Friends,
Almost two weeks ago the Federal Government signed away the heritage protection given to the Aurora Australis. The Minister made a statement to say that though the ship had a history, she did not meet the 'high standard' required to be a heritage vessel.
Though we obviously disagree vehemently with that decision, there is nothing we can do to appeal or overturn it.
Since then we have been waiting for the next development, and it has arrived today: the P&O logo on the side of the ship has been painted out, and the P&O company house flag is no longer flying.
It seems obvious therefore that the AA has been sold and her departure from Hobart is likely imminent.
Our petition - which appealed to the Federal and Tasmanian State governments for heritage protection - has sadly failed and there is no point continuing. I will be closing the petition today.
Thank you however for your support and your efforts to make this happen. Over 3000 signatures was a remarkable effort! And we have been deeply grateful.
We are very, very disappointed that we have let you down - and that we have let the AA down by failing to hang onto her in Australia as we had hoped.
The Aurora Australis Foundation will, however, continue to work hard to preserve the legacy of this remarkable ship, even though we have lost the ship itself. We hope that you'll see us around soon and support our efforts to preserve Australian Antarctic heritage.
Best wishes
Dr Melanie Van Twest
Secretary
Aurora Australis Foundation