Queensland regional manager and historical heritage specialist Cameron Harvey discusses contemporary issues in cultural heritage and provides essential risk-reducing advice.
Cultural heritage matters of local, state, national and international significance have recently resulted in significant media attention, causing political upheaval, corporate embarrassment, and often substantial community outrage. All too often we hear, “How could this have happened?”
In celebration of the Australian Heritage Festival 2021, I had the opportunity to deliver a seminar to one of our most valued clients on contemporary issues in cultural heritage in Queensland – and more broadly across Australia – and to highlight three essential and risk-reducing tips.
1) Early awareness and better preparation
For project managers in the development, agriculture, construction, infrastructure and resources sectors, awareness of cultural heritage and how to manage it is a fundamental first step in minimising the risk of cultural heritage becoming a battleground.
Niche’s heritage specialists have worked on numerous projects of local, state and national significance, and so we are able to draw upon some of our own recent experiences to identify early awareness as a key concept. This includes better project preparation and planning as early as pre-acquisition of properties.
2) Understanding impacts, risks and opportunities
Earlier awareness and consideration of cultural heritage enables a more complete understanding of the potential impacts, risks, and positive opportunities that cultural heritage can present to projects.
Well-designed assessments, research and documentation will then provide a defined heritage framework within which to operate and engage with cultural heritage issues, and how to best meet regulatory compliance.
3) Get the experts on your team
In Queensland, Niche has a team of deeply experienced experts in both historical and Aboriginal cultural heritage.
Our heritage consultants, archaeologists and architects bring their knowledge to your project, providing engagement with cultural heritage issues that goes beyond avoiding risk, to add value to projects and communities.
To discuss how we can support your project, contact us.
Find out more
- Cameron Harvey
- Heritage management services
- Project case study: Herston Quarter Heritage Architect
- Project case study: Cross River Rail Historical Archaeology
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