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QLD part of $120K national Maritime Grants

Photo courtesy of Australian National Maritime Museum

What’s Happening?

The Australian National Maritime Museum has announced the successful recipients of its 2025 Maritime Museums of Australia Project Support Scheme (MMAPSS), granting more than $120,000 in project funding and in-kind support to 25 maritime initiatives around Australia.

Three Queensland-based organisations—including projects in Gladstone, Brisbane, and the Low Isles—have been selected for their efforts to preserve and present Australia’s maritime history.

MMAPSS is funded by the Australian Government and has been supporting maritime heritage projects across Australia since 1995.

Why It Matters

Queensland’s coastline is home to countless maritime legacies—from fishing fleets and shipwrecks to naval vessels and regional ports. This grant round ensures that these stories remain accessible to communities like Mackay.

“Australia is intrinsically linked with our network of waterways. These projects explore our maritime history and enable communities across the country to learn and engage on a deeper level,” said Minister for the Arts Tony Burke.

“This rich legacy will continue to be protected for future generations,” added Daryl Karp AM, Director and CEO of the Australian National Maritime Museum.

Local Impact(Queensland Projects)

– Gladstone Maritime History Society Inc.- This funding supports preventative maintenance on HMAS GLADSTONE, the Fremantle Class naval patrol vessel docked at Auckland Creek. This ensures continued public access to a valuable regional heritage site.

– Queensland Maritime Museum Association (Brisbane) will receive support to rehouse and preserve artefacts and artworks, improving conservation of the state’s maritime collection.

– Low Isles Preservation Society Inc. (Far North QLD) awarded a Museum Administrators’ Course grant, enabling training in museum practice, knowledge that benefits regional Queensland museums, including those in Mackay.

By the Numbers

– $120,000+ in total is the national grant value

– 25 national projects (15 funded, 3 in-kind only, 1 received both and 6 granted training opportunities)

– Since 1995, the grant has provided $2.61 million over 565+ projects funded and created 93+ training opportunities.

Zoom In – Value to Mackay’s Regional Museums

Although Mackay wasn’t a direct recipient, the Low Isles Preservation Society’s grant to attend national museum training brings long-term value to northern Queensland. Skills gained through this program support better heritage outcomes for small regional museums, including those in and around Mackay.

Zoom Out – Australia’s Maritime Heritage Preserved

Other MMAPSS-funded projects include:

  • A traditional bark canoe crafted by a Thaua Elder (NSW)

  • Restoration of HMAS CASTLEMAINE (VIC)

  • Stabilisation of vessels in the Cocos Keeling Islands (WA)

  • Interpretive updates in Tasmania, South Australia, and regional NSW

These projects reflect MMAPSS’s commitment to preserving local stories with national significance.

What to Look For Next?

Applications for the next MMAPSS round open soon. Mackay-based museums and cultural organisations are encouraged to apply for:

– Up to $15,000 in project funding

– Up to $3,000 in museological training support

– In-kind advice from maritime experts

Apply via: www.sea.museum/grants

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