The cultural heritage duty of care
In Queensland, anyone carrying out an activity must take all reasonable and practicable measures to make sure it does not harm Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage. Other states and territories set similar obligations. On a project that usually means a due diligence check early, a field survey of the footprint with the right Traditional Owner party, a management plan or agreement where needed and monitoring when the ground is opened.
Every kind of heritage
Heritage Spotters covers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage, historical archaeology, built heritage such as homesteads and bridges, natural heritage places and maritime heritage such as wrecks and jetties. Cultural knowledge and decisions belong to the Traditional Owners for the area. The team works alongside their representatives, coordinates the field program and keeps the records.
Unexpected finds
When something is found that nobody expected, the first hour matters. Heritage Spotters helps write practical finds procedures, briefs crews on what to look for and responds on site to stop work, protect the find, notify the right people and get the work moving again once it is safe to do so.
When to call Heritage Spotters
- Ground disturbance is planned in an area with known or likely cultural heritage.
- A cultural heritage management plan or agreement requires monitoring.
- Old homesteads, bridges, graves or industrial remains sit within the footprint.
- You need a due diligence check before design is locked in.
