Laying wreath on the Robert Falcon Scott Memorial

Saturday 1 October 2005

Greetings to Antarctic society members, elected members and the public.

A special greeting to Matthew Forbes, the First Secretary, Political, at the British High Commission, and to Dr Margaret Bradshaw, polar explorer and scientist at Canterbury University. In Margaret's case, I’m sure she must have felt entirely comfortable with our recent snow and cold weather!

As a long-time Antarctic fan who finally went down there a few years ago, I have to say what a balmy day our storm was by polar standards. It makes the brute heroism of Scott and his people all the more amazing.

There was no slightly risky flight. No comfy space age clothing. No handy satellite phone if it all went awry. About all they really had was raw courage and that astounding gift of the human soul, the need to know more.

In our over-safe modern world, it is very easy to forget how much was not known, in pioneering times, of the Antarctic. It was the last of the new worlds to be explored.

Christchurch played a pivotal part in the pioneering days and we carry that tradition of deep involvement into this Century. It's a great tradition, combining curiosity and courage.

I am delighted to be here today to again acknowledge the courage and strength of Scott and his team.

Thank You.