Marine Evening 8 August 2023

Journey into the Roaring Forties

We invite you to join our next Marine Evening, where our newest team member, Dr Liezl Pretorius, will share her experience working as seal biologist on sub-Antarctic Marion Island as part of the MIMMP (Marion Island Marine Mammal Programme).

Date: 8 August 2023

Time: 18h30

Venue: Great White House

Cover Charge: R50 per person

Some of the most impactful years of my life were spent working on Marion Island, South Africa’s jewel within the sub-Antarctic region. Marion Island lies between the latitudes of 40° and 50° South, known for the very strong westerly winds named by the sailors of old as the Roaring Forties. The only way to get to Marion Island is by ship, the SA Agulhas II, South Africa’s polar supply and research vessel built to withstand the conditions of the Southern Ocean all the way down to Antarctica. There are no permanent residents on the island, only small groups of researchers and base personnel that overwinter 13.5 months at a time to keep all the important work done there going. Join me as I introduce you to this very unique environment and all the amazing creatures that call Marion Island their home.

After making a career change in 2006, I ended up becoming a veterinarian and working in various veterinary fields. I was privileged enough to overwinter on Marion Island twice, in 2014-2015 and 2018-2019. In between a research project took me back to Marion and also introduced me to Gough Island during relief voyages in 2016 - 2017. In 2021 I spent 3 months on Gough as aviculturist during the mouse eradication programme. I recently joined the Dyer Island Conservation Trust / African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary team.

The event will be held at the Great White House, a stunning location that provides a captivating ambience for an evening of discovery. You will be surrounded by fellow enthusiasts who share a passion for marine conservation, creating an atmosphere of collaboration and inspiration. Delicious soup and bread will be served after the session. This event offers an excellent chance to forge new connections and engage in meaningful discussions with like-minded individuals.

 

Guest Speaker: Dr Liezl Pretorius

2004 Medical Degree (UP)
2006 Zoology Hons. (NMU)
2013 Vetenirary Degree (Onderstepoort, UP)
2014 Mixed Animal Practice
2014 - 2019 Seal research: Marion and Gough islands
2019 Small Animal Practice
2020 MSc Zoology (UP); Vetenirary Pharma Industry
2021 Aviculturist on Gough Island
2022 Vetenirary Radiology Analyst
2023 DICT Senior Manager / APSS Veterinarian

Extra parking is available at the back of the Great White House. 

Remember to please put phones on silent.

Please RSVP as we need to make sure we do not overbook the Great White House venue. Thank you so much for your attention and participation.

RSVP: 7 August 2023 by 12h00

For more information, contact Dyer Island Conservation Trust.