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Schedule of Panel hearings for Currawong

Description: The proponent is seeking to establish new planning controls for the Currawong Beach site (including rezoning) and list it as a State significant site in Schedule 3 of State Environmental Planning Policy (Major Projects) 2005. The proponent is concurrently seeking approval of a project application under the provisions of Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 for the following works:

  • retention and refurbishment of nine existing cabins
  • retention and refurbishment of the Midholme farmhouse
  • construction of 25 houses with lightweight construction sensitive to the ecological values of the site and having regard to bushfire protection measures
  • creation of community lots for private open space, bushfire asset protection zones and creek riparian corridors
  • 12.4 ha of the site dedicated to Ku-Ring-Gai National Park
  • 0.5 ha public access to beach above high water mark
  • remediation of surrounding bushland and creation of buffer to National Park

Independent expert panel: Under section 75(G) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the Minister has appointed a panel of experts to assess certain aspects of the project application for development on Currawong. This panel has also been appointed under section 35 of the Heritage Act 1977 to advise the Minister on the proposed heritage listing of the Currawong site. People making a submission to the Department who also wished to present their submission to the Panel were invited to contact the Panel Secretariat by 23 May 2008 to arrange a suitable time for their presentation. The panel will begin its public hearings on Wednesday, 4 June 2008. Confirmed panel hearing schedule

Further inquiries: Carmel O'Connor on (02) 9228 6575 (project queries) or Paula Poon on (02) 9228 6516 (panel queries)

Further Documentation: Please click here for the Chair's opening remarks.


Wing Hing Long Store: On-line exhibition

Wing Hing Long Store The Wing Hing Long & Co. museum is a Chinese-Australian rural general store and a time capsule of original fittings and merchandise. The Heritage Branch provided funding to assist Guyra Shire Council buy the store and conserve its collection. Council are now operating it as a living museum managed by local residents.

The Migration Heritage Centre has created an on-line exhibition for the Wing Hing Long store and the Tingha township on its website.

View the online exhibition, May 2008

Read about the store in the Heritage NSW Newsletter, April 1998

Posted 16 May 2008



Five items listed on the State Heritage Register

All Saints Anglican Church, Englefield and 3 Electricity Substations have been listed on State Heritage Register.

Click on the links below for more information and photos in the online database;

Posted 6 May 2008


The Rum Track: Places associated with 'The Rum Rebellion',
26th January 1808 to 1st January 1810

Governor Bligh's signet ring with his Coat of arms.2008 marks the 200th anniversary of the Rum Rebellion. In Australia's only military coup Governor William Bligh was overthrown by the NSW Corps on 26th January 1808 after they marched upon Government House Sydney and detained the king's representative. Thus began a two year period of rebel rule in the colony that only ended with the arrival of Governor Lachlan Macquarie in 1810.

This webpage allows you to explore some of the key sites associated with the rebellion. It uses the idea of a historical theme as a storyline that can connect places not otherwise connected, and brings a 'place perspective' to the story of the rebellion. Links are provided to site records in the State Heritage Register and Inventory, as well as to Meehan's 1807 plan of the Town of Sydney, and to Rum Rebellion pages on other government websites. The page is generously illustrated with images from the collections of the State Library of NSW.

Click here for the full story

Posted 4 March 2008


Historic M24 Japanese midget submarine report released

An archaeological report detailing survey operations at the historic M24 Japanese midget submarine wreck site, off Newport, Sydney is now available online.

Posted 18 February 2008


Nominations Called for Willoughby City Heritage Awards

The Willoughby Heritage Awards recognises excellence in design. The award promotes sustainable design solutions that ensure the significant heritage character of the City of Willoughby is maintained and enhanced.

The award is open to any built work completed within the last five years and must be located the Willoughby Local Government area.

The Willoughby Heritage Awards take place biannually as part of the National Trust Heritage Festival.

Click here for more information

Posted 11 February 2008


St Francis Xavier Catholic church Listed on the State Heritage Register

St Francis Xavier - Berrima’s unique medieval style Catholic church - has become the town’s 16th item to be listed on the State Heritage Register. The 19th century church is possibly the last intact church in Australia designed by leading architect Augustus Pugin. Also designer of the interiors and furnishings of the British Houses of Parliament, Pugin has been described as the father of Gothic revival art, and credited with transforming architecture and design in England and its colonies.

St Francis Xavier's is the only Australian church to feature an Easter sepulchre recess and provision for a medieval style painting of the ‘Last Judgement’. This church was built in 1849 on the site of a 1830s convict road gang stockade that had later been acquired by the Catholic Church.The only other similar intact church stands in a village in Cumbria, England.

Click here for more information and photos in the online database

Posted 31 January 2008


Heritage levels explained
A new Heritage Council guideline, Levels of Heritage Significance, explains the meaning of heritage levels in simple terms. This supplementary guide to Assessing Heritage Significance confirms only four levels of significance are recognised by the Heritage Council for use in NSW - local, state, national and world heritage significance.

By endorsing this four-level heritage system, the guide simplifies heritage listings and management in NSW. It removes past confusion caused by additional levels like 'regional', 'low local' or 'low state'. The guide clearly links each level of significance to its related listing and responsible government authority, and reinforces the importance of all four levels of heritage.

Download the document from our
Publications and Forms page.

Posted 17 January 2008


Heritage Office wins a silver Premier's Award for Sydney Opera House World Heritage Nomination

The Heritage Office, Department of Planning, received a silver award in the Growing Prosperity Across NSW category of the NSW Premier's Public Sector Awards (the categories are based on the State Plan).

The Sydney Opera House World Heritage Nomination project resulted in Sydney Opera House's inscription on the World Heritage List. The project's Steering Committee included the NSW Department of Planning, Sydney Opera House Trust, Arts NSW, Department of Premier and Cabinet and the Australian Department of Environment and Water Resources. The project confirmed the World Heritage values of the Sydney Opera House while supporting its role as a world-class performing-arts centre and tourist destination.


Patricia Hale, Una Williamson, Bronwyn Hanna,
Murray Brown and Maria Comino accept the
silver Premier's Award


The award is a fitting tribute to the professionalism and determination of project leader Susan Macdonald, the Heritage Office team and our project partners.

View Sydney Opera House information in the online database.
View Sydney Opera House World Heritage listing on the UNESCO website.

12 November 2007


Celebrating Ten Years of the State Heritage Inventory

Launched at Ryde Public School on 13 October 1997 the State Heritage Inventory is celebrating 10 years of online access. It is the most requested web resource on the Heritage Office website making it an invaluable tool for the community and a cornerstone of the services provided by the Heritage Office.

The Inventory is not a listing in itself. It is an online database that includes heritage listings in Local Environmental Plans, Regional Environmental Plans, s.170 Heritage and Conservation registers and the State Heritage Register. Read more about heritage listings.

Information on individual heritage items is gathered by local government and State agencies with the aid of database software and training provided by the Heritage office. Over 500 people throughout New South Wales have been trained in the use of the Inventory database software. The success of the Inventory would not have occurred without the continuing contributions of data from local Councils, State government agencies and community groups.

The Inventory is part of the cycle of heritage management in New South Wales to enable the community to know, value and care for our heritage. The objectives of the Inventory are to:

  • Function as an identification mechanism
  • Provide an online information databank
  • Raise community awareness of heritage
  • Enable comparative analysis
  • Improve heritage/asset management

State Heritage Inventory Cycle
This diagram shows the State Heritage Inventory data cycle

For more information about the State Heritage Inventory contact Stewart Watters by email at watters@planning.nsw.gov.au.

Posted 11 October 2007


Bondi Beach Cultural Landscape under consideration for listing on the State Heritage Register

The Heritage Council of NSW is considering whether to recommend listing Bondi Beach Cultural Landscape comprising Bondi Beach, Bondi Surf Pavilion and Bondi Park, Bondi Surf Life Saving Club and the North Bondi Surf Club, on the State Heritage Register in acknowledgment of its heritage significance.

Click here to view information in the online database.

Written submissions are invited from any interested person by Monday 9 October 2007.

Click here for information on how to comment on the proposed listing.

18 September 2007

Bondi panorama
Bondi Beach Cultural Landscape nominated for
State Heritage Register
Photograph courtesy www.bondivillage.com


Rescue re- enactment of lone survivor for 150th anniversary of Dunbar sinking

It was a shipwreck event that shocked the people of Sydney and has been likened to Australia’s own Titanic. In the early hours of 20 August 1857 the wooden clipper Dunbar founded during a heavy squall on the rocky reef just south of The Gap and sank quickly in the treacherous seas.

An estimated 59 crew and all 63 passengers drowned in what remains the nation’s most devastating peacetime tragedy. The sole survivor was a young seaman, James Johnson, who managed to cling to a ledge on the cliff face until he was rescued 36 hours later.

Click here to view information about the Dunbar Shipwreck in the online database.


As part of the sesquicentenary commemorations this year, a re-enactment of that dramatic rescue will be held on Sunday 19 August. Highlights include:

  • A re-enactment of the rescue by the NSW Police Rescue and Bomb Squad
  • Displays of rescue equipment developed since the Squad’s formation in 1942
  • A special diving expedition to record a video archive of the remains of the wreck site exactly 150 years after the event
  • Sydney Heritage Fleet’s James Craig will cruise off shore to honour the Dunbar
  • When: Sunday 19 August 2007 from 10.00am -12.00pm
  • Where: Lighthouse Reserve, Old South Head Road, Vaucluse.
  • Contact: David Nutley, Maritime Archaeologist, NSW Heritage Office on 9873 8574
  • Further information: Woollahra Municipal Council website

This event is an initiative of the Heritage Office, Department of Planning in partnership with Police Rescue and Bomb Squad, Sydney Heritage Fleet and Woollahra Municipal Council.

Posted 16 August 2007


Heritage Network Seminar 2007
This seminar is designed for local government heritage advisors, heritage planners and officers, heritage consultants and other heritage professionals.

This year's seminar program is packed with speakers and topics that we believe engages leadership and best practice local government heritage management.

Posted 29 June 2007


Heritage Advisors' Training & Refresher Workshop 2007
This seminar is designed for Heritage professionals including heritage consultants, heritage advisors, heritage planners and officers interested in working in or currently working in local government heritage management.

This year the workshop has been updated and restructured to align with the local government heritage strategy management outcomes; and includes speakers and topics to engage leadership and best practice local government heritage management.

Posted 29 June 2007


Lime Day-An Introduction to Building Limes
This practical workshop includes a brief history of lime use, materials, site practices and skills, slaking demonstration, mixing and pointing, lime wash.

Posted 29 June 2007


Australian Convict Sites

The New South Wales Government is working with the Australian Government and the governments of Western Australia, Tasmania and Norfolk Island to develop a serial nomination of 11 convict sites in Australia for inscription on the World Heritage List.

Click here for information about the nomination and submission.

Posted 25 June 2007



Sydney Opera House World Heritage Nomination

The Sydney Opera House has been nominated by the Government Of Australia for inscription on The World Heritage List.

You can download the documents prepared by the Australian Government and The New South Wales Government.

PDFComplete document [5,729 KB] or download the parts separately from the list below.

For media inquiries please contact:

  • Ann-Marie Wilcock on 9228 4700 or 0413 872 275 at the office of the Hon. Frank Sartor MP, or
  • Jennifer Shand on 9250 7618 at the Sydney Opera House.

Posted 22 June 2007

Information on Storm Damage

In response to the recent storm damage in New South Wales, the Heritage Office, Department of Planning has prepared a Quick Guide to repairs to Heritage Items following disaster damage that provides a starting point.

The guide includes some repair principles, practical information and information on approvals process. To download this Guide please click here.PDF

For further advice on repair of storm damage please contact the Heritage Officer or Heritage Advisor of your local Council. For a Local Council Contact List in the Hunter Valley click here.PDF

Posted 12 June 2007



Acoustic surveillance for Japanese submarine wreck

M24 Japanese submarine wreck media release Planning Minister Frank Sartor announced a sophisticated underwater surveillance and alarm system is in place off the coast of Sydney to protect the wreck of the World War II Japanese submarine.

Planning Minister Frank Sartor said the cutting-edge acoustic camera system, which was developed in partnership with the Commonwealth, was a first for an Australian shipwreck.

Media Release PDF

Posted 4 May 2007



National Archaeology Week 20-26 May

National Archaeology Week (NAW) is a week of activities aimed at increasing public awareness of Australian archaeology and the work of Australian archaeologists both at home and abroad. It also promotes the importance of protecting Australia's unique archaeological heritage.

In May each year an exciting nationwide program of events and activities is held, including public lectures, seminars, exhibits, demonstration excavations & displays. Numerous activities have been organised for NSW.

Visit the website for a full list of activities in NSW, take the Archaeology Quiz and learn some interesting facts about archaeologists working in Australia: www.archaeologyweek.com

Further Information: Email the State Coordinator for more information on NAW activities in NSW at naw-nsw@asha.org.au.

Posted 23 April 2007


Underwater Archaeology: An Introduction

Have you ever wondered what underwater archaeology is all about? Find out now by taking a (virtual) dive with the NSW Heritage Office during National Archaeology Week!

This introductory course will be held at the Heritage Office in Parramatta on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 May to coincide with National Archaeology Week. The course will introduce you to the history, methods and ethics of underwater archaeology including conservation practices. This course is enjoyed by anyone with an interest in how maritime archaeologists operate underwater. Diving is not a requirement of the course.

The training program is offered through the Australasian Institute for Maritime Archaeology (AIMA) and is based on a highly successful program developed by the Nautical Archaeological Society (NAS) of Britain. For more information visit the Maritime Heritage Online web site at maritime.heritage.nsw.gov.au
  • Where: Heritage Office, Department of Planning, 3 Marist Place, Parramatta
  • When: 26-27 May 2007 (9:00 am - 4:40 pm)
  • Cost: $220 (incl GST) Payment to: 'Heritage Office'
  • Contact: David Nutley, Heritage Office (02) 9873 8574 david.nutley@planning.nsw.gov.au
Posted 23 April 2007


Waverley Council Heritage & Design Awards 2007

Waverley Council Civic Pride Awards Heritage & Design

The awards aim to inspire, recognise and promote good design solutions. They also help to ensure that the significant qualities of heritage buildings and heritage urban conservation areas are maintained and that contemporary design contributes to the existing streetscape.

The quality of our streetscapes and public areas are an important source of pride for our community. The Waverley Council Civic Pride Awards for Heritage and Design are part of a wider Civic Pride program celebrating and supporting the contribution of local people in the area.

Waverley Council Civic Pride Awards Heritage & Design 2007

The Annual Waverley Council Civic Pride Awards Heritage & Design 2007 were held in March 2007 at the Bondi Pavilion during the National Trust’s Heritage Festival. Held on Friday, 16 March the awards recognise excellent architectural achievement in the Waverley area, and celebrate community pride through the built environment.

Waverley Mayor George Newhouse congratulated the winners. “Quality architecture is integral to the look and feel of our area and is an important source of pride for our community.

“It’s part of what makes Waverley such an attractive place to live and is an expression of our dynamic and forward thinking community. Our historic buildings provide us with a connection to our past and their preservation is also invaluable.”

“Whether they are producing cutting edge modern buildings, or honouring the rich history of our area, homeowners and architects play a large role in protecting the area for future generations. Our annual Waverley Council Civic Pride Awards for Heritage & Design recognise those who provide excellence in design and help inspire better building design.”

Click here to see the award winners

Posted 5 April 2007


Griffith's First Listing on the State Heritage Register

A Roman Catholic church built by Italian immigrants at the beginning of World War Two is the first item in the Griffith local government area to be listed on the State Heritage Register. Our Lady of Pompeii Roman Catholic Church at Yoogali was listed as an item of State heritage significance on the 15th December 2006.

Click here for more information and photos in the online database

Our Lady of Pompeii Roman Catholic Church is possibly the oldest church in New South Wales built by and for an Italian community which is still in active use. The church was dedicated to and named after the Patroness of Italians in foreign lands, Our Lady of Pompeii.

The church's distinctive design reflects the typical parochial church in the Veneto region of Italy and it was based on the memories of the immigrants from this region who arrived in Australia in the early 20th century.


Our Lady of Pompeii Church

Our Lady of Pompeii Roman Catholic Church
Photograph by Claudine Loffi
Our Lady of Pompeii Church

The church in Edon Street, Yoogali, dates from 1939-1940
Photograph by Claudine Loffi

Posted 19 February 2007


Italian Hermit's Cave Now An Icon for NSW

The legacy of Italian born hermit Valerio Ricetti has been preserved with the listing of his remarkable recluse dwelling near Griffith on the State Heritage Register.

The Hermit's Cave Complex covers 16 hectares of rocky ridge top at Scenic Hill on the outskirts of Griffith, and is a highly unusual cultural landscape and archaeological site.

Click here for more information and photos in the online database

Using the traditional artisan skill of dry stone walling that was popular in his North Italian homeland, Valerio Ricetti spent more than two decades from about 1929 to 1952 fashioning the natural landscape and materials into an elaborate complex of rock shelters and cave-like enclosures that stretch for over a kilometre. There are also retaining stone walls, stone stairs and paths, terraced gardens and cisterns for water supply.

Ricetti showed much resourcefulness and skill in creating his hermit dwelling. He claimed it as his private utopia in a place he described as the 'Garden of Eden'


The Hermit's Cave

Hermit's Cave Complex, Griffith. Entrance to the 'Chapel' seen from the Cliffs Cave.
Photograph courtesy of Griffith City Council
Valerio Ricetti at his cave complex

Hermit's Cave Complex c. 1936. Valerio Ricetti is standing on the plank bridge, on the right.
Photograph courtesy Griffith City Council

Posted 19 February 2007


Expressions of Interest for Archaeology Panel

    The Heritage Council is inviting expressions of interest for appointment to the Archaeology Advisory Panel. The appointments are for three years and are open to those with appropriate qualifications and experience. The Archaeology Advisory Panel provides advice on promoting and managing NSW's irreplaceable archaeological resources.
    • Download: Expressions of Interest
    • Further Information: Email Dr Siobhan Lavelle or phone Ms Nichole Ward on (02) 9873 8500
    • Deadline: All expressions of interest should be lodged by COB Monday 26 February
    Posted 7 February 2007


    Mosman Good Design Awards

      The Mosman Good Design Awards enable Mosman Council to recognise and celebrate outstanding contributions to the built environment and provide architects, builders and owners an opportunity to exhibit their achievements within the Mosman Local Government Area. Nominations are now invited from architects, owners, designers and builders in the categories of Heritage Conservation and Contribution to the Built Environment. Nominations will be judged by three respected architects: Peter John Cantrill, Brian McDonald and Robert Staas. For further information see the Mosman Council webpage.

      Posted 31 January 2007


    New Guide to Nominating Heritage Places

      The Heritage Office has released a new form and guideline for making nominations to the State Heritage Register. They replace the previous nomination form and guideline from 1 January 2007.

      The new form and guideline have been produced to improve community understanding of the information requirements for making a nomination to the register, and to give greater step-by step assistance to the community on how to complete the nomination form.

      View the new guide and form:
      PDF Guidelines for Nominations to the State Heritage Register [1,439 KB]
      Blank nomination form - save the word document to your computer to complete a nomination.

      For more information go to the Nominating Page.

      Posted 2 January 2007



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