Robert Halstead
Papua New Guinea SCUBA Diving Pioneer

In memory: Bob Halstead passed away December 18, 2018

Robert "Bob" Halstead learned to dive in the Bahamas in 1968. He bought his first underwater camera the same year and qualified as a NAUI Diving Instructor in 1970. He came to Papua New Guine (PNG) as an education officer for the Australian Government in 1973 and taught mathematics and science for five years, ending his teaching career as Head of the Science Department at Sogeri National High School where responsibilities included writing science curriculum for provincial high schools. As a SCUBA diver, he is responsible for the discovery and identification of several World War II aircraft wrecks. On December 18, 2018 Halstead passed away from cancer.

P-38H Lightning Serial Number 42-66869
Pilot Ilnicki ditched November 27, 1943 discovered 1981 off Basilaki Island off Milne Bay

P-38F Lightning Serial Number 42-12649
Pilot Cella ditched November 4, 1942 discovered September 2004 off the north coast of New Guinea

A6M2 Model 21 Zero
Ditched between January 18-February 28, 1943 discovered 2007 off Wei Island north of New Guinea

References
Diving & Snorkeling Papua New Guinea (1999) by Robert Halstead
The Bomber Reef (2005) by Walt Deas includes an interview with Robert Halstead
HalsteadDiving.com  official website of Robert Halstead via WayBack Machine January 13, 2014
Carins Post "Bob Halstead dies, diving industry pays tribute to Far North" December 28, 2018