2026 judging panel image caption (L-R): Matt Devine, Chair of the National Trust Heritage Awards Jury (centre front), joined by (left to right): Julie Baird, Stirling Smith, David Burdon, Ingrid Mather, Steven Barry and Tamsin McIntosh.
The shortlist for the 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards has been revealed, spotlighting an exciting and diverse mix of heritage achievements from across New South Wales; many of which demonstrate the growing role of conservation in protecting the natural environment.
A highly anticipated annual celebration, the National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards recognise excellence in the conservation, protection, and interpretation of natural, cultural and built heritage.
This year marks the 32nd year of the Awards, with the 2026 shortlisted finalists reflecting a strong emphasis on landscape restoration, ecological rehabilitation and sustainable reuse.
Among the most environmentally significant finalists are those recognised in the Landscape category, where projects showcase best practice in balancing public access with heritage value and long-term environmental resilience.
Finalists of the Landscape category include:
- Hungry Point Reserve Cliff Top Walk, Cronulla (entered by Taylor Brammer Landscape Architects Pty Ltd) – for enhanced access through a coastal reserve and incorporating landscape and bush regeneration works.
- Restoration of the Sandhills Wetlands, Byron Bay (entered by Byron Shire Council) – involving the rehabilitation of a wetland environment.
- The GreenWay, Inner West (entered by Inner West Council) – a shared-use corridor that connects communities through green space.
- The Vaucluse House Waterfall, Ponds and Rill Conservation (entered by Museums of History NSW) – focused on the conservation of historic water features within a significant heritage landscape.
“Every year we are inspired by the dedication to conserve and promote New South Wales’ rich heritage,” said Debbie Mills, CEO of the National Trust (NSW). “All entrants are to be applauded for their important work, with particular congratulations to those shortlisted for their achievements.”
The 2026 Judging Panel was led by Matthew Devine, Chair of the National Trust Heritage Awards Jury, alongside Barrina South, David Burdon, Ingrid Mather, Julie Baird, Stirling Smith, Tamsin McIntosh, and 2025 Young Achiever recipient Steven Barry.
Penny Sharpe, Minister for Heritage, reflected on the significance and diversity of this year’s nominees, noting that they “not only deepen connections between diverse communities and heritage, but also play a vital role in safeguarding these places and stories for generations to come.”
Steven Meredith, Chair of the NSW Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee, emphasised the role many of the shortlisted projects play in supporting the protection and promotion of Aboriginal cultural heritage across New South Wales.
Sally Barnes, Chair of the NSW Heritage Council, praised the finalists for “their passion and commitment to conserving built, natural and cultural heritage for the community to enjoy”.
“The Awards provide a vital platform to recognise the dedication and expertise of those working to preserve our state’s heritage,” said Sam Kidman, Executive Director of Heritage NSW. “Congratulations to all those shortlisted.”
The winners will be announced at the National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards ceremony on Friday 15 May 2026 at Sydney’s heritage-listed Doltone House.
The National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards are a signature event of the Australian Heritage Festival, coordinated annually by the National Trust. The NSW Government through Heritage NSW is the principal sponsor of both the Festival and the Awards.
For the full list of finalists featured in the 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards across all categories, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/national-trust-heritage-awards-nsw/
About the National Trust (NSW)
The National Trust is Australia’s oldest and largest independent conservation organisation founded in 1945 in New South Wales by Annie Forsyth Wyatt. Collectively the National Trust in Australia owns or manages more than 300 built and natural heritage places (the majority held in perpetuity), is supported by 7,000 volunteers and employs more than 300 people nationwide.
The National Trust (NSW) is committed to engaging the community to celebrate and conserve heritage places and collections through events and education. With the support of our members, volunteers and dedicated staff and partners, we advocate on the protection of historical and naturally significant places and collections to ensure their preservation for future generations.
About the National Trust Heritage Awards
The National Trust Heritage Awards has been running since 1994 and is one of the most highly anticipated events in the heritage, cultural and conservation sector. The awards are an annual event run by the National Trust (NSW) as part of the Australian Heritage Festival. The NSW Government through Heritage NSW is principal sponsor of the Australian Heritage Festival and the National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards, which is the signature event of the Australian Heritage Festival.
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https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/heritage-awards-nsw/
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