Want to make a difference with your volunteering, preserving maritime history while spending your time with a great team in a friendly environment? Sydney Heritage Fleet is dedicated to preserving Sydney’s maritime history and promoting awareness of our maritime heritage. In addition to vessels, archives, and artworks, the Fleet maintains a significant collection of ship models, ranging from historical models to contemporary replicas. These models are important both as educational tools and as representations of maritime craftsmanship.

We are seeking a detail-oriented volunteer with an interest in ships and ship models to assist with a short-term Model Ship Review Project for approx. 3 - 4 months, ideally 1 - 2 days per week. You will locate, review, and assess all models in the Maritime Records and Research Centre collection, verify records in the data management system, and make recommendations for retention, repair, or refurbishment. This project is ideal for individuals interested in maritime heritage, model building, or museum collection management.

What you will be doing:

• Locate all ship models held by the MRRC and verify their presence.
• Check each model against the data management system to ensure accurate description, storage location, and accession number.
• Assess the quality, condition, and completeness of each model.
• Make recommendations for retention, repair, or deaccession based on condition, subject matter, and historical value.
• Liaise with the SHF model workshop regarding models that may require repairs or restoration.
• Support general collection organisation and maintenance as required.

You will have:

• Strong interest in ships, ship models, and maritime history.
• Knowledge of ship identification and model construction.
• Familiarity with museum collection management principles or willingness to learn.
• Attention to detail – able to inspect models carefully and accurately record information.
• Basic computer skills – comfortable with data entry and database management.
• Ability to assess model quality and condition critically.
• Reliable, responsible, and able to work independently or as part of a team.
• Ability to commit to the 3–4 month project duration.

What you will gain:

• Hands-on experience in museum collection management and assessment.
• Insight into ship model construction, maintenance, and historical relevance.
• Opportunity to contribute to the preservation of Sydney’s maritime heritage.
• Interaction with the SHF model workshop and understanding of repair/restoration processes.
• Purpose and personal fulfilment

The role is based in Pyrmont Bay at our office on Wharf 7, near the ferry, light rail, 389 bus and a short walk from Town Hall.

Sydney Heritage Fleet is a partner in the Australian Government Jobseeker program, so if you fit their criteria and are suitable for roles that SHF need filled, you may be able to work in our MRRC team and continue on Jobseeker support.

Interested? Apply online now with information about you under "interests, skills & qualifications" Further information - see our website: shf.org.au and click on EXPLORE