Winner
Alasdair Cooke, Volunteer, Maritime Discovery Foundation
Alasdair Cooke is a passionate volunteer and founder of the Maritime Discovery Group, whose tireless efforts over more than two decades have greatly advanced the discovery, documentation and celebration of Western Australia’s maritime heritage.
A geologist by profession, Alasdair has applied his scientific expertise to locate and investigate over a dozen historic shipwrecks, including the Cochituate, SS Rodondo, and the Dutch submarine HNMLS KXI. His research has also contributed to the identification of the Thornliebank, County of Caithness and Timaru.
Through meticulous archival research and innovative geophysical surveys, Alasdair has mapped magnetic signatures of more than 30 wreck sites and contributed vital data to the Australian Underwater Cultural Heritage Database. His collaborations with the Western Australian Museum, WreckSploration and the Disney+ series Shipwreck Hunters Australia have brought global attention to Western Australia’s rich maritime history.
A generous educator and mentor, Alisdair shares his knowledge with schools, heritage groups and emerging researchers. His work exemplifies the vital role volunteers play in preserving heritage and ensures the stories of Western Australia’s shipwrecks continue to resonate across generations and around the world.
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