CAMCOS - Impact Assessment No. 3 - Social Environment Working Paper Queensland Transport 3. Social Environment Working Paper
1.0 Introduction 2.0 Study Area 3.0 Public Consultation 4.0 Socio-economic Data 4.1 Demographics 4.2 Key Community Resources 5.0 Cultural Heritage 5.1 Introduction 5.2 Cultural And Heritage Legislative Framework 5.3 Cultural Significance Criteria 5.4 Community Consultation 5.5 Assessment Of Non-indigenous Cultural Heritage 5.6 Predictive Modelling For Indigenous Archaeology 5.7 Predictive Assessment Of Study Area 6.0 Noise And Air Quality 6.1 Noise/air Quality 6.2 Sensitive Receptors 7.0 Landscape/townscape Analysis And Evaluation 7.1 Introduction 7.2 Objectives Of The Study 7.3 Definition Of Terms 7.4 Methodology 7.5 Landscape Assessment 8.0 References
Figures
Figure 2.0 CAMCOS Study Area Figure 3.4a District Working Group Areas Figure 3.4b Memorandum of Understanding Figure 3.4c Project Framework Figure 5.1 Cultural Heritage Study Areas Figure 7.5a Landform Elements Figure 7.5b Landcover Elements Figure 7.5c Landscape Character Figure 7.5d Character Units Figure 7.5e Capacity to Change Map
CAMCOS Working Papers Ove Arup & Partners 07.07.97 1 CAMCOS - Impact Assessment No. 3 - Social Environment Working Paper Queensland Transport 1.0 Introduction
The Queensland Government has proposed a major initiative to investigate an integrated land use and transportation system for the Caboolture- Sunshine Coast region with the cooperation of the local authority areas of Caboolture, Caloundra and Maroochy. The development of an integrated transportation system challenges traditional approaches to urban management and to quality of life enhancements.
New balances between the concentration of urban functions to achieve economics and the dispersion of human services to facilitate local ease of access need to be formulated and implemented. New ways of linking areas where people live and where they work have to be found to rein in the escalating costs of transport infrastructure currently needed for urban areas to operate.
In response to these types of outcomes, there has been a clear recognition of the need to plan in an integrated way for transport and land use so that the distribution of human activity occurs in a manner which makes most efficient use of transport investment, and in turn, increase levels of accessibility and provide more livable communities.
The former Commonwealth Better Cities Program has assisted in the clear identification of these objectives and priorities. This study provides an opportunity to apply these principles in the Sunshine Coast area, not only to achieve better outcomes for that specific area, but to demonstrate the benefits of an integrated approach to land use and transport planning for communities elsewhere.
The CAMCOS Study recognises the fundamental importance of the complex interrelationship between transport networks and land use distribution. This has been increasingly acknowledged in recent years as central to achieving more livable and sustainable communities. This recognition has occurred both in the community generally and within levels of government, as well as within the professional groups involved in planning for transport and land use.
Consequently, the traditional approach adopted in many transport planning initiatives which relied on catering for projected increased transport needs based on a continuation of land use and development trends is now widely acknowledged as an inappropriate way of planning for the future of our communities. This approach tends to perpetuate inefficient land use patterns, dependency on the private vehicle, and urban areas which are characterised by high energy usage (and therefore low sustainability), as well as a range of substantive social concerns.
These social concerns result, in part, from a deterioration in the ability of particular groups of people in the community to sustain a lifestyle in which their need for access to supportive human services, employment opportunities, cultural and leisure activities is adequately met. Inefficient systems not only add to costs but also exacerbate disadvantages including environmental disadvantage.
1.1 Background To This Working Paper
In order to address all potential issues and concerns related to CAMCOS the project team has created four key working papers for public comment addressing:
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ö Planning And Land Use ; ö The Bio-physical Environment; ö Social Environment; and ö Land Use/ Transport Strategy Projections.
Following consultation these papers will form the basis of a Review of Environmental Factors Report. This document will update any deficiencies highlighted in the Working Papers and incorporate appropriate public comment. During this time it is also anticipated that potential corridors will be defined and disseminated for public comment.
This Working Paper has been created in recognition of the need to consider factors related to the social environment. It is intended to provide an overall, comprehensive overview of the past and present elements of the social environment in which people relate and interact.
A better understanding of the existing conditions will facilitate discussion of related issues and concerns during the CAMCOS study process. The project team recognises this as a key to an informed decision making process affecting people and the communities they live in within the study area.
To achieve this goal the paper has been organised to focus on four key areas of discussion including information on:
ö Socio-Economic Data; ö Cultural Heritage; ö Noise and Air Quality; and ö Landscape/Townscape Analysis and Evaluation.
At this stage of the study these areas have primarily been approached from a regional or local authority perspective. The information collected will assist in the refinement of the corridor analysis at a later point in the study process.
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The Study Area for the first stage of the study process can be roughly defined as incorporating the local authority areas of Councils of Caboolture, Caloundra and Maroochy. The boundaries of CAMCOS is provided graphically in Figure 2.0.
For this stage of the CAMCOS project, the study area will primarily cover a region ranging from Landsborough eastwards to Bell’s Creek, northwards along the coastal plain from Caloundra to Maroochydore, and west to include the communities of Eudlo, Woombye and Nambour. As part of the corridor study process the study will also consider the implications of upgrading the existing north coast rail line to the south through Beerwah, Beerburrum to just north of Caboolture.
As the study progresses, potential transportation corridors will be identified and then assessed in the second stage of the project. At this stage impacts, specific to the potential corridors will be considered and the study area will also be refined to reflect the more intensive investigation.
This Working Paper will consider social environmental issues which fall within the Study Area and significantly relate to the first stage of CAMCOS.
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3.1 What Public Consultation Seeks To Do
The role of public consultation in planning decisions is to improve the quality and public acceptability of those decisions by taking into account the needs, aspirations and views of people who are/will be directly and indirectly affected by the decision(s). To accomplish this end, the CAMCOS public consultation strategies will:
ö Provide a range of opportunities whereby all interested persons are able to input into the project process leading to decision-making; ö Seek to raise the awareness of, and educate, the community stakeholders on project issues as much as to gather information from them; and ö Ensure information dissemination and information gathering opportunities occur at all stages of the project process.
3.2 What Are The Guiding Principles?
The key values behind the CAMCOS public consultation strategy are:
ö Open and accountable processes; ö Recognition of diversity of interests and publics; and ö A commitment to voicing all the issues associated with the identification and protection of the transport corridor and its supportive land use.
3.3 What Can Be Expected From Public Consultation?
Community stakeholders can expect the following from the CAMCOS public consultation process:
ö Public involvement from the outset to aid in developing the choice of transport corridors and associated land uses, defining the terms of reference for the Impact Assessment Study (IAS) and, ultimately, in the choice of the transport route and land use planning strategy; ö Provision to the community of all the baseline data necessary to encourage input into the IAS ; ö Collection of a full range of views from the community; ö Employment of a variety of consultation techniques to facilitate the two-way flow of information between community and consultants taking into account: the nature (detail/complexity) of the information involved; the numbers of stakeholders involved and their preferences for type of involvement; and social justice principles of equity and accessibility; ö Sensitivity by the study team to the needs and concerns of those directly and indirectly affected when undertaking the corridor/route option selection and evaluation; ö Provision of opportunities for community input in a constructive and coherent manner; ö Provision of opportunities for community input into the improvement of the chosen option and enhancement of its positive impacts; and ö Encouragement of community ownership of the final outcome.
3.4 How Will Consultation Actually Work?
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The community input into the CAMCOS project will occur at two levels:
ö The study management level; and ö The study processes.
3.4.1 The Study Management Level Or The Big Picture
Five community members will complement the membership of the Corridor Reference Group (CRG). The CRG provides guidance and advice to the CAMCOS Steering Committee on issues associated with impacts in the study area, for example, environment, employment, tourism, industry, landscape, cultural heritage, to name a few.
The five community members on the CRG will be drawn from five community working groups (District Working Groups) which have been established by the Ove Arup team. The study area has been delineated into five district areas to better manage the broad regional consultation process (see Figure 3.4). The five District Working Groups (DWGs) correspond to those five areas. These DWGs assist the consultants in the public consultation process by acting as a conduit for the two-way flow of information between consultants and the broader community. Furthermore, DWG members provide the consultants with local knowledge regarding the range and diversity of interests within the community. In assisting the consultants to conduct public consultation, the DWGs will conduct a range of information dissemination and information collection activities throughout the course of the study.
Calls for expressions of interest for DWG membership were advertised over a two week period through local newspapers and radio in the study area and by leaflet distribution through community organisations. In nominating for DWG membership, it was emphasised that applicants meet the following criteria:
ö Be willing to work as a team member; ö Have a strong awareness of local issues; ö Have a strong awareness of local community networks; ö Be able to balance local and broader interests in team discussions, and ö Have a strong commitment to good community consultation practice.
Seven to nine members were sought for each DWG. The DWGs and Ove Arup Team have developed a Memorandum of Understanding which will set out the essential ground rules for working with each other and the community and for methods of reporting and accountability.
3.4.2 The Study Processes Or Day-to-day Consultation
Throughout the consultation process, the community will have a number of opportunities to provide their comment and become aware of issues within the study. Many of these opportunities will be initiated and conducted by the DWGs. For example, to date, the DWGs have conducted a number of public meetings, distributed flyers through the letter box and contacted community organisations to publicise the study. DWGs are currently planning information displays for shopping centres, further public meetings and a letter box survey.
There will also be opportunities for involvement which will be initiated and conducted by the Ove Arup team. The latter will include examples such as a shop front, a dedicated CAMCOS telephone line (1800 number), a public launch of working papers, briefings, press releases,
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meetings with politicians, market surveys and workshops.
A plan for the timing and integration of public consultation activities into the project framework is outlined on the following page as the Public Consultation Strategy. We are in the early stages of the study process and, at this point, the DWGs and Ove Arup team are seeking community input on issues of value. That is, information is sought about the (i) positive features of living in the Sunshine Coast region, (ii) those features which detract from living in the region and (iii) what people do not want to lose in any future planning for the region.
As the project progresses and DWGs become more involved with their communities on CAMCOS, they will be in a position to add more detail to, and give advance notice of, consultation activities. At every stage of the project, it is the consultants' intention to ensure all draft materials emanating from the study will be provided to the DWGs for circulation and broad public comment and feedback.
Throughout the course of the study, the DWG’s and the Ove Arup & Partners team will be identifying as many community networks and stakeholders as possible to encourage involvement. For example, currently, a network of indigenous community organisations is being identified to assist the consultants in information dissemination activities and encouraging community inputs.
3.5 Assessing The Effectiveness Of Public Consultation
Consistent with what is considered best practice in public consultation (refer to the draft Public Consultation Policy and Guidelines developed by Queensland Transport and Main Roads), the Ove Arup team will continually monitor the effectiveness of study activities in both raising the community's awareness of the study and its issues and in facilitating the involvement of the community.
To this end, feedback will be sought from the community, including local politicians, through community surveys and interviews to establish how many people know about the study and the DWGs and have become involved in some way. Media monitoring will also occur to gauge the public profile of the study. In addition, the Corridor Reference Group (including its five community members) will monitor the breadth of consultation achieved and the appropriateness of consultation activities.
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4.1 Demographics
The Maroochy Shire, Caloundra City and Caboolture Shire Planning Studies all include demographic profiles. Maroochy Shire and Caloundra City data is based on the 1991 Census, while Caboolture data is based on the 1986 Census and preliminary data from the 1991 Census (as the planning study was prepared in September 1992). Relevant extracts from the planning studies are presented here.
4.1.1 Population Growth And Migration
The Sunshine Coast (comprising Noosa and Maroochy Shires and Caloundra City) has experienced a high rate of resident population growth over the past twenty years. The resident population of the region has increased from under 45,000 in 1971 to over 160,000 in 1991 at an average growth rate of 6.6% per annum (p.a.) over this twenty year period. The Caboolture Shire population for 1991 was just over 70,000.
The Sunshine Coast recorded a net migration level which accounted for more than three quarters of the overall population growth, with Maroochy and Noosa Shire*s experiencing net migration levels of 87% and 90%, respectively.
Of the estimated increase in population in Caloundra City between 1986 to 1991 of 17,200 persons, net migration accounted for approximately 92% of the population increase. Thus only 8% of the increase in population in Caloundra City between 1986 and 1991 was via natural increase. Net migration is the largest component of the population growth of Caboolture Shire. Net migration between 1986 and 1990 was estimated as 15,647 compared to a natural increase of 2,455.
The proportion of people residing in the local authority areas do so predominantly in urban areas. The number of residents living in rural areas in Caloundra was about 16,840 and in Maroochy approximately 16,482 compared with 38,029 and 45,999 urban residents respectively in each local authority area. This indicates a ratio of 70-80% of the total population reside in urban area; based on growth projections to 2011 it is also a number that is not expected to change significantly.
4.1.2 Age/Sex Structure
The age profile of Caloundra City*s population is characterised by the following:
ö over 29% of the population are over the age of 55, which is considerably higher than the state average of 20%, and clearly illustrates the aging population and desirability of the area for retirees; and
ö only 17% of the population is aged between 15 and 29 years, which is considerably lower than the state average of 24%.
Similarly, the age/sex profile of Maroochy Shire*s population is older than the national profile, with proportionally less males than females in age groups from upper teenage years through to the late 50*s and more males than females in the later age groups. Compared with similar data from previous Census counts, the Shire has relatively fewer males than females up until
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the mid-teenage years and again through the 20*s and a compensatory increase in males through the 40*s.
In the main, the large urban centres, such as Maroochydore, Alexandra Headland, Nambour and Buderim, and to a lesser extent Mooloolaba, exhibit older age profiles than the Shire profile whilst rural areas and smaller towns have younger populations than the Australian profile.
Caboolture is predominantly a young population however the Shire average varies with each locality. As an example, Bribie Island has 24.8% of its residents aged over 65 compared with Caboolture which has just 10%. The ratio of males to females is evenly distributed being 49.1% and 50.9% respectively.
4.1.3 Labour Force Characteristics
In 1991 the resident workforce of the whole of the City of Caloundra numbered 17,504 or 42% of Caloundra City*s population. In 1991, there were 35,677 people or about 42.3% of Maroochy Shire*s population who indicated that they were in the labour force.
The level of unemployment on the Sunshine Coast has been consistently recorded higher than the State unemployment rate since 1976. The 1991 unemployment rate was 16.9% compared with the state average of 11.0%.
In comparison with the State figures, Caloundra City has a larger representation of tradespeople and sales and personal service workers. This could be indicative of the high level of activity in the construction and tourism industries.
Caloundra City has a significant proportion of skilled vocational workers, indicating its strength in well qualified tradespeople servicing the construction industry. The City, however, is under-represented in the formally qualified workforce, perhaps indicating that the younger age group leave the area to further their education. This shortfall may be addressed in part, with the establishment of the Sunshine Coast University at Sippy Downs.
The level of qualified persons in Maroochy Shire roughly equates with the national proportion although this is exceeded in the undergraduate diploma and skilled vocational levels and under represented in those with higher degrees. This population appears to be overly represented in the areas of health, social and the development industry and under represented in the areas of business qualifications, physical sciences and engineering.
Qualified persons are not evenly distributed across Maroochy Shire. There are coastal communities where the proportion of qualified persons is well above average and hinterland locations where the figure is significantly less than the national level.
In Maroochy Shire, the industries of agriculture, construction and tourism are over represented as are the occupational groups of tradespersons, sales and personal service workers and under represented in the industries of mining, manufacturing and public administration and defence and the occupational groups of professionals and clerks.
In Caboolture Shire, approximately 55% or 18,289 Caboolture Shire residents were in the workforce with the majority (63%) being male. A higher proportion of Caboolture Shire residents were managers/administrators, tradespersons and labourers and related workers when compared with residents of the Brisbane Statistical Division. The Wholesale/Retail
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industry has the highest proportion of workers followed by Community Services, then Manufacturing, Construction and Agriculture/Forestry/Fishing & Hunting. Between the 1981 and 1986 census, the agricultural industry has declined which reflects the growing urbanisation of Caboolture.
In 1986, approximately 26% of Caboolture Shire residents had formal qualifications, which was slightly lower than the figure of 30% for Brisbane residents; between 1981 and 1986, the proportion of Caboolture Shire residents with formal qualifications grew from 20% to 26%.
4.1.5 Income Levels
Caloundra City has marginally lower incomes received than the state*s average within nearly all the income ranges, with a higher proportion of households with a gross income of less than $20,000 than the state as a whole.
The most significant areas with relatively low household incomes include Beerwah and Caloundra, although in Caloundra, this may relate to the high proportion of aged persons.
An examination of household incomes for the rural, railway towns and coastal areas reveals that the proportion of rural based households with an income of over $40,000 is substantially larger than their urban counterparts.
Both Maleny and Caloundra have a high proportion of households with annual incomes of $12,000 or less.
Beerwah and Landsborough districts have a higher percentage of households with lower incomes than the other areas outlined.
In comparison with the national rates, Maroochy Shire has a high proportion of households with low and medium income levels. A similar pattern exists in the Gold Coast City area, an area of demonstrable capital wealth amongst its residents. Like Maroochy Shire, Gold Coast City has a population skewed towards an older retired profile, with annual incomes likely to be less than for a younger population with more people in the workforce. However, it is postulated that home ownership and freedom from the costs of raising families promotes retirement age households with higher disposable incomes.
This lower than national average income profile is distributed across Maroochy Shire and includes urban and rural areas, coastal and hinterland areas, areas with an older age profile (such as Buderim) and those with a younger age profile (such as Bli Bli).
4.1.6 Household Structure
In Caloundra City the number of occupied private dwellings increased by 49% between 1986 to 1991. Separate dwelling houses still dominate with over three quarters of dwellings being of this type. There has also been a slight increase in multiple dwellings (ie. semi-detached or attached) from 16.6% in 1986 to 19.8% in 1991.
Since 1981 in Caloundra City there has been a considerable increase in the number of smaller households with the proportion of 1-2 households increasing from 50.8% in 1981, to 57.6% in 1986 and to 58% in 1991. A relative decline in the larger households (ie. 5+ persons) has also occurred between 1981 to 1991.
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Average household size or occupancy ratio is defined as the number of persons in occupied private dwellings. Within Caloundra, the average household size in 1991 was approximately 2.64 persons per dwelling.
Occupancy rates are significantly lower in the urban areas within Caloundra City compared with the rural-based communities, reflecting the generally older age profiles characteristic of the urbanised coast. The lowest rates were observed within the Caloundra Coastal area.
The 1991 structure of occupied private dwellings in Maroochy Shire is similar to that of the nation. The vast majority of households remains detached dwellings (73.5% for Maroochy Shire compared with 77.3% for Australia). There appears to be a slight trend away from detached housing in Maroochy Shire which is being off-set by an increase in semi-detached housing (4.3% in 1991 compared with 1.2% in 1986). However, this is still short of the national figure of 7.7%. The Shire also has higher percentage figures for medium density units and units over 3 storeys than Australia (with 11.6% and 3.2% for Maroochy Shire and 9.0% and 2.1% for Australia respectively) indicating the dominance of tourist accommodation in Maroochy.
From an examination of household types, it can be seen that Maroochy Shire has proportionally more couples living together as households than national figures, consistent with higher representations in the older (child free) age groups, and proportionally fewer groups of adults sharing a household, consistent with the lower representations of young adults in late teens and 20s age groups, where these household configurations are usually found.
In Caboolture Shire, household structure varies across the Shire. The areas of Beachmere, Donnybrook, Toorbul, Ningi and Bribie Island are characterised by families where most of the children have left the household and childless couples in the middle to later age groups. These households represent over 50% of the area*s households. Burpengary, Narangba, Morayfield and Deception Bay are characterised as having more than 30% of households comprising families with most children in the 5 - 15 year age group.
The areas in Caboolture Shire experiencing the highest growth rate include Burpengary, Morayfield, Deception Bay and Narangba which is attributed to the net migration of young households seeking lower priced housing.
The average household occupancy rate in Caboolture is around 3.36 persons, however it is considered that this will reduce in line with the state trend towards smaller households. A very high proportion (approximately 92%) of persons in the townships in Caboolture Shire reside in Separate, Semi-detached Row/Terrace houses with a very low proportion (less than 3%) residing in a Flat/Unit.
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4.2 Key Community Resources
4.2.1 Brief Overview
The following section will provide an overview of the community resources in each of the local authority areas within the study area. The descriptions are intended to provide a sketch of current resources and are not intended to be all inclusive. The overview will serve as a basis for further analysis and as the study progresses, specific resources will be more closely defined and identified. For the purpose of this study the initial overview will examine the local authorities of Maroochy, Caloundra and Caboolture.
Key community resources described in the section will cover services and facilities provided by various government, private and voluntary agencies including:
ö Community Services (emergency services, health services, personal/family support and local community facilities);
ö Schools (educational institutions);
ö Religious, Social /Service Organisations;
ö Cultural, Interest and Active Community Groups; and
ö Recreation and Sports.
4.2.2 Maroochy Shire
Maroochy Shire provides of a range of services typical to most local authority areas. It consists of a number of areas varying in character from rural to highly urban with the majority of services based within the major urban centres.
As a Key Regional Centre (SEQ 2000, Maroochy Shire Strategic Plan) for the Sunshine coast, Maroochydore is the preferred location for the provision of community services and facilities for that urban centre and on a regional level. Nambour acts as a Sub-Regional Centre for the Shire and services the town and hinterland through the provision of community resources
Community Services
Emergency services including police, fire and ambulance services are based in the major urban centres including the State Emergency Service which is headquartered in Maroochydore. Police services operate from two police stations east and two west of the Bruce Highway. Ambulance services are provided through a combination of three stations located in Nambour, Maroochydore and Buderim.
Fire prevention throughout the Shire is conducted through Fire Warden Districts with a representative within each of the communities. In total, five fire stations operate from Nambour and Maroochydore with additional stations at Coolum, Kawana and Buderim including a rural fire brigade at Kureelpa.
Additional emergency services are also provided by the Volunteer Coast Guard
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Association in Mooloolaba, Flying Doctors Service in Buderim and the Sunshine Coast Helicopter Rescue Service out of Marcoola.
Nambour General Hospital is the regional hospital for the Sunshine Coast. Additional health services are supplemented with additional facilities in Nambour and Maroochydore including the Buderim Private Hospital in Buderim and the Selangor Private Hospital in Nambour.
Personal and family support, is again, based in the major urban centres but also provided throughout the Shire on a local basis by a number of organisations. Specialised services address the needs of a variety of clients in areas such as the disabled, youth, the aged, aboriginal and family concerns.
Local community facilities provided by the Council are located throughout the Shire. Facilities available to residents are diverse and include public halls, libraries and child care centres. Some facilities such as art galleries or pools however are based primarily in larger urban centres.
Schools (educational institutions)
Educational institutions of all levels including those providing for special needs and pre-school facilities which are available in many communities. There are a total of ten primary, four secondary and a further ten state or private schools in the Shire with a significant number of these institutions located in Nambour and Maroochydore. Tertiary education is provided through three TAFE institutions located largely in Buddina, Maroochydore and Nambour.
Religious, Social /Service Organisations
A wide cross section of religious organisations are located throughout Maroochy Shire. Churches and places of worship in addition to community groups representing a variety of denominations are found in every community with a significant number located in Nambour and Maroochydore.
Likewise, social service clubs and organisations are also actively serving residents in the majority of the local authority areas. Represented among these include the Lions Club, Rotary, Queensland Country Women’s Association, Girl Guides and Scouts.
Cultural, Interest and Active Community Groups
Similarly, local special interest and cultural organisations are well represented throughout the Shire. Garden, environmental conservation, heritage and animal welfare groups are some examples that in addition to a wide variety of hobby clubs enjoy a high rate of participation. Progress and resident action groups are also represented in a number of communities throughout Maroochy Shire.
Recreation and Sports
Recreation and sporting based clubs and organisations including golf, bowls, cricket,
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rugby, soccer and tennis are all well represented by active membership. These groups utilise a variety of facilities such as playing fields, recreational areas and sporting complexes made available to residents. Although these facilities are located in a number of communities, a majority are located within the major urban areas of Nambour and Maroochydore.
4.2.3 Caloundra City
As might be expected, there are a number of similarities that Caloundra City shares with Maroochy Shire with respect to the nature of the services provided to its residents. Like Maroochy Shire, it also consists of a number of areas varying in character from inland rural to more densely urban communities located along the coast. The majority of community resources are maintained in Caloundra, the local authority’s largest urban area.
Community Services
Emergency services including police, fire and ambulance services are located among the suburbs with the State Emergency Service headquartered in Caloundra. Additional state emergency groups are staffed during emergencies at the Glass House Mountains, Kawana and Maleny.
Within Caloundra City there are currently four police stations operating from Kawana, Caloundra, Landsborough and Maleny. A new police station is planned for Beewah to serve the growing community and surrounding townships. Ambulance services are also provided through four centres located the latter communities with the exception of Landsborough.
Fire Brigade Stations are located in five communities including Caloundra, Beerwah, Kawana, Maleny and Mooloolah. The Caloundra Volunteer Coast Guard services the Caloundra coastline and Pumicestone Passage.
There are three hospitals; Caloundra Public Hospital and the Andrea Ahern Private Hospital located in Caloundra and the Maleny Soldiers Memorial Hospital in Maleny. Residents living a distance away from these hospitals could also travel to Nambour General Hospital for treatment. Other health facilities working in association with the hospitals include a community health office and Child Health Clinic in Caloundra.
Community support is carried out by a variety of private, public and volunteer groups that provide personal and family services. Although services are provided throughout the local authority, Caloundra is the base for many groups like the Blue Nurses and Meals on Wheels organisation which serve the entire Caloundra City area. Client areas addressed in the local authority include the disabled, addiction, aboriginal, aged, health and support.
The Council has a major role in the provision of the community facilities which are located throughout Caloundra City. Facilities such as the civic centre, museums, tourist information offices are centrally located within Caloundra with other resources like community halls, child care centres and libraries also existing in a number of smaller communities.
Schools (educational institutions)
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Within Caloundra City there are currently thirteen pre-school, sixteen primary and a total of five high schools including three facilities for special education. The schools themselves are located among the various communities that make up Caloundra City. Further education is provided through a TAFE institution at Minyama and a working model TAFE in Caloundra. The Sunshine Coast University is located in Sippy Downs.
Religious, Social /Service Organisations
With over thirty churches and religious institutions within Caloundra City these organisations fulfil the spiritual needs of a variety of residents. These establishments also serve as a focus for welfare, community and charity activities. Also serving the community with a largely local focus are social service clubs and organisations.
Cultural, Interest and Active Community Groups
A number of local special interest and cultural organisations also enjoy active participation within Caloundra City. A diverse variety of organisations are located in a equally diverse number of communities. As in Maroochy Shire, those represented include gardening, dancing, arts and crafts in addition to environmental conservation, progress and resident action groups.
Recreation and Sports
An extensive range of recreational facilities are available to the community and managed by the Council, private sector and community based organisations. Facilities include major sporting and multipurpose facilities such as sports fields, public pools, boating facilities, environmental parks and reserves. These facilities help in fostering active participation in a number of recreation and sporting based clubs and organisations. Further, there is a large number of private businesses operating tourist attractions, entertainment activities as well as sporting clubs.
4.2.4 Caboolture
Traditionally, the provision of services in Caboolture Shire has been based from Caboolture partly in response to the geographically dispersed nature of the population in the local authority. The planned population of Caboolture Shire is to remain concentrated along the north-south transport corridor (Bruce Highway/railway) with pockets of settlement scattered throughout the remainder of the Shire. As these populations are likely to be too small to warrant provision of some services they will continue to be based out of the larger urban centres.
The South East Queensland 2001 Regional Framework for Growth Management has also identified Caboolture/Morayfield as a Key Centre (SEQ 2000) for the Sunshine coast. This will enforce its’ role as the preferred location for the provision of community services and facilities both for the Shire and at a regional level.
Community Services
Within the local authority emergency services including police, fire and ambulance
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services are located among the Shire’s suburbs with the State Emergency Service headquartered in Caboolture. Within the Shire there are also currently four police stations operating from Caboolture, Bribie Island, Deception Bay and Woodford. Ambulance and fire fighting services are also provided through their respective stations in each of these communities.
Emergency and general health services in the local authority are available through the public hospital in Caboolture. These services are supplemented by a number of health centres, medical centres and practices also located in Caboolture in addition to other communities within the local authority.
Community support is carried out by a variety of private, public and volunteer groups that provide personal and family services. Although the majority of services are provided to the whole of the local authority through groups based in Caboolture, a number of others operate from smaller community centres like Bribie Island and Burpengary.
In the past, Caboolture Shire Council has restricted its’ role in the direct provision of community services to providing recreational services and assistance to community groups in organising their own recreational activities. Although the historical museum is located within Caboolture, other community resources like community halls, child care centres and libraries exist in most of the smaller communities.
Note should be made however that more recently a Social Infrastructure Program has been initiated through which the Council intends to adopt a key role in the planning and co-ordination of social infrastructure in the Shire.
Schools (educational institutions)
Services and activities for children in the Caboolture Shire consist of fifteen pre-schools and kindergartens. Educational facilities include a total of fifteen state primary schools, five secondary schools (including a state school for years 8-10) and three facilities for special education programs. Further education is provided through a TAFE college in Caboolture.
Religious, Social /Service Organisations
With over fifteen churches and religious institutions within Caboolture Shire these organisations both fulfil the spiritual needs of residents and also serve as a focus for welfare, community and charity activities. Also serving the community with a largely local focus are social service clubs and organisations.
Cultural, Interest and Active Community Groups
A number of local special interest and cultural organisations also enjoy active participation within the Shire. There are a combination of support and self-help, leisure and social clubs, arts and crafts and special interest groups.
Groups also exist in support of personal and family services, the disabled, the elderly, youth and child care. Community associations for business, development and residential action groups are active both in Caboolture and number of areas throughout the Shire.
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Recreation and Sports
Organised sport in the Shire is diverse and involves a number of outdoor based recreational activities like golf, angling, bushwalking, gliding, yachting and horse riding. Facilities for indoor and outdoor sports are available including baseball, football, athletics, squash, tennis, gymnastics and cricket. The Council is also active in promoting sport and recreation through indirect contributions such as subsidised rent.
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5.1 Introduction
The Sunshine Coast is recognised as having some of the most scenic places in south east Queensland, as well as a rich cultural history, both Aboriginal and non-indigenous. These scenic and cultural parameters give a strong sense of local identity to many of the communities within the Study Area. This is particularly true of towns like Landsborough, Caloundra, Nambour and Maroochydore.
Although maintaining a strong historical identity, the rapid growth of population within the Sunshine Coast is reaching a critical point and placing pressure on. cultural heritage within the Study Area; and in the same instance changing, perhaps irrevocably, the nature and fabric of its communities. The loss of cultural identity can potentially have both long and short term social impacts. For many small rural communities, it is the local sense of cultural identity that weaves them together and also gives them a sense special place and character.
The Caboolture-Maroochydore Corridor Study (CAMCOS) has identified the need to provide data for the study teams to evaluate cultural heritage sites and places of significance and their legislative status that will influence future planning.
As subconsultants to Ove Arup and Partners, Ann Wallin and Associates Pty. Ltd. are undertaking the analysis and evaluation of the cultural heritage component within the study area. The following report outlines the study objectives, methodology, findings of the archaeological and cultural heritage evaluation.
5.1.1 Scope Of Study
The focus of this section is to provide detailed information outlining any archaeological or historical landscape or known culturally significant sites or places within the Study Area. The Study Area itself will cover a region from Bell's Creek and Landsborough along the coastal plain from Caloundra to Maroochydore, and west to Buderim, Sippy Downs, Woombye and Nambour (see Figure 5.1).
For the purpose of this assessment, the study has been divided into nine different areas:
ö Area 1 Beerburrum, Bell's Creek and south of Caloundra Road ö Area 2 Landsborough ö Area 3 Caloundra and the coastal strip north to Mooloolaba ö Area 4 Maroochydore ö Area 5 Buderim ö Area 6 Mooloolah, Mooloolah River Catchment and Sippy Downs ö Area 7 Eudlo, Palmwoods and Woombye ö Area 8 Nambour ö Area 9 Bli Bli to Coolum
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The scope of this study includes:
ö background research into archaeological and historical material within the Study Area;
ö discussions with key historians to define sites, places and precincts within the Study Area that would be regarded as being significant;
ö Aboriginal community consultation to establish places of indigenous cultural significance; and
ö compilation of a register and mapping these sites and places;
5.1.2 The Nature of Cultural Heritage Assessments
Cultural heritage sites are defined as places of Aboriginal and non-indigenous significance. As such, the objective of this section is to identify specific places and sites which are historically significant based on applied criteria.
The cultural landscape can be defined by two aspects:
ö The first of these is archaeological in nature, in which a site or place should be assessed within its social and environmental setting. Sites need to be considered within a much broader cultural landscape than the boundary of the actual site itself. The are remnants of material culture representing social, ceremonial and spiritual elements of a society within an environmental setting containing sufficient resources to support connected human activities. In many cases sites are all that are left to identify to the present-day population where complex social interactions occurred in places of significance in past times.
Within the Study Area places like the Pioneer Cottage at Buderim are redolent in history as a building but also act as an important centre for promoting an awareness of the richness of the historical fabric, keeping alive the essential historical associations between the events, places and people of today and those of the past.
Thus the importance of cultural heritage assessments is greater than clearly defined maps of historical or cultural significant sites. The broader picture acknowledges a much wider implication of past activity within a region over a long period of time that has contributed immensely to understanding the human way of life in the area.
ö The second aspect of a cultural landscape study should focus on the contemporary significance of a site, place or precinct to the present-day community. Changes to a site, place or precinct’s functions or existence would be felt negatively throughout the community. It is this spread of historical, archaeological and culturally significant sites and places through a specific area that helps to give that community a sense of place, of identity, of difference from other communities.
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On this basis, a complete cultural heritage assessment in its approach, involves several levels of analysis:
ö the application of objective criteria to information on sites, places and precincts; ö an assessment of the nominated site, place or precinct within its total social and environmental setting; ö an assessment of the significance of that site, place or precinct to the present-day community; and ö an outline of the legislative parameters in place to control and safeguard that heritage.
5.2 Cultural And Heritage Legislative Framework
To facilitate the process of cultural resource management, various pieces of legislation exist at both the State and the Federal level. These are:
5.2.1 Federal Legislative Framework
Australian Heritage Commission Act 1975-1990 (National Estate)
Categories of places, sites and precincts that may be included on the Register of the National Estate include the historic environment (the built environment, modified landscapes, archaeological sites); the natural environment; and the indigenous environment (archaeological sites, unmodified features of the natural landscape that are culturally significant). The National Estate is defined as:
... those places, being components of the natural environment of Australia, or the cultural environment of Australia, that have aesthetic, historic, scientific or social significance or other special value for future generations, as well as for the present community [Section 4 (1)].
Eight criteria are given for inclusion in the Register of the National Estate:
Criterion A: Importance in the course, or pattern, of Australia's natural or cultural history.
Criterion B: Possession of uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of Australia's natural or cultural history.
Criterion C: Potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of Australia's natural or cultural history.
Criterion D: Importance in demonstrating the principal characteristics of:
(I) A class of Australia's natural or cultural places; or (II) A class of Australia's natural or cultural environments.
Criterion E: Importance in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics valued by community or cultural group.
Criterion F: Importance in demonstrating a high degree of creative or technical achievement at a particular period.
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Criterion G: Strong or special associations with a particular community or cultural group for social, cultural or spiritual reasons.
Criterion H: Special association with the life or works of a person, or group of persons, of importance in Australia's natural or cultural history.
The Act is an authoritative statement of a building's significance but does not impose any legal obligation on individuals, private organisations, State or Local Governments. Commonwealth authorities however, have very specific responsibilities outlined in the Act.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1986
This Act seeks to protect places, precincts and items of particular cultural significance to indigenous Australians. Particular emphasis is placed on sacred sites and skeletal remains. Although a Federal Act, it can be invoked in a State when that State is judged as derelict of its duty to protect such places under its own legislation.
5.2.2 Queensland Legislative Framework
Cultural Record (Landscapes Queensland and Queensland Estate) Act 1987
This Act is intended to cover items and places from both Aboriginal and historic environments. All evidence of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander culture is designated as Crown Property (Section 33), making it an offence to knowingly destroy or interfere with such places, sites or items without Ministerial approval (Division 3). Cultural heritage consultants and researchers conducting investigations of places or items of significance through assessment, research, excavations, or similar such activities must obtain a prior permit signed by the relevant Minister (Sections 27 to 31).
Queensland Heritage Act 1992
This Act provides for protection of historical material, specifically excluding places of cultural significance solely to Aboriginal tradition or Island custom (Section 61[a]). Criteria for entry to the Heritage Register are:
(a) the place is important in demonstrating the evolution or pattern of Queensland's history;
(b) the place demonstrates rare, uncommon or endangered aspects of Queensland's cultural heritage;
(c) the place has potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of Queensland's history;
(d) the place is important in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a particular class of cultural places;
(e) the place is important in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics valued by the community or a particular cultural group;
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(f) the place is important in demonstrating a high degree of creative or technical achievement at a particular period;
(g) the place has a strong or special association with a particular community or cultural group for social, cultural or spiritual reasons; (h) the place has a special association with the life or work of a particular person, group or organisation of importance in Queensland's history.
The Act requires that an owner of a heritage building who intends to demolish, subdivide, renovate, alter, add to, change the use of, or substantially modify the appearance of a building must seek approval through the Local Authority.
There are a number of status levels for buildings listed by the Department of Environment's Cultural Heritage Branch.
Permanent: Permanently entered in the Queensland Heritage Register
Nominated: Nominated to the Queensland Heritage Register but awaiting appraisal.
Reported: Noted as a reported place only (may not have any information on these places).
Removed: Removed from the Register as there is insufficient significance to satisfy the criteria for entry.
No listing: No information (does not mean they are not necessarily significant)
Council Heritage Listing
As well, buildings within certain areas of the local authorities may have a listing placed on them by the Council itself under either the Town Plan or a number of other restrictions, controlling the demolition or removal of a building within a residential area.
National Trust of Queensland
Listing in the Register of the National Trust imposes an authoritative statement about community feelings regarding the heritage significance of a place. It does not impose any constraints and has no authority to stop the demolition or alteration or use of a building. However, it is generally accepted that National Trust listing is a major indication of the community's recognition of a site's value and need for conservation protection.
5.3 Cultural Significance Criteria
In Australia the Burra Charter (Marquis-Kyle and Walker 1992) guides cultural resource management. First adopted in 1979 by Australia ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments) the Charter has been further elaborated by additional guidelines on the definitions of cultural significance and conservation policy. 'Conservation' is defined as 'the processes of management looking after a place so as to retain its cultural significance' (Article 1.4).
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The Burra Charter defines cultural significance as meaning Aesthetic, historic, scientific or social value for past, present or future generations: (Article 1.2). The definition given for each of these values is (Articles 2.2 to 2.5):
Aesthetic value includes aspects of sensory perception for which criteria can and should be stated. Such criteria may include consideration of the form, scale, colour, texture and material of the fabric.
Historic value encompasses the history of aesthetics, science and society, and therefore to a large extent underlies all of the terms set out in this section.
A place may have historic value because it has influenced, or has been influenced by, an historic figure, event, phase or activity. It may also have historic value as the site of an important event. For any given place the significance will be greater where evidence of the association or event survives in situ, or where the settings are substantially intact, than where it has been changed or evidence does not survive. However, some events or associations may be so important that the place retains significance regardless of subsequent treatment.
The scientific research value of a place will depend upon the importance of the data involved, on its rarity, quality or representativeness, and on the degree to which the place may contribute further substantial information.
Social value embraces the qualities for which a place has become a focus of spiritual, political, national or other cultural sentiment to a majority or minority group.
Article 2.6 of the Guidelines notes that other categories of cultural significance may become apparent during the course of assessment of particular sites, places or precincts.
Each site, place or precinct requires assessment both as an individual entity, and in comparison with other similar sites, places or precincts if they exist. A range of cultural significance values may apply, and Article 5 of the Charter states that 'conservation of a place should take into consideration all aspects of its cultural significance without unwarranted emphasis on any one aspect at the expense of others'.
5.3.1 Aboriginal Legislation
In the case of places and precincts of significance to Aboriginal people, further principles, known as the Guidelines for the Protection, Management and Use of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage Places has been produced by the Australian Cultural Development Office. These are:
1. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have the right to be involved in decisions affecting their cultural heritage, and in the on-going management of their sites and heritage places. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander involvement in management should be continuous.
2. Decisions about cultural heritage places should be made as a result of a conscious and logical planning process which is guided by and maintains the
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cultural significance, taking into account all the management issues affecting the place and identifying the objectives for the management of the place.
3. Identifying which Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people have rights to speak for the place, and/or have interests in the place must be done at the beginning of the decision-making process.
4. The concerns of all interest groups must be taken into account, and the interests of the relevant Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander group are paramount.
5. Decisions should be taken at the local level. Planning should be directed by the relevant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and all main interest groups and organisations should be fully involved. This should be supported by competent technical planning and effective negotiation processes.
6. Actions affecting places should be considered only after the cultural significance of the place has been established and agreed to by its relevant indigenous community or owners, and a Statement of Objectives has been agreed upon.
ö Actions which preserve cultural significance should have top priority. ö Physical intervention should be aimed at conserving or supporting cultural significance. ö Actions taken in looking after places should be reversible, unless the significance of the site dictates otherwise. Do as much as is necessary and as little as possible.
7. Records of places, decisions regarding them and what is done at heritage places should be kept unless it is not culturally appropriate. Storage of and access to information must be determined by the decision-making group.
Bowdler (1984) distinguishes the Aboriginal cultural record into two sections, namely physically identifiable places (which she terms 'archaeological sites', and non-physically identifiable places (sacred or significant sites, areas or parts of the landscape which have not been modified). However, the indigenous community stresses that both types of sites or places may be of cultural significance, on which only they may comment.
5.4 Aboriginal Community Consultation
The coast north of Brisbane was the traditional country of clans and groups. It is thought at present that these groups spoke various dialects of the Gubbi language, although this is open to considerable further research. The ethnographical record is also complicated, and the present-day groups with traditional land interests each have differing names for country and areas of concern. Three groups have nominated as having traditional land interests on the North Coast. These are:
Gubbi Land Council
Gubbi Land Council consists of a number of people who have connections with land within the Gubbi language area. The Gubbi Land Council recognises the country was once divided into smaller family or clan groups, and now attempts to associate individual members of the Land Council with particular focal places or parcels of land within the
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overall Gubbi language area. Thus one member of the Land Council may speak for one particular place; another place will be the responsibility of another person. The division of responsibility is based on the knowledge of where the traditional land interests for each of the members of the Land Council is located.
As a result of this approach, considerable knowledge on lineage and land interests has been accumulated recently by the Land Council, predominantly through the efforts of their past Chairperson, Mr. Alex Bond. A raison d'etre for this research has been a Native Title claim placed on Crown land on Bribie Island, presently before the Native Title Tribunal. Mr. Alex Bond has considerable traditional knowledge of the North Coast area.
Undumbi Corporation
The Undumbi Corporation is based on a family group, whose original land interests were focussed on an area that includes Caloundra, northern Pumicestone Passage, Bribie Island, and Landsborough. On the basis of an important part of the ethnographic record, the Undumbi Corporation describe their Native Title interests as extending from the Noosa River to the north, the Brisbane River to the south, and the mountains, including the Glasshouse Mountains, to the west. The association of this group with Northern Moreton Bay is evidenced by traditional knowledge held by the Elder, Mr. Ken Dalton. Members of this group have maintained continuous association with their traditional land throughout historical times. The Undumbi Corporation is a party to the Gubbi Land Council's Native Title claim for land on Bribie Island.
Gubbi Gubbi Land and Cultural Association
This Association, which is also based on a family group, has a traditional focus on the upper Mary Valley, but on the basis of language, claims traditional rights over the entire Gubbi language area. They have recently put a Native Title Claim over the Glasshouse Mountains.
As well as the three groups with traditional interests, other corporations have been established in the North Coast area. These are composed predominantly of people with historical associations with the area (that is, they have moved into the area and have no traditional land interests), but still have considerable interest in community issues from the Aboriginal perspective of how they affect the land. Some people with traditional associations also belong to some of these organisations. These organisations include Joondiburri at Bribie Island, Caloundra ATSIC, and Maroochydore ATSIC. Each organisation was visited, and information about the CAMCOS project was distributed. It is planned that these people will be involved in consultation in the same ways as other interested groups within the wider community.
Until recently, relations between the three groups with traditional interests in the North Coast have been difficult. The need for consultation for this project, has assisted in facilitating a mediation meeting between Mr. Ken Dalton, of the Undumbi Corporation, and Mr. Alex Bond, of the Gubbi Land Council.
Each representative agreed that both Native Title and cultural heritage issues of the North Coast would be better served by a joint approach, rather than the existing situation of non-communication. In response a formal Steering Committee was created to address cultural heritage issues with representatives from each of the four families with direct
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traditional links with the North Coast area. The new group is known as the Undumbi-Djala Traditional Owners Group.
The intention of the Undumbi-Djala Traditional Owners Group is to be closely involved in all questions of cultural heritage on the North Coast within the following boundaries:
ö Noosa River to the north; ö Coastline and adjacent sea on the east; ö Southern boundary running between Enoggera and Breakfast Creek; and ö Western boundary running from Enoggera, through Petrie, Lake Kurwongbah, west of Caboolture, along the North Coast railway line, west of Landsborough, through the Mooloola Valley, Nambour, Yandina, Eumundi, and then to Tewantin, on the Noosa River.
The CAMCOS Study Area fits entirely within these boundaries.
Discussions regarding the CAMCOS study occurred during both meetings of the traditional owner groups. Intimate involvement during the study process is the aim of the Undumbi Djala alliance. This will be particularly important in Stage Two of the study process, when potential transportation corridors will be examined closely for areas of cultural significance, during the evaluation of constraints for each option.
Since the decision to form the Undumbi Djala Traditional Owners’ Group a further development amongst traditional owners of the northern Moreton Regional is the extension of the Undumbi Djala Traditional Owners Group’s involvement into a Steering Committee that incorporated the groups that claim traditional ownership of this broader area. These groups include the Gubbi Land Council, the Undumbi Corporation and Cultural Association, and the Dungidau Corporation. This Steering Committee not only includes representatives of these groups, but also the Elders and respected spokespersons, who have attended all meetings to date. The intention of this Steering Committee is to provide a forum for discussions and a basis for working together as one group.
Discussions on traditional lands and boundaries are intended for the agenda in the near future. Almost all representatives on the Steering Committee have indicated that the intention is to discuss which family actually represents which area, utilising a similar approach adopted by the Gubbi Land Council. Affinity by language is not considered as a strong traditional tie by many of these people in comparison to affinity directly through association to particular lands.
On this basis, future and ongoing consultation for CAMCOS will be discussed by the Steering Committee for the northern Moreton Region. However, the Undumbi Djala Traditional Owner’s Group, which directly represents the study area by distinct ties with land (in contrast to ties via wider language associations) will most likely be considered responsible for working with the cultural heritage consultant when potential transportation corridors are examined closely for areas of cultural significance.
The relationship between the Steering Committee, the Undumbi Djala Traditional Owners’ Group, and cultural heritage consultants for CAMCOS (Ann Wallin and Associates) is a positive one. This consultancy is the preferred consultant by the Undumbi Djala Traditional Owners’ Group (composed of the Gubbi Land Council and the Undumbi Corporation) and the Dungidau Corporation whom together, make up the majority of the Steering Committee.
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5.4.1 Native Title Representative Body
In Southeast Queensland, the Native Title Representative Body is FAIRA, whose role is to protect the Native Title interests of traditional owners in their area of influence. In some parts of Queensland, the relevant Native Title Representative Body plays a leading role in cultural heritage issues.
However, in southeast Queensland, discussions with the groups with traditional interests always involves requesting input regarding on the level of involvement they require from FAIRA. With respect to the Undumbi-Djala traditional owners, each of the groups involved in the consultation process was provided with this opportunity. Each stated that they wished to speak on their own behalf. This is also the current position of the newly formed Steering Committee for the northern Moreton Region.
Notwithstanding the Undumbi-Djala traditional owners request, FAIRA has been consulted and informed about the project. In the case of the Gubbi Gubbi Land and Cultural Association, FAIRA has indicated that this organisation wished only to be informed of the project progress through FAIRA. On this basis, FAIRA, and Gubbi Gubbi Land and Cultural Association are being kept informed.
Consultation concerning this project with all traditional owner and historically related groups has, to date, achieved a very positive level, that will be continued on throughout the life of the assessment.
5.5 Assessment Of Non-indigenous Cultural Heritage
Historical cultural heritage, covering the period from European arrival to circa 1950s, can be assessed using a quantifiable methodology that provides a solid basis for further planning. This involves a number of criteria, each with a scale or rating, that assesses each site. By adaptation, this can be extended to cover larger areas and towns. This methodology is detailed below, but will be used in field conditions in Stage Two of this project.
In developing criteria of significance for this Study several factors need to be taken into consideration. Firstly, the criteria should reflect the requirements of the Burra Charter, so that results would be comparable and consistent to other assessments throughout Australia. In Australia, the Burra Charter (Marquis-Kyle and Walker 1992) guides cultural resource management. First adopted in 1979 by Australia ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments) the Charter has been further elaborated by additional guidelines on the definitions of cultural significance and conservation policy. 'Conservation' is defined as 'the processes of management looking after a place so as to retain its cultural significance'.
The Burra Charter defines cultural significance as meaning 'Aesthetic, historic, scientific or social value for past, present or future generations').
A range of cultural significance values may apply, and Article 5 of the Charter states that 'conservation of a place should take into consideration all aspects of its cultural significance without unwarranted emphasis on any one aspect at the expense of others'. This makes it a little more difficult when assessing broad areas such as the present study.
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Secondly, and probably most importantly, should be recognised that city councils may already have developed planning strategies that will help identify historical precincts as being significant.
It is also important to recognise the value and importance of community significance and the need to adequately consult with key people within the community that will help identify significant precincts. In this case, we are using the term 'culturally significant precinct' to broad areas defined as containing culturally significant heritage areas.
5.5.1 Criteria For Assessing Heritage Significance
Beyond the essential element of community significance, objectively applied criteria are:
1. Historic Value
Historical time frame (whether an area, such as a town or settlement, has historical antiquity for which Landsborough is a good example). The area has a wide association with events, people, phases and/or activities of significance to the community. A place may have historic value because it has influenced, or has been influenced by, an historic figure, event, phase or activity. It may also have historic value as the site of an important event. For any given place the significance will be greater where evidence of the association or event survives in situ, or where the settings are substantially intact, than where it has been changed or evidence does not survive. However, some events or associations may be so important that the place retains significance regardless of subsequent treatment.
2. Aesthetic Value - Landscape and Architectural
The area has importance because of its place in the natural landscape, its contribution to the visual significance of the local landscape, or its representativeness of the local landscape. A built environment may have architectural significance also based on such concepts. Aesthetic value may be defined as appeal to the visual and sensory perceptions, either by appearance or setting, or because of its connotations with the community's recognition of local importance.
3. Scientific Value
Areas may also have important scientific value. Scientific importance may include the value to research, understanding the human use of the area, its changing political and cultural usage and values, and extraction of technical data. The application of the criteria of scientific value should be constantly re-assessed, as with further research or understanding, the level of significance may change.
4. Representative Value
An area is significant because it is a type that is rare, in the process of being lost, or a singular example. Generally speaking, the more common an area, the lower the level of significance applied. However, in an area where numerous examples of a similar heritage exists, the opportunity to study other elements such as land use or trends through time may be available.
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5. Integrity
The area has maintained at various levels its integrity of appearance or content either from its original construction or development, or from a time when it had particular historical or cultural importance. In this Study, whether a town or settlement has maintained its historical sites and buildings, gardens and street patterns or whether they have been modified by recent development or deterioration.
Each site, place or precinct requires assessment both as an individual entity, and in comparison with other similar sites, places or precincts if they exist.
5.6 Predictive Modelling For Indigenous Archaeology
Before the incursions of non-indigenous settlement, a guarantee can be given that all this country was named and known, and belonged by traditional law to a named family group who could point out exactly where their land began and finished. Although all of the country would have been used and managed to some extent, a focus for occupation would have been on those places where natural parameters (as outlined below) existed that provided greater abundance of essentials such as food, water and shelter.
In the case of indigenous archaeology, predictions take into account factors such as results from other cultural heritage assessments in the general area, wider research projects and landscape archaeology. The latter is based on the understanding that environmental factors may have an important bearing on the distribution of archaeological sites in the landscape.
In composing a predictive study of Aboriginal archaeological material, the natural features of the Study Area, such as topography, geology, vegetation, faunal resources, and availability of fresh water, are documented. Further to this, the natural background is then used as a basis on which known parameters of Aboriginal occupation are superimposed. Those areas in which both the important natural features, and the greatest number of site location parameters are predicted as having the most likelihood of containing archaeological material.
Several archaeological studies aimed at defining site location parameters have been produced in the Moreton Region. From the two existing studies of site location parameters in the sub-coastal Moreton Region (namely Lilley, 1982; and Gillieson, 1981), the following factors appear to be important:
ö the presence of other sites within a 1500 metre radius; ö a preferred vegetation type of open forest for living sites; ö a relationship between the site being in open forest, but having extensive upland open forests and/or closed forests in relative close proximity; ö permanent water within 500 metres; ö altitude below 200 metres above sea level (ASL); ö sandy well drained soils; and ö a preference for sites associated with stream cut ridges and terraces.
A study of site location parameters in the coastal environment of Bribie Island, to the south of the Study Area (Smith 1992), concluded the following factors:
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ö proximity to coastal resources (estuarine and oceanic); ö proximity to fresh water sources; ö proximity to bungwall sources (the rhizome of "bungwall" [Blechnum indicum] was a staple food source); ö elevated ground; ö vegetation types (the majority of sites occur in open forest or open woodland, usually dominated by eucalyptus species and Callitris columellaris.
In 1995 Davies and Salmon (1995) conducted a survey of the eastern portion of the Maroochy Shire, using land units rather than site parameters as the basis for their assessment. Seven distinct land units were defined:
ö Dunes and Beach Ridges; ö Coastal Plains; ö Valleys; ö Hilly Terrain; ö Mountainous Terrain; and ö Plateaux and Escarpments.
In general, the finding on site occurrence and distribution was that coastal plains and hilly and mountainous terrain each exhibited more archaeological sites than other land units, and a wider variety of sites types were found in the coastal plains unit than in other units. Again, data suggested that more artefact scatters would be found on ridge lines and saddles, than on flat country. The use of land units gives archaeologists the ability to subdivide their study areas, and provide comparative data.
The North Coast is located to the south of the Cooloola Region Archaeological Project established in 1983 by McNiven (1984, 1985, 1988, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993), and it is reasonable to extrapolate that McNiven's findings may also be of value in understanding the archaeological record of the Study Area. The reconstruction of prehistoric settlement and subsistence patterns in the Cooloola Region was the primary aim of McNiven's research.
Two major chronological phases, a Recent and an Early Phase, were identified. Within the Cooloola study area, Recent Phase sites (ca 1000-100BP) predominate in the northern sections along Tin Can Bay and the southern area around the lower sections of the Noosa River. These sites, most of which are middens, reveal a "highly specialised exploitation of marine shellfish and fish species" (McNiven 1990:ii)
Associated stone artefact assemblages are dominated by bevel-edged tools and the use of local raw materials. Early Phase sites (ca. 5500-3000BP) are not associated with middens, but are generally composed of stone artefact scatters, dominated by the use of "imported" raw materials and a greater variety of implement types. This has been interpreted as demonstrating a greater emphasis on hunting (e.g., macropods) and less dependence on marine resources.
To the north of the North Coast area, a series of cultural heritage surveys have been conducted in recent years by the cultural heritage consultant. In several cases, these assessments have taken into account substantial land areas, and have provided access to a variety of vegetation zones and land types. Thus the results of these surveys may be grouped to give, at least for that part of the North Coast, an interpretation or picture of indigenous life ways.
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Several large midden complexes, of which at least two have been almost completely destroyed, have been defined in the area to the east of Lake Weyba. An intensive assessment and minor excavation (Wallin 1994a) indicated that shell material had been carried to these middens from high energy beaches to the east, as well as including species that were locally available from Lake Weyba.
From this, the interpretation was determined that for a range of reasons, many of which were highly localised and finely grained in nature, this part of the landscape was a central focus for living. The Lake Weyba middens, as well as other middens along the Noosa River, suggest a semi-sedentary lifestyle with at least a partial dependency on the fish and shellfish resources of the lake and river system. Of course, much more intensive archaeological investigation would be needed before this interpretation can be used as strong evidence.
Despite thorough surveying, large land parcels to the south of Lake Weyba contained a minimal archaeological record. These surveys extended through country where little or no clearing and farming had occurred, and expectations were that the archaeological record would display a relatively high level of integrity. To the south again of these land parcels were known areas of archaeological significance, all focussed on the Maroochy River.
The interpretation of these results was that the open forests that separate the Weyba/Noosa lake river system from the Maroochy River system were of significance for the procurement of some natural resources (e.g., honey from trees, bark, open woodland fauna such as possums and macropods), but those activities that leave a more permanent archaeological record (e.g., occupation sites, "dinner camps", stone artefact manufacture) had focused on the rich riverine environments.
This interpretation was further underlined by the results of archaeological surveying further to the south. During assessment of possible road transport corridors between the Mooloola River and Caloundra Road (Wallin 1994b), it was noted that a focus of the archaeological record occurred around that part of the Mooloola River, while no archaeological material was defined during survey through the Kawana and Currimundi area.
As such, across the wider landscape, an interpretative intensity pattern of the archaeological record of human life ways could be devised, based on the position of known archaeological sites. Areas where an intensity of archaeological sites appears to occur will be noted in section 5.7 titled Predictive Assessment of Study Area.
However, the following points must be stressed:
ö Apparent emphasis on the importance of riverine and other specific environments may be the result of human activities in the more recent Holocene. How people lived within the landscape before this era may have been different. The archaeological record resulting from earlier activities may have been masked by geomorphological change, may be different to more recent examples and may also be more discrete. If McNiven's findings (see above) are relevant for the North Coast, then much of the archaeological record focused on riverine areas is probably less than 1000 years old. Older material may not be focused so intensely on riverine areas.
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ö Due to geomorphological change through time, and development since non- indigenous settlement, much of the archaeological record has either been disturbed or eradicated. This may skew the overall picture of the positioning of archaeological material through the landscape.
ö Archaeological assessment has been inconsistent. While coastal plains have now been the subject of a relatively high level of assessment (Davies and Salmon 1995; Ann Wallin 1995; Ann Wallin 1996; Ann Wallin 1997), inland areas have not received as much attention. When more assessment takes place, further areas where the archaeological record is focussed may emerge.
ö These apparent focal points for the archaeological record must still be seen within the whole landscape, where they were one part of the fabric of indigenous life ways. Equally significant places may not be defined by an archaeological record.
5.6.1 Nature Of Archaeological Record
Prior to European arrival, and for thousands of years previously, Aboriginal people would have used every part of the Study Area for various hunter-gatherer activities. Archaeological sites that might be expected in the Study Area include:
ö Open sites, indicated by stone artefact scatters. The designation of the term "site" usually conveys the presence of a high density concentration of archaeological material. Low density such as the occasional stone flake, is referred to as "background scatter".
ö Scarred trees. Scars are formed by the removal of bark for the manufacture of items of material culture including water containers, canoes and roofing. The extraction of possums and honey using stone axes may also leave distinctive scarring. Trees were also scarred through bark removal and carving to create objects of ceremonial importance and to act as markers.
ö Shell middens and shell scatters. A midden is classified as having vertical stratigraphy or depth such as layers of shell under the surface of the ground and a shell scatter is composed of superficial shell. In the Noosa area, certain favoured species of shellfish could be predicted in middens. These are cockle (Inadara trapezia), mudwhelks (Phrazus ebeninus) and oysters (Saccostrea commercialis) from river and estuarine conditions, and eugarie (Donox deltoides) from the high energy beaches of the open coastline.
ö Quarry sites. In lowlands within the study area, careful searches will be made for further exposure of silcrete cobbles of the variety noted near Lake Weyba.
ö Burial sites. From ethnographic sources, it is fairly clear that in recent prehistory the communities of the North Coast of Southeast Queensland practised mortuary rituals that were usually finalised by the placing of bones in trees (see Petrie 1983:30-35). However, traditional ground interments and cave burials may also have occurred, and records and oral traditions occasionally indicate the existence of burials taking place after contact with European settlers.
ö Petroglyphs. Petroglyphs are culturally engraved motifs in sandstone. Various
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techniques used for constructing petroglyphs include abrading, pecking, prebading and scratching.
5.6.2 Cultural Significance
As indicated, the archaeological record is only one part of the study of an indigenous landscape. Through discussions with the Undumbi-Djala Traditional Owners Group, additional places, areas and landscapes of significance may also be defined.
During Stage Two of the study process, the Undumbi-Djala Traditional Owners Group will be been retained in a consulting capacity. This is intended to facilitate a more complete understanding and identification of potential areas of significance
5.7 Predictive Assessment Of Study Area
5.7.1 Area 1: Beerburrum, Bell's Creek And South Of Caloundra Road
This is a very sensitive area from the perspective of an intensive archaeological record. The area around Bells Creek contains numerous known midden sites, camp sites, scarred trees and bora grounds. The plentiful resources provided by the numerous swamps in the area, backing onto Pumicestone Passage were also conducive to a sedentary population, resulting in a rich and varied archaeology. Just west of the highway, off Bells Creek Road, is an important stone arrangement. Higher knolls may also contain archaeological sites. Axe grinding sites are recorded along several of the smaller creeks. It is predicted that field surveys would produce a number of as yet unrecorded sites.
Beerburrum has continued to maintain much of its original street plan and has preserved several of its earlier buildings - such as the Old Bakery and the hall. The tree-lined avenue in Anzac Avenue is considered significant.
Beerwah also contains several buildings which date back to the 1890's and the early period of European settlement.
Campbellville, on Coochin Creek, is a very important historical and archaeological site dating from the period of the timber-cutters.
Meridan Downs was one of the oldest pastoral leases on the Sunshine Coast. An early homestead associated with the Westaway family stands near the Caloundra turnoff.
The Mooloolah Cemetery contains numerous early pioneer graves.
5.7.2 Area 2: Landsborough
With numerous buildings within it considered significant, Landsborough is one of the best- preserved historical towns in southeast Queensland. Of particular importance are the church and Dyer House. The historical location of Landsborough is also significant being one of the major centres north of Brisbane before Gympie. It is a railway town and the railway is a crucial element in the development of the town. North of the town is a historical rail tunnel. Known from the area are several historical cemeteries, the hotel, hall, church, private homes and home factories.
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Landsborough appears to be another focal point for archaeological material. Near to Landsborough is the well-known axe-grinding site at Little Rocky Creek on the Old Gympie Road. It is predicted that other axe-grinding sites would be found along streams and creeks in the immediate area. In close proximity was a bora ground (now destroyed) and burial caves. An archaeological survey in State Forest (Wallin 1995) near to Landsborough defined some scarred trees, but it is predicted that further archaeological work will define further sites in this area.
5.7.3 Area 3: Caloundra And The Coastal Strip North To Mooloolaba And East Of Mooloolah River
The ridge line along Caloundra Road may predictively be regarded as likely to contain significant material following reports of it being an old Aboriginal pathway. However, although the coastal strip north of Dicky Beach through Wurtulla has in other cultural heritage assessments proved unusually poor in archaeological material, Caloundra Headland and Point Cartwright both are considered culturally important.
Caloundra township itself, contains a number of buildings that are of significance
The Mooloolah River is a very archaeologically sensitive area, with numerous middens, scarred trees and other sites, and appears to be a focal point for the archaeological record.
5.7.4 Area 4: Maroochydore
Maroochydore itself has been heavily modified in recent times. The area around the estuary of the Maroochy River was highly significant to Aboriginal people. Numerous sites were once in the vicinity, but many have been destroyed by development. It is predicted that any major development in the area would need to be cognisant that sites could be located.
The Maroochy River itself is also very important, both from an Aboriginal perspective and based on its historical associations. Old rafting grounds (sites associated with the early timber industry) are located at a number of places. Picnic Point and Goat Island are considered significant.
Maroochydore itself from a historical aspect has few heritage buildings remaining of significance. Pettigrew, the timber baron, had a mill at the mouth of the river.
5.7.5 Area 5: Buderim
Buderim is a tight enclave, a historical precinct clearly defined by its topographical position. It has important Aboriginal significance and has maintained its historical landscape. The town contains several significant buildings, including historical sugar mill sites, Pioneer Cottage, and historical houses. Several archaeological sites are known from the mountain.
The historical tramway, parts of which still remain, ran from Buderim to a connection with the North Coast Railway.
5.7.6 Area 6: Mooloolah, Mooloolah River Catchment And Sippy Downs
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This is a very rich archaeological area. The Mooloolah River catchment contained several bora rings and other sacred sites, and act as evidence of the importance the river held to Aboriginal people. Sippy Creek also had bora rings recorded. The whole area has been poorly documented and predictively would be considered significant.
The site of Friends Farm, one of the earliest communal collectives in Queensland, is also in this area. Early sugar production was located at the old sugar mill between Sippy Downs and Kawana Waters.
Coach House, the home of Edward Landers, and the oldest remaining house in the Shire, was recently demolished near Mooloolah.
Tunnelbridge Road is reputed to be a former Aboriginal pathway to Baroon Pocket.
5.7.7 Area 7: Eudlo, Palmwoods And Woombye
These towns have important railway, timber and sugar historical associations. They have preserved a number of significant buildings including halls and schools which are considered culturally significant. Numerous axe-grinding sites, scarred trees, bora grounds, camp sites and other sites are known from the area.
Kiels Mountain contains the spiritual centre of Avatar's Abode and numerous Aboriginal quarry sites and axe-grinding grooves.
Rafting Grounds were located on Eudlo Creek.
5.7.8 Area 8: Nambour
Nambour is a railway and sugar town with older timber associations. It contains a number of important historical sites. The area contains an important historical precinct around the Moreton Sugar Mill in Mill Street and another precinct on the Gympie Road between Reilly Street and Mitchell Street where three early churches were located.
Nambour was also known as an important Aboriginal ceremonial area. Bora grounds are located in the area. It is predicted that cultural heritage will be located along the banks of Petrie, Paynters and Eudlo Creeks.
An historical cemetery is located on the Nambour-Bli Bli Road.
5.7.9 Area 9: Bli Bli To Coolum
This is a very rich archaeological area. The Maroochy River catchment contains several bora rings and other sacred sites, evidence of the importance the river held to Aboriginal people. Numerous middens, campsites and scarred trees have been reported from the area.
Mount Ninderry, Mount Coolum and Dunethin Rocks are Dreaming sites with rich mythological significance.
Petrie Creek may predictively be expected to contain significant sites, as well as having
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important historical associations.
5.7.10 Summary
The Study Area is a complex and highly diverse region containing riverine, estuarine, montane and wallum environs. This wealth of habitats has produced a rich cultural heritage, centred predominantly along rivers, ridge lines and mountains. Wetlands associated with the Maroochy and Mooloolah River catchments provided adequate food resources. As a result, it is predicted that numerous archaeological sites and cultural heritage will be located during field work in the second and third stages of the study. Potential corridors should attempt to skirt wetlands and culturally significant sites like Mounts Ninderry and Coolum.
Buderim is considered an important historical enclave and any potential corridor through this area would need to consider several historical sites and streetscapes.
Landsborough is considered to have major historical significance. It has preserved much of its original streetscape and several major buildings, any disruption of the immediate town centre should be avoided. As well, the important wildlife green corridor along Little Rocky Creek contains numerous places of Aboriginal heritage.
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6.1 Noise/Air Quality
Information regarding the determination of evaluation criteria was derived from the following sources :
ö Draft Environmental Protection (Air) Policy, 1995, Department of Environment. ö Interim Guidelines and Technical Notes for Railway Corridor Noise, Queensland Rail. ö AS 2670 "Evaluation of Human Exposure to Whole Body Vibration". ö AS 2187.2 Appendix J "Gravel Vibration and Air Blast".
Information regarding the location of sensitive sites was obtained from the following:
ö Recent aerial photography; and ö Council zoning maps.
6.2 Sensitive Receptors
For the purpose of evaluating noise and air quality, sensitive areas will be defined including local rural and urban settlements within the study area. Examples of sensitive receptors include residential, hospital and educational land use within these local settlements.
Potential noise, vibration and air quality factors will be evaluated as the study progresses and the potential corridors are further refined. Specific impacts involving noise and air quality will be closely assessed and detailed.
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7.1 Introduction
As subconsultants to Ove Arup and Partners, Gillespies Asia Pacific have been commissioned to undertake an analysis and evaluation of the landscape and townscape components and characteristics within the study area. The following section outlines the study objectives, methodology, findings of the landscape assessment, overall landscape character and identifies those areas capable of absorbing change.
7.2 Objectives Of The Study
Objectives of the study include:
ö To establish a basis for determining the impact of alternative route proposals on the landscape and townscape qualities of the study area.
ö To identify significant constraints arising from the landscape and townscape values which may impact upon overall corridor selection and corridor design parameters.
ö To identify opportunities which include the following:
- Retention of landscape character; - Maximisation of the capacity of the landscape/townscape to absorb/accommodate change; - Retention of townscape qualities which reinforce a ‘sense of place’ and the unique attributes; - Maximisation of the potential views and scenic experience from and toward the corridor; and - Maximisation of opportunities for entry zones and gateways.
7.3 Definition Of Terms
It is important to establish an understanding of the various terms often used in assessments. These include the following:
Landscape and townscape assessment: This is a blanket term which refers to the process of description, analysis and evaluation of a specific area of landscape and townscape.
Landscape Description: A process of collecting and presenting information about the landscape and townscape in a systematic manner.
The Natural Landscape: The natural landscape is comprised of the skeleton (landform) and clothing (land cover). The natural landscape therefore, refers to the unaltered, preserved or protected landscape which includes terrain, topography and vegetation.
The Traditional Landscape: The natural landscape is constantly being altered as man interacts with and adapts the landform and land cover to suit current needs including factors such as development pressure and agriculture. It is the results of this interaction
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and alteration upon the landscape (including development) which is referred to as the Traditional Landscape.
The Historic Landscape: The historic landscape refers to the elements of the landscape which are representative of the cultural history of townships. The railway line in Mooloolah can be seen as an element of the township with a heritage value, representative of the social, cultural and economic role the railway line once fulfilled.
Landform: Landform characteristics are comprised of a variety of elements such as topography, valley floors and walls, prominent ridge lines, local peaks and enclosed water areas. Landform is also the key determinant of landscape character.
Land cover: Land cover includes riverine forest vegetation with interlocking canopies, intact forests and cleared or agricultural zones.
Land units: These are the zones which represent an homogenous combination of landform elements.
Landscape Analysis: Involves the separation of a landscape into its component parts (geology, geomorphology, topography) in order to discover the general principles underlying its evolution and gain an insight into how the landscape is made up.
Landscape Evaluation: Landscape evaluation is the process whereby values are attached to a particular landscape type, or landscape feature by reference to specific criteria. Some factors are quantitative in their nature while others are qualitative although no less important.
Pinch points and gateways: Adjacent or opposite landform which resembles “fingers” and create the visual and physical impression of a natural entrance or gateway.
Intact Forest: Forest vegetation with an interlocking canopy and consistent landscape cover.
Remnant Forest Vegetation: Forest vegetation with an intermittent canopy cover and an inconsistent landscape cover.
Enclosed water elements: water feature confined by the topography with a predominantly continuous canopy cover.
Open water form elements: water features which are not confined by topography with a predominantly fractured canopy cover.
7.4 Methodology
Landscape assessment is the general term for the process whereby landscapes and townscapes are described, classified and evaluated in terms of land cover, landform, land units, topographical features and settlement patterns. The assessment stage includes a detailed landscape description which is the process whereby the site information, characteristics and analysis concerning the landscape is collected in a systematic manner and is largely achieved through desktop/overlay analysis and field surveys.
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The following is an outline of the methodology undertaken to assist in the development of transportation corridor evaluation criteria:
ö Analysis and identification of the landcover elements including vegetation, water features and urban development. ö Analysis and identification of landform elements including terrain, ridge lines, regional peaks, gateways and water elements. ö Analysis and identification of the landscape character including urban development patterns, green edges, regional containers, valley floors and walls, marshland areas and water courses. ö Analysis and identification of the character units including native landscape units define the land (usually terrain) and views. ö Analysis and identification of the managed landscape which indicates the use of the land. ö Overlay of the analysis including landscape character, character units, landcover and landform elements to identify those areas and features (such as intact forest vegetation, steep terrain, riverine vegetation and water courses) which would be adversely affected by development of a road corridor (sensitive to change) and those areas (such as cleared, developed or agricultural land) which would be capable of absorbing further development and therefore less sensitive to change.
This analysis and subsequent evaluation of the landscape and townscape will determine zones of opportunities and constraints and will assist in the development of evaluation criteria whilst recognising its capacity to accept development, new uses and change. Owing to the broadscale nature of this first stage of evaluation, further detailed evaluation will be undertaken following the identification of corridor options during the second stage of the study process. Upon the identification of corridor options, a detailed analysis of the townscape components will be undertaken and criteria developed.
7.5 Landscape Assessment
7.5.1 Landform Elements
The Landform Elements map (Figure 7.5a) illustrates the regional landform of the study area and indicates nine dominant landform characteristics:
ö Landform below 25m; ö Landform between 25 - 50m; ö Landform above 50m; ö Prominent ridge lines; ö Significant regional peak; ö Local Peaks; ö Pinch points or gateways; ö Enclosed water elements; and ö Open water elements.
The steeper terrain (over 50m and up to 400m) of the ridge line is created by the Blackall, D’aguilar and Conondale Ranges and forms a strong visual and physical topographical wall to the valley basin and floor within the study area. Rural and urban
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development, which extends eastward to the east line is contained by the ridge line of the Blackall, D’aguilar and Conondale Ranges.
Development to the east of the ridge line is contained by the valley walls to the west and as a consequence, widely distributed settlement occurs on the valley floor and foreshore. By contrast, settlement patterns such as Maleny, Montville, Mapleton, Eudlo, Mooloolah and Landsborough within the mid-slopes and on the ridge line are relatively consolidated, constrained by the topography of the area.
Regional and local peaks which include the Glass House Mountains, Mount Coochin and Mount Coolum contribute to an interesting and varied topographical skyline. The terrain of the foothills and midslope (between 25- 50m) forms a pattern of topographical ‘fingers’ which form pinch points.
Low lying land (below 25m) is visually contained by the mid-slopes and is characterised by a variety of landscape features in the foreground and middle ground such as gateways, local and regional peaks and water elements and contained by the surrounding hills as a constant backdrop. Within this area, the water elements (comprised of the Mooloolah and Maroochy rivers, Eudlo and Petrie creeks and tributaries with canopy cover ranging from intact interlocking to intermittent and open) provide the local physical and visual containment at ground level in the eastern portion of the study area.
7.5.2 Land Cover Elements
On a regional level, land cover such as the extensive intact forest vegetation and cleared agricultural land (Figure 7.5b), largely reinforces the dominant landforms (low-lying terrain to the east and mountainous ranges to the west) of the area. Land cover in the low-lying areas has been highly modified and much of the land cleared for agricultural uses. The Land cover Elements plan illustrates the extent of cleared and agricultural land and also the range of land cover types. These can be summarised as follows:
ö Riverine vegetation with continuous interlocking canopy (such as the Mooloolah and Maroochy Rivers and Eudlo Creek); ö Riverine vegetation with intermittent streambank canopy cover (such as the lower reaches of the Mooloolah and Maroochy Rivers and Eudlo Creek); ö Remnant forest stands on the valley floor (such as south of the Mooloolah River and north of Maroochy River); ö Extensive intact forest cover (such as the State Forests and National Parks); ö Fractured remnant forest (such as the midslopes of the Blackall Ranges); ö Cleared or agricultural zone (behind coastal development); ö Consolidated or linear urban development (such as townships located in the hinterlands of the ranges); and ö Widely distributed urban development (such as located along the coastline).
7.5.3 Ridge Line And Mid-slope Land Cover
The Land cover Elements map illustrates the extent and level of vegetation cover throughout the study area. Vegetation cover is extensive and intact on the ridge line and within the State Forest and National Parks which is evident largely in the south and south-eastern corner of the study area (refer extensive intact vegetation on Landcover
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elements map). However vegetation on the lower terrain (east of the ridge line and below 25m encompassing the coastline, lower reaches of the Maroochy and Mooloolah rivers, Eudlo and Petrie creeks and including Bli Bli and Sippy Downs) and foothills is largely fractured (as opposed to intact) remnant forest with an intermittent canopy cover . On the lower to mid-slopes of the western side of the ridge line, (including and west beyond Maleny) the vegetation cover is predominantly fractured forest with smaller scale rural and rural residential areas.
7.5.4 Valley Floor Land Cover
Within the study area the land cover of the valley basin, which extends to the eastern foreshore, is characterised by large areas of cleared, farmed or developed land and is representative of a traditional landscape. There are isolated patches of intact vegetation however these are confined to regional peaks such as the Glass House Mountains, Mount Coolum and Mount Coochin. Reinforcing the route of the Maroochy River and its tributaries, there is a variety of forest and riverine vegetation providing a mixture of interlocking, continuous and intermittent canopy cover. Riverine vegetation of the Mooloolah River, creeks and tributaries ranges from intermittent canopy cover to totally cleared areas. Vegetation on the low-lying land is primarily agricultural (predominantly sugarcane) and is confined to land below 25m.
7.5.5 Settlement Patterns
Urban settlement patterns of those small scale townships on the ridge line and mid- slopes (such as Landsborough, Maleny, Montville, Mooloolah and Eudlo, refer Land cover Elements map) are ribbon-like with a linear as opposed to concentric development focus. Settlement patterns within these townships (such as Montville, Mapleton, Landsborough and Mooloolah) primarily follow the alignment of the main street which is representative of the historic importance of road corridors and passing trade. The townscape character is relatively intact with small scale development, (when compared to development on the coastline), narrow streets, a dominant vegetation presence and village atmosphere.
Townships such as Yandina, Buderim and Nambour area located on the mid-slopes and foothills of the eastern side of the ridge line and have a central as opposed to linear development focus. The central physical form of these towns may be attributed to the road and railway corridors (such as the railway line in Mooloolah) which traversed the undulating topography and once provided a social and economic destination focus around which subsequent development occurred. The commercial core reinforced the social and economic focus of these townships while residential settlement occurred on sizeable properties in the surrounding hills.
The primary land cover of the low-lying land foreshore is rural-residential and agriculture and along the coastline, urban development. The landscape is predominantly modified and is therefore a traditional landscape. The diversity in landuses which ranges from intact forest cover, riverine vegetation to agricultural land and developed urban areas along the coastline contributes to a visually interesting landscape character.
7.5.6 Overall Landscape Character
The overall landscape character of the study area is a culmination of the landcover and
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landform elements which includes urban development, valley floor and walls, local and regional peaks, vegetation cover and water elements. Overlaying the analysis of these elements highlights natural and cultural landscapes, those areas which are sensitive to change and those rich in landscape diversity and therefore generally more capable of absorbing change.
Landscape Character Map (Figure 7.5c) illustrates the range of units and features which are summarised below:
ö Urban development and town settlement; ö Distinctive green edge and backdrop; ö Distinctive regional character; ö Pinch points and gateways; ö Small, medium and large scale settlement patterns; ö Small scale settlement and agriculture; ö Small scale mid-slope agriculture and cleared land; ö Large scale agriculture, cleared and developed land; ö Riverine vegetation with an interlocking canopy; and ö Meandering water courses with a distinctly lush, “green” character.
7.5.7 Townscape Character
Urban settlement patterns which occur on the ridge line include Maleny, Montville and Mapleton whilst settlement on the eastern mid-slopes include Beerburrum, Glass House Mountains, Beerwah, Landsborough, Mooloolah, Eudlo, Nambour and Yandina.
Within these smaller scale townships which occur in the ridge line, mid-slopes and foothills, the following characteristics have been identified:
ö A small scale, historic shopping and commercial core usually focused on an important transport link, for example, a major road (such as Montville) or a transport corridor (such as Mooloolah with the railway line).
ö Relatively homogenous residential areas within the commercial core where the traditional timber and iron Queenslander style of architecture predominates.
ö Larger rural-residential land units surrounding the commercial development.
ö More recent residential subdivisions areas where local identifying character elements are less apparent.
ö Local schools, churches, community centres and hotels are usually located within close physical proximity of each other. However upgrading of major road thoroughfares and subsequent highway traffic through the commercial core have often heavily impacted upon the physical form and accessibility of the town centres.
ö Urban settlement and development within the foothills and foreshore, including Caloundra, Buderim, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore and Coolum is more intense and also more sprawling than the townships within the Ranges in which development is constrained by topography.
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7.5.8 Defined Character Units
The Character Units Map (Figure 7.5d) identifies landscape character units including:
ö The native landscape including those factors which define the land irrespective of European presence, utilisation and perception; ö The visual landscape including those features of landform, views and enclosure which effect human spatial perceptions and can be relatively valued; ö The managed landscape including those factors which indicate the use of the landscape.
7.5.9 Capacity to Absorb Change
The Capacity to Change Map (Figure 7.5e) represents an overlay of the analysis including the landscape character, character units, landcover and landform elements and identifies those areas and features such as an intact forest vegetation, steep terrain, riverine vegetation and water courses) with the least and most capacity to absorb the change. When developing potential corridor options, the Capacity to Change Map will assist in identifying those areas which are most sensitive to change and conversely, those areas least sensitive to change or which might be less adversely affected by the development of a transport corridor.
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8.0 References
8.1 Cultural Heritage References
Ann Wallin and Associates Pty. Ltd. 1995(a) Cultural Heritage Assessment of a Potential Rural Residential Development, Lake Weyba, North Coast, Southeast Queensland. Unpublished report.
Ann Wallin and Associates Pty. Ltd. 1995(b) A Cultural Heritage Assessment of Two Potential Sewerage Works Sites, Landsborough. Unpublished report.
Ann Wallin and Associates Pty. Ltd. 1996(a) Cultural Heritage Assessment of the Nundah Shopping Centre, Sandgate Road, Brisbane. Unpublished report.
Ann Wallin and Associates Pty. Ltd. 1996(b) Cultural Heritage Assessment of the Proposed Lakelands Development, South Peregian, North Coast. Unpublished report.
Ann Wallin and Associates Pty. Ltd. 1997(a) An Impact Management Plan and Cultural Heritage Assessment of the Proposed South East Busway, Brisbane CBD to Logan Motorway. Unpublished report.
Ann Wallin and Associates Pty. Ltd. 1997(b) Cultural Heritage Assessment of the Proposed Coolum Ridges Development, Coolum, North Coast. Unpublished report.
Ann Wallin and Associates and Darumbal-Noolar Murree Aboriginal Corporation 1997 A Cultural Heritage Assessment of Helensvale, Alton Downs, Fitzroy Shire, Central Queensland. Unpublished report.
Bowdler, S. 1984 Archaeological Significance as a Mutable Quality. In S. Sullivan and S. Bowdler, eds., Site Surveys and Significance Assessment in Australian Archaeology. Canberra: Department of Prehistory, Research School of Pacific Studies, Australian National University.
Davies, S.J. and M. Salmon 1995 An Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment of the Eastern Portion of the Maroochy Shire. Unpublished report, UQASU.
Gillieson, D.S. 1981 Aboriginal Sites of the Albert Valley, Southeast Queensland. Unpublished Report, Department of Geography, University of Queensland.
Hughes, P.J. and M.E. Sullivan 1984 Environmental Approaches to Assessing Archaeological Significance. In S. Sullivan and S. Bowdler, eds., Site Surveys and Significance Assessment in Australian Archaeology. Canberra: Department of Prehistory, Australian National University.
Lilley, I. 1982 A Finger on the Pulse: Analysis of Site Location Patterns in Subcoastal Southeast Queensland. Unpublished MA Thesis, Department of Anthropology, University of Queensland.
Marquis-Kyle, P. and M. Walker 1992 The Illustrated Burra Charter. Sydney: Australian ICOMOS Inc.
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McNiven, I. 1984 Initiating Archaeological Research in the Cooloola Region, Southeast Queensland. Unpublished BA (Hons) Thesis, University of Queensland.
McNiven, I. 1985 An Archaeological Survey of the Cooloola Region, S.E. Queensland. Queensland Archaeological Research 2:4-37.
McNiven, I. 1988 Brooyar Rockshelter: A Late Holocene Seasonal Hunting Camp. Queensland Archaeological Research 5:133-60.
McNiven, I. 1990 Prehistoric Aboriginal Settlement and Subsistence in the Cooloola Region, Coastal Southeast Queensland. Unpublished PhD Thesis. Department of Anthropology, University of Queensland.
McNiven, I. 1991 Settlement and Subsistence Activities Along Tin Can Bay, Southeast Queensland. Queensland Archaeological Research 8:85-107.
McNiven, I. 1992 Sandblow Sites in the Great Sandy Region, Coastal Southeast Queensland: Implications for Models of Late Holocene Rainforest Exploitation and Settlement Restructuring. Queensland Archaeological Research 9:1-16.
McNiven, I. 1993 Tula Adzes and Bifacial Points on the East Coast of Australia. Australian Archaeology 36:22-33.
Smith, A.D. (Tam) 1992 An Archaeological Site Location and Subsistence-Settlement Analysis of Bribie Island, Southeast Queensland. Unpublished BA (Hons) Thesis, University of Queensland.
Wallin, Ann 1994a A Report on an Intensive Survey and Excavation, Noosa Springs Development, Lake Weyba, Noosa. Unpublished report, Turnix Pty. Ltd.
Wallin, Ann 1994b A Cultural Heritage Assessment of Three Potential Road Corridors, Caloundra Rd to the Sunshine Highway. Unpublished report, Turnix Pty. Ltd.
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