Cataloguer / Archivist - Heritage Collection
# Position: Cataloguer / Archivist - Heritage Collection
About the Don River Railway
The Don River Railway (DRR), operated by The Van Diemen Light Railway Society Inc., is a beloved heritage railway and a premier tourist attraction in Tasmania, dedicated to recreating living railway history. Our museum and archives house a unique and growing collection of railway artefacts, documents, photographs, and historical records. Effective cataloguing and archiving are fundamental to preserving this heritage and making it accessible for research, interpretation, and future exhibits.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a detail-oriented and dedicated Cataloguer / Archivist to volunteer their expertise in managing and organising our heritage collection. This is a crucial role for individuals passionate about historical preservation and information management. You will be responsible for systematically documenting our diverse collection, ensuring its long-term integrity and discoverability. If you have experience in cataloguing, archiving, library science, or historical research, this is a highly rewarding opportunity to make a significant impact on a living museum.
Key Responsibilities & Duties
Catalogue and document new and existing items within the DRR heritage collection (e.g., artefacts, documents, photographs, plans).
Assign unique identifiers, describe items, and record relevant metadata in our collection management system.
Organise and rehouse archival materials to ensure their long-term preservation.
Assist with digitisation projects for historical records.
Support research inquiries by locating and retrieving documented items.
Adhere strictly to best practice museum and archival standards for collections care.
Collaborate with the Museum Curator and other volunteers to enhance collection accessibility.
Contribute to a positive and collaborative museum environment.
Anticipated Impact & Why Volunteer with Us
Directly preserve Tasmanian railway history
: Your meticulous work ensures our unique collection is professionally organised, protected, and accessible for generations.
Enhance research and interpretation
: By accurately documenting our holdings, you enable deeper historical understanding and richer exhibit development.
Build a lasting legacy
: Play a central role in establishing robust archival practices for a significant heritage organisation.
Apply specialized expertise
: Utilise your unique skills in a hands-on, impactful role within a living heritage attraction.
Be part of a passionate community
: Join a team of dedicated volunteers and enthusiasts who share a love for railways and a commitment to DRR's mission.
Category
Museums & Heritage
Commitment
Regular – less than 6 months
Type of Work
Research, Policy & Analysis, Writing & Editing
Time Required
Flexible hours, min. 4-8 hrs/month. Primarily weekdays. Max 15 hrs/week.
Training
Mandatory induction. On-the-job training for DRR collection systems and safety.
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