Research

The project involves the collaboration of three primary investigators, with unique yet intertwined research goals, seeking to tie together marine biology, archaeology and corrosion studies. Public dissemination is one of the most important aspects of the Earthwatch project, and Mr. Jeffery, as the project leader, is eager to fill this need. The role of Bradley L. Garrett on the project will be as a team leader and GIS/media coordinator. Bradley’s role on the project is essential to tying together the work of this ongoing research.

After an introduction to archaeological and biological recording techniques and diving practices, volunteers will divide into groups and take to the water with waterproof slates, measuring tapes, and waterproof digital voltmeters. Using these simple instruments, volunteers will observe and record information on the lagoon’s archaeology and on the corrosion and current decay rates of the wrecks. Participants will learn to recognize coral reef animals such as fishes and hard corals to conduct an assessment of marine life. Volunteers will also have two non-diving days during which volunteers will help enter data and take oral histories from local people.

Bradley Garrett has requested a $10,000 grant for PADI Project AWARE for the project (Below). Volunteers are need for this project. To get involved, please contact ICAU or the Earthwatch Foundation

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In 2005, Bradley L. Garrett completed a research project based in Northern California that discusses the impacts of dam construction on archaeological and cultural sites in the Western United States.

This research includes a case study with the Winnemem Wintu of Northern California who are in danger of losing a number of scared places due to a new plan by the United States Bureau of Reclamation to raise the water level of Lake Shasta.

Please visit the Winnemem Wintu's website and assist in efforts to help preserve tribal sovereignty in the face of possible cultural destruction.

[+]Transcripts of an interview with Caleen Sisk-Franco conducted by ICAU on October 8th, 2005

A joint project undertaken by the ICAU team and William Jeffery, lecturer at James Cook University and renowned maritime archaeologist, takes a deeper look at the impacts of World War II on Australia and aims to increase awareness regarding the significance of submerged World War II sites in Northern Queensland.

This project consists of theoretical discussion on submerged site significance in the Townsville area complimented by practical survey in Cleveland Bay for a United States Army C-47 that crashed into the water in 1943. Local historical knowledge coupled with underwater survey technology was the key to the success of the project which is now in it's final stages.

The project's results will be submitted for publication in the Australasian Institute for Maritime Archaeology newsletter in late November. Please check back at that time for a link to the draft. In the meantime, you may view a recent James Cook University publication on the project.

[+]Submerged World War II Heritage in Australia

[+] View a PDF of a recent JCU publication discussing the project

Bradley L. Garrett, co-director of the ICAU received funding through the PADI AWARE Foundation to undertake a video project on a local Townsville shipwreck, the SS Moltke.

This project aims to compliment an already existing but underutilized shipwreck trail on the island by documenting the wreck on Magnetic Island through underwater video. This video is sprinkled with interviews conducted at Pleasure Divers, a local dive shop and the Townsville Maritime Museum. This project may become an important part of diver education on the island, serving to educate divers new to the wreck on the conditions and history before they get into the water. The video could also be aired in the two museums just across the bay in Townsville.

In 2005, ICAU publicly condemned an article in National Geographic regarding the SS Republic, a civil war steamship off the coast of Georgia. It was excavated by a private salvage company who at this moment are in the process of selling US cultural heritage to the highest bidder on their website http://www.shipwreck.net. The ICAU composed a contemptuous letter to NG, which they published in the January issue - along with a completely unacceptable response. Essentially, National Geographic stated that only a salvage company who sells artefacts can afford such an expedition, as if the expedition were justified for this reason alone.

The Centre has received the support of the Australasian Institute of Maritime archaeology, and the Advisory Council for Underwater Archaeology to contact National Geographic and explain that the maritime archaeological community does not support the commodification of national heritage.

This topic received recent readdressing when Dr. Tom King, a prominent archaeologist and writer in the United States, voiced his support for the salvage rights of the private company. Bradley Garrett debated the issue with Dr. King on the World Archaeology Congress discussion board. The details of the conversation can be found at the link below (you must register to view the debate).