4. Guidelines
4.1 The importance of shipwrecks and other relics
The records and physical evidence of shipwrecks and other underwater relics are unique archaeological deposits that often have the potential to yield vital information about our past. They are fragile and irreplaceable. Left in-situ they can provide an archaeological deposit that will survive for hundreds or even thousands of years.
Shipwrecks also find their own place in the natural environment. They become artificial reefs attracting a wide range of plant and animal life, often different to the surrounding areas. Interaction between the marine ecology and the remains of a shipwreck or other relic is complex: the site can become a home, a nursery and a food source. Marine organisms can be found feeding directly on the components of a
ship or on smaller inhabitants.
4.2 Heritage Considerations
The heritage values of shipwrecks and other relics are intrinsically linked to their insitu context. Any disturbance of this context can only be justified if there is:
an adequate research design;
full archaeological recording prior to and during the disturbance or removal;
appropriate stabilisation of the site and any recovered artefacts; and,
storage in s suitable repository where the collection as a whole can be accessed for purposes of study or public display.
It is generally more appropriate to undertake in-situ interpretation and site stabilisation rather than to remove artefacts from a site.
In managing underwater cultural heritage in Marine Parks, the Marine Parks Authority will draw upon advice from specialist heritage agencies like the NSW Heritage Office and upon specialists in maritime archaeology and materials conservation.
4.3 Recreational Considerations
Shipwrecks and other underwater cultural heritage can form important aspects of recreational activity including diving. The interpretation of such sites can also form a significant component of non-diving visitation to an area.
4.4 Access
Individuals, community groups and researchers are encouraged to visit underwater cultural heritage sites for non-disturbance purposes. However, any activities that may result in the disturbance of a site may only occur within the following guidelines.
4.5 Protected zones
4.5.1 Historic Shipwrecks Act
Permits are required prior to entry into a protected zone where such a zone has been specifically gazetted around an historic shipwreck.
4.5.2 Marine Parks Act
The Marine Parks Authority will give particular consideration to the vulnerability of historic shipwrecks to damage from fishing and anchoring activities when conducting consultation regarding draft plans and when formulating recommendations for the adoption of zoning plans.
4.6 Research
Research may involve disturbance and non-disturbance of heritage sites. Both types of research within marine parks will require ‘use’ consent from the Marine Parks Authority.
4.6.1 Archaeological research
4.6.1.1 Non-disturbance surveys
Non-disturbance surveys can be undertaken without a requirement to obtain a permit from the Director of the Heritage Office or the Heritage Council.
Non-disturbance may be conducted professional archaeologists and other scientists but are also an important way to involve recreational divers in understanding and caring for underwater archaeological sites, particularly shipwrecks. Where a protected zone applies to a particular site then a permit will still be required to enter the designated protected area.
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