Heritage Management and Community Connections—on The Rocks

Abstract

Evolving heritage management practice in Australia is increasingly seeking the participation of people who have special connections with heritage places and also to value community-held knowledge. Cultural significance is now generally understood to encompass a wide array of values expressed in uses, associations and meanings as well as through physical fabric. Changes to the Australia ICOMOS Burra Charter in 1999, which reflect this understanding and seek inclusive participatory processes for stakeholders, have implications for heritage practitioners, as they require the practitioner to be a reflective facilitator, not just an expert. The process used in preparing a Heritage Management Plan for the historic ‘Rocks’ precinct in Sydney, Australia, used diverse and flexible techniques to connect with and involve residents and other stakeholders. The project demonstrates effective application of the more inclusive principles of the revised Burra Charter.