NEWS RELEASE

from Hutt City Council

1 September 2003

INTEGRATED FUTURE FOR HUTT CITY'S MUSEUMS

PRESS RELEASE

Hutt City Council has appointed Tim Walker to the new position of Director, Museums, following the recent resignation of Petone Settlers Museum Director, David Mealing.

Stephen McArthur, Hutt City's General Manager of Customer Services said that the new position is in part a recognition of Tim Walker's success in transforming The Dowse into a nationally recognised institution making a valuable contribution to the city's economic development.

"The Petone Settlers Museum is a great little institution that in a sense is one of the 'hidden treasures' of Hutt City," said Stephen McArthur.

"One of Tim's first tasks will be to involve staff in a review of the strategic direction of the museum. A key part of this will be to consider the best options for the development of the museum in terms of the City's heritage and it's social, cultural and economic development."

Mr Walker will continue to manage the Dowse but will have overall responsibility for the management of the Petone Settlers Museum.

Mr McArthur emphasises that the identities of the two museums will remain distinct. However he and Mr Walker see opportunities for a greater degree of co-operation and collaboration between the city's two museums.

Mr Walker's first priority will be to consult with staff, the Friends of the Petone Settlers Museum and other key stakeholders.

"As a matter or urgency, we will then proceed to recruit new staff for the Petone Settlers Museum, including a senior staff member who will manage the day-to-day operations of the Museum", said Tim Walker.

Mr Walker paid tribute to the way in which former Director, David Mealing, had built up the museum over the 20 years in the job.

"Despite the obvious limitations in terms of size it's now a wonderful and well respected museum. It can now play an increasingly significant role in our City and I look forward to leading the team into the future."

ENDS

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