Page 307 - Manual for Activities directed at the Underwater Cultural Heritage

306
Reasons for informing the public
All archaeological research is futile if results are not shared. Archaeologists need to disseminate new information among the research and academic community to further the scientific aims of identifying cultural change and understanding past human behaviour. However, it is at least as important to share information with the public at large. Archaeology has the unique ability to inform our understanding of ordinary people of the past, rather than favouring kings and generals who are often the focus of historical narratives. This connection to the public of the past is a means to engage the public of today.
The public’s interest in the past is illustrated by the popularity of television shows, movies, books, and other publications that focus on archaeology and history. The production of well-researched and well- presented data for a general audience is a powerful tool for making sure the public gets accurate, in- teresting information, rather than the over-simplified or over-inflated, and sometimes erroneous “facts” generated by the media and by organizations with more interest in profit than preservation. Effective public education also ensures the longevity of archaeology by generating support for it.
In many cases, the public has rights to archaeological information. For example, when sites are located on
 © Xploredive. Shipwreck trail card of the SS Yongala, Great Bar- rier Reef Marine Park, Queens- land, Australia.
Shipwreck trails exist all over
the world.While certain
maritime sites are too fragile
and archaeologically sensitive to support public access, there are other more robust sites that have become stable in their environ- ment. Effectively interpreted and actively managed, they can sustain large numbers of visitors.The shipwrecks that are highlighted in such a trail can be selected for the tragic circumstances surrounding their loss, their historical signifi- cance, and because they provide a fascinating underwater experience for divers. Usually water-proof booklets and land-based interpre- tive signs are located along the coastline to assist in the interpre- tation of the wrecks.
The SS Yongala (1911) lies in
the central section of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It was an early 20th century interstate coastal steamer that sunk during cyclonic weather. It provides a snapshot of Edwardian life in Aus- tralia and is now one of Australia’s most highly regarded and popular wreck dives.The wreck is also
the final resting place of the 122 passengers and crew who were aboard the Yongala on her 99th and final journey.
Dissemination