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BLACK SPUR KOONWARRA

Location

SOUTH GIPPSLAND HIGHWAY KOONWARRA, SOUTH GIPPSLAND SHIRE

Level

Heritage Inventory Site

Statement of Significance

Unfortunately there are no currently excavated structural remains at the Black Spur ridge which would confirm the railway workers camp, such as post-holes or evidence of buildings. There is however written evidence describing the site in this location and a number of historical artefacts relating to railway camps present on site. The exact site usage and chronology has not been established at this point in time, however there is potential for further information to be gathered at a later stage through salvage excavations relating to CHMP 14990. Therefore the archaeological significance of this site is medium.

The cultural heritage significance of the site relates to it being one of the largest infrastructure projects in Victorian history. Implementing the 1884 Railway Construction Act involved the movement and accommodation of large numbers of rail workers. This camp therefore is significant to the railways expansion works as well as the development of Koonwarra as a town as a flow on effect of increased access to the area.

The scientific significance of the site lies in its relation to railway expansions throughout Victoria in the late 19th Century, as well at the interaction between indigenous Aboriginal people and European settlers in the South Gippsland region more widely. Currently there is documentary evidence indicating the relationship between Aboriginal and European people in the immediate Koonwarra area, particularly for the time period of the railway construction during the 1890's.

The site, being a spur bordered by Tarwin River West Branch, Black Spur Creek and swamp areas is covered by open grass areas and native vegetation, thus giving it aesthetic significance.

The site has social/ spiritual significance to both Europeans and Aboriginals due to its shared historical land use.

Group

Transient Accommodation

Category

Camping Ground