Is the deep sea a wasteland or wonderland?

The deep ocean is Earth’s final frontier, vast and largely unseen by humans. So, what’s really down there?

Is it a mysterious ecosystem full of untapped knowledge and creatures of the abyss — or just rock, darkness and mining potential? The deep sea could be our next scientific breakthrough, our next gold rush, or even our next home.

With billionaires, governments and researchers racing to the bottom, the pressure is on: should we explore, exploit, or leave it alone?

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Emily Jateff, museum curator of Ocean Futures will moderate a conversation between panellists:

• Dr Kirsten Banks – Astrophysicist and science communicator
• Sean Wolpert – Board member, DEEP
• Dr Todd Bond – Deep-sea ecologist

This talk is presented as part of Big Blue Ideas, a new series from the Australian National Maritime Museum in partnership with the Minderoo Foundation about the future of our ocean.

Info: Cash in your Big Blue Bevvy token for a beer or wine.

Info: After the panel, stay for a boardwalk gathering with drinks, hands-on activities, and the chance to connect directly with speakers and fellow ocean advocates.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Australian National Maritime Museum, 2 Murray Street, Sydney, Australia