As in previous years, a few of us ventured down to the International Shipwreck Conference in Plymouth over the weekend of the 7th / 8th Feb.
This years talks turned out to be as good as ever, despite the terrible weather conditions meaning some people couldn’t make it, including David Mearns, who was scheduled to be talking about the discovery of HMAS Sydney.
Opening the day was a presentation by Nigel Overton on the History of the Eddystone Lighthouse. Nigel is obviously very passionate about the local history, which came across in a very interesting talk. Following Nigel was Bob Peacock talking about recent finds in the English Channel, particularly around the Goodwin Sands, and making you realise just how many wrecks there are out there! The next talker was one for the inner archaeologist in everyone, Professor Ufuk Kocabas talking about the excavation of the Yenikapi Byzantine Shipwrecks, which included some excellent finds and some stunning photography. The afternoon started with two talks based on a more legal footing, with Mike Williams talking about the Heritage Bill and how it will affect divers, followed by Alison Kentuck talking about the duties of the Receiver of Wreck. The final main slot went to Mike Rowley, talking about deep wreck exploration off Lebanon and the story of HMs Victoria.
Over all another excellent conference, despite the snow on M5 on the way down.
