Nautical Archaeology Society ~ Training

The TR Thompson Project Group recognise the need for responsible diving on what amounts to a part of our national heritage. As a result the Project Group encourage members to undertake training with the Nauticla Archaeology Society .

The Nautical Archaeology Society is a non-government organisation formed to further interest in our underwater cultural heritage. Thery are a registered charity based in the United Kingdom, but with strong links to sister organisations around the world

On 21st October 2006 the following three members joined the list of those who have undertaken NAS training, when they completed their "Introduction to Foreshore & Undewater Archaeology Course" at Fort Cumberland:-

Tracey M

Andy N

Chris P

Thanks to the NAS for an interesting, well presented and helpful course.

NAS Introductory Training

Andy has been in touch with the NAS they have an introductory course running on 21st October. Cost £45. If interested let Andy know or add a commentto this post!

Chris-P

Marina Training ~ 20th May

An interesting exploratory session! Alex, Alan, Ernie , Sheila, Rob, Debs & Sara took part in the 'exercise' with Chris D & Chris P. The plan was simple and that's where we parted company with simplicity!

The object of the exercise was to measure a gulley between two points - easy? Apparently not! A line (replicating a shot line) lead to the gulley ('replicating' a wreck!) the task was to measure the distance between the 'shot line' and a marker along the gulley. Three 'teams' tried the exercise, and only ONE team came back with a measurement ay all!! Well done the 'A' Team! Provisional learning points:-

a). Don't break buddy pairs (a basic rule reinforced!!)
b). Treat the measure like you would a line/reel.
c). Don't assume when you reach the bottom of the shot line you will be properly orientated!
d). Don't expect impressive results quickly!

Marina Training ~ 16th May 2004

The Marina training session for 16/5 was a fairly short affair! Chris-D & Tad brought some tape measures and these were tested underwater with a fair degree of success, ie they worked! Tad mentioned that Marina Training should reflect the reality of the TRT depths and thus sessions would need to take no more than available bottom time on the wreck! As a VERY rough guide a dive last August (not sure of the tide condition!!) :-

The Propeller was 29m (RDP 20 Mins)
Top of the Stern was 21m (RDP 37 Mins)
Top of the Stern 'Ribs' was 19m (RDP 45 Mins)