Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00002:front:0:p47
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00002
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 137416–140507

park's recent history, including early contact between Balanda and Bininj/Mungguy in the region

    * comprise intertwined stories of Bininj/Mungguy and Balanda as they came to live and work together, and some sites represent a way of life and use of country that no longer exists

    * represent the struggle of Bininj/Mungguy to retain control of their country and their resilience in the face of unprecedented threats to their culture

    * are tangible examples of the types of activities that occurred in the recent history of the park and contribute to understanding its human occupation.

To date the majority of historic sites in the park have not been actively managed or maintained and are in poor condition. However, the location of most sites is known, baseline information on their condition and significance has been documented, and conservation plans detailing management priorities exist for some sites.

Existing threats to values

  Lack of knowledge and understanding of historic site values (highly significant)
There are often varying perceptions of the significance and value of historic sites among Bininj/Mungguy, park staff and other stakeholders.

  Natural weathering, fire and termites (highly significant)
Natural weathering processes, fire and termites have damaged and degraded many of the historic sites within the park. Conservation work may include restricting access to some sites, maintaining protection from fire and working to stabilise existing structures. High costs are associated with implementing conservation work, such as stabilising the structural integrity of old infrastructure, and expertise in building conservation is not always available locally.

  Loss of knowledge and stories relating to historic sites (moderately significant)
  As older people pass away, many stories about these sites are lost with them.

Potential threats to values

  Asbestos removal (highly significant)
Many historic sites contain asbestos products, making work health and safety and public safety important considerations. If not managed sensitively, programmes to remove these products can cause significant damage to the integrity of historic buildings. This potential threat will be responded to during the day-to-day management of the park and does not warrant specific control mechanisms within this plan. The presence of asbestos at historic sites also prevents sites from being opened to the public and reduces the ability to provide interpretation and education to visitors about Kakadu's history.

  Vandalism (highly significant)
Some Bininj/Mungguy and people working in the tourism industry would like to see some of the historic sites appropriately promoted as places for visitors, but vandalism remains a potential threat to sites. This is an ongoing issue that will be responded to during the day-to-day management of the park and does not warrant specific control mechanisms within this plan.

Actions

     5.1.19          Review existing documentation relating to historic sites and reassess the priorities for conservation, management,