Charlotte Varcoe
A LIFELONG commitment to maintaining the rich history of forestry has come to an end for Nangwarry Forestry Museum secretary Vic Smith as he retires from the position.
Across over two decades of service to the museum, Mr Smith has helped raise over $100,000 for the facility for renovations and upgrades.
With age and health playing a factor in his retirement, Mr Smith was presented with a thank you plaque by LV Dohnt and Company managing director Phillip Dohnt – a long-time sponsor of the facility.
Starting at the museum while working within the forestry industry, Mr Smith said he wanted help prevent historical items from leaving the town.
“I could see what was going to happen over here and I could see the things in the museum were going to be sent away and didn’t want that to happen,” Mr Smith said.
“I got involved and tried to salvage a lot of the stuff and once you get involved with things like this it is hard to let it go.
“I have loved every minute of being at the museum and I get a bit emotional when I think of taking a step back but I won’t be completely gone as I will still be a part of the museum.”
He said the museum was able to continue its long-running success due to the ongoing support from generous sponsors.
“I would always go straight to the boss of the company and speak to them and I have been doing it for so long now that as soon as I walk into the store they know what time of the year it is,” Mr Smith said.
Mr Smith said his favourite aspect of the museum was when people came through the door and looked through the collection and congratulated the volunteers on their work.
“I am lucky to work with some fantastic volunteers and we have been lucky enough to gain support from businesses across the region and the community,” he said.
Mr Smith’s efforts have not gone unnoticed over time with museum committee chairperson Robert Thomson stating he would be missed.
“We started on the committee at the same time and Vic’s efforts throughout the years have been great, we have enjoyed working together and were always happy to see each other,” Mr Thomson said.
Mr Dohnt said the company was happy to be a continuous and long-term sponsor of the facility.
“The museum is a great piece of history for Nangwarry and the forestry industry and allows for something to show for the future children of the region,” Mr Dohnt said.
“Vic’s effort that he has put into the museum is amazing and he was always there and available.”
