The museum has recently expanded to a new building and went through a well thought-out project plan. The Geraldine Vintage Car and Machinery Club, which runs the museum, formed a building committee which managed the development of the new building.
Staff:
80 volunteers.
Annual operating budget:
About $21,200, sourced mainly through admission fees, members’ subscription fees, donations.
Capital needed for new building:
$250,000, sourced mainly through the local licensing trust, Lottery Environment and Heritage Committee, Mid-South Canterbury Trust, Southern Trust, and income from door sales.
Key learnings in managing a capital project
A sound business plan and feasibility study are essential as these planning documents will determine the long-term sustainability of the building. They will also have a major impact on the outcomes of your funding applications.
Support of volunteers who have experience in local body regulations, e.g., resource consents and building permits, is invaluable.
Be flexible during the planning stage.
Advice for those planning a new museum
‘The museum has to have the right mix of people with a diverse set of skills and expertise, that is, management skills as well as subject expertise on local history, etc,’ says Jennifer Wilson, Treasurer of the Geraldine Vintage Car and Machinery Club.