Maritime art collection goes online

A unique online collection of Australia's maritime art and photography was launched at Woy Woy Library on August 14.

The Alfred and Roy Dufty Collection is hosted on Gosford Council's website and consists of more than 2200 photographs and photographed artworks relating to Australian shipping in the period 1870 to 1930.

"This exceptionally rare and nationally important collection has only been seen by a very small number of people over the years," Gosford Library manager Mr Allan Flores said.

"Well suited for marine enthusiasts of all kinds, this Aladdin's cave of souvenirs, paintings and photographs was visited by sailors and ship lovers from all around the world.

"Many images depict changes to Sydney Harbour from the 1880s to the 1930s.

"Looking at the Dufty images, it is possible to trace some of the expansion of the port and to watch the changing face of local and international shipping.

"The variety of vessels represented in the collection is phenomenal.

"This database will be a boon to marine history enthusiasts around the world.

"Never before has such a concentration of Australian maritime art been available to browse in one location.

"Many of the original paintings are scattered around the world. If they have survived, most will never be seen in Australia again."

The collection can be found at http://www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/library/alfred-roy-dufty-maritime-heritage-collection

Press release, 11 Aug 2009 Alison Hood, Gosford Council