State Heritage Convention

Enzo Sirna
President, Italo-Australian Welfare and Cultural Centre
"A multicultural perspective"

The multicultural perspective is very important when looking holistically at heritage. Very often there is not enough due consideration given to the contributions made by the many multicultural communities which form an integral part of Australia's cultural heritage.

History shows that migrants have played an important part in the growth and development of this State. Events which helped shape the future of this State, particularly during the gold rush period, have certainly reflected a significant migrant contribution. The post-World War II history of migration also indicates the significant influences and contributions made by the many different communities. In seeking a better future for their children and future generations, they toiled hard to achieve their goal.

These stories must be told. Heritage should not just focus on places. Heritage should help us to understand our past, so we must reflect the diversity of natural and cultural places, lifestyles, traditions, objects, people and above all the cultural patrimony which has been passed on from generation to generation.

The National Trust of Australia (WA) recognises the importance of the history of migration and that of our cultural heritage. It is keen to take a lead role in providing direction, guidance and support for all communities in not only understanding the significance of their contributions, but in conserving and interpreting this cultural heritage. Too much is often taken for granted and there is the danger that our future generations may miss out on the important stories which need to be told.
An example of the involvement by The National Trust of Australia (WA) in recognising the importance of the migrant contribution to cultural heritage has been through its acceptance to conserve and interpret the Luisini Winery with the support of the Italian Community. The Australian Heritage Commission has also recently funded a project to learn more about Australia's migrant heritage.

We have a rich cultural heritage and we must reflect this accordingly. The migrant contribution is significant and it must not be excluded from the holistic approach to heritage.