Funding win to showcase Bonney Upwelling

Published on 04 August 2025

One of Portland’s unique identity points is set to be showcased thanks to a recent funding windfall.

The Portland Maritime Discovery Centre has been named among the successful recipients of the 2025 Australian National Maritime Museum’s MMAPSS grants, receiving support to develop a new display focused on Portland’s unique coastline and the Bonney Upwelling.

The exhibition aims to raise awareness of the Bonney Upwelling’s vital role in sustaining marine life, from krill to blue whales, and its historical and contemporary significance to local fishing communities and the Gunditjmara people.

The new exhibition will be developed in partnership with the Blue Whale Study’s lead researcher, Dr. Pete Gill. The Blue Whale Study is a not-for-profit local organisation based in Tyrendarra and has conducted ecological research on blue whales and their upwelling habitats in southern Australian waters since 1998.

Glenelg Shire Council Mayor Cr Karen Stephens welcomed the funding as an opportunity to highlight one of the region’s greatest natural phenomena.

“This is another exciting step for our Maritime Discovery Centre following the recent unveiling of our Nyamat Mirring Gallery in partnership with Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, which tells the story of Gunditjmara and First Nations connection to Sea Country,” she explained.

“The funding from MMAPSS will allow us to continue to enhance the visitor experience as well as strengthening community understanding of the natural marine wonder that is the Bonney Upwelling.

“Soon visitors to the Centre will be immersed in both the scientific and cultural aspects of our rich coastal identity. Council is grateful for the Australian National Maritime Museum’s continued support in helping us preserve and share the stories that are so important to our region.”

Work will begin to deinstall the current objects and prepare the gallery for installation. The Collections Management Coordinator will work with Dr. Pete Gill to begin the process of selecting artworks and objects as well as writing iterpretive material.

The Bonney Upwelling exhibit is one of 25 successful projects to receive funding or in-kind support in this year’s MMAPSS round, which supports regional and community museums in preserving and promoting Australia’s maritime history.

Director and CEO of the Australian National Maritime Museum, Daryl Karp AM, praised this year’s recipients, noting that each project adds depth to the nation’s maritime story.

“Australia's identity as an island nation is deeply connected to its seas and waterways... This rich legacy will continue to be protected for future generations.”

The Maritime Museums of Australia Project Support Scheme (MMAPSS) is funded by the Australian Government. MMAPSS provides grants, museological training opportunities and in-kind support from Australian National Maritime Museum experts to help conserve and display unique local objects for today’s audiences and future generations.

To learn more, visit: https://www.sea.museum/en/about/grants-and-awards.