Why Local History Matters

Local history connects the community to the people, places and events that have shaped Bayside. From historic buildings and local landmarks to industries and personal stories, the past continues to influence life today.

Preserving and sharing this heritage helps strengthen community pride, protect local character and foster a sense of belonging for future generations.

Those interested in local history and heritage are encouraged to join the Botany Historical Trust and help preserve Bayside's unique story for years to come.

About the Botany Historical Trust

The Botany Historical Trust (BHT) is dedicated to preserving, protecting and promoting the history and heritage of the former Botany Council area. The Trust supports staff to conserve and promote the area's unique history.

In partnership with the University of New South Wales, the Trust also hosts the annual Nancy Hillier Memorial Lecture, celebrating the life and legacy of renowned Botany environmental activist and community leader, Nancy Hillier.

The Trust welcomes people of all ages who have an interest in local history and heritage to become members.

Members receive a regular newsletter, along with invitations to lectures, guided tours, special events and other heritage activities.

What the Trust Does

The purpose of the Trust is to preserve the history and heritage of the former Botany area.

The Trust:

• Provides heritage advice, including classification and preservation of historic buildings
• Acquires, preserves and displays historic artefacts and records
• Encourages others to donate artefacts and records
• Raises funds to support the George Hanna Memorial Museum at Mascot Library
• Acts as a public fund to receive gifts of money or property to extend the museum's collection
• Cooperates with other groups or institutions who have similar aims and interests
• Promotes and educates residents, in particular children, about local history and heritage.

About the George Hanna Memorial Museum

The Botany Historical Trust was instrumental in the Council’s establishment of a public museum to promote local history. 

In 1996, the George Hanna Memorial Museum at Mascot Library was renamed in honour of a former Alderman of Botany Council, George Hanna, for his contribution encouraging and ensuring the preservation of the history and heritage of Botany Bay. Mr  Hanna was deeply  involved in the local history of the area. He was a founding member of the Botany Historical Trust and served as vice president of the BHT from 1994-1996.

The BHT supports the Museum by providing feedback to the local history librarians and promoting the exhibitions. It assists in the collection and preservation of the areas local history and associated artefact and records.

Opening hours of the George Hanna Memorial Museum

Latest Newsletter

Stay connected with Botany’s colourful past through the BHT Newsletter. This latest issue features an update on the Historical Markers Program, explores the fascinating history of wool scouring and fellmongering in Botany, and celebrates over 100 years of library services in the area. Printed copies of the newsletter are sent to BHT members, and are also available from the Eastgardens and Mascot libraries.

May 2026

• The Historical Markers Program

• Wool Scouring and Fellmongering in Botany
• Over 100 years of libraries in Botany

Become a BHT Member

Membership is free and open to individuals who are interested in preserving and protecting heritage. As a member you'll be invited to functions, the annual general meeting and end-of-year party, exhibitions and activities related to local history and heritage such as author talks, and tours.

To become a member of the Botany Historical Trust you must:

• be of good character
• have a keen interest in local history
• accept the purpose and rules of the trust, as defined in the Constitution
• preferably live or work in the former Botany Local Government Area.

Apply online to become a member.

Meetings and Governance

The Botany Historical Trust Executive meets six times a year, with additional meetings held as needed to focus on specific tasks or projects. These meetings are attended by the Executive members only.

All Trust members are invited to attend the Annual General Meeting (AGM), usually held on the first Monday in November. 

Information including meeting dates, agendas, minutes, the Trust Constitution and governance documents is available through Bayside Council's website. Members are invited to participate in meetings, exhibitions, functions and other heritage-related activities.

View agendas and minutes

Contact the BHT

To learn more about the Botany Historical Trust, please email local_history@bayside.nsw.gov.au.