Antarctica and the Climate with Chris Turney

Antarctica holds valuable clues to understanding the future of our planet – especially regarding the implications of climate change. It is also a continent unwilling to give up those secrets readily.

There are few as cognisant of both truths as earth scientist Chris Turney. In 2013, a century after Douglas Mawson’s pioneering scientific expedition across the continent, Turney led a follow-up journey, with a view to recording how Antarctica’s climate had changed over the intervening years. Less than a month after setting sail, the boat was trapped in ice, along with its crew and 52 passengers – including Turney and his immediate family. The costly rescue mission garnered international headlines, and ignited a debate about what constitutes acceptable risk in the pursuit of scientific knowledge.

Join Professor Turney as he explores the past, present and future of Antarctica – a continent that acutely bears the impacts of our changing climate – and relives the expedition that inadvertently sent him following the fateful path of Ernest Shackleton, one of Antarctica’s unluckiest adventurers.

Note: Krystal Evans was to host this talk, but wasn't able to attend due to a personal matter. Amita Kirpalani, project producer at the Wheeler Centre, hosted in her place.

Amita Kirpalani and Chris Turney — Photo: Jon Tjhia