Why Antarctic? That was the question Donald and Margie tried to answer on Monday night. They presented to the club on their recent adventure to Antarctica. What an adventure! Boarding the boat at Port Chalmers took away the hassle and expense of flights and international travel, bringing another dynamic to the adventure. The cruise on Scenic Eclipse II was for 24 days, as it took 7 days each way through rough and exciting seas of 8-10m swells, whilst crossing the Southern Ocean to spend 7 days in the Ross Sea and McMurdo Sound. They had the opportunity to fly above the ice via Helicopter, go under the sea via a submersible, to paddling kayaks through ice seas to taking zodiacs to enjoy landings and walking on the land; experienced warm days -11 through to very cold days -31. Had some amazing weather to see Mt Erebus steaming away, visit and explore the historic Antarctic huts of the famous explorers - Shackleton, Scott and Mawson. Experienced the wildlife from sighting Emperor and Adelie penguins; Weddell and Leopard seals; Orcas, humpback and blue whales.
Margie and Donald experience many first whilst travelling with Scenic -
•. Furthest South for a Scenic Ship
•. All three explorer’s huts – Scotts, Shackleton and Mawson
•. Coldest day. -31
•. Roughest seas experienced by SEII 8-10m swells
•. Worlds Southern most commercial Kayak
•. Worlds Southern most submersible dive – probably the first ever in the Ross Sea
It was an amazing and interesting presentation, especially the short video showing their trip
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It was great to see a number of partners Jill, Clare, Sally and Caroline along to hear our quest speakers also past member Rue.
Also joining us for the evening was Derek Gray. Derek is a retired Fireman living in Mosgiel and is keen to join our club. My intention is to induct Derek next meeting on the 14th April.
Graham Beach made the suggestion that we have a 10 pin Bowling night and a meal afterwards at Cableways on the Monday 19th of May this is between our usual meeting nights a show of hands proved this to be very popular so put that date in your calendar.
Colin has organized a few volunteers to help rearrange all the planter boxes next week. It will be good to see what plants he has chosen
Directors are to meet next meeting as well 14th April.