All States and the Northern Territory are to be given the chance to take part in celebrations next year to mark the 250th anniversary of Captain James Cook’s first voyage to Australia and the Pacific.
Prime Minister, Scott Morrison said the Australian National Maritime Museum is to receive $6.7 million so its replica of the then Lieutenant Cook’s barque Endeavour can circumnavigate the country, hosting events and activities at 39 stops.
Mr Morrison said the funds would come from the $48.7 million set aside for the anniversary.
He said the year’s events would include exhibitions through the National Library of Australia, support for the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies to preserve and celebrate Indigenous culture, and assistance for the NSW Government to deliver the Kamay Botany Bay National Park Master Plan.
“As the 250th anniversary nears we want to help Australians better understand Captain Cook’s historic voyage and its legacy for exploration, science and reconciliation,” Mr Morrison said.
“That voyage is the reason Australia is what it is today and it’s important we take the opportunity to reflect on it.”
He said the Far North Queensland town of Cooktown would also be supported with assistance for projects such as the Cooktown 2020 Festival, development of a Reconciliation Rocks Precinct, Botanic Gardens and upgrades to the Gamaay Dreaming Track.
Minister for the Arts, Senator Mitch Fifield said the Endeavour replica would set sail from Sydney in March 2020 and perform a full circumnavigation of mainland Australia.
“The final itinerary, including the nature of HMB Endeavour’s replica visit to each of the proposed locations (anchorage, berth or sail by) and the associated dates, will be announced in the first half of this year following community consultations by the Australian National Maritime Museum,” Senator Fifield said.
“The voyage will provide many opportunities for Australians to see the HMB Endeavour replica, either at one of the ports it visits or when it anchors or passes by.”
