A Tasmanian biologist who helped eradicate cats from Macquarie Island and a Victorian chef with extensive Antarctic experience have been awarded the 2005 Australian Antarctic Medal. The awards to Geoffrey Copson and Andrew Tink were announced on 21 June by His Excellency the Governor-General, Major General Michael Jeffrey, AC CVO MC (Retd).
Geoffrey Copson is a wildlife management officer with the Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment. He was responsible for the initiation, planning and implementation of the pest control program that has seen the eradication of cats and the New Zealand Weka bird from Macquarie Island.
Casey station chef Andrew Tink has spent long periods in Antarctica since 1997 — nine summers and four winters looking after the nutritional needs of expeditioners — with time at each of Australia’s other stations, Davis, Mawson and Macquarie Island. While Mr Tink has served in a variety of roles, including search and rescue leader, deputy fire chief and hospital theatre nurse, he is best known for his culinary talents.
The Australian Minister for the Environment and Heritage, Senator Ian Campbell said the contributions of both men, above and beyond their day-to-day Antarctic service, made them deserving recipients of the 2005 Australian Antarctic Medal.