The Institute of Anatomy was one of the first major/national institutions that was established in Canberra and has played a seminal role as the Institute of Anatomy and then the NFSA for nearly
90 years of Canberra’s history.
The initial collection has strong Indigenous connections through the work of founding director, William Colin MacKenzie.
4.5.2 Historic Value (CHL 2)
The aspect that meets this criterion is the Innes-Bell Hollow Block structural floor system which is rare and the building is the only known ACT example of this technique.
In addition the collections (both the Institute of Anatomy and NFSA) are culturally significant and rare collections vital to Australia.
4.5.3 Characteristic Values (CHL 4)
NFSA buildings and precinct
have the ability to demonstrate the commitment to Government at the time, to Canberra and the establishment of one of Canberra’s first permanent public institutions, the Institute of Anatomy. The zoological collection held by the Institute was considered by the scientific community nationally and internationally to be of great value.
The building is significant as the repository for, and restoration responsibility of, the national collection of film and sound history in print, film, audio and equipment collections.
The NFSA main building demonstrates a fine example of the post war stripped classical architectural style with many Art Deco details. The interior also demonstrates a substantially intact high-quality deco style detailing and craftsmanship. The style and
Section 91 - National Film and Sound Archive Heritage Management Plan 2021 - Apperley et al, p190 | Zoe
detail have a distinctive Australian character with the craftsmanship illustrated of unequalled quality in Australia.
4.5.4 Technical Value (CHL 6)
The building is held in high regard for its aesthetic value (criterion 5) but it is also considered a building of high creative achievement because of the quality of Art Deco detailing externally, internally and fitout, interpretation of Australian flora and fauna motifs into the building details and the quality of workmanship demonstrated.
The other innovation is the Innes Bell Hollow Block system used in the ground floor construction which is a rare example of early waffle slab construction (considered to be the only one in the ACT).
4.5.5 Association (CHL 7)
The building has social value to the community as the former home of the Institute of Anatomy. Of particular interest are Phar Lap’s heart and the ethnological and aboriginal material held within its collection. Many Australians recall a visit to the Institute because of these items.
The collection of historic audio-visual materials and recordings held in the NFSA Building is of high social significance, protecting, recalling and promoting an integral historic phase of Australian social and cultural development.
4.5.6 Comment on Other CHL Criteria
These are not identified as official listed values but some comments follow an assessment against
these criteria.
Research Value (CHL 3)
The building’s history, detail and excellent representational qualities of stripped classical with Art Deco detail will always mean the place will continue to reveal information that contributes to current and future generations’ understanding of Australian cultural history.
Aesthetic Value (CHL 5)
MAIN BUILDING
The aesthetic value of the main building relates to its strong symmetrical plan around a central entry with the axial design extending into the courtyard. This has been retained in the design of the Annex.
The grand eastern façade and entrance portico exhibits the use of high-quality materials, detailing and craftsmanship. The glazed terracotta frieze panels below windows are unique to the building and contribute greatly to its appeal. The sandstone detailing on all façades of the original building is of a high quality, but particularly the column shaft and capital details on the eastern (main) elevation.
The main building has aesthetic value as a fine example of post war stripped classical style overlayed externally and internally, with details of Art Deco influence. The Annex addition is a competent sympathetic addition.
The interior of the main building presents a substantially intact example of a typically Art Deco style interior. The quality of detail resolution and craftsmanship is high throughout the building.
The Luxfer glazed skylights to the foyer and library are elements of significant aesthetic value. The skylight in the foyer with its platypus design is unique to the building.
Spaces within the building demonstrating significant aesthetic value are the two exhibition halls, foyer, library and internal courtyard and colonnade.
RESIDENCE
The residence contains aesthetic value in its simple two storey gabled form. Detailing is simple yet elegant with a mix of Art Deco and Federal Capital style influences externally.
The interior presents a reasonably intact example of Art Deco style residential internal decoration.
LANDSCAPE & SETTING
The overall setting of the building, with the front entrance addressing the McCoy Circuit axis, the semicircular access road all set in an open area of scattered trees is one of pleasing design. The remnant plantings and grasses from predevelopment of the site are reminders of the early landscape of the area. The more intimate garden around the residence also retains a pleasant form. Parts of Bruce’s original design have been removed and other plantings introduced.
The avenue trees along Liversidge Street are also a strong landscape feature. This avenue might have been significantly stripped back with the installation of the footpath along Liversidge Street pre-erection of the Annex Building.
Associational Links (CHL 8)
The buildings have associational links with notable important figures of the period. Most notably is Professor Sir Colin MacKenzie, the founding director. The Institute was MacKenzie’s brainchild and it was his persistence which saw the building realised.
Sir Neville Howse, Minister for Health and Defence at the time, was instrumental in getting Cabinet approval to construct the building.
Other strong associational links are with prominent architects of the period. The design architect Walter Hayward Morris designed a number of Canberra buildings in his time with the FCC. The ACT Chapter of The Australian Institute of Architects has named its annual award for interior design after him.
The architect E M Henderson’s signature appears on a number of interior detail and joinery drawings. Henderson was principle architect with the Department of Works.
Sir John Butters, Chairman of the FCC had a strong influence in developing the ‘U’ shape plan.
The Chief Architect of the FCC at the time, J S Murdoch, played a role in controlling development of the early planning and elevation concepts. Murdoch is attributed as the creator of the Federal Capital style of Architecture.
The original landscape design for the site was prepared by A E Bruce (Director of Parks and Gardens 1926 1936). Unfortunately, substantial areas of this design have been removed and new plantings introduced.
Indigenous Values (CHL 9)
There is limited connection to Indigenous tradition but there was a strong connection to Indigenous people by its founder Sir William Colin MacKenzie.
The building has a link to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities. As the former Australian Institute of Anatomy, the building once held Aboriginal human remains and sacred/secret objects collected from across Australia. In 1984 these collections were transferred to the National Museum of Australia (NMA) under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984. Under consultation and advice from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities the NMA has been actively repatriating these collections.
4.6 Statement of Significance92
The NFSA buildings are significant for their original role in housing the Institute of Anatomy. The collection housed became a significant record of Australian fauna and aboriginal life. The Institute also played a role in researching various aspects of national health. The present role, in housing the NFSA audio visual collection, maintains a high level of national significance for the building.
The setting of the building in an open landscape, the front entrance address to the McCoy Circuit axis and symmetrical planning provides a strong aesthetic appeal to the whole place.
The main building is an outstanding example of inter war stripped classical with Art Deco detailing comprising a strongly symmetrical plan and elevation treatment. The fenestration has a strong vertical composition, with simply detailed
columns. More detailed elements are restricted to spandrel panels and doorways. External detail shows Art Deco influence with a distinctive Australiana character. The interior of the buildings (principally the main building) are fine examples of substantially intact quality Art Deco style interiors.
The NFSA site has strong associational links with significant people involved in its design, development and administration.
| Design Architect | W Hayward Morris |
| Other Architects | J S Murdoch oversaw design process<br>E M Henderson design and documentation involvement for interiors & joinery |
| Landscape Designer | A E Bruce |
| Administrators | Sir Colin McKenzie founding director and the driving force in creating the Institute Sir John Butters Chairman FCC. Had strong influence on development of the U shape plan.<br>Sir Neville Howse, Minister for Health & Defence at the time. Instrumental in getting Cabinet approval to construct building. |
The usage of the InnesBell Hollow Block system in construction of the ground floor is indicative of the use of a technique which was technically advanced for its time. The building is a rare example of the use of this technique which was a predecessor to the modern waffle slab. The building has strong social links with the community through its original occupancy as the Institute of Anatomy and currently as the headquarters for the National Film and Sound Archive.
4.7 Significance of Components
From the overall analysis in Sections 4.2 4.5, the following section evaluates the significance of the various elements of the site. This process is aimed at assisting in the ongoing conservation and management of the place. The levels of significance are divided as suggested by J S Kerr in The Conservation Plan.
| Grading | Justification | Comment regarding Significance |
| Exceptional | Rare or outstanding item of significance.<br>High degree of intactness. Item can be interpreted relatively easily. | Damaging to, or adversely affecting the item’s heritage significance. |
| Considerable | High degree of original fabric. Demonstrates a key element of the item’s significance.<br>Alterations may detract<br>from significance. | Fulfils criteria for local or state/ territory listing. |
| Moderate | Altered or modified elements. Elements with heritage value, which contribute to the overall significance of the item. | Fulfils criteria for local or state/ territory listing. |
| Some | Alterations and intervention detract from the overall significance. Difficult to interpret. | |
| Intrusive | Damaging to, or adversely affecting the item’s heritage significance. | |
92 This is a suggested update of the current Statement of Significance included in the CHL. Reference to “collections” is because they were housed in the building but the HMP does not include any assessment of the collections. The early collections are now with the National Museum
of Australia.
Tolerance for Change
| Tolerance for Change | Application to the National Film and Sound Archive |
| Low Tolerance (L) | The key attribute (form, fabric, function and/or location) embodies the official listed value of the component and its contribution to the site. It retains a high degree of intactness with only very minor alterations that do not detract from significance. |
| Medium/Moderate Tolerance (M) | The key attribute should be retained and conserved through the maintenance and restoration.<br> <br>The key attribute/element (form, fabric, function and/or location) only partly embodies the official listed value of the component and the site, or has been considerably modified. |
| Much/High Tolerance (H) | The key attribute (form, fabric, function, and/or location) has little official listed value to the component or the overall site |
Official Listed Values93
These are listed in the CHL Citation (Attachment A and Section 6.2) and the attributes are:
Criterion 1 Processes
All of the building including external and internal design, fabric and landscaping that was associated with its Federal Capital Commission phase, plus its screen and sound archival collection outlined above.
Criterion 2 Rarity
Innovative building techniques including the hollow block construction and poured reinforced concrete formed in a waffle slab with ribs.
Criterion 4 Characteristic Values
The stripped classical style of the main building and the Art Deco style of the residence, plus the numerous decorative elements referred
to above.
Criterion 6 Technical Achievement
The decorative elements of both buildings plus innovative building techniques, including
the hollowblock construction and poured reinforced concrete slab.
EXCEPTIONAL Tolerance CONSIDERABLE Tolerance MODERATE Tolerance SOME Tolerance INTRUSIVE Tolerance
Official Listed Values
General formal symmetrical layout of front lawns. M
Entrance portico as the dominating element in the axial plan. L
The principal East, North and South facades of the main building and particularly their stone and glazed terracotta detailing. L
Symmetrical plan around the main axis through the front (east) entry and courtyard. L
The Luxfer glazed roof lights to foyer and library. L
Internal details and joinery. L
Original gallery and theatre lighting (the large faceted pendant lights). L
Innes-Bell Hollow Block system of floor construction. L
The buildings in a landscape setting (ie open grass with scattered trees). M
Other Items of Heritage Significance
The continued function of the main building as a public/ exhibition building. M The design and basic layout of the internal courtyard to main building. M Annex addition. M Joinery units installed over radiators. M Former nitrate bunker. H
The volume and detail of the north and south galleries M Sir Colin Mackenzie memorial pool. M NFSA fitout items in galleries, offices and Café. H Introduced lighting to theatrette. H Access ramp at NE corner. H
EXCEPTIONAL<br>
Tolerance<br>
CONSIDERABLE
Tolerance<br>
MODERATE
Tolerance<br>
SOME
Tolerance<br>
INTRUSIVE
Tolerance<br>
> Open courtyard colonnade
L
> Memorial tree to Gabe Carpe.
L
> Garage of the Residence.
H
> Modifications to Bio box and equipment (non-original).
H
> Cinema seating and projection screen in the north gallery as it prevents a full appreciation of the original gallery space.
H
> Enclosure aspect of the courtyard.
L
> External form, scale and finish of residence.
L
> Non-original landscape around Residence.
H
> Replacement roof fabric over roof lights and theatrette.
H
> Theatrette fitout.
H
> Remnant native vegetation (trees and native grasses).
M
> Original internal detail of residence (as defined in volume 3).
L
> Access ramp and deck in colonnade
H
> Library temporary fitout
H
> Remnant hedges to residence to north and west, and between residence and car park including the more intimate garden around the residence.
M
> Original details in toilets.
M
> Woodshed to Residence.
H
> Front room temporary fitout.
H
> Street trees (two rows) on Liversidge Street also perimeter street tree plantings.
M
> Parking on site.
H
> Roof mounted ductwork and plant.
H
> Plaques and motifs on walls within the building.
L
> Non-original walls in basement.
H
> Basement hoist.
H
> The NFSA collection housed in the building.
L
> Non-original fitout of main building and residence.
H
> Replacement of glass block windows to lower level with louvres.
H
5.0 STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS AND EXPECTATIONS
The Statement of Significance poses some controls on the future of the building and setting. Some of these are related to various organisations and this section outlines the requirements set down in legislation and those that arise from the Statement of Significance.
This will place certain constraints and opportunities on the place, which are set down in the policies in Section 6 and 7.
It is noted that the requirements of the EPBC Act are that any works will be done with the aim to protect and conserve the official listed values and heritage significance.
5.1 National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA)
The accommodation aim of NFSA for this place is to provide permanent and appropriate accommodation on site for their staff and resources. This will be met by continued use of the main building, Annex and residence.
The above requirements appear to be able to be met without an adverse impact on the significan321ce of the building and setting. However, the process to consider any redevelopment and change is guided by this Heritage Management Plan.
The strategy for the use and enhancement of the existing buildings includes:
Main Building Basement low-grade storage and plant space.
Ground public space and displays. Operation of a cinema into the north gallery and theatre.
First Floor – administration.
Possible banner installation at main entry.
Possible additional signage inside foyer.
Method for outdoor film screenings in courtyard.
A change in presentation of material to a multimedia presentation with potential for different approaches to the use of spaces.
Upgrade access to galleries. Public access to Library.
Residence Office accommodation.
Site Maintain in good condition and present the building well.
Possible event space in front of building.
Control of parking on site.
Annex To remain in use as offices and specialist facilities. Possible re-use of decommissioned spaces for new purposes including digitisation workspaces, classrooms or multi-purpose rooms.
| Potential pressures exist daily on management of the building, including:<br> <br>> Upgrading and expanding services<br>> Introducing new services<br>> Requirements for additional space or modifications to existing<br>> A commercial need to make the facility viable without impacting official listed values and heritage significance.<br> | NFSA Management is aware of, and appreciates greatly, the heritage significance of the place. To enhance, protect and conserve official listed values and heritage significance, the policies and practices described in sections 6 and 7 of the HMP will need to be followed in addressing pressures on management for change which will impact on the buildings, setting landscape or collection.<br> |
NFSA have responsibilities under the EPBC Act not to take an action that will adversely affect the official listed values and may need to make a referral to the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment for any proposal.
5.2 Australian Heritage Council (AHC)
The Australian Heritage Council is an independent body of heritage experts established through the Australian Heritage Council Act 2003. It replaces the Australian Heritage Commission as the Australian Government’s independent expert advisory body on heritage matters.
The Council plays a key role in assessment, advice and policy formulation and support of major heritage programs. Its main responsibilities are to:
Assess places for the National Heritage List and the Commonwealth Heritage List;
Nominate places for inclusion in the National Heritage List or Commonwealth Heritage List;
Promote the identification, assessment, conservation and monitoring of heritage;
Advise the Minister on various heritage matters including the preparation and amendment of heritage strategies and management plans for Commonwealth areas and agencies.
5.3 ACT Heritage Council
The ACT Heritage Act does not apply to this site as it is designated land.
5.4 National Capital Authority (NCA)
The control of the exterior is under NCA responsibility as it is designated land. They have responsibilities under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation
(EPBC) 1999 Act to ensure their actions do not adversely impact on places of heritage significance. NCA has no legislative control on the interior. NFSA also have responsibilities under the EPBC Act (refer Section 5.1 above).
Design controls are set out in NCA Australian National University (ANU) Precinct Code. The ANU Precinct Code sets down conditions for the ANU Campus but not for NFSA and contains the following general objectives:94
Heritage
Conserve, enhance and interpret the heritage values of the campus in the context of a modern, dynamic research and teaching campus.
Landscape
Retain the ‘building in a landscape’ character of the campus, through protection of the landscape setting and the three major ‘landscape axes’: University Avenue, Sullivans Creek and the Acton Ridge.
The National Capital Plan Part 2 Statement of Planning Principles, Section 2.4 Liveability Objective 2.
Urban Design and Heritage states the objective as:
Enhance the character of Canberra and the Territory as the National Capital by identifying, protecting, conserving and presenting natural, Indigenous and historic heritage places.
And the Principles as:
The National Capital Authority will consider heritage places in Designated Areas as Commonwealth Areas for the purposes of protecting the environment in the manner currently afforded under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and any subsequent legislation.
2. Within Designated Areas, the National Capital Authority may require Heritage (or Conservation) Management Plans to accompany development applications for heritage places which should be prepared to meet requirements equivalent to those in the EPBC Act. The National Capital Authority may require Heritage Impact Statements to accompany development applications for a heritage place.
3. Development should be consistent with the requirements of any relevant Heritage (or Conservation) Management Plan for that particular place.
4. The management of heritage places should ensure that their use and presentation is consistent with their heritage values. Heritage places will be presented and interpreted to increase public awareness, understanding and enjoyment of the natural and cultural heritage of the National Capital and its conservation, subject to any reasonable requirements for privacy or confidentiality.
5. The National Capital Authority will adopt the Australian Natural Heritage Charter and the Burra Charter as key guiding documents respectively for natural and cultural heritage places within Designated Areas.
Works approvals will be required for all works on site that will affect landscape, setting and external fabric of the buildings. This includes even minor works and maintenance.
As indicated in the principles above, a Conservation Management Plan can assist the process of approvals provided work is consistent with the CMP and a statement of heritage impact is included with Works Approval submission.
NCA have no jurisdiction over the interior of the buildings.
The issue of potential greatest impact is parking for staff and visitors. There needs to be a flexible approach to ensure the significance of the setting is not compromised. This is discussed further under Policy 2.4 in Section 7.
5.5 National Trust of Australia (ACT) (NTACT)
The NTACT has no statutory authority, but is an authoritative interest group whose views are generally held in high regard by the local authorities, other stakeholders and key interest groups.
The NFSA site has been classified by the NTACT. The NTACT is likely to take an interest in the future use, preservation and conservation of the buildings and should be consulted when changes are proposed.
5.6 Australian Institute of Architects
The Australian Institute of Architects has no statutory authority, but is an authoritative interest group whose views are generally held in high regard by the local authorities, other stakeholders and key interest groups.
The NFSA site has been included on the Australian Institute of Architects’ Register of Significant Architecture. The Australian Institute of Architects is likely to take an interest in the future use, preservation and conservation of the buildings and should be consulted when changes are proposed.
5.7 Burra Charter
The Australian ICOMOS Charter for the conservation of places of cultural significance (the Burra Charter, as adopted in 2013) provides specific guidelines for the treatment of places of cultural significance.
This study has been prepared in accordance with those principles. The Charter provides specific guidance for physical and procedural
actions that should occur in relation to significant places. Guidelines relevant to NFSA are:
The significant elements of the site should be conserved and managed in a manner which does not place the item at risk (Article 2)
Conservation works and changes on the site should be based upon a policy of minimal intrusion and change and should not distort an appreciation of the original fabric (Article 3)
Conservation works should be based upon best practice using traditional techniques in preference to modern adaptations (Article 4)
Conservation and future use to consider all aspects and relative degrees of significance (Article 5)
The use of the building has substantially remained office/ exhibition/pubic in nature, so future use should continue this type of use (Article 7)
The setting of the building is important and needs to be
conserved with no new-detached un-associated construction or other action which detracts from its heritage value (Article 8)
The building should be retained in its current location (Article 9)
Conservation, interpretation and management of a place should be facilitated in a manner which provides for the participation of people for whom the place has special association and meanings (Article 12)
Conservation, preservation, restoration, reconstruction, interpretation and adaptation are all part of the ongoing conservation of the place and should follow accepted processes (Article 14–25)
This study is part of the Conservation process. More detailed studies of the site may be necessary before any new major conservation works occur (Article 26)
The impact on the significance should be considered before any change occurs (Article 27)
Existing significant fabric should be recorded before disturbance occurs. Disturbance of significant fabric may occur in order to provide evidence needed for the making of decisions on the conservation of the place (Article 28)
The decision-making procedure and individuals responsible for policy should be identified (Article 29)
Appropriate direction and supervision should be maintained through all phases of the work and implemented by people with appropriate
knowledge and skills (Article 30)
A log of new evidence and additional decisions should be kept (Article 31)
Copies of all reports and records relating to the significance and conservation of the place should be placed in a permanent archive and be made publicly available (Article 32)
Significant items from the site should be recorded, catalogued and protected (Article 33)
Adequate resources be provided for conservation work (Article 34).
5.8 Arising from the Statement of Significance
The general requirements are:
Elements of significance must be retained, conserved and maintained in accordance with the Burra Charter. Minor adaptation may be considered
provided a careful assessment of impact on official listed values, significant fabric is conserved and careful recording occurs.
Elements of little significance should be conserved and maintained as part of the place.
Elements identified as intrusive should be removed if and
when practicable to reduce the adverse impact on the
overall significance of the place or to conserve elements of greater significance.
The NFSA and its setting should be retained. The significance and official listed values of the place can be maintained by ongoing maintenance.
There is a need to ensure adequate protection of the items of higher significance and official listed value by means of appropriate maintenance and ongoing protective care.
Significant fabric should be retained as far as possible but upgrading is possible within the constraints set out in the Heritage Management Plan.
Interpretation of the site should be developed for the benefit of all visitors.
5.9 Building Controls
Compliance with statutory regulations such as the National Construction Code Volume 1 Building Code of Australia (and as a consequence Australian Standards, fire safety and access for people with disabilities) is required.
The significance of the buildings will mean a carefully considered approach is required and performance-based solutions may be considered so that the significance is not compromised.
This may require negotiation with all relevant authorities to reach satisfactory resolution where differences occur. The solutions should retain the significance of the buildings and setting unless there is no other feasible and prudent alternative.
5.10 Access to the Site & Building, and the DDA
Public access has always been provided to the building and created a social significance. This needs to continue. There is also an opportunity to promote the significance of the building and its setting. It is noted that there is a 2014 Disability Action Plan.
Currently, the main provision for access to the building for people with disabilities is made through the Liversidge Street entry. Access ramps have been provided to the entrance of the Annex building, as part of its design. The design probably complied with the BCA at the time of construction, however, an inspection indicated it does not comply with current requirements with respect to landings. Long- term management of the building will need to include upgrading the Liversidge Street access ramp to comply with current Building Code of Australia requirements.
The circa 1980’s ramp at the NE corner of the main building, has only been retained for emergency egress.
A complying access ramp has been provided for access to the café and the main entry, and to the South Gallery from the Courtyard in 2018.
The Disability Discrimination ACT (DDA) 1992 is Commonwealth legislation which requires that people with disabilities be given equal opportunity to participate in and contribute to the full range of social, political and cultural activities. The DDA is not about limited or parallel access, but promotes and protects equality of access - physical, informational and attitudinal.
The DDA Section 23 ‘makes it unlawful to discriminate against a person on the basis of a disability that he or she has, had, may have in the future or is assumed to have. It also makes it unlawful to discriminate against a person on the basis that his or her associate (partner, carer, friend or family member) has a disability’.
It also makes it unlawful to discriminate against people on the basis that they have or may have a disability or treat a person with disabilities in any way different in the provision of goods and services or facilities.
The DAA is a complaints-based legislation requiring people who consider themselves discriminated against to lodge a complaint which is then heard by the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC). There is an unjustifiable hardship clause that access may not need to be provided if “detriment involves the loss of heritage significance - the extent to which the heritage features of the building are essential, or merely incidental, to the heritage significance of the building”.
Human rights and equal opportunities legislation also includes protection against discrimination on the basis of colour, culture or creed. In providing access to Heritage Properties not catering for people from other cultures could be considered as discrimination.
5.11 Moral Rights
The Copyright Amendment (Moral Rights) Act 2000 does not prevent a building from being altered without the architect’s consent, but it does require the owner to notify the architect before the alterations or demolition take place.
Some details are:
Moral rights include:
– The right of attribution – to identify the architect whenever a project an architect has designed is constructed, or the work is reproduced;
– The right of integrity – the architect to be informed if a project they have designed is to be altered or demolished.
The Act also protects architects against false attribution and derogatory treatment of their work.
The rights of attribution last 50 years after the death of the architect.
The obligation to honour moral rights extends to anyone who intends to make a visual, spoken or written reference to a work or architecture; anyone who intends to alter, relocate or demolish a work of architecture; and to all members of a team involved in a work of architecture.
The difference between copyright and moral rights is that Copyright relates to the commercial value of a design, whereas moral rights relate to the honour and reputation of the designer.
Once notified the original architect has the choice of doing nothing or of requesting consultations to discuss the owner’s proposals, which are required to be held in ‘good faith’ and to make a record of the project, before the alterations or demolition take place. However, the architect should promptly inform the person who has notified them of their decision.
The original architect can make a record of the building before the alterations or demolition take place. If so, requested the Architect “should notify the owner promptly of their decision”. The Architect is required to complete the process within the second period of 3 weeks. The owner is also required to give the architect reasonable access.
If the original architect wishes to discuss the proposed alterations or demolition with the owner, they must notify the owner of their decision within the initial period of 3 weeks. The architect and the owner are obliged to enter these consultations ‘in good faith’. In the consultations, the architect should recognise the owner’s rights and avoid unduly frustrating the process. Also remember the architect is more likely to influence the outcome if they are realistic and cooperative.
Finally, while the owner is obliged to notify the original architect of their proposals regarding a building the architect has designed and to enter into consultations the architect if they request them to do so, the owner does not have any obligations to pay the architect for their time.
Moral rights to the Main Building and Residence rest with WH Morris and have extinguished. The moral rights to the Annex are held by David Bell of GHD.
5.12 Archaeological Constraints
The NFSA is listed on the Commonwealth Heritage List and as such is managed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act (EPBC Act). http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc.
This is considered under Conservation Policy 6.12 in Section 7.
6.0 HERITAGE MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS
OVERALL POLICY STATEMENT
6.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (Act 1999)
The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC Act) 1999 including Environment and Heritage Legislation Amendment Act (No 1) aims to conserve and protect listed places to the fullest extent under the Constitution.
The Act also:
Establishes the National Heritage List.
Establishes the Commonwealth Heritage List.
The Act also sets out obligations for Commonwealth agencies to identify, conserve, protect and manage heritage places under their control.
All Commonwealth Government agencies that own or lease heritage places are required to assist the Minister and the Australian Heritage Council to identify and assess the official listed values and heritage significance of these places. They are required to:
Develop heritage strategies which involve;
– Producing a register of the heritage places under their control;
– Undertaking a program to assess and identify official listed values and heritage significance of all places owned or controlled by a Commonwealth agency;
Develop a management plan to manage places in the Commonwealth Heritage List consistent with the new Commonwealth Heritage Management Principles prescribed in regulations to the Act;
Ensure the ongoing conservation and protection of the official listed values of the place when selling
or leasing a Commonwealth Heritage place; and
Ask the Minister for advice about taking an action, if the action has, will have, or is likely to
have, a significant impact on a Commonwealth Heritage place.
The NFSA buildings and site are significant elements of our cultural heritage and retain a high degree
of integrity from their original construction. The objective of the conservation policies is that the heritage significance of the place should be managed in a manner appropriate to conserve and protect the original elements of the buildings and site and thereby its significance. At the same time the
building and site need to continue to be used as an archive, exhibition and office facility.
6.2 Commonwealth Heritage List
This list established under the EPBC Act, places obligations on Commonwealth Agencies
which own or control places with Commonwealth Heritage Values. In June 2004 NFSA (Former Institute of Anatomy building) was entered into the Commonwealth Heritage list.
The Commonwealth Heritage List is a list of natural and cultural heritage places owned or controlled by the Australian Government.
These include places connected to defence, communications, customs and other government
activities that also reflect Australia’s development as a nation. The list will be comprised of places, or groups of places, in Commonwealth lands and waters, that are identified as having Commonwealth Heritage Values.
Anyone can nominate a place for inclusion in the list.
The Australian Heritage Council assesses nominated places against set criteria and makes recommendations to the Minister
about listing. The final decision on listing is made by the Minister.
The official values identified within the Commonwealth Heritage List citation are95 below. Note that the current CHL criteria are numbered 1 through 9 replacing A to I.
As the Institute of Anatomy, it was one of the key public buildings provided by the Federal Capital Commission in the first phrase of Canberra’s development, built to broaden national interest
and establish the city as a centre of archives and collections. Founded and directed by Professor Sir William Colin MacKenzie until 1937, the Institute became internationally known, attracting visitors, endowed lectures and additions to its collection.
The building houses items of enduring cultural significance to Australians. In addition to discs,
films, videos, audio tapes, phonograph cylinders and wire recordings, the Archive’s collection includes supporting documents and artefacts, such as photographic stills, transparencies, posters, lobby cards, publicity, scripts, costumes, props, memorabilia and sound, video and film equipment.
All of the building including external and internal design, fabric and landscaping that was associated with its Federal Capital Commission phase, plus its screen and sound archival collection outlined above.
Criterion B Rarity
The construction of the Institute featured creative technical achievements for the era, including hollow block construction and poured reinforced concrete formed in a waffle slab with ribs.
Innovative building techniques including the hollow block construction and poured reinforced concrete formed in a waffle slab with ribs.
Criterion D Characteristic values
The main building is of Late 20th Century Stripped Classical style and has some of the finest examples in Australia of nationalistic Australian Art Deco design and detailing with an array of intact characteristics such as vivid decorative elements that serve no particular function, vertical straight
lines, low-relief sculptures and zigzags. The many motifs of Australian animals, Aboriginal art and historic figures in science and medicine recall the Australian Institute of Anatomy, for which the building was designed. The former director’s residence is a significant example of an Art Deco residence but with fewer decorative elements than the main building.
The Stripped Classical style of the main building and the Art Deco style of the residence, plus the numerous decorative elements referred to above.
Criterion F Technical achievement
The main building has some of the finest examples in Australia of nationalistic Australian Art Deco design and detailing with an array of intact characteristics such as vivid decorative elements that serve no particular function, vertical straight lines, low-relief sculptures and zigzags.
The construction of the Institute featured creative technical achievements for the era, including hollow block construction and poured reinforced concrete formed in a waffle slab with ribs.
The decorative elements of both buildings plus innovative building techniques, including the hollowblock construction and poured reinforced concrete slab.
Criterion G Social value
The National Film and Sound Archive has occupied the building since 1984. This organisation is widely regarded by the public for its efforts to conserve and promote Australian culture as
represented in film, television, radio and sound recordings
Not clarified
Australian Government agencies that own or control places included in the Commonwealth Heritage List are legally required to develop a plan to conserve and protect those places. Where agencies do not have their plans endorsed, they must ask the Australian Government Minister
for the Environment for advice if they propose taking any action that may have a significant impact on the Commonwealth Heritage place they own or control.
The following sections outline the responsibilities of NFSA under the EPBC Act to conserve and protect the NFSA buildings and site.
6.3 Commonwealth Heritage Management Principles
Heritage management principles provide a guiding framework for excellence in managing heritage properties. They set the standard and the scope of the way places should be managed in order to best conserve and protect official listed values
and heritage significance for the generations ahead.
The principles should be used when preparing and implementing management plans and programs.
The Commonwealth Heritage Management Principles as set out in Schedule 7A of the EPBC Act are:
The objective in managing Commonwealth Heritage places is to identify, protect, conserve, present and transmit, to all generations, their Commonwealth Heritage values.
The management of Commonwealth Heritage places should use the best available knowledge, skills and standards for those places, and include ongoing technical and community input
to decisions and actions that may have a significant impact on Commonwealth Heritage values.
3. The management of Commonwealth Heritage places should respect all heritage values of the place and seek to integrate, where appropriate, any Commonwealth, state and territory and local government responsibilities for those places.
4. The management of Commonwealth Heritage places should ensure that their use and presentation is consistent with the conservation of their Commonwealth Heritage values.
5. The management of Commonwealth Heritage places should make timely and appropriate provision for community involvement, especially by people who:
have a particular interest in, or associations with, the place, and
b. may be affected by the management of the place.
6. Indigenous people are the primary source of information on the value of their heritage and the active participation of Indigenous people in identification, assessment and management is integral to the effective protection of Indigenous heritage values.
7. The management of Commonwealth Heritage places should provide for regular monitoring, review and reporting on the conservation of Commonwealth Heritage values.
The Commonwealth Heritage Management Principles are embodied in the Conservation Policy Section 7.0 of this HMP and should be adopted by NFSA in applying
the Policy.
6.4 Heritage Management Plan
Under the EPBC Act, NFSA are required to amend the HMP to meet the requirements of
a Commonwealth Heritage Management Plan (HMP) as specified in the EPBC Act (Schedules 7A
and 7B) to ensure that the place will be managed in accordance with the Commonwealth Heritage Management Principles (See next section) set out in Schedule 7B.96
The following table lists the requirements for a Heritage Management Plan under schedule 7A of the EPBC Act and how this HMP addresses each.
| No | Requirements (Schedule 7A) | Compliance Comments |
| (a) | Establish objectives for the identification, protection, conservation, presentation and transmission of the Commonwealth Heritage Values of the place; and | Complies: Section 1.3 and 7.0. |
| (b) | Provide a management framework that includes reference to any statutory requirements and agency mechanisms for the protection of the Commonwealth Heritage Values of the place; and | Complies: Section 5.0. |
| (c) | Provide a comprehensive description of the place, including information about its location, physical features, condition, historical context and current uses; and | Complies: Section 3.0. Further details are contained in Volumes 2 & 3 of 1999 CMP) |
| (d) | Provide a description of the Commonwealth Heritage Values and any other heritage values of the place; and | Complies: Section 4.0. |
| (e) | Describe the condition of the Commonwealth Heritage Values of the place; and | Complies: Section 3.0, Volume 3 of CMP |
| (f) | Describe the method used to assess the Commonwealth Heritage Values of the place; and | Complies: Section 4.1. |
| (g) | Describe the current management’s requirements and goals, including proposals for change and any potential pressures on the Commonwealth Heritage Values of the place; and | Complies: Section 5.1. |
| (h) | Have policies to manage the Commonwealth Heritage Values of a place, and include in those policies, guidance in relation to the following: | Complies: Section 7.0. |
| | (i) The management and conservation processes to be used. | Complies: Section 5.97, 6.4 and 7.6. |
| | (ii) The access and security arrangements, including access to the area for Indigenous people to maintain cultural traditions; | Complies: Section 5.9, 7.7.2. and Policy 6.9 |
| | (iii) The stakeholder and community consultation and liaison arrangements; | Complies Section 5.0 and Policy 6.10 |
| No | Requirements (Schedule 7A) | Compliance Comments |
| | (iv) The policies and protocols to ensure that Indigenous people participate in the management process; | Complies Policy 6.10 |
| | (v) The protocols for the management of sensitive information. | Complies Policy 6.9 |
| | (vi) The planning and management of works, development, adaptive reuse and property divestment proposals; | Complies: Section 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, and 7.7. |
| | (vii) How unforeseen discoveries or disturbance of heritage are to be managed; | Complies: Section 7.3. |
| | (viii) How, and under what circumstances, heritage advice is to be obtained; | Complies: Section 7.1, Policy 1.3 and Section 7.3. Section 7.6 and Policy 6.3 |
| | (ix) How the condition of Commonwealth Heritage Values is to be monitored and reported; | Complies: Section 7.8 Section 7.6 – Policy 6.5 |
| | (x) How records of intervention and maintenance of a heritage places register are kept; | Complies: Policy 6.3 Section 7.5. |
| | (xi) The research, training and resources needed to improve management; | Complies: Section 7.6 Policy 6.3 |
| | (xii) How heritage values are to be interpreted and promoted; and | Complies: Section 7.6 Policy 6.4. |
| (i) | Include an implementation plan; and | Complies Section 7.7 |
| (j) | Show how the implementation of policies will be monitored; and | Complies. Section 7.6 Policy 6.3 |
| (k) | Show how the management plan will be reviewed. | Complies: Section 7.6 - Policy 6.2 |
6.5 Heritage Strategy
The principal objective of a heritage strategy is to outline a strategic approach for the agency to effectively manage places which it owns or controls for the long-term protection and conservation of their Commonwealth heritage values. Before making a heritage strategy, the agency must consult the Australian Heritage Council and consider its advice.
NFSA are required to prepare a Heritage Strategy for places and items under its control (including the collection). A revised Heritage Strategy is being updated in line with this updated HMP.
7.0 CONSERVATION POLICY
7.1 Introduction
The purpose of the conservation policy is to provide a guide to the care of the buildings or items of significance. It should be sufficiently flexible to recognise constraints and requirements, accommodate compatible development and at the same time enable the character and significance of the place to be retained and, in some cases, partly recovered.
Definitions used are taken from the Australia ICOMOS Charter for the conservation of Places of Cultural Significance (Burra Charter).
In general, the Conservation Policy is preceded by the information on which the policies are based and where helpful followed by examples or options which arise from the policies.
The recommended policies for the Conservation of the NFSA buildings and site are set out below. The policies are brief and should be read in conjunction with the associated text, as this will make the context clear and aid interpretation. This section is structured so that general policies come first followed by policies for specific fabric and spaces.
7.2 Overall Conservation Policy Statement
The NFSA buildings and site are significant elements of our cultural heritage and retain a high degree of integrity from their original construction. The objective of the following conservation policies is that the heritage significance of the place should be managed in a
manner appropriate to conserve and protect the official listed values and heritage significance associated with the building and site and thereby its significance. At the same time the building and site need to continue to be used as an archive, exhibition and office facility.
7.3 General
Conservation Objective 1:
to ensure that any actions which will impact on the official listed values and heritage significance of the place are in compliance with the EPBC Act, in reference to the Burra Charter and in consultation with professional heritage conservation planning experts.
Policy 1.1
The statement of cultural significance, official listed values and list of items set out in Section 4.7 should be accepted as the primary basis for future planning work and management of the building and site.
To implement this, the HMP needs to be adopted and actions taken as required by the EPBC Act.
Policy 1.2
The future conservation and development of the NFSA Buildings and site should be carried out in accordance with the EPBC Act and principles of the Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance (Burra Charter). Actions to always be consistent with the requirements of the EPBC Act.
It is important that experienced conservation practitioners and tradespeople are involved in any
future proposals or work at NFSA and that sound conservation principles are applied to any works.
Further explanation of these issues is outlined in Section 5.7 Burra Charter.
Policy 1.3
The policies recommended and options discussed throughout this document should be endorsed and followed when considering future planning and work associated with the NFSA Buildings and site.
For the ongoing conservation and protective care of any heritage asset, including NFSA, there needs to be an accepted position which guides the future of the place. Once requirements under the EPBC Act are met, the National Film and Sound Archive will need to endorse the HMP and these policies as the document for managing the building and site.
This HMP provides a basis for this to occur provided it is supported by all parties and implemented in future management decisions.
Where proposed work is in accordance with the HMP then there is unlikely to be any adverse effect on the heritage significance of the place.
Policy 1.4
The principles of protecting and conserving the building to retain the significance and protect official listed values as outlined in Section 4.7 to be adopted.
These principles explain acceptable actions to the various elements of the building depending on significance and are expanded on and clarified in Section 7.6.
Policy 1.5
Any proposed future action that may detrimentally affect the official listed values of the NFSA need to refer to the EPBC Act, specifically the referral process.
It is essential that the requirements of the EPBC Act are understood
and followed so the official listed values and heritage significance of the place are maintained. Elements that have been identified as having a low tolerance for change are part of the official listed values and need to be protected.
7.4 Future Use of the NFSA buildings
Conservation Objective 2:
ensure ongoing use conserves and protects the official listed values and heritage significance of the place and the associated values and meanings.
Policy 2.1
The main building should retain a predominantly exhibition function. Smaller spaces within the building could retain an office, display, storage or meeting function. The Residence could be returned to a single residence or continued as office space.
The NFSA main building and Residence have undergone little change in use. The main building is still being utilised for its original
exhibition/office function, although some floor area of exhibition
space has been reduced with the introduction of the Arc Cinema in the North Gallery. The ground floor spaces of the main building should predominantly be for public display and exhibition of some form.
Public access to exhibition spaces is important to retain.
Exhibition includes the promotion of film and sound in an Australian cultural context. It includes a multi- media dimension with a high level of interaction and promotion of film and sound in a broad context.
Ancillary spaces can be used as necessary in achieving the overall use.
The Arc Cinema in the North Gallery and Theatrette are noted but the space could be reinstated to a gallery space if and when NFSA no longer require the current functions in
the spaces.
The Residence returned to a residential function in 2008 and has been used for academic research.
It would be acceptable to reinstate as a single-family residence in future
if required.
The usage of spaces in the Annex may vary without any control provided it does not impact on fabric of the main building or external setting.
Policy 2.2
The NFSA buildings be conserved, protected and adapted in a manner that does not compromise their official listed values and heritage significance and in a
way consistent with the policies set down in this Heritage Management Plan.
Ongoing economic use of the buildings as far as practical is important to ensure they are kept in good condition and sufficient
funding needs to be provided for maintenance. This will require a level of sensitive adaptation of some areas to suit a new function.
Policy 2.3
The displays and resources in the main building to remain accessible to the public.
Throughout the life of the building public access to the majority of
the ground floor has always been possible. Such access should be retained in any future use.
Policy 2.4
In order to conserve and protect the official listed values and heritage significance, including the landscape setting, any works (such as site development for roads, car parking and buildings) need to be considered in reference to the EPBC Act with major works needing to be referred to the Minister for Environment.
The removal of trees to create large, paved areas not to be permitted. It is noted that the footpath along the northern edge of the Annex in 2014 did not require removal of mature trees.
Additional driveways not to be permitted unless it is clearly demonstrated that there will be no loss of or threat to any street trees. However consideration
of a driveway off Liversidge Street similar to the original intent is possible (refer Figure 5, Figure 25).
The site to remain predominantly lawn with scattered trees
except for the formal front of the building. It is noted that extensive plantings of native grasses associated with the Annex building represent a departure from the historic grass/mass planting typology in terms of colour, texture, seasonal change, etc, however they provide low ground cover
and do not detract from the open landscape setting to the building.
Preserve the area of native grasses west of the residence (between residence and Annex). It is noted that native grass planting was undertaken against the eastern façade of the Annex, but there is no evidence of native grasses pre-dating the Annex works.
Service access to the site to work within these controls and other landscape policies.
Retention of Liversidge Street trees. Replanting of trees in the Liversidge Street verge is the responsibility of the ACT Government Transport Canberra and City Services (TCCS) but a large number are missing. NFSA to ask TCCS to replace missing trees and work with them for installation and ongoing maintenance which may include a review of plant species.
Review existing car park to ensure no trees are under threat. It is noted that several tree locations are not presently planted, notably within the boundary along the western Annex section. NFSA to ask TCCS to replace missing trees and work with them for installation and ongoing maintenance which may include a review of plant species.
Retention of remnant plantings.
Policy 2.5
Prepare a landscape plan to guide reconstruction of the landscape setting of the place to protect official listed values and heritage significance so that replacement of trees that are posing a danger or require replacement for other reasons and with reference to the EPBC Act.
The landscape plan would include advice on:
Propagating replacement plants from existing trees
Undertaking a detailed heritage assessment of existing plant material to ensure that trees requiring replacement are replaced with the appropriate species.
This policy is included as a long-term goal noting that it could take time to eventuate.
7.5 Potential for Change
Conservation Objective 3: to retain the existing and historical forms, details and character of the place and significant elements while allowing ongoing effective use as conference/meeting venue. Changes to the buildings and site can be permitted if essential for the ongoing conservation for the place provided the impact on official listed values and heritage significance as per the EPBC Act is nil or minimal.
Policy 3.1
An additional building on the site could be permitted provided it does not affect the official listed values and heritage significance of the site and it meets the requirements of the EPBC Act.
A building complimenting the Residence on the south carpark (refer Figure 33) could be possible.
Any proposal to meet obligations under the EPBC Act and to be referred to the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment.
Policy 3.2
Further extensions and alterations to the main building are not supported.
Construction of the Annex in 1998 has provided the fourth wing to enclose the courtyard and complete W H Morris’ original concept for the building. The building now has a strong degree of balance and order and any external additions would compromise that and therefore detract from the aesthetic significance of the place.
Policy 3.3
Further extensions to the Residence are not supported.
Policy 3.4
Alterations are to be sympathetic to official listed values and heritage significance and are not to be Intrusive.
No major structures (including plant) to be placed on the roof if they are visible from ground level on McCoy Circuit or Liversidge Street.
No alteration to fitout of library permitted with exception of:
– More sympathetic lighting which is less intrusive
and reflects the original design intent.
– Relocation of loose furniture.
– Temporary wall and other fitout which does not damage original fabric and that is removable.
Note that fitout refers to long term and permanent change. Temporary exhibitions are not fitout provided they do not affect or alter the base building. New fitouts in any spaces (in the Main Building or Residence) to be designed in accordance with the essential characteristics of the original design. New fitout to not detrimentally impact original fabric and not destroy any original details. The original components include:
– Floors
• Marble, tiled or timber floors
– Walls
• Rendered walls with render details and timber details of skirting, doors and architraves and tiled skirtings in central passages
Paint finished rendered walls generally
– Timber
• Stained timber doors, skirtings, architraves, picture rails generally excepting to main building. Paint finish in residence
• Glazed and panelled timber doors
• Brass door hardware.
– Ceiling
• Plasterboard with stepped cornice
• Fine plaster detailing to exhibition spaces, library and theatre
• Repetitive angular detail carried through joinery, cast iron and render details
• Ceilings plain with simple cornice in office and service areas of main building
• Plain ceiling with cover battens and simply detailed cornice in residence
• Plain ceiling with detailed cornice in larger spaces of main building
The tiling and partitioning in main building toilets (internal) is substantially original.
Kitchenettes can be modern, as all earlier detail has gone.
Partitioning in basement possible with the only control being to minimise intrusion on ground floor slab. Details could reflect character of upper levels but can be quite plain and modern.
Window dressing should be contained within window reveal or fixed to the window. It should present neutral colour to exterior. Furnishings should be pleated, Venetian or roller (ie Holland) blinds or simple curtains.
Principal, internal signage to utilise typeface in building name over entry wherever practicable. This does not apply to signage required to meet statutory obligations such as exits,
access for people with disabilities and safety.
Services cabinets, fire hose reels, etc to be contained within timber cupboards with appropriate signage on doors.
Cables for services are to be concealed behind joinery elements whenever possible (e.g. skirtings). Chasing into render is to be minimised. Surface conduits are to be avoided except in storerooms. Extreme care.
must be exercised to minimise damage to original fabric. The integration of new services must be carefully considered before implementation.
New ductwork and plant to be concealed but can be exposed in plant and service areas.
No controls are placed upon changes to the interior of the Annex as it is not identified within the official listed values.
Reconstructed stair in residence to be retained.
If the roof sheeting over the galleries is proposed in future it should only be replaced with galvanised iron or Colorbond finish sheeting.
NFSA Issues as mentioned in Section 5.1 are discussed below:
Main Entry & Portico
Possible banner installation of main entry.
This could be achieved within the front porch and small fixing holes not visible from in front of the building.
Possible additional signage inside foyer
This could be achieved by suitable panels, coloured and shaped to suit building details and supported by minimal fixings. Such signs should be within other elements and not cross borders of different material.
Outdoor film screenings in courtyard.
These can be undertaken without change to existing fabric.
Figure 134: Outdoor Film Screening in the Courtyard (NFSA 2018)
This usually means holes for fixings and electrical cables. No holes preferred in original fabric. On site assessment of proposal to be undertaken before work proceeds.
Temporary exhibitions will be installed on a rolling program of approximately every 4–6 months. These exhibitions will be a combination of ‘buy in’ content from other archives and museums and internally developed content. These exhibitions will be stylistically varied and will require different cabling, power and other installation requirements. All installation will be undertaken with the aim of no impact on the original fabric.
Upgrade access to galleries
Access exists to both galleries with the work undertaken in 2018.
Public use of Library as an exhibition or program space.
This is possible provided official listed values are protected. Impact on the library book and periodical collection needs consideration but this is outside the scope of this HMP.
Policy 3.5
Changes to meet statutory requirements as defined by the National Construction Code Volume 1 (Building Code of Australia), Australian Standards or Authorities shall be considered in the context of the Policies 3.4, 4.1 4.3.
This will include such aspects as fire safety and access for people with disabilities. Changes of use, which increase occupancy levels, may require a review of toilet facilities. A proposal for additional toilet provision would require consistency with this HMP.
This will require detailed consideration of each proposal and possibly performance solutions sought to conserve and protect original fabric and maintain the significance of the building yet meet the performance requirements.
Policy 3.6
Repairs and maintenance are essential to heritage conservation and will ensure ongoing conservation and protection of the official listed values and heritage significance.
Maintenance will also result in some original material in poor condition being replaced. Poor condition means rotten and decayed. It does not mean damaged as a result of its age. The original areas of the building are old and the patina that exists is part of its history. Wholesale replacement to new condition is not acceptable. Essential replacement however is acceptable but when replacing original fabric new details should match original details without conjecture. When replacing non-original fabric Heritage Impact Assessments will explore suitable
options including to return the building to a known earlier state, replacing it to match existing details or adding new material in a sympathetic way.
The NFSA collection to be protected and preserved whilst located in the building.
Existing joinery units around radiator panels to be preserved.
New (non-original) NFSA exhibition cabinetry may be removed at the end of exhibitions.
7.6 Conservation of the Building and Retention of Significance
Conservation Objective 4: With reference to the Australia ICOMOS Burra Charter and the EPBC Act, ensure the proper conservation and protection of the official listed values and heritage significance of the NFSA and site, where the various components contributing to its cultural significance are maintained and interpreted.
Policy 4.1
Items of Exceptional Significance (official listed values) are to be conserved and protected including through monitoring.
Refer Section 4.7 for what is included under this heading. This requires some works to be undertaken to conserve and protect the building and regular inspection, monitoring and maintenance work to ensure that the building remains in sound condition.
The items listed “exceptional significance’ must be retained, conserved and protected in accordance with the Burra Charter. No adaptation should occur unless essential for the ongoing conservation and protection of the building. Any proposed change must be preceded by careful recording.
No intrusion or modification to eastern facade elements.
Continued maintenance of stonework is essential, including repair of damaged stonework, if and when it occurs.
Original windows to be preserved.
Skylight glazing and structure to be preserved and restored.
Skylights should remain substantially naturally lit during the day. With an option for artificial back lighting when desired.
Marble work in foyer to be preserved.
Render detailing throughout both buildings to be preserved.
Original tiling and partitions in toilets (internal toilets of main building) to be preserved.
Foyer, exhibition spaces, library and theatre must remain 2 storey spaces.
Balconies to foyer, library and exhibition spaces must not be enclosed in any manner.
Timber floors to be preserved.
InnesBell Hollow Block floor slab to be preserved.
Original joinery and details to be retained in situ.
Original loose furniture should be retained on site. Items not in use to be catalogued before storage, identifying their location and condition and description.
Original tiling in corridors to be preserved.
Internal stairs and balustrades to be preserved. (Glazed infill over the balustrades and extension handrails at level 1 of the foyer, which have been introduced for BCA compliance, may remain). Similar details may be required to other non-complying balustrades.
No additional permanent signage to be affixed to the external building façade.
The use of advertising banners draped in front of the façade, as is current practice, is considered acceptable.
It is acknowledged that the building name over the main entry may change at some stage as the use of the building changes. New signage should:
– Be affixed in a manner which reuses existing holes and should not require new holes to be drilled in the stonework.
– Be of a similar height to existing.
– Use a typeface similar to existing or original external signage (based on documentary evidence).
Marble windowsills to be preserved.
Original lighting, GPOs, light switches to be retained in situ and continue to be
used as far as possible. Where replacement of light fittings is required, it is acceptable to upgrade the lamp and ballasts to modern specifications.
Light shades should be replaced to original design.
Original door hardware to be retained insitu.
Busts and plaques within main building to be preserved insitu.
Fireplaces in residence to remain open, even if not used. Blocking
flues temporarily is acceptable.
Reinstate original timber handrails in stairwells.
Lift shaft to be preserved.
Investigate original colour schemes through paint scrapes and implement as appropriate.
Rejuvenate hedges including pruning to a more formal rectilinear form at residence (to front and between residence and carpark).
Retain remnant trees.
Preserve and maintain the tree planting along Liversidge Street which is within the Lease Boundary.
Preserve open grass.
– Conserve and protect open grass areas to a reasonable condition. This may include re-activation of irrigation, routine horticultural practices (such as coring/ de-thatching/fertilising/ weeding), rabbit control, and effective reinstatement after disturbance (including where trees are removed, by utility authorities, etc). Recommendations by Arborists for mulching beneath trees should be considered in the context of protecting and conserving the extent of grassed areas.
– It is desirable to limit the further conversion of grassed (lawn) areas to native grasses.
Residence garden (south and north) to be established.
– Re-establish and maintain a domestic garden character of open lawn with trees, densely planted garden beds including species likely to have been used in the original garden construction.
– Consider the use of alternative ground surfaces such as granite gravel, synthetic lawn, etc. to recreate the effect of open lawn areas, in lieu of extensive, unplanted mulched beds.
– If feasible, progressively remove or replace elements which detract from the domestic garden character, such as carpark pavements, ‘carport’ style shelter, wheel stops, bollards, shade sail, proprietary street furniture, duplicated pathways, etc.
Items of Considerable Significance are to be conserved and protected. intervention in the items or fabric can occur as long as it complies with the EPBC Act and in reference to the Burra Charter and protects official listed values.
Refer Section 4.7 for what is included under this heading. This requires some works to be undertaken to conserve and protect the building and a regular inspection and maintenance work to ensure that the building remains in sound condition.
The items listed ‘considerable significance’ should be retained and conserved and protected in accordance with the Burra Charter. Minor adaptation may be considered provided significant fabric is conserved and protected, and careful recording occur. They should be retained as is, subject to essential maintenance. They should not be removed unless essential for the operation of the building.
Policy 4.3
Items not official listed elements or the items of lower significance, such as those of moderate or some significance in clause 4.7 should be retained but could be altered, removed, adapted or remodelled to allow for the conservation of elements of greater significance, or for operational requirements but only after consideration of alternatives that minimise any intervention or impact and appropriate recording. Any actions will need to comply with EPBC Act.
Appropriate recording would include, as a minimum, photographic images of the element sufficient to describe form, detail colour and size, and a plan indicating location within the building or site. Where elements contained unusual detail a drawing of the profile should be made and dimensioned.
The archive is to be retained by NFSA and National Archives of Australia.
Policy 4.4
The items considered intrusive in Clause 4.7 can be removed at any time, subject to advice from a heritage specialist and photographic recording.
The archaeological control refers to care to be taken not to disturb or affect fabric of significance, especially fabric identified as officially listed value or of heritage significance.
At all times, even for intrusive items, a photographic record of the change should be made to provide useful historic information that should be recorded and retained.
7.7 Recording
Conservation Objective 5: ensure processes are in place to record the place before change occurs to maintain an historical record.
Policy 5.1
Original details and finishes must be recorded prior to any major refurbishment or modification. Recording should be undertaken by a heritage specialist and the record retained by the NFSA and included in reports to the Minister in accordance with the EPBC Act.
Correct conservation process is to record by means of drawings and photographs buildings or details before they changed. These should be archived by the NFSA.
Records of change should be held by NFSA (which forms part of the NFSA Strategy).
Any unforeseen evidence uncovered or disturbed during the execution of the work should similarly be recorded.
7.8 Management
Conservation Objective 6: to provide a management framework that includes reference to any statutory requirements and agency mechanisms for the conservation and protection of the Official Listed Values and heritage significance of the place.
Policy 6.1
Existing registers be updated with the details contained within this report.
Policy 6.2
In accordance with the EPBC Act the HMP must be reviewed within every 5-year period. The review is to check that no new material is to hand, to review and change details as may be required and to reconfirm policies.
This HMP will be reviewed in accordance with section 341X of the EPBC Act. Section 341X of the EPBC Act states that:
(1) At least once in every 5-year period after a plan for managing a Commonwealth Heritage place is made under section 341S, the Commonwealth agency concerned must cause a review of the plan to be carried out.
(2) The review must:
(a) assess whether the plan is consistent with the Commonwealth Heritage management principles in force at the time; and
(b) assess whether the plan is effective in protecting and conserving the Commonwealth Heritage Values of the place; and
(c) make recommendations for the improved protection of the Commonwealth Heritage values of the place.
(3) The person carrying out the review must publish, on the Internet and in a daily newspaper circulating in each State and self- governing Territory, a notice inviting anyone to give the person comments within 20 business days on:
(a) whether the plan is consistent with the Commonwealth Heritage management principles; and
(b) the effectiveness of the plan in protecting and conserving the Commonwealth Heritage Values of the place.
(4) In carrying out the review, the person must consider the comments (if any) received in accordance with the notice. The NFSA is responsible to ensure that these reviews occur and the required consultation is programmed and implemented. The Manager may commission the review by an external consultant.
(5) The review should include a critical and analytical management reassessment of how each policy implementation has worked in the preceding period, what has worked well and what has not, how policies or management structures and roles need to change if necessary for the most effective process for the conservation of the building.
Policy 6.3
A clear management structure and system needs to be maintained by NFSA to ensure works occur in a correct way, and Conservation Policies are applied.
Action should be undertaken using the following flowchart and accordance with EPBC Act.
NFSA does not currently have in place a complete Asset Management Plan for the NFSA site. Planning is currently underway to develop a new Strategic Asset Management Plan to be delivered in 2020 and which will form an overview of asset replacement through to 2030. This will provide an effective tool for managing the building in conjunction with the NFSA Heritage Management Plan. The document will include forward planning and be reviewed on a 3-5 year cycle.
The HMP will be used in conjunction with the Asset Management Plan to manage the site.
NFSA have a management structure in place for the management of the site. Community consultation on potential works should include the general community, the National Trust, the Australian Institute of Architects and where works may impact official listed heritage values as per requirements of the EPBC Act.
Senior Manager, Property and Security Oversees the whole site and liaison with NFSA Executive on Building and Services issues. The Senior Manager, Property is the nominated
staff member responsible for liaison with the Australian Heritage Council, National Capital Authority and other statutory and local authorities as required.
The Senior Manager, Property co- ordinates two staff who have the following responsibilities:
Property Officer 1 – Building owner and building services related issues.
Property Officer 2 – Tenant and building fabric issues.
There will be occasions where urgent works do not permit time for consultation with external authorities. All urgent repairs will comply with this HMP, in accordance with the EPBC Act and using heritage conservation expert to ensure official listed values and heritage significance are conserved and protected and the site and buildings are appropriately conserved. However, with the works being implemented in consultation with the Asset Management Plan and HMP, the impact on significant fabric of an unplanned incident will be minimised. Once the situation is stabilised, the appropriate consultation should occur.
The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment to receive a self-assessment as soon as practical with priority given to stabilising the building and site.
Under normal circumstances, planning of major maintenance works or alterations and additions should include adequate time in the program for consultations to occur.
The Senior Manager, Property will be responsible for monitoring the implementation of policies annually. This may include development of a checklist of heritage issues to be addressed in planning a works project. This checklist can then be submitted to the Senior Manager, Property by the Property Officers prior to commencement of a project to demonstrate how policies have been met. The Senior Manager, Property will then be readily able to prepare an assessment annually. Information on how effectively this is occurring for inclusion in the NFSA Annual Report. These records must be made available to the Department as and when requested.
Under normal circumstances, planning of major maintenance works or alterations and additions should include early consultation with stakeholders.
It is preferable to consult stakeholders (including where appropriate the wider community)
early in the design process to take all aspects and interests into account. Early consultation has the advantage of avoiding unnecessary and abortive work.
As part of its management of this Heritage place, NFSA will need to continue to keep staff aware of the significance of the place and what its Commonwealth Heritage Values are. This can be undertaken through:
Heritage Induction of new staff;
Specific heritage training of staff involved in roles with potential to impact on official listed values and heritage significance (e.g. those that work on conserving and protecting the collection, or maintenance staff).
A detailed history of the building is available which should be made available to staff in house. Training issues are also addressed in the Heritage Strategy.
Policy 6.4
Interpretation of the site should be promoted in accordance with the Interpretation Plan.
The HMP is to be used as part of a broad communication plan and a detail interpretation plan needs to be developed for the NFSA. This will actively promote the significance of the place to occupiers, visitors and as
wide an audience as possible and also enable other people to appreciate the significance of the buildings.
Interpretation currently exists externally with signs at all entry points to the site. None of the buildings presently contain any interpretation material internally on a permanent basis. The installation of such material can assist in enhancing the appreciation of
the building.
A previously developed information leaflet on the building could be updated with details contained in this report and also made available online through the website.
The interpretation plan should be developed and implemented as soon as practical.
Policy 6.5
A furniture study be undertaken to identify and/or locate all items of loose furniture that were part of the original Institute of Anatomy. The furniture to be conserved and protected and used within the existing building.
The original display cases that are currently stored off site should be used on site if feasible, used for displays elsewhere if possible (retain a record of where they are located), or be carefully recorded and documented.
The location and custodial arrangements of furniture and objects should be recorded by the NFSA and referenced in this HMP and Heritage Strategy.
Policy 6.6
All original documentation for the building should be retained by the National Archives of Australia (NAA) and NFSA.
There are substantial original records which provide useful information on the building. These are detailed in the previous HMPS. NAA are the appropriate custodians for original documentation.
The location and custodial arrangements of records should be identified in the NFSA and a full inventory of records and objects associated with the place must be retained on site by NFSA and by the NAA.
Policy 6.7
Procedures for divestment (in accordance with the EPBC Act), sale or lease of the property must consider potential impact on official listed values and heritage significance and put in place methods to conserve and
protect heritage significance and be referred to the Minister for the Environment.
If NFSA or later owners of the building should ever wish to sell or lease part or all of the site, they must give the Minister for the Environment sufficient time to consider the situation with all
relevant material before executing the contract. The agency must ensure that the contract includes a covenant, the effect of which is to conserve and protect the official listed values of the place, unless, having regard to other means of conserving and protecting those values, the agency is satisfied that it is either unnecessary or unreasonable of it including such a covenant in the contract is impracticable.
If the Minister is informed that the Australian Government agency is satisfied that it is unnecessary to include such a covenant in the contract, the Minister may advise the agency about measures to ensure the ongoing conservation and protection of the National or Commonwealth Heritage Values of the place, in which case the agency must take all reasonable steps to ensure that the measures are taken.
Policy 6.8
Access to the building needs to be controlled so the NFSA collection is not placed under threat or concern.
General access to the site is encouraged so the current NFSA collection, and the building, can be understood by as wide an audience as is possible. The NFSA manages physical security across through a range of methods which are in line with the NFSA Security Policy and Framework.
During general opening hours the areas available for general access are identified and controlled. After hours use is restricted and areas of use tightly controlled and monitored.
Policy 6.9
Sensitive material to be identified and access to it controlled by NFSA’s Collection Management Policy or other policies as appropriate.
This will vary depending on the type of material and classification within the NFSA Collection.
Policy 6.10
Stakeholder consultation to occur as per EPBC Act. Additional consultation with stakeholders or interested groups can occur at the discretion of the NFSA.
Key stakeholders are Australian Heritage Council, Australian Institute of Architects, and the National Trust of Australia (ACT) as well as the Canberra community in general. NFSA to manage consultation and feedback on proposal as per EPBC Act requirements.
Policy 6.11
Management of sensitive information to be implemented in ways that are not inconsistent with the EPBC Act.
NFSA provides a highly confidential role in parts of its operations. Therefore security controls are in place for the management of access and storage of confidential and sensitive documentation relating to the NFSA’s operations. These controls should apply to sensitive archival information relating to the history of the NFSA.
Sensitive historic documents (such as photos, plans and details) should be held by NFSA.
This will also apply to restricting public access and possibly staff access to parts of the area occupied by NFSA. It may also apply to any tenanted space within the building depending on NFSA and tenant requirements. This will restrict access for security and control and not be discriminatory. This will also be reflected in any interpretative material that will be made available to the public, and possibly staff.
Policy 6.12
Unforeseen discoveries or disturbances require special attention
There are statutory obligations and protocols to follow depending on the unforeseen discovery and these are defined by regulations under the EPBC Act.
Any excavation works that may be required at the site will be carried out with care. In the event of any unforeseen discoveries (artefacts) or disturbance of heritage related items within the site during any excavation, works must be stop immediately until further instruction and notification must be sent to the relevant organisation. The strategy should be to seek appropriate heritage advice and apply best practice in the event of unforeseen discoveries or disturbance. Conservation advice may be sought from heritage specialist with an appropriate experience regarding the significance and the appropriate course of action.
interpretation or display of heritage fabric or information on the site that is visible to the public (like signage or other displays).
Policy 6.13
Professional conservation advice to be sought when necessary
For work on the building, any unforeseen situations or potential conflicting issues, professional conservation advice should be obtained before any action occurs, especially if the issue is complex or difficult.
The issues may relate to materials conservation, archaeological evidence or architectural elements so it is important that the advice of an appropriate conservation professional should be obtained before any action occurs that could impact on the heritage values.
7.9 Implementation
7.9.1 Responsibility for Implementation of Policies
The NFSA is responsible for overseeing works carried out to all property in their ownership, including those demonstrating official listed values.
In keeping with the management structure outlined in the NFSA’s Heritage Strategy all proposed major changes to heritage fabric or use of heritage buildings shall be referred to NFSA management for review and approval, or referral to the Minister where appropriate under the EPBC Act.
NFSA Management shall appoint a heritage consultant or other heritage specialists as required.
The Head of the relevant department shall be responsible for the implementation of policies contained within this report, as described in the Heritage Strategy. Minor changes, relating to maintenance and day-to-day use of building, would generally be approved by the Senior Manager, Property in consultation with the heritage consultant.
7.9.2 Funding
In keeping with the NFSA Heritage Strategy, the organisation will continue to set aside appropriate funds to ensure the preventative maintenance and conservation of the NFSA building can be carried out. Funding for other future changes to the building will be made through the existing organisational structure.
7.9.3 Review and Monitoring the Heritage Management Plan
This Heritage Management Plan must be reviewed at least one in every five-year period in a manner consistent with that set out in Section 341X of the EPBC Act. The policies contained in Section 7 of this report outline the content of any review of the Heritage Management Plan and nominates the person
within the NFSA Corporate Structure responsible for carrying out any review.
The reviewer must publish a notice inviting public comment and taking those comments into consideration in relation to the effectiveness of the plan in protecting the official listed values of the place, and whether it is consistent with Commonwealth Heritage management principles.
The NFSA shall be responsible for monitoring, reporting and overseeing the review and acting on information where necessary to protect the official listed values of the building.
The NFSA will review the works register for the building annually to monitor the condition of fabric to ensure the official listed values are managed according to best–practice heritage management principles and Commonwealth Heritage Management principles.
7.9.4 Conservation Works
The following details contains recommendations for conservation action arising from the Conservation Policy. The recommendations are divided into three broad categories.
Work required to ensure safe access to the building and use of the building by the public and staff. This is of an urgent nature and should be programmed and implemented as soon as possible (within 12 months) to avoid deterioration of significant fabric or danger to staff and the public.
Work required to upgrade the building to modern standards or as non-urgent maintenance work required to be executed in the near future (not exceeding 3 years).
Work required to enhance the facilities. This is work that is desirable but not essential. One part (a) is work that will lift the image of the NFSA including promotion of the building and reinforcing the significance of the building. The other part (b) includes all other work. These works can be
programmed for any time and should be undertaken if a major refurbishment is proposed.
Urgent Works
If works are urgent and urgent responses are required the work shall comply with this HMP, be in accordance with the EPBC Act and using conservation professionals to ensure official listed values are protected and the site and buildings are appropriately conserved.
Main Building
Urgent works just completed included render repairs to the courtyard and repair to damaged internal areas.
Residence
The external wall was underpinned and paving added around the building and drainage improved. There are no cracks in the external skin of the wall. However the internal walls have cracks which should be stabilized and repaired.
No crack is of structural concern to the building. Ongoing maintenance of cracks is a reasonable approach unless substantial funds are available to stabilize the footings.
Repair hail damaged terra cotta tiled roof.
Upgrading Works
Continuation of maintenance work.
Rising damp is an ongoing issue and ideally should be treated but in the short term (1-3 years) can be managed as it is at present.
Repair/replace cracked and damaged floor tiles.
Upgrade access ramp to Annex to current standards.
Enhancement Works
These works are a way to conserve, protect and transmit the official heritage values of NFSA. It is important to note the EPBC Act requirements including the referrals process for works that may have
a significant impact on official listed values.
The following are recommended (not mandatory) works to uplift image, and reinstate original detail:
Main Building
Investigate original colour schemes and implement when the opportunity arises.
Expose part of timber floors in office areas.
Landscape to Front of Building
Remove non-original trees from front lawn (as they die) and reinstate original tree planting in accordance with the landscape plan.
Reinstate hedges of original species along both sides of driveway and across the front of the site. Where original species are environmental weeds (e.g. Cotoneaster, Pyracantha), consider replacement with a similar alternative.
If the front entry garden beds are to be replanted, establish and maintain as uniform and symmetrical massed plantings, ideally evergreen shrubs 1-1.5m high generally, with potential for lower shrubs or groundcovers 0.5m high adjacent paths and stairs.
It would be acceptable to replant street trees in front of the building to original design.
This would be in conjunction with ACT Government Transport Canberra and City Services (TCCS).
It would be acceptable to reinstate the rose garden in the centre of the front lawn.
Residence Landscape
Rejuvenate the hedges around the sides of the Residence yard, including pruning back to a more formal form. Where original species are environmental weeds (e.g. Cotoneaster, Pyracantha), consider replacement with a similar alternative.
It is acknowledged that the work in formalising and sealing the area in front of the residence, has improved the setting, and log barriers to the edge of the
carpark prevent vehicle access onto sensitive native grass areas. It is also acknowledged that there is a limited amount of onsite parking, and some concession needs to be made to provide for this. Being screened from the street, the parking in the residence grounds has a lower visual impact on the setting than other parking areas, and therefore has some merit. If the need for parking can in future be resolved in some other way, then reinstatement of the front garden would be desirable.
The current work by NFSA to re-establish native grasses and plant native shrubs in the western corner of the residence garden is supported.
– This area could be enhanced and its significance conserved and protected by introducing gravel paths into areas where grass is not growing and forming beds with grass and native plants. A landscape plan should be developed for this area.
– The construction of gravel paths and installation of plantings in 2010 does not appear to have resulted in the enhancement of native grasses. The area is presently characterised by tightly spaced conifer/deciduous/ native/ ornamental trees, some native understorey planting, and large areas of unplanted mulch. The current situation needs review.
Residence Executive Carpark Gardens
It is desirable to maintain the character of the drying area by conservation of the clothes hoist, grass, fencing, wisteria planting and concrete gate posts.
Residence paved surround
It is desirable to reduce the visual dominance of brick paving and stormwater strip drain surrounding the residence building.
Courtyard landscape
It is desirable to recreate or re-interpret the original courtyard landscape design in upgrade works. This might include the presence of some trees or large ‘overarching’ shrubs growing to 4-5m at maturity.
Annex courtyard
It is desirable to preserve some visual distinction between the original and newer Annex courtyards by use of complimentary but distinct materials, finishes, planting structure and species, etc.
Annex and carpark native grasses
It is desirable to establish and maintain dense and continuous native grass ground coverage within garden areas, including areas with diminished cover at time of this review at the ends of the Annex and surrounding the south carpark.
Site furniture guide
It is desirable to establish a palette/guide for the design and selection of external fixtures (bike rails, seats, bins, shelters, signage, etc) which is complimentary to the site and building character in colour, finish, material, design form, scale, etc.
Site weed species replacement
It is desirable to incrementally remove environmental weeds (e.g. Cotoneaster, Pyracantha) and replace with non-invasive species of a similar character and growing requirements, as the opportunity arises (suitable ones can be suggested when required).
Walkway interface between residence and main building
It is desirable to preserve the formal arrangement of hedging, seating areas, pathways and gardens in the walkway area which give spatial and visual definition to the interface between the main building surrounds and the residence.
Carpark screening
It is acknowledged that the open grassed areas are exceptional features, however where carparks have been introduced it would be acceptable to introduce and maintain borders of low (say, to 1.0m high) narrow plantings, where the reduced visibility of cars has merit in conserving and protecting an appropriate landscape character.
North carpark tree planting
It is desirable to introduce supplementary tree plantings within the carpark area to provide a greater landscape setting and to re-introduce the interior avenue row of trees following McCoy Cct which remains evident on the south side of the site (originally Celtis, now being replaced by Zelkova).
Nitrate bunker
It is desirable to maintain a landscape setting for the nitrate bunker, including the re-establishment of groundcover or low shrub plantings to earth embankments.
Maintenance Checklist
The following Checklist identifies specific areas to be monitored on at least an annual basis to ensure the conservation and protection of this heritage asset. Clearly a more comprehensive checklist and time frames will be developed as part of the Asset Management Plan. The following list should be incorporated into that list:
Monitor external sandstone and granite. Record crack development and or spalling of stone. Repair as necessary.
Monitor weatherproofness and operation of windows and doors.
Replace broken glass.
Monitor soundness of roof sheeting and concrete topping. Implement repairs urgently.
Monitor condition of downpipes, rainwater heads and roof drainage system.
Continue to monitor integrity of residence walls and roof.
Monitor soundness of marble and tiled floors.
Secure loose/squeaky floorboards where possible.
Monitor integrity of roof light glazing systems.
Monitor condition of waterproof membrane to colonnade roof.
Monitor rising damp in basement walls and western walls. Repair if soundness of fabric threatened.
Check soundness of balustrading and handrails internal and external.
Check for presence of termites in either building and within precinct.
Monitor condition of older trees on site. Implement program of progressive replacement with propagated plant material when considered appropriate.
Monitor health of remaining original eucalyptus trees.
Monitor condition of grassed lawn areas. Implement irrigation wherever feasible, routine horticultural practices (such as coring/de-thatching/ fertilising), rabbit control, and effective reinstatement after disturbance (including where trees are removed, by utility authorities, etc).
Monitor condition of planted garden areas. Implement irrigation wherever feasible, routine horticultural practices such as weeding, fertilising, pruning, replanting, mulching, etc to maintain dense, continuous coverage by plantings.
Annual Maintenance reviews of the building should also include an assessment of operations of the place and planning strategies for the forward 12 months to determine whether any actions have been taken or are proposed that have potential to impact on Commonwealth Heritage Values of the place (refer Section 4.8 Statement of Significance). Any irregularities identified should be brought to the attention of the Manager, Property and actioned in accordance with Policy 7.6.3.
8.0 REFERENCES
Anon., ‘MacKenzie, Sir William Colin’, Australian Encyclopaedia, Sydney, Angus and Robertson, 1958
Anon., ‘The Australian Institute of Anatomy’, Australian Journal of
Science [hereafter AJS], vol. 2, no. 1, 21 August 1939
Anon., ‘The orations at the Australian Institute of Anatomy, Canberra’, Health, vol. 11, August 1933
Apperley, Irving & Reynolds Identifying Australian Architecture, p164
Anon., ‘Obituary: Charles Vincent MacKay’, MJA, 22 August 1953.
Barz, R.K & Winston-Gregson 1981 Murrumbidgee River Corridor. An Archaeological Survey for the NCDC, National Capital Development Commission, Canberra (unpublished report ACT Heritage Library).
Brockwell, S. & Dowling, P.,
The Archaeology of the Australian Capital Territory. A strategic region for understanding cultural and natural landscapes in south eastern Australia over the last 20,000 years, paper delivered at the Australian Archaeological Association conference, 2010.
David Carment, ‘Mackay, Donald George’, ADB, vol. 10
Brett Chalmers, 2018. ANU Aboriginal Heritage Assessment Sullivans Creek & Heritage Trail, report prepared for ANU Heritage.
F.W. Clements, ‘Review of the Functions of the Australian Institute of Anatomy. Reorganisation of Staff and Reclassification of Salaries’, December 1945, CRS A1928, item 695/3 section 3.
Dr Frederick W. Clements, ‘Australian Institute of Anatomy’, April 1949, CRS A2644, item 70.
Clements, ‘Activities of the Institute of Anatomy during the War Years’, 1945
L.F. Fitzhardinge, ‘Old Canberra and district 1820-1910’, in H.L. White (ed.), Canberra: A Nation’s Capital, Canberra, ANZAAS, 1954
L.F. Fitzhardinge, Old Canberra and the Search for a Capital, Canberra, CDHS, 1975
Flood, J., Magee, D. & English, B. 1987, ‘Birrigai: a Pleistocene site in the south-eastern highlands, Archaeology in Oceania, 22:9-26
Flood, J. 2010 Moth Hunters of the Australian Capital Territory, J.M. Flood, Canberra
Jim Gibbney, Canberra 1913-1953, Canberra, AGPS, 1988
E.H. Hipsley, ‘Radio Script: Address Children’s Hour 2CA’, 20 June 1949, CRS A1658, item 151/1/1 part 1
Eben H. Hipsley, ‘The Australian Institute of Anatomy’, Health, new series vol. 1, March 1951
Hipsley, Health, new series, vol. 1, pp. 18-20
Joan Kerr, ‘The architecture of scientific Sydney’, Journal and Proceedings of the Royal Society of New South Wales, vol. 118, parts 3 and 4, March 1986
Lewis, M, 200 years of Concrete in Australia, 1988
Godden Mackay Logan, 2012, ANU Heritage Study Acton Campus, vol 1, Report prepared for The Australian National University. Wok, N. Considering Traditional Aboriginal Affilliations in the ACT Region, draft report to Australian Capital territory Government, Canberra, 2013 (http://www.cmad.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/1031698/Documents.pdf, accessed 31 January, 2018).
Professor Sir W. Colin MacKenzie, ‘Brief Resume of the History of Australian Institute of Anatomy, Canberra’, c. 1930, Commonwealth Record Series [hereafter CRS] A2644, item 70
H.P. Moss, ‘Evidences of Stone Age occupation of the Australian Capital Territory’, Report of the Twenty-Fourth Meeting of the Australian and New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science, 1939.
Monica MacCallum, ‘MacKenzie, Sir William Colin’, Australian Dictionary of Biography [hereafter ADB], vol. 10
Kirsten Orr, ‘The realisation of the Sydney Technical College and Technological Museum, 1878-92: aspects of their cultural significance’, Fabrications, vol. 17, no. 1, 2007
PWC, ‘Report … relating to the Proposed Construction of … the National Museum of Australian Zoology’, 1927
PWC, ‘Report together with Minutes of Evidence relating to the Proposed Construction of Buildings for the Institute of Anatomy, at Canberra’, 1929
PWC, ‘Report together with Minutes of Evidence relating to the Proposed Construction of Buildings for the Institute of Anatomy, at Canberra’, 1929, CRS C86, item 229
PWC, ‘Report relating to the proposed Additions to the Institute of Anatomy, Canberra’, 1945
A.J. Proust, ‘Sir Colin MacKenzie and the Institute of Anatomy’, Medical Journal of Australia [hereafter MJA], 4 July 1994
A.J. Proust, History of Medicine in Canberra and Queanbeyan and their Hospitals, Gundaroo, Brolga Press, 1994
Michael Roe, ‘The establishment of the Australian Department of Health: its background and significance’, Historical Studies, vol. 17, 1976
Dennis Shoesmith, ‘“Nature’s Law”: the venereal disease debate, Melbourne 1918-19
Eric Sparke, Canberra 1954-1980, Canberra, AGPS, 1988
R.P. Stone, ‘Australian Institute of Anatomy’, Australian Encyclopaedia, vol. 1
Theden-Ringl. F., 2016 ‘Aboriginal presence in the high country: new dates from the Namadgi Rangers in the Australian Capital Territory, Australian Archaeology, Vol 82:1 (https://www.academia.
Dr Helen Wurm, ‘The Institute of Anatomy Ethnological Collections’, address to residential school entitled ‘Canberra – Our National Capital’, ANU, Canberra, 24-30 May 1964
Wurm, ‘The Institute of Anatomy Ethnological Collections’, CRS A1658, item 151/1/7
Uncle Jim ‘Baza’ Williams, interview, ‘Our Country’ gallery, National Museum of Australia.
Wally Bell, interview, ‘Our Country’ gallery, National Museum of Australia.
Commonwealth Documents (internal)
Annual Reports
Annual reports of the Institute of Anatomy 1931-9, CRS A1928, item 695/17
‘Report of the Director. Australian Institute of Anatomy. 1st July,
1931-30th June, 1932’
‘Report of the Australian Institute of Anatomy. July 1st 1932-June 30th 1933’, p. 1, CRS A1928, item 695/17
‘Report of the Australian Institute of Anatomy July 1st 1933 to June 30th 1934’, p. 2, CRS A1928, item 695/17
‘Report of the Australian Institute of Anatomy July 1st, 1934 to June 30th, 1935’, CRS A1928, item 695/17
‘The Australian Institute of Anatomy. Annual Report for the Year ending 30th June, 1936’, CRS A1928, item 695/17;
‘Annual Report of the Australian Institute of Anatomy for the Year 1937-1938’, CRS A1928, item 695/17
‘Draft for Annual Report – 1954–55. Institute of Anatomy’, p. 1, CRS A1658, item 151/1/7
Second Annual Report of the Federal Capital Commission for the period ended 30th June, 1926
Third Annual Report of the Federal Capital Commission for the Year ended 30th June, 1927
Fifth Annual Report of the Federal Capital Commission for the Year ended 30th June, 1929, Appendix D, ‘Report of Architects Department’ by
T.R. Casboulte
Agreements
‘Australian Institute of Anatomy Agreement Act 1931’, CRS A2863, item 31/44.
‘Zoological Museum Agreement Act 1924’, CRS A6269, item E1/30/51
Correspondence. Memos & Minutes
Minute, C.S. Daley to Secretary, Home and Territories Department, 12 June 1925, CRS A431, item 59/450;
Minute, Butters to Minister for Home and Territories, ‘National Museum of Zoology and Zoological Park’, 14 July 1926, CRS A6269, item E1/30/51.
Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works [hereafter PWC], ‘Report together with Minutes of Evidence relating to the Proposed Construction of Buildings and Formation of Reservation at Canberra for the National Museum of Australian Zoology’, 1927
Memo, ‘Construction of Buildings for National Museum of Australian Zoology at Canberra. Resumé of Action taken’, February 1927;
Memo, Home and Territories Dept, ‘Article in Melbourne “Age” of 22/7/27, regarding the delay in constructing the buildings for the National Museum of Australian Zoology at Canberra’, 25 February 1927, CRS A431, item 59/450.
Letter, Claude Nevins to MacKenzie, 10 June 1927, CRS A1, item 27/20249;
Letter, MacKenzie to W. Hayward Morris, 16 July 1928, CRS A6269, item E1/30/51.
Memo, A.S. Robertson, ‘Scheme for National Museum of Zoology, Canberra. Notes to Accompany Drawings’, 21 October 1927, CRS A6269, item E1/30/51.
‘Copy of letter’ (MacKenzie to Sir Neville Howse), January 1928;
Minute, MacKenzie to Director- General of Health, 17 January 1930, CRS A1928, item 695/3 Section 1;
Cabinet Agenda No. 72, ‘National Museum of Australian Zoology’, 18 January 1928;
Letter, Acting Secretary, Dept of Home and Territories to Director General, Dept of Health, 31 January 1928, CRS A1928, item 695/2.
Minister for Home and Territories, Cabinet Agenda, ‘Establishment of National Museum at Canberra’, 16 April 1928, CRS A1, item 32/514;
Indenture between the Commonwealth of Australia and William Colin MacKenzie, 16 August 1928, CRS A432, item 1931/1837;
Minute, Butters to Minister for Home and Territories, ‘Australian Institute of Anatomy’, 14 September 1928, CRS A431, item 59/450;
‘Report of Committee of Enquiry appointed to advise on the General Question of a National Museum at Canberra’, October 1928, pp. 2-5, CRS A485, item AJ120/6.
‘Notes taken at the first meeting of the Committee of Public Taste in Sydney’, 1928, CRS A6269, item E1/30/51;
Minute, Executive Architect to Assistant Secretary, ‘Institute of Anatomy’, 3 April 1929, CRS CT86, item 229;
Architectural drawing, ‘Institute of Anatomy: entrance to museums’, 10 January 1929, CRS A2505, item AF129.
Memo, J.H. Cumpston, 5 August 1929, CRS A6269, item E1/29/1341
Minute, P.E. Deane, Secretary, Dept of Home Affairs to Secretary, FCC, 11 April 1930, CRS A6272, item E251;
Minute, MacKenzie to Acting Prime Minister, 5 November 1930, CRS A2644, item 70;
Minute, Daley to Secretary, Dept of Home Affairs, ‘Institute of Anatomy
... Grounds’, 25 February 1932, CRS A431, item 59/450;
‘Report of the Director. Australian Institute of Anatomy. 1st July, 1931–30th June, 1932’, CRS A1928, item 695/17.
Minute, MacKenzie to Director General of Health, 20 April 1936;
Minute, MacKay to Director-General of Health, ‘Re Malthoid Covering of Roof of this Institute’, 8 May 1936;
Minute, C.V. MacKay to Director- General of Health, 11 May 1936, CRS A1928, item 695/3 section 2;
Minute, P.A. Gourgand to Director- General of Health, ‘Institute of Anatomy - Roofing’, 2 December 1936, CRS A1928, item 695/3 section 2;
Letter, Cumpston to W.M. Hughes, 29 October 1937, CRS A1928, item 695/24;
Letter, Cumpston to W.M. Hughes, 29 October 1937, CRS A1928 item 695/24.
Minute, MacKay to Director-General of Health, 10 November 1937, CRSA1928, item 695/3 section 2.
Minute, Cumpston to Minster for Health, 25 November 1937;
Earle Page, Cabinet Agenda: Health No. 503, 20 January 1938 CRS A1928,
item 695/24;
Minute, Director-General of Health to Secretary, Treasury, 20 March 1938, CRS A1928, item 695/24;
Minute, MacKay to Director-General of Health, ‘Maintenance of Building’, 13 May 1938, CRS A1928, item 695/3 section 3.
Minute, Cumpston to W.H.B. Dickson, 30 September 1938;
Minute, J.A. Carrodus, Secretary, Dept of the Interior to Director-General of Health, 27 September 1938;
‘Australian Institute of Anatomy Activities During 1939’, CRS A1928, item 695/17;
Minute, T.M. Owen, Secretary to Council of Canberra University College to Cumpston, 17 February 1944, CRS A1928, item 695/3 section 3;
Minute, Director-General of Health to Acting Director, Institute of Anatomy, 16 October 1944, CRS A1928, item 695/3 section 3
Minute, Secretary to Cabinet to
J.M. Fraser, Minister for Health, ‘Agendum No. 791: Proposal for the establishment of a post-graduate School of Nutrition at the Australian Institute of Anatomy, Canberra’, 19 February 1945, CRS A1928, item 726/16 section 1.
Minute, Clements to Acting Director-General of Health, ‘Statement of the Development of the Institute During the last Six Years’, 29 March 1946, pp. 1-2, CRS A 2644, item 70.
Minute, E.H. Hipsley, to Director-General of Health, ‘Description of Building’, 5 December 1949, CRS A2644, item 70;
Minute, R.M. Taylor, Director of Works, Dept of Works and Housing to Secretary, Canberra Committee on Works Priorities, ‘Institute of Anatomy – Modifications to house Department of Physiology of the Australian National University’, 22 February 1952, CRS A431, item 59/450;
Departmental Publications
NFSA leaflet, ‘The National Film and Sound Archive Heritage Courtyard’, c. 1994.
National Film and Sound Archive Newsletter, no. 14, August 1994, p. 11;
National Film and Sound Archive leaflet, ‘The Archive’, c. 1995.
National Film and Sound Archive News, December 1994, p. 2;
NFSA information sheet, ‘The Building of the National Film and Sound Archive’, c. 1994.
NFSA leaflet, ‘The National Film and Sound Archive Heritage Courtyard’, c. 1994.
NFSA information sheet, ‘The Building of the National Film and Sound Archive’.
brochure, ‘Australian Institute of Anatomy’, 1970s, in file on National Film and Sound Archive held by the Canberra and District Historical Society.
Encyclopaedia and Journals
ANU Historical Journal, vol. 9, December 1972;
‘Anatomical Research. Institute Extension’, [Melbourne] Argus, 2 June 1938; British Medical Journal, 17 January 1923. Extract from the Literary Digest, 16 April 1927, on the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, in CRS A6269, item E1/30/5
The National Film and Sound Archive (also known as ScreenSound Australia and formerly the Institute of Anatomy) consists of the main building, its surrounds and the former director’s residence. The main building is of Late 20th Century Stripped Classical style and has some of the finest examples in Australia of nationalistic Australian Art Deco design and detailing with an array of intact characteristics such as vivid decorative elements that serve no particular function, vertical straight lines, low-relief sculptures and zigzags. The many motifs of Australian animals, Aboriginal art and historic figures in science and medicine recall the Australian Institute of Anatomy, for which the building was designed. Adjacent to the main building is the former director’s residence, which is a significant example of an Art Deco residence but with fewer decorative elements than the main building (Criterion D.2 and F.1).
As the Institute of Anatomy, it was one of the key public buildings provided by the Federal Capital Commission in the first phrase of Canberra’s development, built to broaden national interest and establish the city as a centre of archives and collections. Founded and directed by Professor Sir William Colin MacKenzie until 1937, the Institute became internationally known, attracting visitors, endowed lectures and additions to its collection (Criterion A4) (Australian Historic Themes: 8.10.4 Designing and building fine buildings, 8.10.5 Advancing knowledge in science and technology).
The construction of the Institute featured creative technical achievements for the era, including hollow block construction and poured reinforced concrete formed in a waffle slab with ribs (Criteria B.2 and F.1).
The National Film and Sound Archive has occupied the building since 1984. This organisation is widely regarded by the public for its efforts to conserve and promote Australian culture as represented in film, television, radio and sound recordings (Criterion G1).
The building houses items of enduring cultural significance to Australians. In addition to discs, films, videos, audio tapes, phonograph cylinders and wire recordings, the Archive’s collection includes supporting documents and artefacts, such as photographic stills, transparencies, posters, lobby cards, publicity, scripts, costumes, props, memorabilia and sound, video and film equipment (Criterion A3).
Official Values
Criterion A Processes
As the Institute of Anatomy, it was one of the key public buildings provided by the Federal Capital Commission in the first phrase of Canberra’s development, built to broaden national interest and establish the city as a centre of archives and collections. Founded and directed by Professor Sir William Colin MacKenzie until 1937, the Institute became internationally known, attracting visitors, endowed lectures and additions to its collection.
The building houses items of enduring cultural significance to Australians. In addition to discs, films, videos, audio tapes, phonograph cylinders and wire recordings, the Archive’s collection includes supporting documents and artefacts, such as photographic stills, transparencies, posters, lobby cards, publicity, scripts, costumes, props, memorabilia and sound, video and film equipment
All of the building including external and internal design, fabric and landscaping that was associated with its Federal Capital Commission phase, plus its screen and sound archival collection outlined above.
Criterion B Rarity
The construction of the Institute featured creative technical achievements for the era, including hollow block construction and poured reinforced concrete formed in a waffle slab with ribs.
Innovative building techniques including the hollow block construction and poured reinforced concrete formed in a waffle slab with ribs.
Criterion D Characteristic values
The main building is of Late 20th Century Stripped Classical style and has some of the finest examples in Australia of nationalistic Australian Art Deco design and detailing with an array of intact characteristics such as vivid decorative elements that serve no particular function, vertical straight lines, low-relief sculptures and zigzags. The many motifs of Australian animals, Aboriginal art and historic figures in science and medicine recall the Australian Institute of Anatomy, for which the building was designed. The former director’s residence is a significant example of an Art Deco residence but with fewer decorative elements than the main building.
The Stripped Classical style of the main building and the Art Deco style of the residence, plus the numerous decorative elements referred to above.
Criterion F Technical achievement
The main building has some of the finest examples in Australia of nationalistic Australian Art Deco design and detailing with an array of intact characteristics such as vivid decorative elements that serve no particular function, vertical straight lines, low-relief sculptures and zigzags.
The construction of the Institute featured creative technical achievements for the era, including hollow block construction and poured reinforced concrete formed in a waffle slab with ribs.
The decorative elements of both buildings plus innovative building techniques, including the hollow block construction and poured reinforced concrete slab.
Criterion G Social value
The National Film and Sound Archive has occupied the building since 1984. This organisation is widely regarded by the public for its efforts to conserve and promote Australian culture as represented in film, television, radio and sound recordings.
Not clarified
Description
The National Screen and Sound Archive (also known as Screen Sound Australia and formerly the Institute of Anatomy) includes the main building, its surrounds and the former director’s residence. The main building is a two-storey masonry building with a basement. It is clad in Hawksbury sandstone. The main building was originally designed as a T-shaped plan. This was altered to a U-shape, which was seen as providing better opportunity for growth. In 1999, the top of the U was enclosed when a three-storey rear wing was completed.
This Late 20th Century Stripped Classical building incorporates nationalistic Australian Art Deco detailing and decorative elements. There are three ranges enclosing a quadrangular courtyard. The front range has a central foyer, a library and a cinema. The rear ranges are exhibition halls. There is an extensive basement. A flight of granite stairs leads to the entrance hall, which is paved with marble of geometric patterns. Corridors are tiled and the rest of the flooring is mainly polished tallow wood. Decorative motifs include goannas on capitals, frilled lizards on door surrounds, wombats in roundels and a stained-glass platypus skylight. The strong and consistent use of Australian fauna and Aboriginal motifs throughout the building recalls the building’s original function and creates a building of distinction and rarity. One interesting detail is the original Innes-Bell Hollow Block structural system where blocks were placed on the formwork with spaces between. Reinforcement was placed in the spaces and concrete was poured to effectively form a waffle slab with ribs. This system is uncommon.
The former director’s residence is located within the grounds. This two-storey building is in itself a significant example of an Art Deco residence, though with fewer decorative features than the main building. It has a stuccoed and painted surface and roman patterned terracotta roof tiles. The residence has had minimal modification to accommodate offices.
The areas where greatest change has occurred are in the basement where temporary offices and work areas have been installed the northern gallery as display space which blocked out the windows and the theatre which was modified to suit film production. The southern gallery formerly a work area, was developed for a permanent exhibition 2000–2001, retaining original display cased behind the new exhibits. Other areas have been upgraded for modern office accommodation and a cafe in one area with its steps and ramp into the courtyard. Generally the changes up to March 1995 have been undertaken sympathetically with details and finishes matching the original. However, there have been some intrusions such as the lighting to the south gallery, the fire stair walls and the reception counter in the foyer. Problems with the structure of the building mainly involve minor deterioration of the sandstone walls, water penetration through sections of the basement walls, the roof to the south gallery, parts of the flat roof over the eastern side and the colonnade roof.
The site’s original landscaping was designed and implemented by E. Bruce who was Director of Parks and Gardens. It included trees arranged in avenues as well as randomly scattered throughout the site. The front of the building had a hedge around the drive and a rose garden and trees in the centre. The courtyard had a gravel path across lawns. The nearby residence also had a private garden. Today the trees remain although the landscaping in the front of the building has been removed, as has the detail around the residence. The courtyard has undergone several changes with an adjoining smaller courtyard added in 1999 to soften the introduction of the new wing.
The landscape setting as of 2002 has many mature trees, predominantly QUERCUS PALUSTRIS, Q. CERRIS, CEDRUS ATLANTICA, CUPRESSUS MACROCARPA and several eucalypts.
The building houses items of enduring cultural significance to Australians and those which document Australia’s creative achievements in the audiovisual media are given priority. In addition to discs, films, videos, audio tapes, phonograph cylinders and wire recordings, the Archive’s collection includes supporting documents and artefacts, such as photographic stills, transparencies, posters, lobby cards, publicity, scripts, costumes, props, memorabilia and sound, video and film equipment.
(March 2002)
History Not Available
Condition and Integrity
Good.
The main building is structurally sound although some movement has occurred in the library roof and the walls of the museum spaces resulting in minor cracking. The integrity of the building is still good despite alterations reviewed in Description. The interior of the building is substantially intact. Except for work in ground level offices and Talkies Cafe all other work has been minor upgrading. The interior is of high quality materials, finishes and detail. Most of the detail remains intact and represents the Late 20th Century Stripped Classical Style. (March 2002)
Location
Building, including surrounding area bounded by McCoy Circuit and Liversidge Street, Acton.
Bibliography
Charlton, Ken (1984), ‘Federal Capital Architecture Canberra 1911-1939’ National Trust of Australia (ACT).
Philip, Cox, Richardson, Taylor and Partners, Architects; Brendan O’Keefe, Historian; Richard Ratcliffe, Landscape Architect; Northrop Consultants Pty Ltd, Structural Engineer; Barry Webb and Associates, Electrical Engineer;