Robert Ingpen to reveal the mystery of Benito’s treasure

IS Benito the Pirate fact or fiction, and is there pirate’s treasure buried on the Bellarine?

Barwon Heads author and artist Robert Ingpen will reveal the mystery of Benito’s treasure during a talk at the Queenscliffe Historical Museum later this month.

Mr Ingpen is researching ancient fishing stories for the United Nations in Peru and has looked into reports of solid gold calves and bullion to be shipped to Spain. These were loaded on the ship, the Mary Dyer. A few hours before sailing time, the crew mutinied, slaughtered guards and churchmen, and sailed off with Benito in charge.

Unable to return to Spain or Peru, this treasure, is said to be buried on the Bellarine, perhaps Queenscliffe.

This mystery led to treasure hunts and excavations, which left marks on the landscape to this day. Roberts’s research also revealed insights into the early Portuguese explorers, the Mahogany Ship and the Geelong keys.

Locals are invited to hear his research at the Queenscliff Uniting Church Hall on Thursday March 28 at 10am for 10.30am.