The future Heritage Precinct interpretive centre is centred around the heritage–listed archaeological remains of the “Moray Fields” settlement.
The precinct, which will open in 2020, will cost over $3m with $1,535,062 of funds coming from the Federal Government through a funding agreement with the Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology. Funding is through the Community Development Grants programme, provided through the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development.
The $1,535,062 Grant will be matched by Northeast Business Park Pty Ltd, which is developing North Harbour. The Abbey Museum and North Harbour will also be working in partnership and providing significant “in-kind” support through project planning, project management, post-construction operation and maintenance.
This project will make the significant heritage features remaining from the Moray Fields settlement publicly accessible for the first time since European settlement.
Retaining and preserving the historical remnants of the site has been an important part of the North Harbour planning process. The area has been listed and protected on the Queensland Heritage Register since 2011 as a place of Queensland State significance and will become part of an outdoor leisure space with pathways and tracks enabling use by the future residents and visitors.
The facility will present historic photographs, sketched and display objects which will allow visitors to appreciate the stories and significant developments from the past up to the present day.
The project will deliver a network of heritage trails and using static signage as well as digital content for mobile devices. The delivery of interpretation will be aimed at school-aged students as well as local, state and international visitors learning about local history and South Sea Islander heritage.
On a broader community level, the South Sea Islander history of the site has presented an opportunity to recognise the contribution made by past generations of South Sea Islanders and provide a tangible, visitable focus for the Island and Australian South Sea Islander community and their descendants. Space is made available for the South Sea Islander community to remember their ancestors at this place.
A canoe landing. fishing platforms, toilets and picnic shelters will also be provided adjacent to the Caboolture River.
To learn more about the heritage of the North Harbour site visit northharbourheritagepark.org.
