Guest Speaker - Andrew Horne

Andrew Horne is Community Engagement Manager for the National Trust Victoria. Andrew joined the National Trust in August 2011 following 6 years working in the tourism sector at Concorde Leisure, Sundowners Overland and Vodkatrain. He has experience in database management, product development, product management and events. While completing his Bachelor of Business Management he studied in France and is currently completing his Masters of Business (Marketing) in Melbourne. His responsibility at the National Trust includes the management of the membership department and the successful delivery of community engagement activities.

The Australian Council of National Trusts (ACNT) is the peak body and national voice in Canberra of the eight State and Territory National Trust bodies. The National Trusts in Australia are community-based, non-government not-for-profit organisations, committed to promoting and conserving Australia's heritage through their advocacy work and their custodianship of heritage places and objects.

Since 1956 the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) has been actively working towards conserving and protecting our heritage for future generations to enjoy. It is the premier heritage and conservation organisation in the state, and the major operator of house museums and historic properties open to the public.

The National Trust manages many well-known sites including Polly Woodside, Como, Old Melbourne Gaol, Rippon Lea, Gulf Station, La Trobe's Cottage and Labassa. As you would expect, these properties and expensive to maintain and the Trust relies solely on donations and membership fees. It has approximately 500 volunteers in Victoria.

Over 40,000 school children visit their properties every year and it runs School Holiday programmes and over 100 events every year.

Andrew's message is that the National Trust has changed and he urged us all to visit the properties and become members.