Number One Beach, Seal Rocks has been temporarily closed after midden sites were discovered in the picnic reserve.
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The closure will remain in place while a heritage assessment is undertaken.
The middens were assessed during a ground survey of the reserve which was part of stage one planning for future improvements to this popular part of Seal Rocks.
Marking traditional Aboriginal eating grounds, middens are an important link to the area's heritage.
Preliminary investigations suggest the main midden site is located centrally.
MidCoast Council has engaged specialist consultants to undertake an Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment on the area due to its known cultural significance, before progressing plans to upgrade the area.
The reserve next to the beach will be temporarily closed, with fencing and signage in place, while further assessment on the middens is carried out.
While the improvement works are still very much in the pipeline, findings from the current assessment will guide the remediation plans in order to maintain the area's cultural significance.
- Dan Aldridge
Public access and use of the beach in front of the reserve will be maintained.
The Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment will determine whether an Aboriginal heritage impact permit is required.
If so, the permit will clearly outline the processes and actions required for preserving the middens.
"While the improvement works are still very much in the pipeline, findings from the current assessment will guide the remediation plans in order to maintain the area's cultural significance," MidCoast Council community spaces, recreation and trades manager, Dan Aldridge said.
The Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment, expected to be undertaken during coming months, will involve registered Aboriginal parties in the Seal Rocks area.
The picnic reserve will remain closed off to vehicles and pedestrians until complete.
Locals and visitors to the area over summer are asked to observe signage and fencing at the site while the temporary closure is in place.
