Since this initial visit, the National Trust developed partnerships with local organisations and were able to secure funding under the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development’s Indian Ocean Territories Community Development Grants in 2015 to formulate a strategic framework and approach to Christmas Island’s heritage.
Working with the community in developing a holistic approach to managing the Island’s heritage, the National Trust prepared the following:
- Heritage Policy and Heritage Strategy;
- Interpretation Strategy;
- Temples and Shrines Conservation Plan; and
- Advice for heritage management and archaeology.
The vision for this approach to Christmas Island’s heritage is to:
‘Support and stimulate community connections to the Island’s exceptional history, cultures and environment.’
This project represents the National Trust of Western Australia’s approach to advocacy which involves working with and developing positive relationships with government agencies, community organisations and individuals.