Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2013L01343:front:0:p51
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2013L01343
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 131304–134323

be interpreted by archaeological study.

     Attributes:

    -          The whole site including archaeological deposits external to the huts, and associated artefacts.

    E.  Aesthetic characteristics

    The Mawson's Huts Historic Site is of aesthetic value. The location of the huts on a small rocky peninsula surrounded by a vast area of ice and sea evokes a powerful sense of isolation. Important visual elements also include the setting of the AAE hut structures and memorial cross and the British and New Zealand Antarctic Research Expedition (BANZARE) proclamation pole. The building form of the huts themselves shows the functional and efficient planning that was undertaken in response to the site position and the elements. The weathering of the huts and decay of the remains gives a feeling of time elapsed and relates to the exposure to the elements.

     Attributes:

    -          The location and setting of the huts, memorial cross and proclamation pole, the form of the huts and their weathered patina.

    F.  Creative or technical achievement

    The Huts are of technical significance being excellent examples of the innovation and technology used to combat the extreme conditions of the Antarctic and provide functional living and working quarters. The huts were designed by Douglas Mawson and pre-fabricated in Australia before the expedition. Mawson developed the huts using his own knowledge and experience. The designs incorporated the need for wind resistance, simplicity, portability and resistance to the cold.

     Mawson's Huts are significant as evidence of Mawson's design theory that included modifying Australian building form for Antarctic conditions. Mawson's Huts were functionally designed using theory and experience. The use of verandahs and hipped roofs which are design features common to Australia were adapted to provide strength and insulation.

    Attributes:

    -          All aspects of the huts including their manufacture, design, form, fabric, detail, structure and thermal properties.

    G.  Social value

    The scientific community, the Antarctic veterans community and the larger Australian community view Mawson's Huts as a symbol of the achievements of the AAE and Mawson himself. The AAE has become an integral part of Australia's exploration history and has gained a mythic quality. The science and veterans community value the AAE for its role in Antarctic scientific research and for the way it became a model for further exploration in the Antarctic.

     Attributes:

    -          All of the historic fabric including form, layout, setting, external relationship of buildings, and associated artefacts.

    H.  Significant people

    The site is significant for its association with Sir Douglas Mawson and the members of the AAE for whom the site was a base and home for two years. It is a memorial to the members who lost their lives, and also to the contribution that Mawson and his team made to Antarctic science and geography.