The Antarctica 2023 Expedition Achievements
Scouts Ambassadors Dr Gareth Andrews and Dr Richard Stephenson completed their 66 day unsupported 1404km ski journey from the edge of Berkner Island to the South Pole and concluded their expedition on the January 18, 2023.
The Antarctic expedition was always set to be one of physical endurance and scientific benefit. Pulling a 165kg sled (starting weight) each, whilst facing challenging weather, freezing temperatures and windchill below -40 C the continent of Antarctica did not disappoint. Dr Gareth and Dr Richard were continuously gathering Antarctic climate and meteorological data valuable to the global climate and scientific communities. These unique, longitudinal datasets will inform climate research projects. The data collected included:
- Ground-level meteorological data logging to calibrate satellite-derived measurements and meteorological modelling
- Cloud pattern imaging where satellite sensing is blinded by high surface ice albedo
- Sastrugi height measurements to calibrate satellite bi-sinusoidal azimuthal anisotropy
Scouts Australia partnered with The Last Great First Expedition (later known as Antarctica 2023) as a Community Partner, giving our movement a significant opportunity to be associated with a project of human endurance and worldwide significance.
In June 2023, Scouts Australia determined in a survey of Scouts aged 5-25 years old from across the country, that they would like to see “Climate Action” as the top priority from the Sustainable Development Goals. The meteorological data collected during the expedition will help scientists around the world to understand our changing climate and provide evidence that urgent action to protect our natural environment is needed.
The Antarctica 2023 expedition was followed by and involved over 60,000 Scouts from Australia, New Zealand and World Scouting.
“After being dropped off on the edge of Berkner Island 66 days before, we have finally reached the end of our journey. We have pushed as hard as our bodies could go. No rest days, late starts or early finishes – we gave it everything, everyday”. Dr Gareth Andrews
We would like to congratulate #TeamAntarctica2023 on their effort and safe return from this epic polar journey. We would also like to applaud the courage and resilience that was portrayed by Dr Gareth Andrews and Dr Richard Stephenson that has inspired the next generation of Scouts and young adventurers to reach for their goals.
You, too, can take inspiration from #TeamAntarctica2023 and plan your own adventures and challenges. To share your next adventure with us, click the button below.