NATIONAL HERITAGE LISTING FOR HMS SIRIUS
The Australian Heritage Council has welcomed the inclusion of the shipwreck of HMS Sirius
in the National Heritage List.
The official announcement was made yesterday, by Federal Heritage Minister, the Hon Tony
Burke at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney.
Professor Carmen Lawrence, Chair of the Australian Heritage Council, said the Council was
delighted that a place of such significance to Australia’s history is enshrined on the national
heritage list.
“The shipwreck of HMS Sirius, in the waters off Norfolk Island, is of outstanding heritage
value to the nation as it provides us with a direct and tangible link to one of the most defining
moments in Australia’s history.
“The Sirius was the Flag Ship of the First Fleet that sailed from England to Australia in 17871788 and guided the fleet during its six month journey to Botany Bay.
“The shipwreck of HMS Sirius is the only known in situ remains of a vessel from the First
Fleet.
“The remaining fabric of the Sirius and associated artefacts represent a “time capsule” of
cultural life from the period leading up to 1790 and provide us with a unique opportunity to
gain new insights into Australia’s early European history.
“It also represents one of the few located examples of an 18th century British warship. It is
one of only two British naval ships from this period located in Australian waters.
“The Council is proud of its contribution to the national heritage listing of this very special
link to our early colonial history.”
The shipwreck site and its associated relics have been protected from damage or disturbance
under the Commonwealth Historic Shipwreck Act 1976 since 1984.
National heritage listing means the heritage values of the shipwreck of HMS Sirius are now
protected under national environmental law.
The National Heritage List recognises, celebrates and protects our most valued natural,
Indigenous and historic heritage sites.
Places listed in the National Heritage List are protected under the Environment Protection
and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. For more information go to www.heritage.gov.au
GPO Box 787 Canberra ACT 2601 Telephone 02 6274 1111 Facsimile 02 6274 2095