16th International Symposium on Boat & Ship Archaeology

47 Zadar, Croatia | 26 September – 1 October 2021 Brad Duncan University of New England / Heritage NSW, Armidale, Australia Strange craft in the Murray River - characterizing the archaeological signatures of river vessel in Australia’s largest river system Recent research undertaken in the Murray River in South Eastern Australia has revealed a range of river craft whose structural designs have not previously been documented (either archaeologically or historically). The vessels, predominantly large scale barges used in the wool, wheat and timber trades, have vastly different construction techniques to those used in Oceanic regions, and designs that ap- pear to be unique to the region. Based on site inspections, oral histories with tra- ditional boatbuilders, and analysis of remnant vessels, this paper outlines ongo- ing investigations to characterise the archaeological signatures of these remnant hulks and wrecks, and the ethnographic practices associated with these highly un- usual watercraft. The origins of these local construction techniques are also being investigated to further explore whether these craft are being based on imported international designs or demonstrate the rise of a unique class of Australian ver- nacular boatbuilding. Undertaken as part of a wider project to investigate riverine heritage in NSW and other State river systems (NSW Rivers and Waterways Cultur- al Landscapes Project), this paper provides insights into the long forgotten vessels and shipbuilding practices of Australia largest industrial waterway system.