Catherine Hill Bay Precincts Heritage Interpretation Plan

A HIP provides a framework for ways of communicating the significance of a site to users and other audiences through interpretation. The HIP is intended to guide the detailed preparation of heritage interpretation elements throughout the planning and design process at a significant site.

The project area is part of the Catherine Hill Bay Cultural Precinct, which is state listed and recognised for its historical and scenic value. The Catherine Hill Bay Precincts Master Plan acknowledges the site’s heritage significance and the opportunity for the unique values and qualities to be shared. The HIP will address the area’s Aboriginal and historic heritage and establish a cohesive design approach, ensuring consistency in appearance and materials across the project site.
 

The HIP builds on the interpretive opportunities identified in the Catherine Hill Bay Precincts Master Plan to provide detailed recommendations for interpretive elements across the project site.

The HIP is being developed in parallel and with the design of the Community Hub (stage one of the Catherine Hill Bay Precincts Master Plan) and will inform planning and design of the future stages.
 

For an overview of the Catherine Hill Bay Precincts Master Plan including current and future stages, visit lakemac.com.au. 

The HIP is being developed in accordance with the following Australian and NSW Standard Heritage Guidelines:

• The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance, The Burra Charter, 2013 (Burra Charter), published by Australia ICOMOS
• Heritage Information Series: Interpreting Heritage Places and Items Guidelines, 2005, published by NSW Heritage Office
• Heritage Information Series: Heritage Interpretation Policy, 2005, published by NSW Heritage Council and NSW - Government Department of Planning
• Assessing heritage significance,2023, published by the Department of Planning and Environment
• Connecting with Country, 2023. NSW Government Architects.
   

An understanding of the relevance and importance of Catherine Hill Bay to potential audiences is fundamental to creating interpretive media which accurately and sensitively conveys the significance of the site. Your input will help us highlight people and community, important historical events, businesses, infrastructure, and personal memories that should be celebrated through heritage interpretation. 

Our Lake Macquarie History website has more information on the history of Catherine Hill Bay including photos and links to articles on notable locations and residents.