Kingston and Arthurs Vale Historic Area Advisory Committee (KAC) July 2026 Meeting Communiqué

The advisory committee for Kingston and Arthurs Vale Historic Area (KAVHA) met on Norfolk Island on 27 and 28 July 2026, with positive and constructive discussions on key matters including heritage planning, major projects and ongoing conservation work across the Kingston precinct.

The meeting marked my first as Chair of the KAVHA Advisory Committee. It was an opportunity to emphasise my focus on continuing our important work to help protect, conserve and celebrate Kingston. I would like to thank the committee for their commitment to the stewardship of this internationally significant heritage site. The committee welcomed Ms Allison Rossetto, Director of Norfolk Island Operations, to her first meeting.

Members recognised the important leadership role she will play in supporting KAVHA’s strategic direction, operational coordination and engagement with the Norfolk Island community. An update was provided on the KAVHA Heritage Management Plan, including the next steps to finalise the plan for consideration by the Australian Heritage Council and final endorsement by the Minister for the Environment. Members reaffirmed the significance of finalising the heritage management plan as the long-term guiding framework for heritage conservation and site management for KAVHA.

Members participating in this meeting of the advisory committee actively discussed community representations on the lighters located in KAVHA and what is possible for the future of the vessels, whilst recognising the valued traditional knowledge of the lighters that is held within the community. The committee considered a draft Memorial Policy for KAVHA which will be released for public consultation. The aim of this policy is to provide clarity and guidance on new and existing memorials within the gazetted KAVHA boundary.

There was a presentation on the ongoing work to support water safety across Norfolk Island. Members noted the importance of clear, accessible safety information for visitors who may be unfamiliar with the distinct ocean conditions at swimming beaches within KAVHA, as well as working closely with the community to ensure local knowledge and expertise help inform this important work. Information was shared on upcoming initiatives to improve public awareness, strengthen safety messaging and work closely with local organisations to ensure water safety measures meet local needs and support enjoyment of the island’s coastal areas. Members discussed the ongoing CSIRO water quality and hydrological monitoring program, including monitoring of marine, surface water and groundwater conditions, noting the importance of ongoing monitoring to understand water quality trends and inform future management actions.

The committee received a comprehensive update and had robust discussion on major works planned for Kingston, including the phasing of sewerage and road works. It was acknowledged these projects are strengthening the long-term resilience of infrastructure across the precinct, while supporting heritage conservation, improving site safety and addressing water quality issues.

An in-depth review was undertaken of completed works for the 2025–26 financial year, including conservation, maintenance and infrastructure improvements delivered across KAVHA. Members acknowledged the substantial achievements of the past year and the collaborative effort required to deliver these outcomes in a complex heritage environment.

The committee also reviewed the planned works program for 2026–27, noting the significant volume of activity scheduled and the importance of clear prioritisation, resourcing and sequencing to support safe and effective delivery. Resource availability, weather conditions and emergency rectification works continue to impact forward conservation, maintenance and infrastructure programming. There was consensus on the importance of ongoing communication with the community, particularly when external and unforeseen factors impact progress of works.

To end the meeting, the committee met with the Norfolk Island Museum Trust to commend the achievement of successfully loaning the Pitcairn Register and Buffet diary.

The committee reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and enhancing the Outstanding Universal Value of KAVHA while also acknowledging the significance it has for the Norfolk Island community and supporting its broader benefits.

The next meeting of the advisory committee is anticipated to take place on Norfolk Island in November 2026.

The committee includes community members Susan Prior, George Parsons, Helen Pedel, Simon Bigg and Fiona Anderson (unavailable for this meeting) and expert members David Buffett, Janet Carding and Dr Jane Harrington.

For KAVHA site matters, contact the KAVHA secretariat on KAVHASecretariat@infrastructure.gov.au or on 23315. For further information or discussion, please contact the Office of the Administrator (phone 22152 or email office.administrator@infrastructure.gov.au).

Fiona McKergow
Chair, Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area Advisory Committee