Into Pluto’s realm: new light on the fate of the Vergulde Draeck (1656) survivors

Public Lecture | Updated 1 decade ago

The misery of a shipwreck surviror
Marooned, by Howard Pyle (1909)
Available in the public domain http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Marooned_(close_up).jpg

Presented by Robert Sheppard
Archaeologist and Heritage Consultant, WA Museum Associate

Following the wreck of the VOC ship Vergulde Draeck near the Western Australian coast in 1656, at least 75 Dutch survivors reached the shore. Seven survivors sailed in a small ship’s boat to Batavia (Jakarta) for help, leaving 68 people behind. When rescuers returned the 68 survivors had disappeared. There is no historical record of their fate, which has become one of Australia’s most enduring maritime mysteries.

After twelve years of research, utilising archaeological techniques to examine possible related material located on the WA coast, Robert (Bob) Sheppard believes he and others have found material left behind by the Dutch survivors. Join Bob as he discusses the controversial wreck discovery process, and reveals details of his research into - and the evidence behind his conclusions - regarding the fate of the Vergulde Draeck survivors.

Cost: $12 per person. Includes light refreshments after the lecture.
Bookings: Essential using the link below or calling 1300 134 081.
Please RSVP by 5:00pm, Wednesday 10 September