BAppSc(Cons), MA

Fiona draws on her extensive skills and expertise in textiles conservation, preventive conservation and collections management to provide advice on a wide variety of collection management and conservation issues.

After completing a Bachelor of Applied Science at the University of Canberra, Fiona joined ICS as a textile conservator in 1993.  Since then, Fiona has gained experience in a range of roles including Senior Textiles Conservator and Preventive Conservator, and currently our Principal Collections Manager.

In 2007, Fiona completed a Masters in Museum Studies at the University of Leicester (UK), researching ways to create educational and inspirational experiences with geographically remote cultural collections.  She now specialises in both Collections Management and Preventive Conservation for private and public clients, and advises on a wide variety of collection management issues. 

Fiona writes Collection Management Policies, devises collection management strategies, surveys collections for conservation issues and requirements, and undertakes environmental assessments. She has extensive experience in carrying out Preservation Needs Assessments, risk assessments and condition assessments. She also advises on appropriate storage and environmental requirements of collections, and has written numerous planning briefs for architects and museum planners. 

As a Preventive Conservator, Fiona works with clients to develop strategies designed to minimise deterioration and damage to collection items.  She specifically looks for the major causes of deterioration within the environmental context of the collection space. She has developed environmental monitoring programs for collections and housekeeping manuals, written disaster preparedness plans and procedures for many organisations, and developed handling and maintenance procedures for the storage, exhibition, packing, and transportation of collection items.

As a Textiles Conservator, Fiona has worked on a variety of materials and items throughout Australia, undertaking textile condition assessments leading to treatment and storage/display recommendations. Fiona has also run handling and storage training workshops for many organisations.

Fiona is a professional member of the Australian Institute for the Conservation of Cultural Material (AICCM), and has served on both the NSW Committee and National Council. She has held numerous positions with the AICCM, including Convenor of the Textile Special Interest Group and Convenor of the Preventive Conservation Special Interest Group, Newsletter Co-Editor, and Membership Services Officer.