Winner
Yolanda Cool, CEO, Heritage Skills Association WA
Traditional skills like stonemasonry, carpentry and metalwork are essential for preserving historic buildings and landmarks in Western Australia. Recognising the need to safeguard these skills, Yolanda Cool founded the Heritage Skills Association WA, a volunteer-run organisation that delivers workshops, training sessions and educational programs. Through her leadership, the association has secured partnerships with the Heritage Council of Western Australia, local governments, heritage organisations, and educational institutions.
Yolanda's initiatives have had a tangible impact, exemplified by the restoration of the Collie Goods Shed using traditional techniques to repair finishes and woodwork. This project not only preserved the building’s heritage but also raised awareness about these valuable skills.
Her dedication ensures that traditional craftsmanship remains relevant and celebrated by future generations.
Commendation
Patricia Morris AM JP, Volunteer, City of Gosnells
Patricia Morris has passionately championed the heritage of the Gosnells district for more than 15 years as a member of the City of Gosnells’ History and Heritage Advisory Group. She has chaired the group since 2015.
She was instrumental in establishing the Thornlie Living History Group, which has collected thousands of historical documents, newspaper articles, photographs and oral histories since 2008. This material formed the Thornlie Living History Collection, launched in 2012 and housed at the Thornlie Library.
Patricia also facilitated the restoration of the locally listed Tom Bateman House, ensuring its adaptive reuse as Baseball WA’s offices, combining heritage preservation with community utility.
Anne Chapple, Secretary, Friends of ANZAC Cottage
Anne Chapple has significantly contributed to preserving Western Australia’s history through her research, writing and community engagement. Her work with ANZAC Cottage over the past 18 years includes documenting stories of local soldiers from World War I, which she shares through social media, tours and education programs.
Anne's love for research and her success in documenting her findings have been widely celebrated. The Royal Historical Association of Western Australia has recognised her work, and she was awarded the A.E. Williams Award for compiling and sharing the story of ANZAC Cottage.
In 2022, she was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for her services to community history.
Morrie Russell, Volunteer, Narrogin
Morrie Russell’s intricate N scale diorama of Narrogin’s 1960s railways is an outstanding educational tool and heritage resource. Spanning seven metres by 2.5 metres, it highlights the community's historical connection to the railway.
Through guided tours at the Visitor Centre, Morrie fosters appreciation of Narrogin’s history while inspiring future generations. His creativity and commitment celebrate the town’s cultural heritage.
