Make a Donation - Our History through Stories
Thank you for your interest in donating to the Bass Strait Maritime Museum. Your help will continue our mission to capture and share the maritime and social history stories of our region.
How to Make an Offer
The museum collects objects and original archival documents that are linked to key people, events, the environment, and places relating to the Devonport region and the Bass Strait. We have eight key collection themes:
- First Nations history and culture *
- Local history since European arrival
- The Bass Strait
- Maritime history
- Communications
- Maritime and Royal Australian Navies
- Natural world
- Shipwrecks *
We’ll also ask for information about the object’s provenance on the Donation Offer form please ensure you including who made or used the objects and its ownership history over time.
The objects will be assessed for significance and presented at the bi-monthly Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee for consideration.
If you are unsure about the eligibility of your item, please contact the museum’s Curator.
* Legislative requirements may restrict the museum from collecting certain items in these themes. Please contact the Museum to arrange an appointment with the Curator before submitting a donation offer.
Donation Offer
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just post or leave objects?
No. Please do not send or bring objects to the Museum. Our collection process is rigorous in assessing materials prior to acceptance into the collection. There are also quarantine protocols that restrict material coming into the Museum and our storage facility.
Can I drop in and see the Curator?
No. Please contact the museum to arrange a meeting with the Curator.
What types of objects do you collect?
Objects and original archival documents that are linked to key people, events, the environment, and places in the Devonport region and the Bass Strait based on our eight collection themes above. We consider whether objects and original documents that:
- Relate to the collection themes
- Help interpret and deepen understanding of the history and culture of the Devonport region and the Bass Strait
- Are an exception example of its type
- Are not well represented in our or other museum collections
- Are in a suitable condition for long term storage
- Are well provenanced, with good information on the history and ownership over the years
How do I donate an object or collection?
Read how to make an offer and complete the Donation Offer Form above.
Do you accept loans?
No. The Museum does not accept objects or archival material as long-term or permanent loans. Short-term loans are considered only for temporary exhibitions.
Will you buy my object or collection?
No. The Museum is unable to purchase objects.
Can you value my collection?
No. The Museum does not provide a valuation service.
Can my object or collection be on permanent display?
No. Although objects may not be on show, they are still valued. The Museum displays objects to tell clear stories, use the space wisely and keep exhibitions fresh and meaningful. While they are not on show, they are offered protection from light and environmental damage and reduces the risk of loss through theft or disaster.
How long does it take to process my offer?
The process can take up to three months depending on when the items ae offered. After you submit an Offer to Donate submission, the Curator will assess the object/s or document for significance against the Collection Policy, themes and provenance (chain of ownership and history). The offer will be presented at a Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee meeting, held bi-monthly, for consideration. The Curator will contact you after the meeting to advise the decision to accept or decline your offer.
The Bass Strait Maritime Museum can’t accept my donation...what now?
We may be able to recommend an alternative institution for your item. Please contact the museum to arrange an appointment with the Curator to discuss.