Aplan to keep the Millicent National Trust Museum open on public holidays is being sought tonight (Tuesday) by a ward representative on Wattle Range Council.

“The Millicent National Trust Museum is the premier visitor attraction in the town, it is important that we do everything possible to ensure its operation,” Councillor John Drew said.

There was no public access to the acclaimed collection on Boxing Day and New Years Day as the adjacent Millicent Visitor Information Centre was closed

It provides access to the museum but council could not find any paid staff to work those two days.

The situation drew a sharp response from National Trust officials with good numbers of visitors usually in attendance on those two days.

According to the officials, Boxing Day in 2023 was an opportunity missed.

It was not suited to outdoor activities owing to wet and windy weather while television transmissions by many channels were temporarily cut.

Cr Drew is seeking a way forward and has lodged the following motion and rationale for consideration tonight.

“I ask that a report be prepared for Wattle Range Council on ways to increase the use of volunteers in the Wattle Range area, particularly but not limited to, our Visitor Information Centres at Millicent, Penola and Beachport,” Cr Drew said.

“The report should include a way to support the Millicent National Museum during times when the Millicent Visitor Information Centre cannot be staffed by Wattle Range Council staff.

“I have been informed that over the Christmas weekend, council was unable to open the Visitor Information Centre in Millicent due to staff shortages.

“It is fair to say that festive season weekends are particularly important to service our visitors and support the Millicent National Trust Museum.

“The information that I received indicates the museum is willing to work cooperatively with council so they can open at times that may otherwise be difficult to staff.”