Towards GIS Mapping and Spatial Modelling of Archaeological Sites in the Southeast Queensland Bioregion

Mike Rowland,Malcolm Connolly

doi:10.25120/qar.13.2002.67

Abstract

<p>In the early 1980s a strategic approach to the description, assessment and management of cultural heritage places using biogeographical boundaries was developed in Queensland. A recent refinement correlates sites on the Environmental Protection Agency's Indigenous Sites Database with environmental variables for the Moreton Basin Province of the Southeast Queensland Bioregion. Archaeological sites in the province are correlated with distance to water, elevation and particular geological and vegetation types. These correlations may reflect either real relationships or biases in the data. Preliminary correlative models developed are not considered substitutes for further inventory surveys and ongoing model refinement. The development of such models is considered useful in providing initial understanding of site distribution patterns.</p>

Highlights

Cultural heritage managers need to develop a proactive strategic focus
We focus on the Moreton Basin Province in an attempt to develop a correlative model of archaeological site distribution
Moreton Basin Province The Moreton Basin is predominantly formed in Jurassic and Triassic-Jurassic sandstones

Summary

Introduction

Cultural heritage managers need to develop a proactive strategic focus. Such an objective requires an understanding of past human behaviour, past and present landscapes plus human impacts on them, and the strengths and weaknesses of current site databases. A strategic focus requires the development of suitable modelling tools that incorporate both environmental and cultural factors. In Queensland, a strategic approach to the description, assessment and management of cultural heritage places using biogeographical boundaries was attempted in the early 1980s. It developed in response to a perception that any attempt to describe, let alone assess the significance of cultural resources at a State-wide scale would be extremely difficult (if not impossible) given Queensland’s considerable area (1.7 million km).

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion