We dig—above and below ground—to uncover the real stories.

Black and white photo of five people joyfully running and laughing outdoors in front of a wooden building.

Barrowmen running across from Customs House Circular Quay, 1932

Photographer: Unknown – Donated by Irene Ingley, courtesy City of Sydney Archives, A-00023116

Underground Heritage is an independent heritage consultancy specialising in placemaking, interpretation, historical research, and stakeholder engagement. We also provide Aboriginal cultural heritage advice, historical archaeology, and broader strategic heritage services, supporting projects from early planning through to delivery and public engagement.

We work across complex and often sensitive environments, helping clients navigate layered histories, multiple values, and diverse stakeholder perspectives. Our approach brings together rigorous research, creative thinking, and practical implementation to ensure that heritage is not only understood but meaningfully embedded in the way places are designed, managed and experienced.

Well connected within the industry, we collaborate with a trusted network of specialists to deliver comprehensive, end-to-end solutions. This flexible model allows us to scale and tailor our teams to suit each project, while maintaining a consistently high standard of work.

Curious, rigorous, and creative, we bring energy and insight to every project. Our deliberately senior, expert-led model means all work is driven by our Director and Founder, ensuring continuity, accountability, and clarity at every stage. As a boutique practice, she remains closely involved from start to finish, bringing sustained senior attention, precision, and depth to every aspect of our work.

At its core, our work is about connection: between people and place, past and present, knowledge and experience. We help shape places that are grounded in history, stories, and memories—creating lasting value for our clients and communities.

Children on steps of terrace house in Cambridge Street The Rocks, 1901

Children on steps of terrace house in Cambridge Street The Rocks, 1901

Photographer: Charles Kent, courtesy City of Sydney Archives, A-01000165

Meet Madeline

Dr Madeline Shanahan

Director

Dr Madeline Shanahan is a multidisciplinary heritage practitioner and nationally recognised specialist in interpretation and placemaking, with more than two decades of experience delivering projects across NSW, Victoria, and the ACT. She is the Director of Underground Heritage, where she leads complex heritage and interpretation projects that translate layered histories and heritage values into clear, engaging strategies and practical outcomes for clients and communities.

Holding a PhD in Archaeology, she is an internationally recognised historical archaeologist specialising in food and domestic space. She serves on the editorial boards of the International Journal of Historical Archaeology and Post-Medieval Archaeology, and is an expert member of the ACT Heritage Council. The author of three books and numerous publications, Madeline brings methodological rigour and research depth to her consulting work.

Her expertise includes cultural, social, and intangible heritage values—areas of growing importance and risk for clients and communities. A qualified community and stakeholder engagement specialist, she works closely with communities, including First Nations groups, to understand and communicate the values that shape place.

Alongside her consulting work, Dr Shanahan is an experienced public communicator and commentator, with regular speaking and media appearances, including on ABC and SBS.

Ready to chat?

Contact us via email or fill out our contact form to discuss the details of your project.