Bursting the bubble: Reflecting on 50 years of maritime archaeological research in Queensland

Abstract Over the last 50 years, significant maritime archaeological research, including the excavation of shipwrecks and underwater cultural heritage projects (mainly site inspections and monitoring activities) occurred in Queensland. There is no doubt that there are exceptional historic ship and aircraft sites along the Queensland coastline. Queensland has been the home of an active Maritime Archaeology Department at the Queensland Museum, one of the most successful active avocational groups (the Maritime Archaeology Association of Queensland), and a decade-long university program at James Cook University. However, it seems that after the large-scale excavations of HMS “Pandora” (sunk in 1791), maritime archaeological research, educational outreach, public interest, and eventually, professional positions, dwindled. This paper reviews the past 50 years of shipwreck research, highlighting where and when approaches failed before discussing the future and what lies ahead for maritime archaeological research in Queensland.