The series which airs on the Travel Channel, chronicles the adventures of Josh Gates as he investigates iconic mysteries across the globe.

The episode was filmed in the south-west in November and it premiered in the US on June 27 with the south-west’s stunning scenery and the story of the infamous wreck beamed into millions of homes.

Gates begins the episode stating that “over the centuries as many as 800 vessels have been consumed by these waters”, with shots of the Shipwreck Coast’s unforgiving waves and cliffs. “When it comes to hunting for lost riches, tales of shipwrecks have enticed explorers from around the world but there’s one shipwreck unlike any other, because legend says it’s not at the bottom of the ocean but buried on land,” Gates says.

Warrnambool-based Mahogany Ship committee chair Pat Connelly and committee member John Sherwood are interviewed, as are active researchers Rob Simpson, from Melbourne, and Ross Poulter, from Terang.

Mr Connelly said the program was very entertaining and colourful and provided great international exposure. “It’s a little bit imaginative in some parts but it’s an interesting story the Mahogany Ship and this is an American twist on it,” he said. “The aerial views of the coast are really good. From Warrnambool up and down the coast to Tower Hill and Port Fairy later. It’s visually a very attractive show.” 

Dr Sherwood said the producers worked with him and Mr Connelly to get the facts about the wreck and why the find would be significant. He said the researchers’ work was presented accurately. “It’s very entertaining,” he said. “I think it captures the ripping yarn aspect of the Mahogany Ship very well. I think he’s done pretty well and it won’t hurt the south-west. The scenery is spectacular. We’re hoping that it will generate some international interest in the mystery and maybe some new research interest.” 

It can be viewed on You Tube by searching Expedition Unknown the Mahogany Ship or via this link