During the Sydney to Melbourne ‘super possession’ between 18 and 20 March, McConnell Dowell undertook major construction works for the new Beaconsfield Parade bridge.
Heritage management consultant Leah Tepper from GML Heritage was onsite in accordance with Heritage Victoria’s permit conditions.
Although nothing of significance was found during the works, Inland Rail is committed to following heritage management best practice.
“The most sensitive areas that may contain archaeology include the areas close to the railway near the station masters building, the area next to the gate house and up on Beaconsfield Parade,” Ms Tepper said.
“The general lack of archaeology is actually quite interesting. Normally on sites we find ceramics, glass bottles, metal fragments, but on this site, the archaeology has been really sparce.
“It is because the site is just so turned over. The rail has been here for so long, along with the houses, and a range of sub-surface utilities. Sadly, nothing has been found relating to the Ned Kelly Siege.”
Works are conducted in accordance with the Heritage Permit and the Heritage Management Plan, both of which are updated at each construction phase, and then approved by Heritage Victoria.
