Life on ‘Macca’ a game changer

REMOTE Macquarie Island has pretty much seen it all — from intense sealing, groundbreaking scientific research, the almost complete decimation of its flora and fauna and a massive feral eradication program.

Seventy years after the Australian National Antarctic Expedition Station was built, “Macca” is about to begin a new era.

Organisers of celebrations to mark the anniversary and recognise Macquarie’s veteran expeditioners say the place has an affect on those who visit that lasts a lifetime.

“A year on Macquarie can change a person forever and the outcry over plans to close the station down is testament to the affection with which it is regarded,” David Parer, chair of the Australian National Antarctic Expedition Club special events subcommittee said.

Douglas Mawson established the first scientific station on Macquarie Island in 1911 and a radio link to support his scientific endeavours on the frozen continent.

In 1933 it was proclaimed a wildlife sanctuary.

In 1948, the Australian Government established a research station and it became an important meteorological base supporting activities and research on Antarctica.

The island was placed on the World Heritage List in 1997.

Celebrations to honour the Macquarie Island Expeditioners, 1948 — 1965, will be held today at the Hobart Function Conference Centre at 1 Elizabeth Pier.

Keynote speakers include Tim Bowden who wrote the official history of ANARE’s first 50 years and Keith Springer the Macquarie Island Pest Eradication Project Manager who for nine years oversaw the complete eradication of all feral animals on the island.