New technologies reveal more of maritime mysteries

Adjunct Professor and Curator of Maritime Archaeology at the WA Museum Dr Michael (Mack) McCarthy will reveal new and exciting developments occurring behind the scenes at the Museum in an engaging lecture presented in Geraldton on Wednesday 3 September.

As part of the WA Museum’s 2014 In the Wild West lecture series, Dr McCarthy will present Wreck update: Behind the scenes in Maritime Archaeology, featuring some of Western Australia’s most historically significant maritime sites, including the wrecks of the Zeewijk, Batavia, Zuytdorp and Gilt Dragon.

“Technological advances have enabled us to examine the marine environment in new and exciting ways, allowing for deeper layers of understanding to develop around our significant maritime sites, which in turn sparks new questions and new research project ideas,” said Dr McCarthy.

“The fate of the Gilt Dragon survivors has been re-examined due to new revelations; new research has been undertaken into the whereabouts of the elusive fifth Old Dutch wreck the Aagtekerke; and we’re partway through a major project surrounding the Batavia site.

“It’s an exciting time for maritime archaeology as our knowledge base constantly grows and evolves.”

Regional Manager of WA Museum – Geraldton Leigh O’Brien said hosting lectures from the In the Wild West series is an engaging way to share important and relevant stories with the local community.

“There are shipwrecks scattered along our vast coastline and the Mid West and Gascoyne communities feel a real affiliation with these wrecks, and are keen to hear about new developments,” Ms O’Brien said.

In the Wild West is a six-month lecture series delivered to regional and metropolitan locations across the State.

The Wreck update lectureswill take place at 7pm on Wednesday 3 September, at the WA Museum – Geraldton; Bookings can be made on 9921 5080 (Geraldton), or at http://museum.wa.gov.au/whats-on/in-the-wild-west.