ritual originated in Britain and came to the Australian colonies with convicts and settlers.

Concealed objects commonly include old shoes, childrens’ toys and trinkets, garments and even dead cats. Objects are secreted in sealed voids and are usually found in or near chimneys, under the floor or in the roof cavity. They are often found during building renovations or inspections by pest controllers.Anyone who knows of such finds in Western Australia is asked to contact Ian Evans via email at ianevans@oldhouses.com.au or by phone at 02 6684 7677.

Heritage Perth is proud to be supporting Museum and Gallery Week 2009 by taking part in the Museums Australia (WA) ‘Great Cultural Debate’: ‘Museums and Tourism: a marriage made in heaven?’The debate takes place in State Library Theatre, 25, James Street, Northbridge, on Thursday 21st May 2009, 5.30pm for a 6pm start

The Chairman for this debate will be our Heritage Perth Executive Director, Richard Offen, and the panellists are: Kate Lamont, Tourism WA & Committee for Perth Board Member, Veronica Jeffery, Director Portfolio, East Perth redevelopment Authority, Dr Diana Jones, A/CEO Western Australian Museum and Dr Stefano Carboni, Director, Art Gallery of Western Australia.

Following the panel presentations the forum will open to questions from the floor.

For further details, click here.

After four years distinguished service, work commitments have caused architect Steve Woodland to step down from the Board of Heritage Perth.

A founder member of the Board, formed from voluntary members representing a range of organisations and groups in Perth, Steve has brought a wealth of experience to helping establish Heritage Perth (originally known as the City of Perth Heritage Appeal) as major ground-breaking heritage agency.

“We are immensely grateful to Steve for his great contribution to the work of Heritage Perth over the past four years.” Said Heritage Perth’s Chairman, Dario Amara. “Steve’s experience as an internationally acclaimed architect has been invaluable in the development of Heritage Perth. His departure means that Board meetings will never quite be the same again; for not only will we miss Steve’s wise counsel, but also his wicked sense of humour!” Dario remarked.

Thank you Steve for the significant contribution you have made to the development of Heritage Perth.