People of Antarctic history
Mawson being carried by students along North Terrace, Adelaide on his return in April 1909 from the British Antarctic Expedition, 1907-1909.
Photo: News, Adelaide
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From the beginning of land exploration in Antarctica, Australian scientists have been involved in researching aspects of our planet's greatest wilderness. Louis Bernacchi, a Tasmanian physicist, was among the first group of ten men to endure the endless night of the Antarctic winter in 1899, and was also a member of Lieutenant Robert Scott's Discovery expedition of 1902-04.
The most famous Australian Antarctic scientist was the geologist and explorer Sir Douglas Mawson. Under the leadership of another Australian geologist, Professor Edgeworth David, Mawson made the first ascent of Mt Erebus, and in what is still described as one of the greatest manhauling trips of all time, reached the South Magnetic Pole.
His pioneering role in the early 20th century laid the foundations for Australia's claim to 42 per cent of Antarctica as sovereign Australian territory.
