Regional workshops

This workshop explores why working with Aboriginal communities is so important in a local context, and how organisations can begin or strengthen this work in practical, achievable ways.

Participants will gain:

• a clearer understanding of local Aboriginal histories and living cultures
• foundational principles for respectful engagement and collaboration
• practical guidance for developing exhibitions, collections, and education and public programs
• realistic strategies tailored to small volunteer‑led or resource‑limited organisations.

Through case studies, discussion and hands‑on activities, the workshop supports participants to move beyond tokenistic inclusion towards genuine, relationship‑based practice. 

This workshop is designed to improve practice and contribute to stronger relationships with Aboriginal communities across the region. Participants are encouraged to attend the workshop with openness, curiosity and a commitment to ongoing learning.

This event is presented through a partnership between Museums of History NSW and Museums & Galleries of NSW and is an extension of the Aboriginal engagement session held at the Volunteer Symposium for NSW Regional and Community-Run Museums in July 2025.

Peter White is a proud Gamilaroi Murri with more than 35 years of experience across the creative and cultural heritage sector. As the lead for First Nations cultural engagement and strategy at Museums of History NSW, Peter is committed to achieving meaningful and mutually beneficial outcomes that protect, strengthen and celebrate cultural practices. His work champions the cultural rights of First Peoples and supports deeper, more respectful engagement across the mainstream sector.

Liam Keenan is a Gomeroi man from north-west NSW and is currently Senior Producer, First Nations Programs, at Museums of History NSW. He is interested in supporting the growth of Indigenous creative practices in regional NSW, as well as exploring the growing potential of new-media projects in museums.

Tim leads a creative team of design, digital and multimedia specialists supporting the delivery of MHNSW activities across our physical sites and online platforms. He has over 30 years of experience working in the cultural sector in Australia and New Zealand. He has led multiple creative projects across a variety of platforms including exhibitions, programs and digital interpretation. Tim’s journalistic training, fixation with technology and passion for audience engagement drive him to find new and exciting ways to tell stories in his current role as Head of Digital & Design for MHNSW.