12 June 2025

Design 5 – Architects are currently leading a project team for the development of a new Conservation Management Plan (CMP) for the Royal National Park Coastal Cabin Communities. The State Heritage listed communities include 138 cabins located across Little Garie, South Era, and Burning Palms in the Royal National Park, on Dharawal country. The cabins were originally established by miners and working-class families in the early 20th century, constructed from found and recycled materials carried to the site on foot. Initially set up as tents, the sites gradually evolved into modest cabins used as weekenders. Today, they represent the largest known group of their kind in New South Wales. The cabins are examples of increasingly rare Australian coastal vernacular architecture and continue to be maintained and used by a long-standing community, with some families connected to the area for up to six generations.

As part of the CMP process, Design 5 have engaged in a series of consultation sessions and workshops with the community and other stakeholders. These discussions are aimed at gaining a better understanding of the significant values of the place. The information gathered will help shape policies for the conservation and ongoing management of the area.

The Conservation Management Plan will serve as a guiding document for balancing heritage protection with sustainable use of the cabins and surrounding landscape.

Additional information is available here: https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/parks-reserves-and-protected-areas/park-management/community-engagement/royal-national-park/coastal-cabins-communities-new-conservation-management-plan