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 its Quarters, to guide the prioritisation and sequencing of conservation and maintenance actions for the heritage buildings over a 10–year period from 2023 to 2033.
The Cossack Townsite features multiple heritage buildings and archaeological sites dating from the 1870s, while Jarman Island houses a decommissioned cast–iron lighthouse, ruined masonry lighthouse keepers’ quarters, and related 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 15 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. The team then prepared a detailed Building Condition Assessment report and associated written guidance to inform the prioritisation of conservation and maintenance works over the ten-year period. The final report included detailed quantity surveyor costing breakdowns to inform future budgeting and works allocations.
Impact
The team’s expertise in traditional construction and building conservation priorities enabled the development of a clear, comprehensive conservation and maintenance program for the site. The CMS reports captured a detailed understanding of the current condition, risks, and conservation priorities for each structure, and provided recommendations for remedial requirements and future works, with due regard to the cultural heritage values and significance of the place.
The team successfully provided a clear and actionable strategy for the site, which will guide and enable the client to make well-informed decisions on works and budgets, ensuring the active conservation of this unique heritage place well into the future.
