The MGF (Museums and Galleries Foundation) conducted a one-day workshop on “New Technologies in Museums” at the Lithgow Workman’s Club on 25-10-02.

The MGF is the key agency in New South Wales for the museum and gallery sector. Through the programs that the MGF provides, it seeks to improve standards, foster self-development and strengthen support for museums and galleries in NSW

The workshop held at Lithgow attracted people from all over NSW who are involved with a community museum or gallery. It looked at new technologies such as:

* internet access
* audiovisual presentations
* hands-on interactive
* lighting exhibits
* graphic production techniques

The day also included guest speakers from the Powerhouse Museum, the premier museum of NSW. Brad Baker (Manager of Exhibition Development - Powerhouse Museum), gave a presentation on new technologies and how they be used in smaller museums. Also Zoltan Nemes-Nemeth (Manager Audio Visual Interactive - Powerhouse Museum) looked at practical issues with designing, producing and implementing such systems.

Additionally Ray Christison (Secretary – State Mine Heritage Park & Railway) gave a presentation on the development of the State Mine Heritage Park & Railway and the challenges it has offered.

After the workshop, there was a dinner held that evening at the State Mine Heritage Park & Railway, in the atmospheric bath-house.

The day was very well received by all attendees and all of the parties look forward to continuing a very positive partnership.