Linden Observatory Trust
Ken Beames died in March 1989. Under the terms of his will, a trust was formed to keep the observatory in perpetuity, and to use the observatory and surrounding lands for the purpose of providing a resource for amateur astronomers and for astronomical education.
Currently there are three trustees: Rev Robert Evans OA, a renowned amateur astronomer; Ian Bridges, a former employee, and friend of Ken Beames who worked with Ken Beames on the planetarium instrument; and Gerry Aarts, current President of WSAAG and keen amateur astronomer.
With few financial resources, the trust has struggled to maintain the site. Over the years, a small group of volunteers, members of the Linden community and members of Western Sydney Amateur Astronomy Group have worked with the trustees to keep the observatory viable.
In recent years, the Linden Observatory and Museum Association (LOMA) was established to assist the trustees in the development of the site.
In January 2010, the observatory received recognition through listing on the NSW Sate Heritage Register. Heritage listing provides a number of opportunities for ongoing funding and support, and is an opportunity for the trust to further the wishes of Ken Beames.
The Linden Observatory Trustees are continuing to work with the community to help bring Ken Beames wishes for the long term establishment of the observatory to fruition.
