Willandra Lakes Region Australia

Willandra Lakes Region Australia

Short Report

The fossil remains of a number of lakes and sand formations from the pleistocene era forms part you will find in this area, together with archaeological evidence of human occupation dating from 45-60.000 years ago. It is a unique monument in the study of human evolution on the Australian continent. A few well-preserved fossils of giant marsupials is also to be found here.

Wide Report

The Willandra Lakes Region is mostly a geological site, with fauna and flora of significant interest in an archaeological meaning: the Willandra Lakes can be the best place for a link between the extinction of the giant marsupial fauna and predation by people. The Australian geological environment, with its low topographic relief and the low energy systems, is unique in the durability of the landscape. The site includes the entire lake and river system More Mulurulu, the last to hold water, the Prungle Lakes, dry for more than 15,000 years, and the region is unique in the world. The Willandra Lakes offer excellent conditions for the registration of events forms part of the pleistocene era epoch (when the man has developed to its current form), show how non-glaciated areas responded to the large climatic fluctuations between glacial periods. At Billabong Willandra Creek no longer to flow and thus to replenish the lakes, which dried in series from the Prungle lakes in the south to More Mulurulu in the north more than thousands of years; as each more evaporates, It was an independent system is undergoing a fundamental transformation of fresh water to salt water to dry lake bed.

As long as water remained in a more, dunes were built along the eastern edge. This system of transverse crescent dunes, called 'manoeuvring hooks or lunettes', in which evidence of past hydrological and geochemical environments. The freshwater lakes concentrated clean quartz sand on eastern beaches, but the lakes was more salty as they dried out, and clay pellets were broken off of the exposed more floor at high wind speeds to striking clay manoeuvring hooks or lunettes. This clay dunes are rare in the world, and the well-preserved fossil examples in the Willandra Lakes region an important geological resource; the 30 m high More Chibnalwood clay its lunette is one of the largest ski resorts in the world.

The Willandra Lakes Region is a remarkable example of a site where the economic life of Homo sapiens can be reconstructed, where a remarkable adaptation to local resources and a fascinating interaction between human culture and the changing natural environment. The fossil landscape is largely unchanged since the end of the last ice age pleistocene era forms part. Archaeological discoveries made here, are of excellent quality. They feature a 26,000-year-old cremation on the spot (the oldest known in the world), a 30,000 year-old ochre burial, the remains of a huge marsupials in a perfect state of conservation, And grinding wheels from 18,000 years ago used to crush wild grass for flour whose age is similar to that in the earliest seed-grind economies. The area also contains the remains of repatriation, some dating back to 30,000 years ago.

The region also offers proof of the furthermost point of dissemination reached during the last ice age by Homo sapiens and the earliest economic data in the world for human dependence of freshwater resources, in a pattern associated with Aboriginal People as recently as 100 years ago on the Darling River.

Source:whc/unesco

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Australia

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Australia

Short Report

This park, formerly called Uluru (Ayers Rock - Mount Olga) National Park, features spectacular geological formations which dominate the huge red sand plain of central Australia. Uluru, a giant monolith and Kata Tjuta, the rock domes located to the west of Uluru, are part of the traditional feel of one of the oldest human societies in the world. The traditional owners of Uluru-Kata Tjuta are the Anangu aboriginal people.

Wide Report

Located on the southern edge of the large Amadeus sedimentary basin, the park consists of extensive sand plains and dunes and alluvial desert, punctuated by the monolith Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Uluru consists of hard sandstone that is exposed as a result of folding, nothing wrong and the erosion of the surrounding rocks. The monolith is a base circumference of 9.4 km, smooth sloping sides of up to 80° slope and a relatively flat top. Large surface area of the sheet rock erosion with layers 1 t/m 3 m thick, parallel to the existing surface break; deep parallel cracks that extend from the top and sides of the monolith; and a number of caves, coves and insert at the base formed by chemical degradation and sand erosion.

Kata Tjuta comprises 36 steep-sided rock domes of soft bracket Mount Currie conglomerate consisting of phenocrysts of fine-grained acid and alkaline rocks, granite and gneiss in a epidote-rich matrix. Kata Tjuta has often hemispherical peaks, almost vertical sides, steep-sided intermediate valleys and is exposed by the same process as Uluru.The vegetation, amended by substrate stability, climate and fire, can be divided into five main categories arranged concentrically around the monolith formations. First, Uluru supports hardy eternal grass in the ground and sedge on very shallow soil; secondly the Kata Tjuta foothills support annual grasses; thirdly, the fans and outwash alluviums around the monolith a complex of open grassland, low trees and shrubs. During rainy periods this vegetation can lush. Fourthly, the plains area supports dense bunches of mulga, acacia and native fuchsia pink. Fifth, the sand dunes, rises and plains are dominated by spinifex grass. There are 22 indigenous mammals in the park, including dingo, red kangaroo, a marsupial mole, hopping from mouse multiple bat species including false Australian vampire, bilgy, occasional short-nosed the echidna, and various small marsupials and native rodents. The red fox, cat, mouse and rabbit, next to wild dogs and camels, compete with native species. More than 150 bird species that are included in the park, and all five Australian families reptiles are represented.

The park, and in particular the monolith Uluru, is one of the many important and interconnected centers of local and religious significance which are distributed in the vast field of western central Australia inhabited by aboriginal people. Cave Paintings of Uluru, some of which are considered old, indicate the length of time Aboriginal People are present in the area. Traditional religious philosophy, Tjukurpa, offers an interpretation of the current landscape, flora, fauna and natural phenomena in terms of the trips and the activities of ancestral creatures and therefore binds the people social, mental and historically on the ground. The site is an excellent example of a traditional human settlement representative of Aboriginal culture, directly connected with the religious and cultural traditions.

Historical Data

Archaeological research shows that parts of central Australia are inhabited for at least 30,000 years (although probably only on a temporary basis in the most arid phases). A period of 'intensification' and social and cultural adaptive evolution by Anangu began about 5000 years ago, in which the new programs were introduced, new forms of rock art, and new camping patterns. A broader diet was established, including the operation of the seeds of different types of grass as additional sources of food. More complex patterns of social organization reflected in this period with the appearance of a larger base camps and the emergence of contemporary forms of rock art.

The evolution of the Anangu hunting and gathering culture took place in parallel with the development of agriculture, but also in a contrasting ecosystem: both are human cultural reactions to the changing post-glacial climate. An important function of the Anangu adaptation was the mapping of social groups on the landscape in such a way that each local group held pre-eminent rights over a certain base camp next to a semi-permanent water supply. The group is responsible for the management of food in the country (ngura ) around the camp, but not claim exclusive rights to these sources: mutual rights were allowed to neighboring groups. Both Uluru and Kata Tjuta are traditional base camps of this type; 20% of Anangu living today on the rime in the Mutitjulu community are visitors from other municipalities in the region. The efficiency of this system is demonstrated by the archaeological evidence of a substantial increase in the population density in the region over the last 5000 years.

The first European see Uluru was the explorer Gosse, name Ayers Rock after the then secretary of New South Wales. The year for Ernest Giles bad name Kata Tjuta Queen Olga of Wurtemberg. A short period of the competing exploration started to investigate the possibilities of the area for pastoral extension once the overland telegraph, Built in the 1870s, bath made it more accessible for colonization, but in less than twenty years the sponsors of these explorations have withdrawn, conclude that this country is to arid for occupation.

In the first decades of the 20th century the British Commonwealth, South Australia, and the Western Australian Governments declared substantial reserves in central Australia as a sanctuary for the Anangu speakers of different related dialects, Designed to protect against adverse contact with white Australians while they were re-trained in European culture. Anangu oppose assimilation, often abandoned missions and government settlements to return to a traditional way of life and for the transfer of the tjukurpa of their children. A din-road was printed in 1940 and so Anangu were unable to take advantage as a source of independence from government distributes.

The Uluru-Kata -Tjuta area was she made from the South-west Reserve in 1958 and reserved as Ayers Rock-Mount Olga National Park, under the care, control and management of the then Northem Territory Management reserves. A number of tourists motels were built in the vicinity of Uluru early in the existence of the Park. Although the Reserves Board was strongly opposed to any encouragement of the Anangu presence in Uluru, the welfare Branch confirmed a lease within the Park which the Ininti store was built as a Anangu state company.

In 1973 a parliamentary inquiry was in relation to the management of the Park and recommended that tourist accommodation should be moved outside of the Park boundaries for environmental reasons. He also recommends protection of Anangu holy places on Uluru and the training of Anangu rangers. The Uluru (Ayers Rock-Mount Olga) National Park, about 1325 km2, was on May 24, 1977 in the National Parks and Nature Conservation Act 1975).  Daily line was carried out by the conservation of the Northern Terri Gaughan tory That Has Increased customer retention, with financial and general political direction of the Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service. Some Anangu were employed as rangers but no place in the formal management of the Park.

In November 1983, the Minister announced that the intention of the Commonwealth Government to grant title of Uluru National Park to the Aboriginal traditional owners with a lease-back of the area to the Director of the National Parks and Wildlife, in accordance with the wishes of the traditional owners. Freehold title was transferred to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Aboriginal Land Trust on October 26, 1985, and in April1986 a Board was set up, the Park in cooperation with the Director of National Parks and Wildlife. It was of Anangu request that the official name was changed in 1993 to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, in order to take account of the Aboriginality of the Park and of the cultural landscape.

Source:whc/unesco

Tasmanian Wilderness Australia

Tasmanian Wilderness

Short Report

In a region which is exposed to heavy ice age, these parks and reserves, with their steep gorges, covers an area of more than 1 million hectares, are one of the last extensive temperate rainforest in the world. Still found in limestone caves witnesses of human occupation of the area for more than 20,000 years.

Wide Report

It covers an area of more than 1 million hectares, the Tasmanian Wilderness is one of the last extensive temperate rainforest in the world. It consists of an interconnected network of reserved lands that extends over large parts of southwest Tasmania includes several islands. In contrast to the mainland and the island of Tasmania is a rugged region with fold structures in the western half and fault structures in the east, both of which are represented in the property. Expand the structure province in the south-west is a very robust and densely wooded area overgrown with north-south oriented mountain ranges and valley systems. Changing climatic conditions have also affected landscape development stresses, most recently by late Cainozoic and forms part pleistocene era glacial and periglacial events. Glacial erosion has contributed to spectacular landform features such as horns, arêtes, cirques, U-shaped valleys and rock basins (tarns). The coastline is subject to a number of sea changes during the glaciations has created and now offers a classic example of a drowned landscape, as demonstrated by the diverse coastline in the south. Special landforms associated with the development of karst have formed by the solution of ammonium carbonate rocks such as (Precambrian) dolomite and (Ordovician) limestone. Features include cave systems, natural arches, clints and grikes, 'dolines' confiscated, carts, pinnacles and blind valleys.

The vegetation has much in common with cool, temperate regions of South America and New Zealand and the rest of Australia. Next to climatic and edaphic factors, the vegetation has developed in response to fire. Aboriginal occupation in the last 30,000 years has constituted an important source of fire; more recently many fires can be attributed to the interests of the fishermen, logging, and prospectors. The fauna is a worldwide interest, in that it has an exceptionally high percentage endemic species and groups estuary of ancient lineage. In view of the varied topography, geology, soil and vegetation in association with aggressive and variable weather conditions to make a combination of a wide range of animal habitats, fauna correspondingly diverse.

The insular nature of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Wilderness in particular, has contributed to the uniqueness and has contributed to the protection against the effects of exotic species which greatly affect the continental fauna. Tasmania Australia was cut off from the mainland by the flood of Bass Strait at least 8000 years ago, allowing the isolation of the indigenous inhabitants. The Tasmanian aboriginal people were until the arrival of the European explorer Abel Tasman, the longest isolated human group in world history, surviving 500 generations without external influences. Investigations and excavations of domestic river valleys have 37 cave sites, all considered to be occupied between 30,000 and 11,500 years ago on the basis of the findings. Recent discoveries of rock art on three cave sites have shown that this painting had a ceremonial interpretation; hand stencils predominated. Stone artifact scatters and quarries and rock shelters in the Tasmanian highlands indicate a striking adaptation to this subalpine environment in the later Holocene. The south coast consists of a range of shell centers; proof until now available for changing patterns of shellfish exploitation for thousands of years until the arrival of the Europeans in the beginning of the 19th century.

Historical Data

Cradle Mountain-Lake st Clair was again declared a national park (124,848ha) at July 18, 1971 in the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1970, after which several extensions and limits adjustments have been made. Cradle Mountain was originally established as a scenic reserve (63,943ha) at may 16, 1922 under the Landscape Conservation Act 1915 and extended by 60,705ha with More st Clair and Oakleigh Creek Protected Area December 1, 1936. These areas are also received at different times sanctuary state (May 31, 1927 in the case of Cradle Mountain) under the animals and birds Protection Act 1919. (Oakleigh Creek conservation Area is not upgraded to national park status together with the rest of the scenic reserve in 1971).

Franklin-Lower Gordon wild Rivers was a national park on May 13, 1981. Of its 195,200ha expanse, 14,125ha were repealed on september 2, 1982 and based on the Hydro-Electric Commission. This country is leased to the Department of Lands, Parks and Nature of 1 December 1986 for 25 years; for the purposes of the National Parks and wildlife Act it is considered as a reserve. Three protected areas with a total area of 23,135ha ceased to exist on the inclusion in the national park at the time of the adoption, Namely Gordon River state Reserve (created on May 3, 1939 and also on 19 June), Frenchmans Cap National Park (created on June 14, 1941, extended on 29 August 1951) and Lyell Highway State Reserve (established on 3 May 1939).  Southwest National Park was created on October 16, 1969 after enlargement and renaming of More Pedder National Park.

The latter was established on March 23, 1955, some of which was originally part of Port Davey state Reserve set at October 24, 1951. Southwest National Park was again declared under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1970 and extended to 372,300ha in November 3, 1976, Since when additional extensions have taken place on 17 November and December 1, 1976, and may 13, 1981.

Validity of establishment of other protected areas are as follows: 

The walls of Jerusalem National Park June 17, 1981

Exit Cave state Reserve April 4, 1979 

Central Plateau Conservation Area February 10, 1982 

Southwest Conservation Area July 9, 1980

Southwest National Park has been declared a biosphere reserve in october 1977. A conglomerate of national parks, consisting of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair, Franklin-Lower Gordon Wild Rivers and Southwest, was registered on the World Heritage List in 1982 and named Western Tasmanian Wilderness National Parks. It was renamed Tasmanian Wilderness in 1989. All the details of the progress of the reservation required, except in the case of woods and Sarah Island Historic Reserve are included in the World Heritage nomination (Government of Australia, 1988).

Source:whc/unesco

Kakadu National Park Australia

Kakadu National Park

Short Report

This unique archaeological and ethnological reserve, located in the Northern Territory, is occupied for more than 40,000 years. The cave paintings, rock carvings and archaeological sites record the skills and way of life of the inhabitants of the region, of the hunter-gatherers of prehistory to the aboriginal people still live. It is a unique example of a complex of ecosystems, including tidal flats, floodplains, lowlands and plateaus, and a habitat for a wide range of rare or endemic species of plants and animals.

Wide Report

The park consists of four large landforms: Arnhem land plateau and Llangattock escarpment complex; southern hills and basins; Koolpinyah surface; coastal plains and inland waterway transport. The western edge of the Arnhem land plateau consists of rocks, ranging in height from approximately 30-330 m over a distance of 500 km. In addition to the four large landforms, nearly 500 km2 of coastal and estuarine areas and two islands in the park. The tropical monsoonal climate, with its wet and dry seasons, is the main factor of the surface water hydrology, vegetation and, in the long term, the landforms of the park. The vegetation can be classified in 13 categories, seven of which are governed by a different kinds of Eucalyptus. Other categories consists of mangrove; samphire; lowland rainforest; paper bark swamp; seasonal floodplain and sandstone rainforest. Floristically this is the most varied and most natural surroundings of northern Australia with 46 species as rare or threatened, and nine limited to the park.

Because of the diversity of spatial systems of marine and coastal habitats (which large turtle and dugong populations) to the arid sandstone llangattock escarpment, Kakadu is one of the world's richest wildlife parks. A third of the Australian bird species and a quarter of the bathing waters and estuarine fish species are found in Kakadu. Large concentrations of waterfowl (EUR 2.5 million) seasonal use of the floodplains of the park and there is a diversity of aquatic animals, including 55 species of live and 200 species of ant (10% of the world total number) as well as a wide variety of small mammals. In addition, it contains the main breeding habitat in the world for the saltwater crocodile and the pig-nosed turtle - both endangered reptiles.

All major landforms are included in the park, that therefore provides an excellent example of both old and recent geological changes on the European mainland. The park also contains many examples of species and species that are representative of the different periods of the biological evolution of the Australian fauna. The coastal rivers and flood plains illustrate the ecological effects of sea-level change in this part of Australia, as such; the park offers a special opportunity to research to large-scale evolutionary processes in an intact landscape. The region is little affected by European settlement in comparison with the rest of the continent, hence the natural vegetation remains rich and relatively unchanged, and its faunal composition is largely intact. 300 Indigenous people living in the park, including traditional owners and aboriginal people with recognized social and traditional attachments to the area. The park contains many Aboriginal archaeological, holy and art sites.

Historical Data

The Kakadu National Park is of the highest importance, such as an extensive archaeological and ethnological reserve. The first remains of human occupation in Australia, dating from approximately 40.000 years ago, have been identified. In various locations, excavations have brought to light groups of stone tools, which, because they include the axles of polished stone, be included in the oldest in the world; further, in combination with the sites of rock carvings, workshops to prepare pigments are studied which date back at least 18,000 years.It is, of course, the aboriginal rock carvings of Kakadu which constituted the decisive argument for the title of this cultural property on the World Heritage List in 1981. on the basis of cultural Criteria I, iii and iv. These paintings, carried out in the open air, on rock walls, a long chronological span, since the oldest dating back almost 20,000 years and the latest in modern times.

For the historian, they constitute a fund of evidence of paramount importance and a source which is unique. They serve as a source of information on the primary sources, the hunting and fishing, the social structure and the ritual ceremonies of the indigenous population who succeeded on the site of Kakadu. They witnesses of missing species. As Tasmanian devils wolf and follow, in the details of the equipment and costume, the changes that have been on traditional life by the contacts that were implemented with Macao fishermen from the 16th century, and then with Europeans. For the art historian, the ensemble of paintings and icons of Kakadu is unique in so far as it combines multiple figurative and nonfigurative styles, which vary in their apparent chronology with the ensemble, recently inventoried, in southern Africa and the Sahara. The aesthetic characteristics of protest of human and animal in Arnhem Land, may also have had a negative impact on the graphic forms that appeared after 1930.

For the ethnologist, Kakadu offers a privileged research and observation, the Aboriginal People who inhabit this site contribute to continue the preservation of the balance of the ecosystem and. By traditional techniques, ensure the necessary protection for the most recent rock carvings. The social - if not the ritual - function of these preserved to some extent.

Source:whc/unesco

Sydney Opera House - (World Heritage Cultural Site in Australia)

Sydney Opera House

Short Report

Inaugurated in 1973, the Sydney Opera House is a great architectural work of the 20th century that several strands of creativity and innovation in both architectural form and structure. A large urban sculpture in a remarkable 'western Pomeranian inland boddenlandschaft', at the tip of a peninsula projecting in Sydney Harbor, the building has a permanent influence on architecture. The Sydney Opera House includes three types of interlocking vaulted 'holders' roof two main performance halls, and a restaurant. This shell structures are set to a large platform and are surrounded by terraces that function as pedestrian halls. In 1957, when the project of the Sydney Opera House was awarded by an international jury of the Danish architect Jørn Utzon, this meant a radically new approach to construction. 

Wonderful Universal Importance

The Sydney Opera House is a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture. The meaning is based on the unrivalled design and construction; the exceptional technical achievements and technological innovation and its position as a world-famous icon of architecture. It is a courageous and visionary experiment has a permanent influence on the emerging architecture of the late 20th century. Utzon's original design concept and its unique approach to building gave impetus to a collective creativity of architects, engineers and contractors. Ove Arup to technical achievements entertained Utzon the vision a reality. The design is a formidable interpretation and response the setting in Sydney Harbor. The Sydney Opera House is also of outstanding universal value for its performance in mechanical engineering and construction technique. The building is a great artistic monument and an icon, accessible to the society in general. 

All the necessary elements to the values of the Sydney Opera House are included within the limits of the designated area and buffer zone. This ensures that the full representation of its interpretation as an architectural object of great beauty in her 'western Pomeranian inland boddenlandschaft' setting. The Sydney Opera House continues its role as a world-class performing arts center. The Maintenance Plan indicates the necessary balance between, on the one hand, the functions of the building as an architectural monument and a state-of-the-art center, allowing the authenticity of use and function. Attention for conservation of the authenticity was concluded with the conservation and the Utzon Design principles. 

The Sydney Opera House was included in the National List of the World Heritage Site in 2005 under the protection of the environment and conservation of biodiversity Act 1999 and the Heritage Register of New South Wales in 2003 under Heritage Act 1977. Inclusion in the National Heritage list implies that all the proposed measures within or outside the limits of a National Heritage place or a World Heritage property which may have a significant impact on the heritage values is prohibited without the consent of the Minister of Environment and heritage. A buffer zone is set. 

The current state of conservation is very good. The property is maintained and preserved by means of regular and rigorous repair and protection. The management system of the Sydney Opera House, taking account of a wide range of measures as referred to in planning and heritage legislation and policies of the Australian Government and the New South Wales Government. The management plan for the Sydney Opera House, the conservation and the Utzon Design principles together the policy framework for the conservation and management of the Sydney Opera House. 

Historical Data

A major cultural center for Sydney and its establishment on Bennelong Point had been discussed since the 1940s. In 1956 the New South Wales Government asked an open-ended international design contest and appointed to an independent jury, rather than commissioning a local firm. The competition brief provided global specifications in the attract the best design talent in the world; he was not given design parameters or costs. The main requirement of the competition was short a design for a dual function building with two performance halls. 

The competition that enormous interest in Australia and abroad. The New South Wales Government decision to commission Jørn Utzon as the only architect was unexpected, courageous and visionary. There was scepticism about whether the structure can be built up as Utzon is limited experience, the rudimentary and unique design concept and the absence of technical advice. The competition drawings were largely schematic, the design was not fully assessed and neither Utzon nor the board had consulted a structural engineer. Utzon design concept includes unprecedented architectural forms and demanded that requires solutions new technologies and materials. The New South Wales Government in addition to the pressure of public opinion to choose an Australian architect. 

The Sydney Opera House is often is built in three phases and this is useful for understanding the history of the three key elements of its architectural composition: the stage (phase 1: 1958 - 1961), the vaulted shells (phase 2: 1962 - 1967) and the glass walls and interiors (phase 3: 1967- 1973). Architect Jørn Utzon conceived the overall design and supervision of the construction of the stage and the vaulted shells. The glass walls and the interiors have been designed and their construction accompanied by architect Peter Hall supported by Lionel Todd and David Littlemore in combination with the then New South Wales Government Architect, Ted Farmer. Peter Hall was busy with Utzon on various aspects of the design at least eighteen months after his departure. Ove Arup * Partners provided the expertise for the three stages of construction. 

Design and construction are closely intertwined. Utzon is unique design together with his radical approach to the construction of the building encouraged a exceptional cooperation and innovative environment. His model meant a break with the traditional architectural practice at the time. The design solution and the construction of the scale structure took eight years and the development of the special ceramic tiles for the holders took three years. The Sydney Opera House was a laboratory and a large, open-air pre-casting factory. 

The Sydney Opera House has sixteen years to build; this was six years longer than planned and ten times more than the original cost estimates. On October 20, 1973 the Sydney Opera House was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II. After inauguration, new works were carried out in the course of time. Between 1986 and 1988 the spatial approach and forecourt were constructed and the lower concourse developed under the supervision of the then New South Wales Government Architect, Andrew Andersons, with contributions from Peter Hall. 

Between 1998 and 1999 the recording and rehearsal space was converted into two areas: a whole area for the orchestra and the Studio, a rejuvenated implementation space for the presentation of innovative music and performing arts. In 1998, in accordance with the celebration of the 25th anniversary of inauguration, the Sydney Opera House Trust appointed Sydney architect Richard Johnson to advise on the future development of the site and planning principles. By Johnson, the Sydney Opera House Trust began negotiations to reconcile with Utzon and re-enable the building with him in an advisory role. In 1999 Utzon officially accepted Premier Carr's invitation to re-engage with the project by means of design principles that are short vision of the building and explain the principle behind its design.  Over a period of three years he worked with his architect son and business partner, Jan Utzon, and Richard Johnson for the preparation of its design principles for the Sydney Opera House, including the refurbishment of the hall, the construction of the western loggia, explore options for improvement of the concert hall acoustics. An improvement in the provision of services to the forecourt to support performances, modification of the orchestra pit and interior of the Opera House. In 2002, the Sydney Opera House Trust released the Utzon Design principles. In 2004 conversion of the Utzon Room (formerly known as the lobby) was completed. 

Source:whc/unesco

Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens - (World Heritage Cultural Site in Australia)

Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens

Short Report

The Royal Exhibition Building and the surrounding Carlton Gardens were designed for the large international exhibitions of 1880 and 1888 in Melbourne. The building and the grounds were designed by Joseph Reed. The building is constructed of brick and wood, steel and slate. It combines elements from the Byzantine, Romanesque, Lombardic and Italian Renaissance styles. The property is a characteristic of the international exhibition movement which saw more than 50 exhibitions that between 1851 and 1915 in places such as Paris, New York, Vienna, Calcutta, Kingston (Jamaica) and Santiago (Chile).  All a common theme and objectives: graphic material and moral progress through displays of undertakings from all nations.

Wide Report

The Royal Exhibition Building and the surrounding Carlton Gardens, as main wisdom survivors of a Palace of the industry and its setting, together with the global impact of the international exhibition movement of the 19th and early 20th century. The movement showcased technological innovation and change, which helped to promote the rapid growth of industrialization and international trade by the exchange of knowledge and ideas. 

The complex was designed for the large international exhibitions of 1880 and 1888 in Melbourne. The building, designed by Joseph Reed, is built of brick and wood, steel and slate; it combines elements from the Byzantine, Romanesque, Lombardic and Italian Renaissance styles. The property is a characteristic of the international exhibition movement which saw more than 50 exhibitions organized between 1851 and 1915 in places such as Paris, New York, Vienna, Calcutta, Kingston (Jamaica) and Santiago (Chile).  All a common theme and objectives: graphic material and moral progress through displays of undertakings from all nations. The size and grandeur of the building reflects the values and aspirations of industrialization and the international face. The building features many of the important functions exhibitions so dramatic and effective, including a dome, a large hall, massive entry portals, versatile exhibitions, axial planning, and additional gardens view and places. Unlike many other international exhibitions, the building was originally intended as a permanent structure that a role in cultural activities of the growing Melbourne city. 

Despite the large impact of the international exhibition movement worldwide and the impressive nature of the many buildings that are designed and built to these displays, still. Less still retain their authenticity in terms of original location and status. The Royal Exhibition Building, in the original setting of the Carlton Gardens, one of the few survivors. Added rarity if only largely example in the world of a large hall of a major international exhibition. 

Carlton Gardens are divided into two parts: a axial garden classification in the southern part of the grounds and a northern garden that was created after the closure of the two large 19th century exhibitions. Bounded by Victoria, Rathdowne, Carlton and Nicholson Streets on the outskirts of the city center of Melbourne, the entire block remains intact as originally designated by the Victorian Parliament in 1878. During the 1880 and 1888 international exhibitions the southern part of the garden was a pleasure garden, with many attractions. The South Carlton Gardens, because it is now known, is still used for parks and exhibitions. The southern entrance of the building, on the city side, is the flagship of the design. THE promenade is made along the front of the building, and a semi-circular area as an eye-catcher has a decorative fountain.  A ceremonial approach is supplied by a 24 m wide avenue, and two other paths are a radiant shaft of the fountain. In 1888, another fountain the Fountain Westgarth, was added. 

The aesthetic interpretation of the Carlton Gardens is located in its representation of the 19th-century Gardenesque style. This includes ground floor garden beds, large avenues such as the southern carriage drive and Grande Allée, the path system, specimens and clusters of trees, two small lakes and three fountains. The formal ornamental plants palace garden, that was the context for the Great Hall of the Palace of the industry, is largely intact. 

Historical Data

The history of the buildings and gardens is closely linked to the history and development of the international exhibition movement - a phenomenon that spread over all continents. Although the first large exhibition took place in 1851, in the Crystal Palace in London, the idea of celebrating manufactured goods were for almost a century, with national exhibitions in the UK and France and elsewhere in Europe. The difference between these small parties, promotions and the large exhibitions that followed was of scale and classification. The large exhibition movement, as he came to be known, endorses the 19th century curiosity and creation, but especially for the classification. Format - as illustrated in museums and botanical collections - proven man control of his surroundings. Large exhibitions is a way of celebrating the industry that emerged from the Industrial Revolution, and man the dominance in an international context. 

More than 50 exhibitions were held between 1851 and 1915, each different, but the parts of common themes and objectives - graphic material and moral progress within a global context, by display of the industry of all nations. Rooms including Paris, New York, Vienna, Calcutta, Kingston, Jamaica, and Santiago, Chile. Most have palaces built, often made of iron parts stretching technology to the utmost. 

In the 1870a form for the total layout was composed, which consisted of clusters of history-domes, national pavilions and viewing platform around a 'Palace of the Industry' all within landscape grounds. And a network of contacts established with 'commissioners' observing and suggesting improvements to the next event. With approximately 1900 the slowdown in the economy, combined with the realisation that the production does not always improve the quality of life, led, outside of the United States, to exhibitions began to lose their appeal. 

The Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne is thus an example of the center of the movement. It does not appear from the sky: a first, small exhibition building was built in 1854, and others followed larger in size, usually precursors of international exhibitions elsewhere. The two international exhibitions of 1880 and 1888 took place at a time when Melbourne was rapidly growing. In contrast to many other exhibition buildings, Melbourne's survived still on its original plot and surrounded by gardens. However, there are significant changes in the extensive complex of buildings and gardens. The east and the west annexs of the exhibition building were removed in the 1960s and 1970s (one of the halls is reconstructed off-site if a tram museum).  An important recent change is the construction of the new Melbourne Museum in the north garden. 

The use of the building are several since it was built. Until 1901 it was used for exhibitions. It was then part of the parliament to 1919 when it was a fever hospital during the First World War. Between then and 1975 has served for shops and offices, and as troop accommodation and a ballroom. The new direction of the building began in 1975 and was officially included in the Register of the National Park. 

Source:whc/unesco

Australian Convict Sites (World Heritage Cultural Site in Australia)

Australian Convict Sites 

Short Report

The property consists of a selection of eleven criminal sites, of the many thousands of by the British Empire to Australian soil in the 18th and 19th century. Approximately 166,000 men, women and children were sent to Australia more than 80 years between 1787 and 1868, was condemned by the British justice to the transport to the convict colonies. Each of the sites has a specific purpose, in terms of both repressive confinement and recovery through forced labor to build the colony. The Australian Convict Sites presents the best-preserved examples of large-scale convict transport and the colonial expansion of European powers by the presence and labor of prisoners.

Wonderful Universal Importance

Brief synthesis

The complex consists of eleven additional locations. It is an excellent and large example of the forced migration of prisoners who have been sentenced to transport to distant colonies of the British Empire, the same method was also used by other colonial states. The websites provide a picture of the different types of convict settlement organised to meet the colonial development project by means of buildings, ports, infrastructure, the extraction of resources, etc. They illustrate the living conditions of the prisoners, who were condemned for the transport of their homes, deprived of freedom, And subjected to forced labor.

This transport and the corresponding forced labor was carried out on a large scale, both for criminals and convicted for relatively minor offenses, as well as for expressing certain opinions or political opponents. The penalty of transport to Australia also applied to women and children from the age of nine. The convict stations are witnesses of a legal form of punishment which prevails in the 18th and 19th century in the large European colonial states, simultaneously with or after the abolition of slavery.

The property shows the various forms which the convict settlements, close to the discussions and opinions about the punishment of crime in the 18th and 19th-century Europe, both in terms of exemplarity and the severity of the penalty that is used as a form of deterrence and the objective of social rehabilitation through labor and discipline. They affect the emergence of a criminal model in Europe and America. Within the colonial system in Australia, the convict settlements simultaneously led to the indigenous population forced back to the less fertile hinterland, and to the creation of a major source of population of European origin. 

Historical Data

The transport of people for forced labor is a common system that many societies, in different periods of history and in many cultures. Were Usually slavery or the deportation of people following war. However, in the modern and contemporary eras, convict colonies were used as a place for prisoners their sentences in a distant land, where they were usually used for forced labor. Penal colonies were initially for the detention of criminals, in combination with forced labor. In Europe they are concentrated in military ports, for example, to provide that work on galleys or for hard labor in arsenals, building infrastructure, etc. In times of war, forced labor camps and prisons are comparable in terms of organization and objectives. 

A new form of penitentiary institution combined with a colonial project appeared in the early 17th century in European countries, where the permanent transport of prisoners to new territories. In the Transport Act of 1718 The Uk organized just such a system for the criminals in the North American colonies. France has after conclusion of the galleys in 1748. Is sentenced to a convict colony is in theory a heavy prison sentence, for a serious offense. In reality, however, because of the colonies need labor, many crimes, often relatively small, led to transport for more or less long terms. The expression of certain opinions or membership of a banned political group were also punishable.

In 1775 the Uk stops the transport of the criminals of America, due to the unrest which eventually led to the colonies seek their independence. Australia was the replacement destination begins in 1778 with the gradual organization of many convict colonies. Port Jackson (Sydney Harbor) was the first place where prisoners were landed. 

Transport to Australia reached its maximum between 1787 and 1868, with 166,000 prisoners to its many convict stations. Australia is at the moment a vast area, inhabited only by indigenous peoples, who were quickly forced away from the most secluded and most fertile coastal areas. From the point of view of the settlers, everything had to be built, starting with the ports, houses, roads, colonial farms, etc. The prisoners were often from the lower classes; women were 16% of the total, and there were also many children, which can be punished with the transport from the age of nine. 

The Australian convict system has different ways to meet the many objectives. The grew from a major debate in Europe at the beginning of the 19th century on the punishment of crimes and the social role of the transport of prisoners. The discussion on the one hand, the idea of punishment and on the other side the desire to discourage crime by the idea of rehabilitation of personal conduct by means of work and discipline. Transport of a workforce to serve colonial development, especially in the more remote areas, was seen as a useful and effective response to these various social problems in the UK, but also in other European countries such as France and Russia. In the Australian case the convict was in practice also designed so that the detainees full settlers when they had their sentences. The large distance between Europe and Australia meant that the prisoners almost always remained after their release. 

The Australian convict system includes a variety of prison systems, ranging from outside to inside work, stage transport to simple imprisonment; the contained convict stations for women or children (Cascades Female Factory and Point Puer).  In some convict stations, the prisoners lived next to free settlers (Brickendon and Woolmers Estates). Living Conditions were of course very strict, but they were variable in terms of stiffness, depending on the location and function. The monitoring and the transporting of the detainees also requires the presence of a substantial prison administration, the organization of a specialized fleet, the presence of many guards, etc. 

The most extreme drives, for the prisoners regarded as the most dangerous, a prison, hard and often dangerous work, corporal punishment, such as whipping or deprivation and solitary confinement. Most of the sites have a prison and a solitary confinement; but other punishment drives, such as Norfolk Island, Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula mines. These drives were famous in the entire British Empire their severity, with a view to the preservation of the fear for transport under the population and thus reduce crime in Great Britain and its colonies. The convict gang system was used for public works, in particular for roads and ports. They were generally very strict, and the work was difficult. Examples are old Great North Road, Hyde Park barracks, Port Arthur, coal mines, Kingston and Arthur's Vale historic area, and Fremantle Prison. 

There were also labor convict stations for the prisoners include less a threat, where the prisoners were made available for private projects, often agriculture. The entrepreneurs who at their own risk. Examples are Brickendon and Woolmers Estates and Old Government House. - Women's Labor was more of a production, such as Cascades Female Factory, a textile mill It was of course still prisons with a system of penalties and rewards. Some convict stations used women as servants - for example, farms and Old Government House. 

These detainees who behaved themselves would be able to earn a lighter penalty gradually lead to their early release. In the very lively ghosts of the social reformers of prisoners, the goal was a probationary period path that would gradually lead to social integration through work and, finally, the status of a full colonial settler. The establishment of convict stations in Australia, in the heart of the program of colonies, particularly negative effects for the indigenous peoples. This led to social unrest, forced migration, and the loss of fertile land, as well as devastating epidemics because of their lack of immunity. Conflicts and resistance were often as settlers and prisoners arrived, often resulting in death. 

The penal settlements continued for quite a long time after the transportation system was abolished,, to the eve of the Second World War, driven by their own dynamism of prisoner management and such practices, but applied on a much smaller scale, such as exile. The last of the sites to make more active use was Fremantle Prison, which in the beginning of 1990. Today, most of these sites are fully or partially places of reminder, museums or parks. 

Source:whc/unesco

Wet Tropics of Queensland - (World Heritage Natural Site in Australia)

Wet Tropics of Queensland 

Short Report

This area, which stretches along the north east coast of Australia for approximately 450 km, mainly in the hands of tropical rainforests. This biotope offers a very rich and varied supply of plants, as well as marsupials and birds singing, along with other rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.

Wonderful Universal Importance

Brief synthesis

The Wet Tropics of Queensland or Wet Tropics, stretches along the north coast of Australia for approximately 450 kilometers. Includes approximately 894,420 hectares of tropical rainforest, this stunning area is very important for its rich and unique biodiversity. It also offers a unique registration of the ecological and evolutionary processes that the flora and fauna of Australia, with the relicts of the great Gondwanan forest that Australia and part of Antarctica 50 to 100 million years ago. All of Australia's unique marsupials and most of the other animals of rainforest ecosystems and their immediate families occur in the wet Tropics. This live relicts of the Gondwanan era and their further diversification offer unique insights into the process of evolution in general. They also provide important information for the interpretation of fossils of plants and animals that nowhere else in Australia and on the evolution of the Australian sclerophyll flora and fauna marsupial in particular.

The property offers support for tropical forests of their origins and climatic limits, and unlike most other seasonal tropical evergreen equatorial forests, is subject to a dry season and frequent cyclonic events. Many of the individual functions of the humid tropics relate to the extremely high but seasonal rainfall, varied terrain and steep environmental gradients. In addition to the complex range of types and forms of life, the humid tropics is also recognized as an area with a special landscape features, nature and beautiful extensive landscapes.

Wide Report

This area, which stretches along the north-east coast of Australia for some 450 km from just south of Cooktown to just north of Townsville, mainly in the hands of tropical rainforests. This biotope offers a very rich and varied supply of plants, as well as marsupials and birds singing, along with other rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.

The site offers an unrivalled living record of the ecological and evolutionary processes that form the flora and fauna of Australia the last 415 million years as the first it was a part of the Asian continent Pangaean, then the 'Praehistorium Gondwana' the old continent, and for the last 50 million years an island continent. During this 415 million year evolution, the processes of speciation will be further developed, deaf and adjustment are determined by history, in particular continental drift and cycles of climate change. The rainforests constitute approximately 80% of the property have more taxa with primitive characteristics than any other area on earth.

The field contains a unique record of a mixture of two continental , and faunas. This confusion has occurred after the collision of the Australian and Asian continental plates approximately 15 million years ago. This impact is a unique event in the mixed two evolutionary clauses streams of both flora and fauna, in some cases with a common cause, which largely separated for 80 million years. The ancestry of all Australia's unique marsupials and most of the other animals in the rainforest of ecosystems which the Wet Tropics Queensland contains many of the nearest surviving members. The site contains one of the most important live records from the history of marsupials and songbirds. The Riversleigh fossil deposits (Australian Fossil mammal Sites (Riversleigh/Naracoorte) World Heritage site) are rich in marsupial fossil taxa closely with the problems which still lives in the rainforests of the Wet Tropics Queensland, the best surviving equivalent of the Oligo-Miocene Riversleigh rainforests. Today the main vegetation type is wet tropical rainforest but this is lined and, to a certain extent dissected by sclerophyll forests, forests, swamps and mangrove forests.

The rainforests of the site is classified in 13 major structural forms, including two sclerophyll components and have the richest flora in Australia. The mammal fauna including monotremes, marsupials, rodents and bats. Nine species are endemic: these consist of four types of ringtail pretend, Australia the only two tree kangaroo species, and the musky rat-kangaroo, which in many respects the smallest and the simplest macropods. The last two of the endemics, the Thornton Peak rat and Atherton antechinus , have very limited distributions that are used as the basis for the definition of two centers of endemism for because mammals. A notable presence is because the Australian Ferntree's cassowary, one of the largest birds in the world.

Aboriginal occupation in the area between Cooktown and Cardwell is thought to date back at least 40,000 years. The northern tribes (Barrineans) be considered as the first wave of the Aboriginal occupation of Australia, making them the oldest rainforest culture in the world. Rainforest culture thoroughly differs from that of most other Australian Aboriginal tribes, with its strong dependence of arboreal skills, daily use of toxic plants and unique weapons. Major centers of the survival of this culture are the Bloomfield River and Murray.

Historical Data

Approximately 185, OOOha is reserved in 41 national parks designated by the Queensland State Government in the last 50 years. They were led by the Queensland National Parks and Wildlife Service since its creation in 1975. Previously, they were managed by the Queensland forestry department. State Forests, timber reserves and reserves were established a comparable period. Yarrabah Aboriginal and Islander Reserve was established in 1892. Details for individual protected areas are added. Registered on the World Heritage List in 1988.

Source:whc/unesco

Shark Bay, Western Australia - (World Heritage Natural Site in Australia)

Shark Bay, Western Australia

Short Report

On the most western point of the Australian mainland, Shark Bay, with its islands and the country around it, has three special natural characteristics: the large sea-grass beds, the largest of which (4,800 km2) and richest in the world; the dugong ( 'sea cow') population; and the stromatolites (colonies of algae which hard, Domed deposits and are among the oldest forms of life on earth).  Shark Bay is also the home of five types of endangered mammals.

Wide Report

At the most westerly point of the Australian continent, Shark Bay, with the remarkable coastline and islands, has three special natural characteristics: a large seagrass carpeting adds beds, The largest of which (4,800 km2) and the most species-rich in the world; the dugong population (estimated at 11,000 ); and the stromatolites (colonies of algae which hard, Domed deposits and are among the oldest forms of life on earth).

The inland terrestrial landscape of Shark Bay is predominantly of low hills interspersed with birridas inland salt pans. Shark Bay is a large shallow embayment, approximately 13,000 km2 in area with an average depth of 9m, enclosed by a number of islands. Inflow of oceanic water through channels: Naturaliste Channel in the north and south Passage in the south. The striking feature of the bay is the steep slope in salinities. The ranges of oceanic in the northern and western part of the bay via metahaline to hypersaline. The salinity slope has three biotic zones that have a significant effect on the distribution of marine organisms in the bay. For almost 3,000 million years (i.e. 85% Of the history of the life) only microbes populated the Earth. The only macroscopic evidence of their activities is preserved in stromatolites, which are the largest variety 850 million years ago. The stromatolites encrypt evidence of the biology of the microbial communities that created them and the nature of the environments in which they are grown. They dominated the shallow seas and made extensive reef tracts are comparable with modern coral reefs.

Although microbes have not declined in importance, their activity in building organo-sedimentary structures is the more efficient market niches in reefs composed by faster growing organisms, or even occupy positions of power in the organisms themselves. Consequently stromatolites and other microbialites have declined in importance in this period, even though they remained locally important in environments such as Hamelin Pool in Shark bay, where biotic diversity is limited for one or other reason. The stromatolites and microbial mats of Hamelin Pool were the first modern, vivid examples to be recognized as comparable to those which the early seas.

Modern analogues such as arise in great diversity and wealth in Hamelin Pool significantly help in the understanding of the nature and the evolution of the Earth biosphere to the early Cambrian. The Hamelin Pool stromatolites is considered a 'classic' site for the study and classification of stromatolitic microbiolites, morphology, and the biology of different types of living can be examined by means of a series of environments.

The Shark Bay region is an area of great zoological importance, mainly due to the isolation habitats on peninsulas and islands should be isolated from the disturbance occurred elsewhere. Of the 26 species endangered Australian mammals, five are on/Bernier and Desert Islands. These are the boodie (burrowing bettong), rufous hare-wallaby hunting, banded hare-wallaby hunting, the Shark Bay mouse and the western blocked bandicoot. The Shark Bay region has a rich avifauna with more than 230 species, or 35 %, of the Australian bird species are recorded. The site is known for the marine fauna, the population of about 11,000 dugong, for example, is one of the largest ski resorts in the world. Humpback and looking use the bay as a migratory hangout. Bottlenose dolphin occurs in the bay and the green turtle and the loggerhead turtle nest on the beaches. Large numbers of sharks including bay whaler, tiger shark and hammerhead sharks are easily detected. There is also a population of rays, including the manta ray.

The recording of aboriginal occupation of Shark Bay stretches over 22,000 years BP. At that time the most space was dry country, rising sea levels flooding Shark Bay between 8000 BP and 6000 BP. A large number of indigenous center sites are found, in particular on Peron Peninsula and Dirk Hartog Island which evidence of foodstuffs of the waters and the nearby areas. Shark Bay is named for the English buccaneer William Dampier in the late 17th century. It is the site of the first recorded European landing in Western Australia, with the visit of Dirk Hartog in 1616, followed by William Dampier in 1699.

Source:whc/unesco

Purnululu National Park - (World Heritage Natural Site in Australia)

Purnululu National Park

Short Report

The 239,723 ha Purnululu National Park is located in the State of Western Australia. The contains the deep administrative bungle misread administrative bungle Range consists of the aow quartz sandstone eroded over a period of 20 million years in a series of beehive-shaped towers or cones, Steep sloping surfaces are clearly marked by means of regular horizontal stripes of dark gray cyanobacterial crust (unicellular photosynthetic organisms).  This excellent examples of cone karst owe their existence, and the specific nature of various interaction geological and biological, erosional and climatic phenomena.

Wonderful Universal Importance

Brief synthesis

Purnululu NationalPark, located in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, nearly 240,000 hectares secluded area managed as wilderness. It includes the administrative bungle administrative bungle Range, a spectacular incised landscape of sculpted rocks which contains excellent examples of beehive-shaped karst sandstone rising 250 meters above the surrounding semi-arid savannah grasslands. Unique depositional processes and weathering have these towers their spectacular black and orange exterior, formed by biological processes of cyanobacteria (single-cell photosynthetic organisms) which stabilise and protect the old sandstone rock formations. This excellent examples of cone karst that have eroded in a period of 20 million years of great beauty and exceptional geological interest.

Wide Report

Purnululu National Park is situated in the East Kimberley Region of Western Australia located 300 km by road south of Kununurra in Western Australia's Ord Region; the said area is almost 240,000 ha. There is an adjacent buffer zone in the north and west (the Purnululu Conservation Zone) of approximately 79,600 ha, which is not part of the designated area. The park consists of four important ecosystems: the administrative bungle administrative bungle Mountain Range, A strong cut plateau that dominates the center of the park; the wide sandy plains around the administrative bungle Bungles; the Ord River valley to the east and to the south of the park; and limestone edges and margins in the west and north of the park.

The administrative bungle administrative bungle Mountains are an unusual and very dramatic plateau of The quartz sandstone, created by a complex process of sedimentation, compaction, Uplift (caused by the impact of Gondwanaland and Laurasia 300 million years ago and the convergence of the Indo-Australian plate and the Pacific Plate 20 million years ago), As Well As long periods of erosion. The administrative bungle administrative bungle landscape consists of a mass of beehive-shaped towers with regularly changing, dark gray bands of cynobacterial rind (unicellular photosynthetic organisms).  The plateau is intersected by 100-200 m deep, pure unilateral gorges. The slanted towers are steep sides has, with an abrupt break of slope at the foot and domed tops. Their surface is fragile but stabilized by crusts of iron oxide and bacteria. They offer an excellent example of spatial investments by dissolutional weathering of sandstone, with removal of sand grains by wind, rain and sheet was on slopes. The administrative bungle administrative bungle Range is one of the most comprehensive and impressive performances of sandstone tower karst in the world.

The grassy Ord River valley in the east and south of the park is deeply incised as a result of crustal uplifting during relatively recent geological times. The wide sand plains between the mountain ranges and the river are composed of infertile black soil covered with grassland and scattered trees. The limestone edges to the west and Osmand Range in the north are better wooded, especially in the forested Osmand Creek valley. These rocks are in our view of Cambrian age (550-500 million years old).  There stromatolites in the Osmand range.

Purnululu also has a rich indigenous cultural heritage of approximately 20,000 years. The park offers exceptional testimony of this hunter-gatherers cultural tradition preserved to this day despite the impact of colonization.

Source:whc/unesco

Ningaloo Coast - (World Heritage Natural Site in Australia)

Ningaloo Coast

Short Report

The 604,500 hectare property of Ningaloo marine and terrestrial Coast, external western coast of Australia, is one of the longest near-shore reefs in the world. In the country the site features an extensive karst system and underground network of caves and watercourses. Annual meetings of whale sharks in Ningaloo Coast, is home to many sea creatures, including a wealth of sea turtles. The terrestrial part of the subterranean water masses with an extensive network of caves, conduits and groundwater streams. They support a whole range of rare species that contribute to the exceptional biodiversity in the marine and terrestrial site

Wonderful Universal Importance

Brief synthesis

The Ningaloo coast is Western Australia's external coast along the Indian Ocean. The bridged ocean and desert coast form aesthetically striking landscapes and seascapes. The coastal zone a major near shore reef system and a directly adjacent limestone karst system and associated habitats and species in a barren coast. The house has a high level of terrestrial species endemism and high marine biodiversity and abundance. An estimated 300 to 500 whale sharks total annual coincides with mass coral spawning events and seasonal localized productivity gains. The maritime part of the nomination contains a high diversity of habitats which lagoon, reef, open ocean, the continental slope and the continental shelf. Intertidal systems such as rocky shores, sandy beaches, estuaries and mangroves are also to be found in the property. The most dominant marine habitat is the Ningaloo reef, by both tropical and temperate marine flora and fauna, including marine reptiles and mammals.

The main terrestrial function of the Ningaloo Coast is the extensive karst system and underground network of caves and watercourses in the Cape Range. The karst system includes hundreds of different features such as caves, 'dolines' confiscated and subterranean water masses and supports a rich diversity of very specialized types of subterranean. Above the ground, the Cape Range Peninsula belongs to an arid ecoregion known for the high level of species richness and endemism, especially for birds and reptiles.

The landscapes and seascapes of the property consists of largely intact and large-scale marine, coastal and terrestrial environments. The lush and colorful underwater landscape offers a stark and spectacular contrast with the dry and rough areas. The property offers support for rare and large aggregates of whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) together with major aggregates of other species of fish and marine mammals. The aggregations of Ningaloo in response to the massive coral spawning and seasonal nutrient upwelling cause a peak in productivity leads to collect approximately 300-500 whale sharks, making this the largest described aggregation solutions in the world. In addition to the remarkable aggregations of whale sharks the Ningaloo Reef harbors a high marine diversity of more than 300 described species of coral, more than 700 reef fish species, approximately 650 species of molluscs, as well as 600 species of crustaceans and more than 1,000 species of marine algae. The large numbers of 155 sponge species and 25 new types of echinoderms add to the interpretation of the area. On the ecotone, between tropical and temperate waters, the Ningaloo Coast offers an unusual diversity of marine species of sea turtles with an estimated 10,000 annually deposited nests along the coast.

The majority of subterranean species in the country, including aquatic species in the flooded caves are rare, taxonomically diverse and not elsewhere in the southern hemisphere. The combination of relict rainforest flora and small fully aquatic invertebrates in the same cave system is exceptional. The fauna of the peninsula is very diverse and has the largest cave fauna (troglomorphic) diversity in Australia and one of the highest in the world. Above the ground, the diversity of reptiles and vascular plants in drylands is also remarkable.

Source:whc/unesco

Macquarie Island - (World Heritage Natural Site in Australia)

Macquarie Island

Short Report

Macquarie Island (34 km long x 5 km wide) is an oceanic island in the Southern Ocean, is located 1,500 km south-east of Tasmania and about halfway between Australia and the Antarctic continent. The island is the visible top of the submarine Macquarie Ridge, increased to the current position of the Indo-Australian through tectonic plate meets the Pacific plate. It is a place of great geoconservation interpretation, the only place in the world where rocks from the earth mantle (6 km under the ocean floor) active be exposed to electromagnetic fields above sea-level. These unique recordings are excellent examples of pillow basalts and other extrusive rocks.

Wonderful Universal Importance

Brief synthesis

Macquarie Island is 1500 kilometers southeast of Tasmania, about halfway between Australia and Antarctica. The property has Macquarie Island, Judge and Registrar Islands 11 kilometers to the north, the Bishop and Clerk islets 37 kilometers to the south, rocks, reefs, and the surrounding waters at a distance of 12 nautical miles. The main island is approximately 34 kilometers long and 5.5 kilometers wide at its widest point, it covers an area of approximately 12,785 hectares. The property has an area of 557,280 hectares.

Macquarie Island has excellent universal value for two reasons. First, it provides a unique opportunity to study, in detail, geological characteristics and processes of oceanic crust formed and plate border dynamics, because only place on earth where rocks from the earth mantle (6 miles below the ocean floor) active be exposed to electromagnetic fields above sea level. This unique recordings are excellent examples of pillow basalts and other extrusive rocks. Secondly, the external and own windy landscape of steep slopes, lakes, and major changes in the vegetation provides a wonderful spectacle of wild nature supplemented by extensive congregations of wild animals, such as penguins and seals.

Wide Report

Macquarie Island is an oceanic island in the Southern Ocean, is located 1,500 km south-east of Tasmania and about halfway between Australia and the Antarctic continent. The island is the visible top of the submarine Macquarie Ridge, increased to the current position of the Indo-Australian through tectonic plate meets the Pacific plate. It is an area of great geostrategic importance conservation, the only place where rocks of the earth mantle (6 km under the ocean floor) active are exposed to electromagnetic fields above sea level.

It is the only island in the world is full of oceanic crust and rocks of the earth mantle deep below the surface. Macquarie Island probably began as ridge spread under the sea with the formation of new oceanic crust somewhere between 11 million and 30 million years ago. At a given moment the dissemination stopped and the crust began to compress, squeezing rocks up from deep in the mantle. If ridge grew ultimately was exposed to electromagnetic fields over the ocean surface approximately 600,000 years ago. Therefore, the rocks usually only deep in the earth sheath are exposed to the surface.

Since Macquarie Island, it has mainly been carved by marine processes such as wave, unlike other subantarctic islands, which is formed by glaciers. This unique recordings are excellent examples of pillow basalts and other extrusive rocks. The main landscape feature is a central rolling plateau 250 - 300 meters above the sea level, bounded on all sides by steep cliffs, from the mouth of stretching along a platform to 800 m wide. Glacial drift to 20 m thick includes many of the plateau and there are several lakes. The most aesthetically attractive sights of the island are the vast congregations of wild animals, in particular penguins, on suitable parts of the coast terrace, especially during spawning season.

During the breeding season on suitable beaches elephant seals also impressive colonies. Four species of albatross nest on steep, rugged cliffs, both on the main island and the nearby Bishop and Clerk Islands. The terrestrial area of Macquarie Island is a Reserve relating to the protection of the low-water mark. The marine values are protected by the Macquarie Island Marine Park declared by the Commonwealth October 28, 1999. The primary purpose of the marine park is to protect the conservation of the region of human disturbance. The marine park includes the world's largest marine highly protected zone, more than 16 million hectares.

Sealers discovered the island in 1810 and occupied the regularly during the 19th century, are you exterminating the fur seals and greatly reducing the elephant seal refuge population. In 1870 jobs came for the exploitation of the king and the royal penguin populations for oil, causing the former. The original elephant seal refuge population of approximately 100,000 animals was reduced by 70% as a result of this work. The visitors brought exotic mammals and caused the elimination of two endemic subspecies of the ground birds.

There are no permanent human inhabitants of Macquarie Island, even though the Australian Antarctic Division station is occupied all year round. The only access to the island is by the sea and there are no ports or the landing locations, ship traffic in the area is minimal.

Source:whc/unesco

Lord Howe Island Group - (World Heritage Natural Site in Australia)

Lord Howe Island Group - Australia

Short Report

A notable example of remote oceanic islands, born of volcanic activity more than 2,000 m under the sea, the islands have a spectacular topography and many endemic species, especially birds.

Wonderful Universal Importance

Brief synthesis

The Lord Howe Island Group is an excellent example of oceanic islands of volcanic origin with a unique fauna of plants and animals, as well as the world's most southern true coral reef. It is an area of spectacular and picturesque landscapes encapsulated in a small area, and provides important breeding grounds for colonies seabirds as well as important natural habitat for the conservation of endangered species. Iconic species are endemics such as the because Lord Howe Woodhen (Gallirallis as Tricholimnas sylvestris), previously considered to be one of the most rare birds in the world, and the Lord Howe Island Phasmid (Dryococelus australis), the world's largest stick insect that was afraid to be extinct rediscovery on Balls Pyramid.

Approximately 75% of the terrestrial part of the property is managed as a permanent Park Preserve, consisting of the northern and southern mountains of Lord Howe island itself, plus the Admiralty Islands, Mutton Bird Islands, Balls Pyramid and surrounding islands. The property is located in the Tasman Sea, about 570 kilometers east of Port Macquarie. The entire property, including the marine area and associated coral reefs covers 146,300 hectares, with the terrestrial area about the size of approximately 1,540 hectares.

Wide Report

Situated in the South of the Pacific Ocean, 700 km north-east of Sydney, the property is included administrative in New South Wales. The domain includes approximately 75% of the land area of Lord Howe Island and all islands and rocks of considerable size in the region. These are the Admiralty Group; Mutton Bird and Sail Rock; Blackburn (Rabbit) Island; Gower Island; and Ball Pyramid, together with a number of small islands and rocks. The seaward boundary follows the mean high water mark and therefore does not include all related terrestrial and marine areas. The whole archipelago has remarkable volcanic risks not known elsewhere.

The main island of Lord Howe measures 10 km of north and south, and is a little more than 2 km wide. The more or less describes a crescent, enclosing a coral reef lagoon on the south-west side. The island of the topography is dominated by the southern Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird. Only a narrow isthmus of low-lying land in the north central part of the island is habitable. The northern tip consists of steep slopes that have led to extensive cliffs against the northern coastline.

Lord Howe Island is the eroded remnant of a large shield volcano eruption from the seabed occasionally for approximately 500,000 years of the late Miocene period (6.5-7 million years ago). The archipelago is the visible peaks of a large volcanic seamount which is approximately 65 km long and 24 km wide and comes from deep ocean of more than 1,800 m. Four separate series of volcanic rocks are recognized on the main island group: tuffs, breccia and basalts, with massive infiltration of basaltic dykes. The dominant landforming process on Lord Howe since the last of the volcanic eruptions is marine erosion, which cuts and maintain large rocks. Faulty and accumulation of talus Slope at the foot of some rocks, especially in the south, have their original form.

The island offers support for the southern-most coral reefs in the world, which forms part pleistocene era Recent Age and differs considerably from more northern hot water reefs. It is unique that a transition between the algae and coral reef, as a result of fluctuations in hot and cold water around the island. A large variety of vegetation is described for the islands, with the diversity of the habitats. Variable exposure to wind and penetration of saline mist seem to be the main determinants of vegetation, structure and floristic. THE population of the large forest bat occurs on the island. No other indigenous indigenous mammals are known. Introduced species, but also mice, rats and goats.

There are at least 129 indigenous and imported birds. Lord Howe is now the only known breeding ground for providence storm petrel. Fleshy feet shearwater varieties in large numbers, possibly with half the world's population present per season. Other important species breeding within the domain includes kermadec storm petrel, black winged storm petrel, wedge-tailed catfish shearwater, small shearwater, white and storm petrel, masked booby and red-tailed catfish tropic bird in greater concentrations than probably anywhere else in the world.

The earliest European discovery of Lord Howe appears to be by the British in 1788. A small, permanent settlement was founded in the 19th century, survival in the trade with passing ships. There is no recognized proof of prior Polynesian or Melanesian discovery or settlement.

Source:whc/unesco