Its objectives are purely philanthropic. The Foundation works primarily through and with respected public institutions such as the National Maritime Museum of Australia and The University of Sydney for major projects, although many smaller initiatives are undertaken alone or with other partners. The Foundation is privileged to possess a substantial collection of early material relating to the peri
od of history around which it focuses its activities. This is comprised of manuscripts and documents, paintings, etchings and prints, books, maps, coins and medals, and other original items mostly dating from the 18th and early 19th century and before. The collection now contains over 1300 objects covering Indigenous Australia, early exploration and settlement. The Foundation remains an active collector and is continually seeking to enhance the collection further by adding selected items that complement the existing material. The collection is primarily for the private use of the Foundation but access is willingly granted to researchers and other interested parties who wish to make use of the material either for research or for exhibition. As the Foundation carries out research and exploration activities in very remote areas of the Pacific Ocean, Papua New Guinea and Torres Straits, we try to help the local communities with which we come into contact. This assistance can include medical help, the provision of educational material, radios and communication equipment, training and other benefits.
