Tasmania: A Gateway to Antarctica

The Antarctic landscape. [Source: The Tasmanian Government]

Look south from Hobart — the next land you will see is Antarctica. 

Tasmania is a land of many chilly wonders and opportunity. While we often speak of its fairy penguins and skiing on the slopes, Tasmania is also a hub of Antarctic research and exploration. 

In 1773, Tobias Fernauex led one of the first Antarctic expeditions from the Hobart seaport. His objective was to join James Cook in circumnavigating the entire continent of Antarctica. Since then, Tasmania has served as a “gateway to Antarctica.” 

Hobart is located just 2,575 km from the mainland of Antarctica. Its deep-water port provides 24/7 services, and in the summer, there are regular flights from the Hobart airport to Casey Station in east Antarctica. Each flight is about 4.5 hours long. The Tasmania Polar Network supports and facilitates endeavors between Tasmania and the Antarctic and the Southern Ocean. Its members come from all sectors, including commercial businesses, educational and research institutions, and government agencies. 

Due to Hobart’s proximity and supportive network, Antarctic research is booming in Tasmania. Researchers explore a broad range of areas, from meteorology and ecology to marine biology and anything Antarctic. In fact, the Australian Research Council is funding 14 new positions for young researchers to work for  research institutions such as CSIRO and the Australian Antarctic Division. The interest in Tasmania as a hub for research extends from Australian agencies to international organizations.

For anyone interested in learning about Antarctica while in Tasmania, feel free to visit one of Hobart's many Antarctic attractions.

References:

1. http://www.antarctictasmania.com/
2. http://www.tasmanianpolarnetwork.com/
3. http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-01-10/boost-to-antarctic-research-jobs-on-offer-in-tasmania/6010086