Archaeology
Archaeology investigates and records the physical remains of past generations
in order to explain
how people lived in those times. Archaeology includes
both Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal (or
Historic which is post 1788)
and is an important and integral part of Cultural Heritage Management.
Archaeological surveys and assessment
Australian State and Federal legislation protects significant Aboriginal
and non-Aboriginal sites
and places. Through these laws, archaeological
surveys are required for development or projects
which include excavation
or disturbance to the ground. These surveys are often a part of
Environmental
Impact Statements.
Comber Consultants undertake archaeological assessments, archival research
and undertakes
survey and recording for both Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal
Heritage. This includes community consultation, significance assessment
and management recommendations. In relation to
Aboriginal sites Comber
Consultants will liaise with relevant indigenous communities to ensure
the views and aspirations of those communities are included in all cultural
heritage programs.
Archaeological Excavations
After completion of the archaeological survey and assessment, quite
often, excavation
is required, prior to commencement of any proposed
development. Excavation of Aboriginal
sites and places is undertaken
in accordance with the Department of Environment and Climate
Change’s
(DECC) “Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Standards & Guidelines” and
DECC’s “Interim
Community Consultation Guidelines”. Comber Consultants
will implement the Consultation
Guidelines undertaking all Aboriginal
Community consultation and prepare the Part 6 permit
application and
required Research Design.
Excavation of Non-Aboriginal sites and places is undertaken in accordance
with the Heritage
Office’s guidelines. Comber Consultants will liaise
with the Heritage Office and prepare the
necessary permit application
(s140 or s60) and research design.