A stunning new photographic exhibition at the Australian National Maritime Museum explores four Australian shipwreck sites and the unique marine life and environment of the coral reefs and cays in tropical Queensland.

Wrecks and Reefs contains over 40 vivid images by Cairns-based photographer Xanthe Rivett and several recovered artefacts from the museum's recent diving expeditions including part of a bilge pump from the wreck of HMCS Mermaid (1829); a block of coal and a piece of stone ballast from the wreck of the Cato (1803) and Mahaica (1854) and a lead scupper from the wreck of the Royal Charlotte (1825). For further information see attached media release.