Heritage and development in Tasmania

Abstract

The geological, biological, geomorphological and human history of Tasmania makes it highly varied scenically, very different from the mainland and scientifically fascinating. The artefacts of early European settlers survived as the Tasmanian economy stagnated. Therefore Tasmania contains most of the standing evidence of the early stages of the brief recorded history of Australia. These remnants are of high heritage significance. Australia possesses the type of economy that depends on continual expansion for full employment and a reasonable distribution of wealth. The brunt of its recessions are taken by the people who produce minerals, clothing and food, rather than those who perform higher, but less basic functions, in cities. Thus, people in peripheral places like Tasmania are trained to value jobs very highly and to identify jobs with the development of physical resources. The development of heritage consciousness and a rejection of materialism made Tasmania attractive to a substantial element of the population, many of whom migrated to the state during the years in which prosperity reigned in Australia as a whole and the Hydro-electric Commission orchestrated Tasmanian economic development. Tasmania has a long history of sacrificing heritage to development, but the history of popular objection to development only effectively starts well after the decision was made in 1973 to enlarge Lake Pedder for a mote of power. Although growthists dominate the state and country, conservationists provide a model for the future and the means, occasionally, for the survival of heritage.