CHRIS Bourke today welcomed the appointment of Steven Fox as the new Director of Historic Places. The position is a senior role in the Cultural Facilities Corporation with oversight of the three historic places managed by the Corporation – Lanyon Homestead, Calthorpes’ House and Mugga Mugga.

“I’m delighted we’ve been able to attract someone of the calibre of Mr Fox to this important position,” Chris said.

“He brings to the role extensive experience working in museums and heritage places in Australia and New Zealand, with a focus on enriching the lives of people and their communities through connecting with their cultural heritage.”

“As a senior executive, he has led award-winning projects in the cultural heritage sector including national touring exhibitions and events, major gallery and historic site redevelopments, and new museum developments.

“Mr Fox has held senior roles at Old Parliament House, the National Museum, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and Te Manawa Museums Trust in New Zealand. Most recently, he held the position of General Manager, Collections and Research at the Museum of Transport and Technology in Auckland. He returned to Canberra and started work in his new role this week.

“In coming into the role, Mr Fox said he was keen to build on the excellent reputation of the historic sites for conserving and presenting important aspects of Canberra’s history. “I hope to further develop Lanyon’s role as an important cultural site and heritage tourism destination in the south of Canberra. I’ll also be working with my team to ensure greater awareness of and access to all three sites, including through a new set of digital guides to enhance the visitor experience.

“Longer term, I’d like to see if we can add a further site to the ones we manage – especially one that reflects Canberra’s more recent history. My overall focus will be on looking at how these sites can better connect people with Canberra’s rich and diverse stories and heritage.”

Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation Harriet Elvin also welcomed the appointment.

“Steven was the outstanding candidate for the position from a very competitive recruitment process,” Harriet said.

“It’s a pleasure to have him take up the role and join our senior management team.”

Ms Elvin said that management of the historic places was previously combined with managing the Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG). The separate director roles were created to allow a more intensive focus on each area. Shane Breynard, who previously managed both areas, will now move to the Director, CMAG role as well as providing strategic support to the CEO position.

“The separate director roles will allow us to provide even richer and more accessible cultural experiences for the community at each of these important cultural sites,” she said.