Seal Rocks midden site assessment continues

Published on 17 September 2020

MidCoast Council is continuing to work with Heritage NSW to progress assessment of the heritage value of an Aboriginal midden site recently discovered at Seal Rock’s Number One Beach.

The middens were identified during a ground survey at the reserve in December 2019, prior to commencing improvements to beach access, shower facilities and picnic tables on the site. Plans for the improvement works were put on hold, with the reserve closed to the public.

Marking traditional Aboriginal eating grounds, middens are an important link to the area’s heritage and traditional culture. 

During this year, Council’s consultant worked with registered Aboriginal parties in the Seal Rocks area, completing a preliminary Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment on the site.

“Council is working with Heritage NSW and our consultant in locating and recording the extent of the midden site, this may include some ground testing, which we hope to complete by December 2020,” said Council’s Manager of Community Spaces, Recreation and Trades, Dan Aldridge.

NSW Heritage will then review the findings, and advise whether a permit for the improvement works can go ahead on site, and what restrictions may apply.

The proposed project works include earthworks, drainage, turf landscaping, fencing, shower/access ramp concreting and replacement of picnic tables, at an estimated cost of $120,000 - $150,000.

Council will continue to keep the community updated until the assessment process is completed.