CROPP Ben

Ben Cropp (born 7 January 1936) is an Australian former shark hunter and six-time Australian spearfishing champion, having retired from that trade in 1962 to pursue oceanic documentary filmmaking (having produced some 150 wildlife documentaries) and conservation efforts. One of his efforts for The Disney Channel, The Young Adventurers, was nominated for an Emmy award.

In 1977, he discovered the wreck of HMS Pandora, almost concurrently with American explorer Steve Domm. John Heyer, another film maker at that time had done extensive research to establish the area the Pandora wreck was in. Ben Cropp followed John Heyer's expedition by boat and found it in this area before John Heyer did. Ben Cropp also lays claim to over 100 other shipwreck discoveries.

In 1999, he was created a member of the Order of Australia for his marine and coastal conservation efforts, and for the promotion and awareness of the Australian marine environment.

In 2000, he was inducted into the International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame's inaugural induction, sharing the honour with Jacques-Yves Cousteau, among others.

He currently resides in Port Douglas, Queensland.

Reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_Cropp
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