Cossack and Jarman Island Conservation Management Strategy
- Client Name
- Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH)
- Location
- Western Australia
Challenge
This project required the preparation of two Conservation Management Strategies (CMS) for the Cossack (Bajinhurrba) Townsite Precinct and the Jarman Island Lighthouse and Quarters to guide the priority and sequencing of conservation and maintenance actions for the heritage buildings for a ten–year period from 2023 to 2033.
Cossack Townsite comprises multiple heritage buildings and archaeological sites dating from the 1870s while Jarman Island contains a decommissioned cast–iron lighthouse, ruined masonry lighthouse keepers’ quarters, and associated infrastructure and archaeological sites, dating from 1888.
Both sites are included on the Heritage Council of Western Australia’s State Register of Heritage Places.
Solution
Element Advisory, now SLR undertook an extensive site based investigation of more than more than fifteen heritage structures and their associated contextual components in collaboration with the MEnD Consulting structural team and the Ngarluma and Yindjibarndi Foundation, who in 2023 were active caretakers of the townsite. Our team then prepared a detailed Building Condition Assessment report and associated written and documentary guidance to inform a prioritisation of conservation and maintenance works over the next ten-year period. The final report included detailed quantity surveyor costing breakdowns to inform future budgeting and works allocations.
Impact
Our team’s ability and expertise in understanding traditional construction and building conservation priorities enabled production of a clear and comprehensive conservation and maintenance program for the place. The CMS reports captured a detailed understanding of the current condition, risks and conservation priorities for each of the structures, and provided recommendations for remedial requirements and future works considerations with due regard to the cultural heritage values and significance of the place.
Our team successfully provided a clear and actionable strategy for the site which will guide and enable the client to make clear and informed works and budgetary decisions to ensure the active conservation of this unique heritage place into the future.
