The challenges of modern pearling: the rise, fall and future of the Australian pearling industry Fri 24 Jul 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm WA Maritime Museum James Brown, General Manager, Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm and Kimberley Marine Research Station The Australian cultured pearling industry was one of Australia’s first and most successful aquaculture industries but recently it has faced significant challenges. What is the current status of the industry and how secure is its future? The little known Cygnet Bay Pearls was issued with the first pearl culture license and has been at the forefront of developing this iconic Australian industry. Drawing on first-hand accounts from the pearling pioneers, this lecture describes how the industry grew to be the envy of the world before being devastated by ‘the perfect storm’ of difficult conditions. Join James Brown as he discusses the status of Australian pearls in the context of industry past and present, and the adaptation imperative facing this old industry in order to meet current challenges and secure its future. This lecture is part of the Batavia Lecture series for 2015. Cost: $12 per person. Includes light refreshments after the lecture. Bookings: Essential call 1300 134 081 Where: NWS Theatre Please RSVP by 5.00pm, Wednesday 22 July. Man holding a Pearlshell on the back of a boat Courtesy James Brown Getting Here Address WA Maritime Museum Victoria Quay Road, Fremantle, Western Australia, 6160, Australia Phone 1300 134 081 By Train The WA Maritime Museum is located within walking distance of Fremantle Station visit the Transperth website for timetables. By Bus The WA Maritime Museum is serviced by the free Fremantle Cat Service, at Red stop 1. Visit the Transperth website for timetables and details. By Car Paid parking is available in the Wilsons car park at the WA Maritime Museum, Victoria Quay Road. By Ferry Captain Cook Cruises offer a range of ferry services from Perth which stop nearby at B-Shed ferry terminal.