Notes from AHOY April 2025
We had such an interesting talk this month from Rachel Nanson of the Marine and Coastal Geoscience section of Geoscience Australia. Rachel was also kind enough to provide a copy of her slides for you to download. The slides contain links to useful resources that I've copied here for ease:
- A link to the International Association of Geomorphologists' International Seabed Geomorphology Mapping Working Group
- A two-part Seabed Geomorphology classification scheme; Part 1: Morphology Features Glossary
- A two-part seabed geomorphology classification scheme; Part 2: Geomorphology classification framework and glossary
The two reports linked above were created to form an international system of geomorphology mapping. They are a great resource for those studying geomorphology, but also those who aren't and can use these resources to understand key terms. The Glossary (Part 1) includes over 400 terms which were linked to six applications, one of which is past environments. Rachel is keen to discuss further how these applications can be used and improved for submerged landscape research.
Do you know what 'wonky holes' are? This was a new term so some, but not all, of the AIMA attendance and is well worth looking up!
National Marine Science Plan White Paper
This AHOY meeting we introduced a new agenda item to discuss the National Marine Science White Paper and ask for feedback from AIMA members.
This white paper is being prepared by lead authors Toni Massey, Emily Jateff and Danielle Wilkinson (AIMA President) with input from a diverse group of contributing authors and reviewers, including members of the AIMA Council. It is one of several white papers being produced by groups in the scientific community that will shape the development of the next National Marine Science Plan. The current Plan for 2015-2025 did not include a focus on underwater cultural heritage, meaning this is a valuable opportunity for our members and community to influence decision making in Australia for the next decade.
Discussion and feedback from the AIMA members in attendance included:
- Confirmation that universities lean on white papers and ARC Grants require your project meets objectives of the National Marine Science Plan.
- A few raised their hands or suggested people who could contribute to different sections.
- Some mentioned that UCH awareness is growing in non-heritage sectors. It's a good sign. They could benefit from more guidance.
- The White Paper authors encourage AIMA members to complete the survey sent around to submit their feedback and DREAM BIG!
- Some mention equipment. There is industry need for more geotechnical coring platforms with piston corers, high-resolution multibeam and sub-bottom profilers, amongst other technology.
AIMA Updates
The AIMA segment was shortened this month to allow more time to discuss the White Paper, and focused largely on reminders about upcoming events:
- AAA/AIMA Conference 2-5 December in Fremantle. Call for Sessions was still open at the time of the meeting.
- World Archaeological Congress in Darwin, 22-28 June 2025. AIMA is sponsoring and co-hosting a session called "Exploring the Depths: Maritime Archaeology Across the Globe"
- AIMA's AGM will be held separate to the Conference on Saturday 4 October. Details to be announced.
- White Paper - reminder about the survey sent to AIMA members.
- SF020 - reminder about the survey and drop in session Monday 28th April 10-11 AEST.
The next AIMA meeting is on Monday 12 May with a Workshop by Natali Pearson on "Crafting a great conference abstract". See you there!