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Practical guides, policy updates, and expert commentary on the changing world of heritage. Essential reading for property owners, architects, and planners.


University of Melbourne Heritage MicroCerts Information Session
Check out James Lesh's information session on professional education in urban and cultural heritage at the University of Melbourne.
Feb 1, 20221 min read


Managing Indigenous Heritage Values at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy
The Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra raises significant questions about the management of Indigenous heritage values in Australia.
Jan 31, 20221 min read


Conserving Melbourne’s creative heritage: The Nicholas Building
In mid-2021, the owners of the historic Nicholas Building in the heart of Melbourne put the landmark on the market.
Jan 20, 20224 min read


Building Federation Square, 1994 – 2002
James Lesh shares his academic article on Federation Square's inception.
Dec 11, 20211 min read


Our Heritage for the Future Webinar
James Lesh joins a panel to discuss 'Our Heritage for the Future'.
Feb 3, 20211 min read


An introduction to 'Heritage Cities'
What does heritage mean for cities? This introductory article provides some guidance. Have a listen to the associated podcast too.
Oct 1, 20201 min read


Eastern Freeway: A Heritage Commentary
Despite its importance, the Eastern Freeway did not receive a heritage listing. This article asks: why?
Sep 23, 20205 min read


The meaning of 'place' in heritage practice
James Lesh explores the definition of 'place' in heritage practice, including through the Burra Charter.
Sep 1, 20201 min read


‘Questioning the Consensus? Urban Conservation in 1990s Sydney and Melbourne
James Lesh will be speaking at a virtual seminar in the UK.
Jul 13, 20202 min read


Road to nowhere? (on the Eastern Freeway heritage listing)
Melbourne’s Eastern Freeway is likely to be state heritage listed next year. Heritage Victoria has identified it as aesthetically and historically important. But should freeways be managed within the heritage system? Or is a freeway the kind of 20th century relic which we should be prepared to let go of?
Jan 16, 20204 min read


How can a place be heritage-listed after 17 years? What it means for Melbourne’s Fed Square
Federation Square in Melbourne has been listed on the Victorian state heritage register just 17 years after its completion.
Aug 28, 20195 min read


Forty years of the Burra Charter and Australia’s heritage vision
As the Burra Charter turns 40, James Lesh looks back at the global influence of its innovative approach to heritage.
Jul 14, 20195 min read


The Burra Charter turns 40
James Lesh joins an expert panel at the University of Melbourne to discuss the Burra Charter at 40!
Jun 27, 20191 min read


Once a building is destroyed, can the loss of a place like the Corkman be undone?
Heritage principles do not recommend rebuilding demolished buildings like the Corkman pub.
Mar 13, 20195 min read


Federation Square heritage council submission
James Lesh's submission to the Fed Square Heritage Council hearing.
Dec 15, 201810 min read


Heritage value is in the eye of the beholder: why Fed Square deserves protection
An exploration of how and why Fed Square could be heritage listed.
Aug 11, 20185 min read
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