Davistown Aboriginal Heritage Due Diligence Assessment

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Davistown Aboriginal Heritage Due Diligence Assessment

The Central Coast Council Local Government Area (LGA) encompasses numerous suburbs renowned for their rich Aboriginal cultural and archaeological heritage. Recently, Davistown has gained attention due to the widespread presence of river and creek shells found on various properties. To safeguard this heritage, the Council requires certain Development Applications (DAs) for properties near known registered Aboriginal heritage sites to include an Aboriginal Heritage Due Diligence Assessment. This also applies with the suburbs of Saratoga and Yattalunga

DAs involving earthworks or excavation on properties along creeks, rivers, bays, or beaches are particularly likely to trigger this requirement from the Central Coast Council.

Do you Have River Shells on your block?

Many properties in Davistown and nearby suburbs, such as Yattalunga and Saratoga, have small river shells scattered in their soil and gardens. The presence of these shells may suggest a midden—an Aboriginal heritage site where generations of people prepared meals and discarded shells. However, not all shell deposits indicate a midden. In some cases, shells were introduced through historical dredging activities in the 20th century, particularly in areas like Davistown.

To avoid costly mistakes, it’s critical to hire an Aboriginal heritage consultant who can accurately distinguish between a midden and dredged deposits. A misidentification could lead to delays of over a year and expenses in the tens of thousands of dollars.

Does your project Need an Aboriginal Heritage Due Diligence Assessment?

1300 931 796

What does an Aboriginal Heritage Due diligence assessment involve?

Research and Contextual Analysis: The review of existing data. This includes consulting relevant registers that document known Aboriginal heritage sites and understanding the historical and cultural context of the area.
Site Inspection: A vital component of the assessment is the on-ground inspection. This physical examination will determine if any heritage objects exist, or are likely to exist on the property. In the case of shells found, they are analysed to determine their origin.
The Report: A report is produced to present the findings and determine is further investigation is required.

Choosing a Consultant with the correct Expertise

The Central Coast area sits on what is referred to as the ‘sandstone belt’ and contains Aboriginal heritage that is unique in contrast to Greater Sydney. Not all consultants specialise in this area. Incorrect assessment of your site can have serious ramifications for your development.

Talking Walls Heritage Consultants specialises in the archaeology found within the sandstone belt and along the creeks and rivers of the Central Coast. This puts us in the position to provide an appropriate assessment.

Working with Talking Walls

Our goal is to ensure all parties involved achieve a suitable outcome from the assessment process. Our purpose is to help you get your DA approved by making sure all the Council’s requirements are met, ensuring Aboriginal communities are confident their heritage is being respected and protected and offering solutions when they are required.