Penrith Museum of Printing Launches Fundraising Effort to Relocate Historic Press

The Penrith Museum of Printing, a jewel among international museums dedicated to the golden era of Letterpress printing, is calling on the public's support. The museum, entirely run by volunteers, has set a goal of raising $5,000 to relocate a Heidelberg Cylinder letterpress machine - a rare and valuable piece of Australian print history.

The historical 1939 Heidelberg press was acquired from the recently closed Don Dorrigo Gazette, Australia's last remaining 'hot metal' newspaper, which ended its remarkable 113-year run. The museum aims to decommission and relocate the 5-tonne press from the quaint NSW hinterland town of Dorrigo to its location in Penrith, a considerable distance of 575km.

Relocation is no small task. This is a specialist operation, considering the significant weight of the press and the distance to be covered. The estimated cost is around $5,000, not including restoration. As a not-for-profit (NFP) organisation, the museum operates on limited funds, hence the decision to open their fundraising page.

The crowdfunding initiative welcomes contributions of any size, understanding that every cent brings them closer to their goal. The museum has pledged to express its gratitude to all donors with a certificate of appreciation, which will be printed on the historic 1939 letterpress machine once it's operational again.

The Heidelberg press holds not just historical but also educational significance. It serves as a tangible piece of history for the numerous school, club, and special interest groups who regularly visit the museum. Its relocation and restoration will enhance the museum's ability to illustrate the intricate and rich history of letterpress printing, particularly its significant role in Australian newspaper production.

The closure of the Don Dorrigo Gazette, the last of Australia's 'hot metal' newspapers, and the subsequent acquisition of the press by the museum was covered in a recent ABC newsfeed, signifying the importance of preserving such historical artefacts.

Supporting the museum's crowdfunding efforts is a step towards preserving a piece of Australia's printing history. Contributions can easily be made through the mycause fundaising page via this link.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of print, or a supporter of cultural preservation, your support will help keep the story of letterpress printing alive and continue the Penrith Museum of Printing's mission to celebrate and share this fascinating era.

If you want to learn more read the full story via this link. Or start your crowdfunding efforts for your next project by clicking on the button below.