Thursday 7 November 2019
6 – 8.00pm
What does it take to be a successful sea monster? How does studying current creatures help us interpret the fossils of past predators?
Don’t miss out on this rare chance to hear about the latest research and discoveries from two of Australia's most renowned palaeontologists.
Millions of years ago, the Earth’s oceans were home to some of the largest, fiercest and most successful predators ever! While dinosaurs ruled the land, huge prehistoric reptiles hunted the depths of the oceans.
Dr Espen Knutsen, Senior Curator Palaeontology at the Queensland Museum Network has travelled the world searching for evidence of these prehistoric predators. Espen will introduce us to these incredible creatures, share some of his adventures and reveal insights from the exciting discoveries he’s made.
Espen has described six new species of Jurassic marine reptiles and hunted monsters in Australia, the Arctic, The Netherlands and USA.
Joining Espen will be Dr Matthew McCurry, Curator of Palaeontology at The Australian Museum, Sydney. Matt will reveal how his innovative research using CT scanning and biomechanical modelling is throwing new light on these ancient predators and allows comparison to today’s ocean hunters.
This discussion will be hosted by Maritime Museum Assistant Director Michael Harvey.
Note: Ticket includes light refreshments and the opportunity view the Sea Monsters – Prehistoric Ocean Predators exhibition after hours (5-6pm).
