Archive Policy
Introduction and Aims of the Project
The Australian War Graves Photographic Archive is a volunteer endeavor with the mission of creating an online searchable photo archive of war graves and memorials around the world, from the beginning of World War One to the present day, and to foster and continue the remembrance of our fallen military heroes.
The aim of this policy is to give volunteers, potential volunteers, supporters and other interested parties an understanding of where the project is headed. Although not an exhaustive list, it is actually designed as a basic a guide.
What is a Project Volunteer?
Anyone who is known to and recognised by the Project to be contributing in some way. A Project Volunteer is not 'working' for the Project, but has offered their services in 'support' of the endeavour. They are not paid to provide services, and undertake the effort at their own risk and expense.
Anyone can become a volunteer. The Project does not discriminate on account of age, sex, race, nationality, religion or disability.
By becoming a Volunteer, you agree to have your name in the Volunteers Section of the website. There is also an understanding that any contribution to the Project, can be utilised by the Project Director and/or the Project, so long as it is in accordance with the mission of the Archive.
Public Liabiility
The AWGPA accepts no responsibility for any injury or damage to person or property, whilst they are under the guise of a Volunteer or acting in a Volunteer role. Volunteers undertake effort at their own risk. Every effort will be made to inform Volunteers of known risks, if they are in fact known.
Personal Safety
Whilst undertaking photographic work in cemeteries and/or at memorials as a volunteer, consider the following points:
- Dont go into cemeteries or burial grounds alone (especially in case of women)
- Don't go in the evening or at night
- Inform someone of exactly where you are going, where you are and when you'll be back
- Don't take valuables with you (except the camera)
- In larger cemeteries or isolated locations, let the management office know you're visiting
- Stay aware of your surroundings and look up from your camera often
- Know where the exits are.
- Be aware that cemeteries can be dangerous places, with unstable ground, broken or decayed headstones and possible dangerous wildlife.
- Be aware of warning signs.
IF YOU ARE USURE OF A LOCATION OR A SITUATION, OR YOU FEEL THREATENED, DON'T PUT YOURSELF AT RISK BY FEELING THAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE PHOTOS. LEAVE THE LOCATION IMMEDIATELY AND CONACT THE PROJECT DIRECTOR.
Support for Volunteers
The Project will endeavor to give you as much information as it can reasonably provide, in relation to locating and photographing war graves. It will also respond to email or telephone enquiries as soon as is realistically possible. Occasionally it may be necessary to share information with other agencies, for the benefit of the Project.
Volunteer Behavior
It is expected that a Volunteer will always uphold the values, morals and aims of the Project. They will be polite, courteous and up-front in their dealings with anyone that they come into contact with, in the course of their support of the Project. They will promote the ideals of the Archive and attempt to further the support.
Expenses and Equipment
No one involved with the project receives any money for what they do. No expenses or remuneration are paid to volunteers. Volunteer Photographers utilise their own equipment ie. cameras, film, to procure images.
Problems and Complaints
If you encouter any problems with other parties whilst undertaking voluntary effort for the Project, or on location, cease work immediately and return home. Contact the Project Director.
If you have a problem with another Volunteer, please contact the Project Director immediately.
Copyright of Information and Images
By submitting photographs or information to the site, you agree to release any copyright you hold to the electronic and printed publication of the work, for use by the Project. You will be always be credited by name for your involvement with the Project (on this website), unless you request otherwise in writing or by email.