AIMA Conference 2026
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Dates
September 18–20, 2026
Location
Victoria
Area
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For the Love of It: Celebrating Avocational Contributions to Maritime Archaeology
Across the world many individuals share a deep passion for maritime archaeology and underwater cultural heritage. We are captivated by shipwrecks, by maritime histories, and the sites and artefacts that now rest beneath the water’s surface. While a small number pursue maritime archaeology as a profession, it is those who engage in this study “for the love of it” who form the true backbone of maritime archaeology.
We welcome you to Victoria where passionate members of the public have long been at the forefront of maritime archaeological fieldwork, monitoring, searching, research, education, advocacy and museum management. From groups such as the Maritime Archaeology Association of Victoria and Amazon 1863 Project Inc, to many maritime museums assisted by volunteers, and to dedicated individuals such as Jack Loney, Terry Arnott and Don Love. Passionate Victorians have played an invaluable role in establishing legislation and the political will to advance maritime archaeology across the State, as have similar groups and individuals throughout Australasia.
Participants
Australasian Institute for Maritime Archaeology (AIMA)
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The Australasian Institute for Maritime Archaeology (AIMA) is an incorporated, not-for-profit organisation, dedicated to the preservation of underwater cultural heritage. Based in Australia, it has sponsored work throughout Australia, Asia and the Indian and Pacific Ocean regions.
AIMA’s objectives are to support and undertake research within the field of maritime archaeology and to publish the results of this work.