Waverley Coastal Reserves Heritage Study

Waverley Council engaged GML to conduct a heritage study of thirteen reserves and parks along Sydney’s eastern suburbs coastline, stretching from Vaucluse to Bronte. The sites, located on the traditional lands of the Bidjigal, Birrabirragal and Gadigal people, are part of National, State and local heritage listings.

The purpose of the heritage study was to determine the heritage significance of the individual reserves and parks and provide advice and guidelines on their future use and management. The study included Aboriginal and historical archaeological assessments, as well as landscape and built heritage assessments of each of the sites.

The heritage study resulted in a series of recommendations to guide Waverley Council’s Coastal Reserves Plan of Management. These recommendations aim to conserve the area’s significant natural and cultural heritage, ensure future work respects the open character of the reserves, and promote consultation with the local Aboriginal community to deepen understanding of both tangible and intangible Aboriginal heritage values.

As part of the study, GML also developed a heritage interpretation strategy for all 13 coastal reserves, creating a narrative vision that connects key stories and locations to enhance the visitor experience across the coastline.