Three long-serving volunteers at Harper's Mansion have been honoured by the National Trust (NSW).
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Nestled on a hill overlooking historic Berrima, Harper's Mansion is set in two acres of gardens made for strolling, full of cool climate heritage plants and featuring one of the largest hedge mazes in Australia.
The 19th century mansion is a fascinating place to visit which is only made possible by the continuous efforts of many volunteers over the years.
Claire Daggett and Merryleigh Brindley each received a Meritorious Service Award, one of the National Trust's highest awards or honours, which is presented for 'consistent outstanding voluntary service for a period in excess of 15 years in one or more areas of activity of the National Trust'.
Suzanne Douglass received a Trust Commendation, which is presented for 'consistent outstanding voluntary service for a period in excess of five years in one or more areas of activity of the National Trust'.
Claire Daggett was presented with her award for more than 15 years of voluntary service at Harper's Mansion.
Since the 1990s, Daggett has consistently supported the work of the National Trust and shares her passion with visitors as a guide and garden volunteer.
Brindley first starting advocating for the protection of heritage in the Southern Highlands in 1998. She has been a guide and garden volunteer at Harper's Mansion since 2006 when the property reopened to the public.
Both Daggett and Brindley have played an important role organising the popular biannual Garden Fair at Harper's Mansion.
The National Trust Honours Awards recognises individuals who have given outstanding service to the National Trust.
National Trust (NSW) President, Neil Wykes OAM, announced the recipients at the recent annual general meeting in Sydney.
"It is incredibly important that we recognise and celebrate the extraordinary contribution of our volunteers through the National Trust Honours Awards," he said.
"Our volunteers' knowledge and enthusiasm are crucial in creating memorable experiences at our National Trust properties and in helping to protect them for future generations.
"Volunteers have been at the heart of the National Trust for more than 75 years - we couldn't do our vital work without them. A heartfelt thank you to all our volunteers."
The National Trust is currently recruiting new volunteers to help at historic homes, world class art galleries, museums and beautiful gardens right across New South Wales, including at Harper's Mansion. Positions include guiding, customer service, gardening and more.
All relevant training will be provided. Volunteers can give a few hours, half a day or a whole day - weekly, fortnightly or monthly -and receive free or discounted access to National Trust sites around NSW for their time.
People who love heritage, historic places and picturesque gardens, and who enjoy meeting new people are urged to apply, visit www.nationaltrust.org.au/Volunteers-nsw/.
A community organisation, the National Trust regularly opens 21 heritage properties across the state and welcomes visitors to enjoy built, culture and natural heritage.
In the Southern Highlands, Retford Park is open Fridays to Mondays and Harper's Mansion is open on the first and third weekend of each month.
Check the National Trust website for opening times over the Christmas break.
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