The draft Heritage Management Plan (HMP) for Cascade Reserve is now open for public comment - and we're inviting the Norfolk Island community to have their say on the future management of this important site.
Cascade Reserve is a place of deep cultural and historical importance. As a Commonwealth Heritage listed site, it connects us to Norfolk Island's early European settlement, including the remains of Phillipsburgh and its role in early agriculture and flax production. Today, it continues to be valued as both a heritage site and a popular place for recreation.
The Heritage Management Plan plays a vital role in protecting what makes Cascade Reserve special. It sets out how the site's heritage values will be conserved, managed and shared, ensuring they are protected and appreciated now and into the future. Required under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) (EPBC Act), HMPs are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current knowledge, community expectations and future needs. The draft plan identifies what is most important about the site and outlines clear policies, priorities and actions to guide its ongoing care for future generations and continue to be appreciated by the Norfolk Island community and visitors.
Following earlier consultation with key stakeholders and community groups, the draft plan is now ready for public exhibition. This is your opportunity to help inform how Cascade Reserve is managed going forward, ensuring it continues to reflect the values and aspirations of the community.
Following community feedback, the draft plan will be finalised and submitted for review and endorsement by the Minister for the Environment and Water. The plan will also inform future decisions to guide the conservation and management of the site's heritage values, including those related to nearby infrastructure and the implementation of the Port Strategy, helping ensure a balanced approach to conservation and development.
We encourage all community members to review the draft plan and share your feedback by visiting the department's community consultations webpage: www.infrastructure.gov.au/NIconsultations.
Submissions are open until close of business on the advertised date (24 September 2026), so don't miss your opportunity to help ensure Cascade Reserve continues to reflect and protect Norfolk Island's history, values and community for generations to come.
