The Museums and Local History service area at the City of Melville forms part of the two hundred and fifty museums located throughout Western Australia. The Museums and Local History portfolio covers diverse museum sites and collections, an art gallery, local history and several heritage services.

Defining Terms

A Museum is a non-profit making, permanent institution in the service of society and of its development, and open to the public, which acquires, conserves, researches, communicates and exhibits, for purposes of study, education and enjoyment, material evidence of people and their environment. (International Council of Museum’s (ICOM) Definition, 2003)

 Vision
Be a centre of excellence in museums and visual arts, contributing locally and regionally to a living culture in Western Australia.

Mission
To increase the knowledge and appreciation of museums, history, art and culture for the enjoyment and cultural enrichment of the Melville residents and visitors, and to develop and present relevant and engaging public programs.

 Objectives

The aims of the Museums and Local History service area are:

• Collecting, documenting and conserving records and artefacts significant to the cultural heritage of Melville.

• Making available to the local and wider community these records and artefacts through exhibitions and public programs.

• Researching local history and heritage.

• Promoting awareness and knowledge of museums, local history and heritage in Melville.

• Involving the local and wider community in projects and events that explore our sense of place.

 Sites

The Museums in the City of Melville include:

·         Melville Discovery Centre (Municipal Museum)

·         Wireless Hill Telecommunications Museum

·         Heathcote Museum and Gallery

 
All of the museum sites have an important role in maintaining collections of objects that record the history and culture of Melville. Interpreting the collections of the museums is done through exhibition displays and public programs.

 The Heathcote and Wireless Hill heritage sites are places with a natural, indigenous and built heritage significance. The museums promote education, enjoyment and community participation in cultural activities for both local residents and visitors.