In 2005, the Central Conservation Section devised, implemented and followed up on conservation plans for some 1 000 museum objects and historical relics including paintings, paper artefacts, photographs, textiles, organic objects, metals, ceramics, sculptures and archaeological finds.

To highlight the historical merits of the Fireboat Alexander Grantham, extensive overhauling and restoration treatment was carried out to address the specific preservation issues of this unique vessel. Other than conserving hundreds of the Fireboat relics and accessories, the section worked closely with various collaborating parties on the lifting of the 500-tonne fireboat to Quarry Bay Park, which was scheduled for early 2006.

	Restoration work on the Fireboat Alexander Grantham.

As an essential part of the conservation education and extension services, the section received some 300 students through the year-round School Culture Day programme, while its behind the scenes laboratory tours, workshops, thematic talks and seminars attracted over 1 000 participants, including researchers, collectors, overseas museum delegates and the general public.

The latest acquisition of the scanning electronic microscope had enabled the section to conduct micro-morphology analysis on various museum materials before formulating appropriate conservation methods for individual objects. Also, the pilot use of 3D-laser scanning technique for the condition monitoring of the Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb had facilitated the section in devising appropriate preservation strategies for this most significant monument.

On the side of professional exchange, the section presented conservation papers entitled 'Nd:YAG laser cleaning of feathers' and 'A study of sequins on a Cantonese opera stage curtain' at international conferences held in Canada and the UK.