Discover stories behind the latest exhibitions, fascinating explorations into maritime science and archaeology, and the surprising details of what happens inside (and outside) a modern working museum.
![Goy Galdeano (centre, in white striped top) with the first group of female Spanish assisted migrants to Australia, 1960 [reproduced courtesy Melissa Zabalegui]](/-/media/anmm/images/blog-content/2019/september-2019/signals/3-goy-galdeano_2160x1080_compressed.jpg?h=1080&la=en&w=2160&hash=32D860B84500C5EB3CDE4AA705E144ECCEB36B9F "Goy Galdeano (centre, in white striped top) with the first group of female Spanish assisted migrants to Australia, 1960 [reproduced courtesy Melissa Zabalegui]")
02 Sep 2019
An archive of newspaper clippings in the museum’s collection documents a dramatic episode in assisted migration from Spain and Greece to Australia 60 years ago, writes curator Kim Tao. The nightmare 54-day voyage of the Montserrat was marred by engine trouble, fighting between passengers and crew, and even allegations of a mutiny by passengers in the middle of the Indian Ocean.
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29 Aug 2019
William Bligh is often described as an abusive tyrant, but what about a devoted husband? Head of Research Dr Nigel Erskine explores how the sea shells Bligh collected for his wife Elizabeth were a reflection of love – exotic souvenirs that allowed her to share in her husband's adventures.
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28 Aug 2019
Alex Luther water skied almost 3,700 kilometres to create his grandfather's world record. Having never water skied before, Alex spent seven years preparing for the journey both physically and mentally. Before he speaks at our upcoming Ocean Talk, Extreme Journeys, we spoke with Alex to find out why he embarked on this demanding challenge and the highs and lows he experienced in the process.
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27 Aug 2019
The 1848 Revolution in France led to the exodus of a unique group of refugee artisans now known as the lacemakers of Calais. Curator Kim Tao profiles the story of Edward Lander, chairman of a committee representing nearly 650 English laceworkers and their families, who sought a fresh start in the Australian colonies.
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23 Aug 2019
In 1847 Benjamin Boyd, an early colonial businessman better known for his whaling ventures, shipped 65 men from New Caledonia and Vanuatu to Eden on the south coast of New South Wales.
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23 Aug 2019
The flag raising ceremony that took place at the museum today marked the 25th anniversary of Commonwealth recognition of the discrimination imposed on the Australian South Sea Islanders (ASSI) community.
22 Aug 2019
Annarosa Coluccio (née Bova) was one of 12,000 young Italian women who arrived in Australia as proxy brides between 1945 and 1976. Confronted by vast cultural and linguistic barriers, she eventually settled in with the love of her husband and the friendship of their new Australian neighbours.
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21 Aug 2019
Ross Gibbs of We Can Build You (WCBY) is a traditional sculptor with a twist. Using VR and 3D printing, Ross made three prehistoric predators for our upcoming exhibition, Sea Monsters. We spoke to Ross at his studio to learn more about this futuristic method.
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15 Aug 2019
As the first Australian woman to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean and the current world record holder for the one million metre row – it is clear that Michelle Lee is anything but ordinary. Before speaking at our next Ocean Talk, Extreme Journeys, we caught up with Michelle to find out what drives her and what she has her eyes set on next.
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14 Aug 2019
Students from Winmalee High School spent two days at the museum, touring current exhibitions and looking at the methodology involved in maritime archaeology – all part of a new STEAM peer mentoring program.
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