Jabree has been engaged by the Department of Transport and Main Roads to undertake a preliminary cultural heritage assessment for Stage 3A of the Gold Coast Light Rail from Broadbeach South to Burleigh Heads.

The alignment for Stage 3A is proposed within a highly developed area but is also in proximity to the Jebbribillum Bora Ground, and the Bora Memorial Rock, which holds high archaeological, cultural, historic and aesthetic value to the traditional owners of the Gold Coast.

The origin of the name ‘Jebbribillum’ is part of the Yugambeh Dreaming Story of Burleigh Headland, and the Jebbribillum Bora Ground is the only remaining bora ground between Southport and Coolangatta.

The provisions of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 establish important protections for this significant Aboriginal site.

Jabree’s assessment has identified a high possibility of harm to Aboriginal cultural heritage for any project activities conducted in the vicinity of the Jebbribillum Bora Ground. This includes any project activities that disturb the sand layer under the existing road corridor that may lead to additional surface disturbance.

In consideration of the Act and the significance of the Bora Ground, Jabree has made the following recommendations:

–          Cultural Heritage Consultation with all representatives involved in the planning and design of Stage 3A to discuss options that avoid the Bora Ground and carefully address any nearby disturbance required for light rail infrastructure; and

–          A Cultural Heritage Management Plan be developed between Jabree Ltd and TMR to ensure the cultural heritage of the area remains protected.

Jabree is currently working on an assessment of Stage 3B of the Gold Coast Light Rail from Burleigh Heads to Tugun to ensure the cultural heritage of Burleigh mountain and significant sites are protected.

Feature image (courtesy of Jabree Ltd): Jebbribillum Bora Ground, Corner of Sixth Avenue and Gold Coast Highway, Miami.