Group dive into pearling history

A group of Australian divers, the first in the world to be qualified in recreational use of hard hat diving equipment, are coming to Broome, keen to meet locals who have been involved in pearling and want to keep its history alive.

The Historical Diving Society – South East Asian Pacific is the Australian-based section of a worldwide group of enthusiastic members who use “standard dress” (hard hat diving) equipment to keep historical diving alive.

The first courses in Australia were run in 2009 with about 18 divers from all walks of life. In 2010 12 returned to complete the advanced course.

One of the two members in WA to have completed the course, Peter McMahon, is the WA coordinator of HDS-SEAP. A keen recreational diver since 1969, who services a wide range of antique diving equipment, Mr McMahon said he and the second qualified diver, Mike Cooke, were excited to be coming to Broome in September.

They want to gauge local interest for bringing the accreditation course to Broome, and may bring equipment for display.

Mr McMahon and Mr Cooke will hold a public meeting at the Broome Historical Society Museum on Tuesday, September 20, at 6pm.

Mr McMahon said they were looking forward to a great turnout of like-minded people who are interested in keeping history alive.

“We would love to hear from anyone who was involved in the pearling industry and diving especially as we are committed to keeping alive this very historical activity,” he said.

“The HDS SEAP put out a quarterly magazine where articles on individuals, activities, equipment and historical notes are published.

“An article will be written on our trip to Broome and we sincerely hope for some interesting input from locals.”

To learn more call Broome Historical Society on 9192 2075 or visit www.classicdiver.org