OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE AND CURTILAGE HERITAGE MANAGEMENT PLAN 2008–2013

9. Building Fabric Investigation Permitted Action Schedule
Part C – Implementation Tools
Old Parliament House and Curtilage Heritage Management Plan 2008–2013
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6.3.3 DENDROCHRONOLOGY
Dendrochronology is a scientific method for dating wooden materials. It can also identify wood species.
The process involves the removal of samples which are then compared under laboratory conditions to existing
data to establish their age.
The use of dendrochronology is appropriate for:
■■matching new timber to existing heritage built fabric, particularly during
repairs to timber finishes that are of high significance values,
Advantages — Identification of timber species is very accurate
Disadvantages — Dating of timber samples can be quite slow, requires the compilation of a very extensive data
base for climatic conditions over a long span of years and matched with corresponding tree
ring samples; and the core samples can only be taken from timber which still has a bark edge
Permitted Actions
Timber sampling of all heritage fabric provided that
damage caused to the heritage fabric being analysed is:
■■no greater than practically required for
undertaking the technique; and
■■discretely located or obscured from public view.
Repositioning of movable furniture or other portable
items to enable access for timber sampling
provided it is carried out in accordance with the
Housekeeping Permitted Action Schedule.
Use of any tools/equipment enabling access to heritage
fabric for the purposes of timber sampling provided
that all heritage surfaces such as floors and walls
are adequately protected from potential damage.
Not Permitted Actions
Timber sampling of heritage fabric where the
damage caused to the heritage fabric being
analysed is excessively large will require specialised
repairs and is clearly visible to public.
Repositioning of movable furniture or
other portable items to enable access for
timber sampling without reference to the
Housekeeping Permitted Action Schedule or prior
consultation with the OPH Heritage staff.
Use of any tools/equipment providing access to heritage
fabric without adequate protective devices in place to
protect heritage surfaces such as floors and walls.