​Over the next few weeks, we’ll be highlighting some new and old members of the Paphos Theatre Project, showcasing their careers and various interests. Kicking off the series is our site director, Dr. Craig Barker.

Craig has been a part of the project since its inception in 1995. After becoming director in 2007, the project changed its focus from the theatre to the broader northeastern quarter of the ancient city with excavations of the nymphaeum and the Roman road network.

How has your career changed since 1995?

“In my first year, I was an honours student at USYD. I went to university intending to become an Australian contract archaeologist. Working on this project changed the focus of my studies. It led to more focus on Mediterranean and public engagement archaeology, which has resulted in me working at the University of Sydney and the Chau Chak Wing Museum, finding ways to present research to the broader public. I hope that we are able to do the same with the Paphos project and make our exciting finds accessible to all.”

​The second team member to be highlighted is Azura Skye Watson, a first time student volunteer! Azura is in her third year at the University of Sydney, where she majors in archaeology and ancient history.

How has being on this dig changed your perception of archaeology?

“This dig has taught me that archaeology is not hierarchical as much as it is a journey of constant learning. Even archaeologists who’ve been working for decades still attend lectures and workshops from their colleagues and ask questions. Archaeology is just so nuanced, it’s a level playing field for everyone to educate and learn.”

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​The third team member to be featured is Zoe Lay, a first time volunteer. Back in Melbourne, Zoe is a Technical Archaeologist who specialises in Aboriginal cultural heritage. She has a Bachelors from Monash University, a Masters from La Trobe University and is currently working for Heritage Insight.

How does your experience with Indigenous archaeology in Australia compare with the excavations of the Paphos Theater Project?

“Back home I work in commercial archaeology which is designed to mitigate the destruction of cultural heritage in the face of development. In Aboriginal archaeology, we dig a series of test pits in order to determine the significance and extent of archaeological sites so that they may be registered and subsequently protected by Victorian cultural heritage law. The trenches at Paphos are much larger than at home. They are excavated by following changes in stratigraphy and archaeological features. Whilst the overall aims and methodologies of excavation are different, both are rewarding in that they provide insight into the stories of the past.”