The Kingston team is currently focused on delivering a range of projects to improve the site and its usability for both local community and visitors.
Work has recently been completed to upgrade the road surface between the Crankmill and the Surgeon’s Quarters to improve community access to the Pier. The new surface is also sensitive to the heritage characteristics of the site and – by providing a more reliable and durable surface through wet weather conditions – will assist in the protection of sub-surface remains in the surrounding area.
Further road surface improvements are planned for the turning area at Lone Pine and the standpipe at the water fill point on Country Road below Panorama.
Continuing on from the sealing works at the east end of Emily Bay, the existing retaining wall will be rebuilt and the carpark, road and fence moved back to accommodate a green space and picnic tables between the wall and the carpark. The works will help ensure safer and more comfortable journeys through these areas and provide additional facilities and recreational space for the community and visitors to enjoy.
There is significant attention on improving interpretation at Kingston and telling a wider range of stories about the site’s rich history. Some of these stories will feature in the new interpretive barbecue shelters established at Point Hunter Reserve, and an additional shelter that will soon be built at Chimney Hill.
The KAVHA Works Crew and local tradespeople are continuing the restoration of the Settlement Guard House. Once completed, the building will provide visitors with information to introduce and orientate them to the site.
Three new or enhanced interpretation timber viewing waypoints are also planned for Queen Elizabeth II lookout, Flagstaff Hill and Watermill, to refresh the site’s entrances, restore traditional viewing areas and benefit the local community and visitors by providing additional seating for people to enjoy and further understand the significance and history of the surrounding landscape.
Funded by the COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Fund, the waypoints have been adapted from existing viewing platforms in Kingston and will be constructed by local Norfolk Island tradespeople. They will present new interpretation about Her Majesty’s visit in 1974, Watermill Dam and Mill, First and Second Government House, contemporary and cultural use of the sites, and feature the Norf’k language.
Plans for the proposed waypoints are currently on exhibition at NIRC Customer Care.
For more information, please contact the Kingston team on +6723 23177 or +6723 23315.
Eric Hutchinson, Chair, Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area Advisory Committee