The family of R H Thompson retains copyright in the 88 plan sheets held by the Archives, but has consented to copies being made for personal use only. Copies for any other purpose which directly or indirectly may result in commercial benefit (including research which may result in publication for profit) require the permission of the family.

In addition to the 88 plan sheets held by Archives, family members of R H Thompson currently hold a significant number of additional plan sheets (around 1000 sheets) relating to over 300 designs. The family also holds some information on further designs where no plan sheets are held (basic details may include dimensions, builder, year and owner (not all details are held for all designs).

The family would be very interested to hear from people accessing the plans whether researcher's interest is in seeking permission for commercial use, or is solely personal. The family are actively researching the history and current status of all vessels built from R H Thompson designs, and the existence of any surviving plan sheets or information not held by the family. Community Archives (Libraries Tasmania) can facilitate initial contact with family members.