As National Trust property manager at Armidale’s popular Saumarez Homestead, Les Davis has seen many changes to the property, and is about to see more. He’s been there since 2010, and thinks his latest project may write a new chapter in the homestead’s history.
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Plans for an upgraded, barn style function centre and overnight accommodation, among other things, were no doubt part of the reason why he was awarded an OAM for his heritage work this Australia Day.
“I’ve got it to the stage that by the time I get the $2.7 million spent and operational, it will really turn Samaurez into a far more sustainable operation, one that’s able to generate its own funds and keep itself operating,” Les said.
Les felt very pleased and humbled about receiving his OAM, and said he was really proud to have been able to do what he had for Saumarez and local heritage in general.
“It’s not something you think about when you do what you do. When I got the letter I was quite surprised,” he said.
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“It’s quite an honour to be recognised. At Saumarez we’ve got quite a crew of volunteers. A lot of people do a lot of things and I just try to keep them all happy and interested by varying what they get to do.
“At the same time I make sure the property’s looked after and the guests get a lovely experience of heritage.”
Les’ achievements include:
- Property Manager, Saumarez Homestead, National Trust of Australia, since 2010.
- Principal, Rusden Street Special School, 1981-1982.
- Principal, Senior Education Officer, Teacher (Broken Hill, Campsie, Gymea Bay, Division of Services, South Coast Region) 1969-1980.
- President (1976-77) Director, Member Lions Club of Lugarno 1974-1980.
- President (1985-86) Director, Member Armidale Dumaresq Lions Club 1981-2018.
- Chairman, Secretary, Committee Member, Armidale Branch, Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Societies, 2008-2018.
- Member Arts Culture and Heritage Committee Armidale Dumaresq Council and Armidale Regional Council 2012-2018.
Awards and recognition:
- TripAdvisor Hall of Fame, 2018, as a result of Achieving TripAdvisor Award of Excellence for five consecutive years, 2014 -2018.
- Excellence in Social Enterprise, Regional Winner, Business Awards, 2017.
- Conservation Collection Award, National Trust Heritage Awards, 2016.
- Winner Engagement Program, IMAGinE Award, Museums and Galleries NSW, 2016.
- Outstanding Digital Innovation Award, Armidale Business Chamber, 2015.
- Armidale Business Chamber Award for Tourism, 2012.
- Outstanding Achievement Award, National Trust of Australia (NSW), 2012.
