Museum of Vehicle Evolution is one of the many iconic places in Shepparton.
From its extensive range of cars, motorbikes and trucks to the Furphy Museum and the Loel Thompson Costume Collection, the museum offers an insight into some rich history.
But it wouldn’t be the place it is without their volunteers.
Pam Watt has been volunteering for the Loel Thompson collection since 2021, just six months after the exhibit opened at MOVE.
The exhibit has a rich history, with every piece coming from Loel Thompson’s personal collection.
With over 10,000 pieces in the collection, the dedicated team of volunteers, including Pam, help take care of the exhibit and curate the displays.
“When I retired from teaching, I decided that I needed something to do as a focus for the week, something to do for the community,” Pam said.
“I just love going there every week; I love going in and turning the lights on and just seeing the whole display every week.”
Pam volunteers at the exhibit once a week, where she undertakes a variety of tasks, from computer work to cataloguing and curating displays.
To her, one of her favourite parts about the collection is the amount of history in the collection.
“I love being around the history ... being around the public and sharing Loel’s story, having access to the older items and enjoying the historical part of it,” Pam said.
“To be able to tell Loel’s story and her commitment to the history part of collecting, that’s what it’s all about.
“To be able to pay tribute to her and what she’s done over the last 40-odd years is a privilege.”
Pam is a truly dedicated volunteer with unmatched passion and knowledge for the collection.
“As a whole, it’s great fun to do. It’s very satisfying. Personally, it gives me a focus to the week,” Pam said.
“You’re working with like-minded people, and you’re serving the community as well.
“If anybody is looking to get involved, just give it a go because there’s always somebody willing to show you the ropes and show you how things operate.
“Just try it because it’s a very satisfying thing to do for the community and a very satisfying thing to do for yourself.”
To get involved with volunteering at MOVE, visit: https://www.moveshepparton.com.au/support or email volunteers@moveshepparton.com.au
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