The Museum of the Riverina looks after a collection of over 20,000 objects that encapsulate the social history of the Wagga Wagga area.

From time to time we add new objects to our collection if they meet the guidelines set out in our Collections Policy. The Museum collects objects from the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area only, which relate to the area’s history, development and people in a significant way.

Selection criteria for accepting material into the Museum's permanent collection:

1. The item relates to the City of Wagga Wagga, its history, development and people in a significant way.
2. The item has a provenance that enhances its historical value.
3. The item is in a good original condition, complete and unmodified
4. The donor or vendor has legal title to offer the item to the Museum.
5. The item is not duplicated in the collection.
6. The only time the Museum will accept material on loan is for temporary exhibitions with designated time periods.
7. The Museum has adequate storage space to house the item.
8. The Museum staff have sufficient time and resources to document the item.
9. There are no restrictions whether legal, cultural or conservation which would prevent the item being placed on display. No item will be accepted with conditions attached eg. a stipulation that the item must be placed on permanent display.
10. The item is best suited for our collection and not that of another cultural institution.

The minimum requirement for accepting new material into the collection is compliance with sections 1, 2, 3 & 4 above.

Speak with our collections officer

If you would like to discuss donating an item to the museum, you can make an appointment with our Collections Officer. Fill out this form or call (02) 6926 9655 to make an appointment.

Other options

Unfortunately, there are many beautiful historical objects that the museum simply isn't resourced to care for. There are plenty of options open to you. Here are some suggestions:

Make it an heirloom

Consider keeping the item in your family. It is a great pleasure to pass on family treasures that carry important stories about a family's past. You never know if the item may trigger a passion for history in one of your descendants.

Other local collecting institutions

The Charles Sturt University Regional Archive

The Charles Sturt University Regional Archives collects paper-based records of local historical interest, relating to significant political, religious, sporting and community groups from the area.

Please contact staff to discuss potential donations on 02 6933 4590 or archive@csu.edu.au.

Local Studies Unit

The Wagga Wagga City Library's Local Studies Unit collects books, family histories and photographs that relate to people and places within the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area. Contact the Wagga Wagga City Library to find out more about what they collect.

Find a collector

Selling your object to a private collector can be a good way to ensure the object is cared for by someone who appreciates its true value.  Consider contacting local antique shops and searching online for local groups who may be interested in collecting your object.

Make a treasure-hunter's day!

As a last resort, you might consider donating your object to a local charity shop or disposing through the Gregadoo Tip Shop.