Antarctic Film Festival 2025

Frank Graveson was a husky handler in the 1960s – one of two people looking after up to 70 dogs. He was part of a team who took part in one of the last “big dog journeys” to survey the frozen continent and has wintered over in Antarctica. Frank was an Antarctic dog handler renowned for his role in supporting exploration and scientific missions on the continent. He was responsible for managing sled dogs, which were essential for transportation and logistics in the icy terrain. Graveson’s expertise and dedication contributed significantly to the success of various Antarctic expeditions during his career.

Peter Otway was a notable Antarctic surveyor known for his contributions to exploring and mapping the continent. His work involved detailed surveys and scientific research, helping to enhance understanding of Antarctica's geography. Peter’s dedication to fieldwork and exploration contributed significantly to Antarctic exploration efforts in the mid-20th century. Peter Otway will be speaking about surveying and mapping methods (including field life and dog & toboggan transport) by NZ field parties during the 7-year Reconnaissance Era (1957-1964), particularly around the 2,000km-long section of the Transantarctic Mountains.

Maia Ingoe is a climate communicator and storyteller. A former journalist, she grew up in Tairāwhiti – Gisborne,  before studying environmental and development studies in Wellington editing the Salient magazine. Maia has also worked as a breaking news journalist for Radio New Zealand.  After the life-changing expedition to the Ross Sea with the Antarctic Heritage Trust, Maia will share her photographs and stories from visiting McMurdo Sound including the wildlife and Historic Huts she visited. Maia now works with Climate Club, running climate action workshops in schools and communities She is also producing a podcast from the Inspiring Explorers Expedition. 

Dr Clive Evans is a prominent researcher and academic at the University of Auckland, known for his pioneering work in Antarctic science. Specialising in environmental change and its impact on polar ecosystems, Dr. Evans has spent years conducting fieldwork in Antarctica, focusing on the effects of climate change on the region's unique biodiversity. His research often explores the complexities of glacial dynamics, permafrost, and how these elements contribute to rising sea levels and global environmental shifts. Through his work, Dr. Evans has helped to further the understanding of the challenges faced by polar environments, providing valuable insights that inform conservation efforts and climate policy. 

Ethan McCormick is currently undertaking an MA at The University of Auckland. His dissertation examines the governance and management of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. Ethan is also Conservation Coordinator at Pest Free Howick where his primary responsibility is the design and delivery of the Schools Cadetship Programme. He will present some amazing photos from his life changing trip to Antarctica as part of a Young Explorer Scholarship.

Charlie is a conservationist, seabird lover, and artist who has worked on remote islands, including Kure Atoll in Hawaii, where he eradicated invasive species. His watercolour art reflects his passion for wildlife and environmental restoration, especially in remote refuges like the sub-Antarctic islands. In 2023, Charlie travelled to South Georgia as part of the Antarctic Heritage Trust's Inspiring Explorers, and is one of the exhibiting artists in temporary exhibition Into Ocean & Ice.