Dive deeper into the world of the Orca whale
Free online talk showcasing work in the Southern Ocean trails auction to support conservation
On Friday 7 July the South Georgia Heritage Trust and the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust are hosting a free, online talk about one of the world’s most iconic species – Orcas, or killer whales.
Southern Ocean Stories: The Orca’s Tale, provides a unique opportunity for the public to hear from two of the world’s leading whale experts about their work, and the fascinating insights it gives us into the life of these amazing creatures.
Speaking at the event will be ecologist, author and skipper Jared Towers, alongside Bay Cetology Director and marine biologist Leigh Hickmott of Open Ocean Consulting who is known as the killer whale specialist for the BBC’s Frozen Planet II series.
One of the world’s most iconic species – Orcas, or killer whales – in the Southern Ocean, are the subject of a new online talk hosted by the South Georgia Heritage Trust and UK Antarctic Heritage Trust.
The talk will look at how, by studying the movements, behaviour, abundance and ecology of killer whale populations using direct observations and remote sensing technology, we can tell the story of our changing environment. Guests will also hear about Jared and Leigh’s personal tales and experiences of working in Antarctic waters and the challenges that brings, all illustrated with their amazing photographs.
The event is being hosted by Alison Neil and Camilla Nichol, Chief Executives of the South Georgia Heritage Trust and UK Antarctic Heritage Trust respectively.
The event launches an online charity auction to raise funds towards conservation programmes that both organisations are undertaking in Antarctica and on the island of South Georgia.
The auction will include two fantastic expedition voyages to South Georgia and to Antarctica: G Adventures are donating a 22-day adventure voyage to South Georgia, the Antarctic and the Falkland Islands for two people, and Hurtigruten are donating a 12-day ‘Highlights of Antarctica’ expedition cruise for two people.
Alison Neil, CEO of the South Georgia Heritage Trust said: “We are delighted to be working with our friends at the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust on what will be a fascinating evening learning about enigmatic Orca, and also on an online charity auction to raise funds for conservation in South Georgia and the Antarctic.
“Along with our affiliate charity Friends of South Georgia Island, SGHT is currently supporting whale research projects in the region and is also working towards a landmark artwork celebrating the return of whales to South Georgia waters.”
Camilla Nichol, CEO of the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust said: “The orca is one of the emblematic creatures of the Southern Ocean, anyone who experiences seeing them cannot fail to be awed by the experience.
“It’s a huge privilege to be hosting this event when we can all learn more about these extraordinary creatures from leading experts. I hope that this will also inspire supporters old and new to get involved in our auction.
“We are hoping to raise funds to support the vital conservation work both of our organisations conduct to protect these special places in this most incredible part of our planet.”
As well as the headline prizes of the two adventure cruises, the auction also includes a wonderful selection of experiences and exclusive lots, from unique artworks by recognised Antarctic region artists to antiques and collectables.
Examples include:
- A week’s home stay for up to four on the Isle of Lewis
- Several unique artworks and signed prints by well recognised artists
- Ephemera from Port Lockroy which has been a home for explorers, whalers, scientists, and sailors who have made vital contributions to the Antarctic
- Signed books including antiquarian book ‘South’ by Sir Ernest Shackleton
- A flag flown for a summer season at Port Lockroy, Antarctica
The auction lots will be available to browse after the event with bids needing to be placed before 19 July.
‘Southern Ocean Stories: The Orca’s Tale’ is taking place at 6pm (UK time) on Friday 7 July 2023. Attendance is free, and to book your ticket visit:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/southern-ocean-stories-the-orcas-tale-tickets-656851690087?aff.
The event will be available to view on YouTube if you can’t watch live, via SGHT: www.youtube.com/@southgeorgiaheritagetrust-5638
or UKAHT: www.youtube.com/@ukantarcticheritagetrust
To find out more about SGHT, visit www.sght.org and for more information about UKAT, visit www.ukaht.org
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