What is a topographic map?
A topographic map provides a visual reference to the layout of a landscape. It represents the natural and made environment using a system of measurement (scale), grid references and symbols.
It can be used to explore the sense of a place and its relationships to other places, including changes over time. A topographic map may include a variety of detail, including contours and elevation, forested areas, water courses and roads. In this way, topographic maps can be used to build a picture of human activity and changing landscapes.
Detail from Australian inch:mile topographic series, sheet I 55 11 751 (Young), showing the township, nearby orchards and homesteads. Royal Australian Survey Corps, 1957, MAP G8960 s63.
Detail from Australian inch:mile topographic series, sheet I 55 11 751 (Young), showing symbols and markings related to landscape features and land use. Royal Australian Survey Corps, 1957, MAP G8960 s63.