Braidwood and its Setting: State Heritage Register Listing Management Review

In 2006, ‘Braidwood and its Setting’ was listed on the State Heritage Register in recognition of its exceptional survival as a Georgian period town plan dating from the late 1830s.

The town retains a high proportion of nineteenth-century buildings that reflect key phases of its development, from early establishment through to consolidation following the gold rush, and collectively shape its distinctive streetscapes and heritage character. The listing sought to protect this significant town plan and its contributing historic buildings within their pastoral landscape setting.

Since its inscription, the listing had not been formally reviewed to assess its effectiveness or whether it continues to meet the needs of owners, residents and other stakeholders. The 15-year milestone in 2021 provided a timely opportunity to evaluate its performance and ensure it remains fit for purpose.

GML was commissioned by Heritage NSW to undertake a comprehensive review of heritage planning and management for the township. Delivered as a multi-stage project and completed in 2024, the review combined documentary research, place-based analysis and community engagement to identify and document key issues relating to heritage planning, management and presentation.

The project was delivered across three stages.

Milestone 1 focused on reviewing the State Heritage Register listing, site-specific exemptions, key management guidelines and the archaeological management plan. GML consulted with Queanbeyan–Palerang Regional Council and other stakeholders to better understand current management challenges, providing recommendations to Heritage NSW in a progress report. Read the Milestone 1 Report.

Milestone 2 centred on community consultation. A targeted engagement program conducted in May 2022 — including in-person sessions in Braidwood, interviews with First Nations representatives and an online survey — sought to understand local experiences and concerns regarding the listing. Key findings and recommendations were compiled and presented to Heritage NSW. Read the Milestone 2 Report.

Milestone 3 brought together the research and consultation outcomes to provide recommendations for the long-term management of the SHR listing, including future actions for both Queanbeyan–Palerang Regional Council and Heritage NSW. Read the Milestone 3 Final Report.

Heritage Intepretation Plan

In 2025, GML was engaged by the Braidwood and Villages Business Chamber to prepare a heritage interpretation plan for ‘Braidwood and its Setting’, supported by funding through the NSW Heritage Grants Program 2025–27 Caring for State Heritage stream.

The interpretation plan will strengthen public understanding and appreciation of the town’s heritage values while supporting its ongoing social, cultural and economic vitality. The project is scheduled for completion in late 2026.