Heritage South Africa was established in 1959 as the Simon van der Stel Foundation and is currently the largest, best known and oldest national non-governmental (NGO) involved with heritage conservation. We are a non-profitable section 21 company with ten affiliated member organisations with almost two thousand enthusiastic volunteers. Heritage South Africa Activities We liase with and inform individuals, decision makers, authorities and organisations about the protection of conservation-worthy structures and other aspects of South Africa's rich and colourful immovable heritage. We co-operate with a large group of experts, specialists, professionals and academics. We provide information and advice about conservation guidelines and restoration work. We stimulate and promote a collective awareness and appreciation concerning the value of heritage objects for all communities. At local level our members offer talks about relevant subjects excursions to conservation-worthy sites and structures school competitions to make learners more aware of our heritage the opportunity to become involved with conservation projects or restoration work Management and Administration Heritage South Africa is managed by a national chairperson and a board of directors who are elected at an annual general meeting. The executive responsibilities are undertaken by a part-time national secretary. Member organisations function at local or regional level through their own elected committees and sub-committees. Publications Heritage South Africa's professional journal, Restorica, is a highly respected publication whose forerunner was published for the first time in 1959. Member organisations issue regular newsletters about their activities and conservation issues. Publications and research about specific subjects are periodically undertaken or promoted by Head Office and its affiliated organisations.