Who We Are
The foundation for our future.
The best structures are built on strong foundations. The Foundation for the WA Museum believes that museums should spark a love of learning in the next generation. They should nurture a fascination with the past, an understanding of the present, and a passion for the future – and inspire us all in unexpected ways. Importantly, they should influence and motivate young people to investigate the areas of science, technology, the arts and mathematics in the world around them.
The Foundation for the WA Museum has been committed to securing the future of our state heritage since 1995. Our role is to cultivate and develop relationships with individuals, organisations, and community groups who understand the critical role that museums play in society to create a thriving WA Museum. We assist in delivering engaging community and educational programs, support ground-breaking scientific research and discovery, source funding for touring exhibitions, and acquire new items for our state collection, beyond the State Government’s funding.
Our Vision
To provide meaningful and sustainable financial support to the WA Museum by building private and corporate support through advocacy and partnership with the private, public and third sectors.
Our Purpose
To enhance the cultural heritage of, stakeholder support of, and the long-term financial sustainability of the WA Museum.
Our Objectives
- To promote and raise awareness of the Foundation within the corporate and broader community.
- To grow the Discovery Endowment Fund to $35M by the time the New Museum opens its doors to the public in 2020.
- To maintain a strong governance model, responsibly managing and distributing funds in accordance with the Foundation’s goals, values and objectives in support of the WA Museum.
- To provide advocacy, education services and financial support for the WA Museum.
Our Values
INTEGRITY To act with integrity in an equitable, honest and accountable manner.
PASSION To enthuse, foster and build a passionate culture in the broader community in support of the WA Museum.
TEAMWORK To build a workforce of innovative, loyal and respectful employees by drawing on their creative talents.
COLLABORATION To engage collaboratively with and educate partners, donors and sponsors of the Foundation to achieve our strategic goals.
EXCELLENCE To strive for excellence in pursuit of the Foundation’s vision, purpose and objectives.
Our Team
Our Board
Mr Nev Power (Chair)
Dr Marina Hogan (Deputy Chair)
Mr Nick Brasington
Ms Mae Cardaci
Mr Fred Chaney
Mr Torsten Ketelsen
Mr Tim Lester
Mr James McClements
Ms Michelle Tremain
Ms Rubini Ventouras
Mr Alec Coles OBE (ex-officio)
Operations Team
Jenny Allen, Chief Executive Officer
Denise Cheir, Executive Manager Business & Communications
Kylie Weston, Donor Relations Manager
Kylie Aitkenhead, Fundraising & Sponsorship Officer
Juanita Allison, Administration & Events Officer
Soo Fern Lim, Executive Officer, Office of the CEO
Melissa Callanan, Project Director FameLab
Lizzy Mettam, Project Executive FameLab
Investment Committee
Mr Brendon Shepherd (Chair)
Ms Kate Budiselik
Mr Fred Chaney
Mr James McClements
Special Mention
Special mention to the lovely Kerry Oliver who volunteers her time in the office of the Foundation most Mondays
