by Ria Olivier | May 5, 2023 | Invasion Biology, Marion Island, Mice Eradication, News, Prince Edward Islands, Research, SA Agulhas II, SANAP, Southern Ocean, Stations, sub-Antarctic, Team member
| TEAM | Mouse-Free Marion |
| Project Name | Longitudinal monitoring of terrestrial diversity to assess the effects of the planned mouse eradication on Marion Island, and bait and mouse trials to inform further planning for the Mouse-Free Marion Project |
| Project Manager | Dr Anton Wolfaardt |
| Collaborator | Prof. Michelle Greve |
| M79 Field Assistant | Elsa van Ginkel |
| M80 Field Assistant | Camilla Smyth |
The Mouse-Free Marion Project is a partnership between the Department of Forestry Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) and BirdLife South Africa, working towards an operation to eradicate invasive mice from Marion Island.
The mice, which were introduced accidentally some 200 years ago, have caused great harm to the ecology of Marion Island. They feed on indigenous invertebrates, damage vegetation, and have more recently started eating seabird chicks. As a result, the mice are considered to be a major pest to the island. If they are not removed, the ecosystem of the island will continue to deteriorate, and they will likely cause most of the seabirds on the island to become locally extinct. These seabirds will be lost to the island forever.
In order to monitor how the island recovers after the mice have been removed, we are collecting data on aspects of the island that we expect to improve once the mice are gone. These include the vegetation and invertebrates. Colleagues working on other projects are collecting similar data on seabirds.
The reason why it is important to collect this data before the eradication operation is so that we can compare and monitor how the island changes (improves) as a result of the eradication operation – comparing the island’s vegetation and invertebrate features before and after the operation.
More about your plans for this takeover?
The project will make use of data that have already been collected over many years, primarily through the various long-term monitoring projects that have been undertaken at Marion Island over many years. The focus of our work currently is to fill some pre-eradication (baseline) data on vegetation and invertebrates. This particular work was initiated during the 2022/23 period, and will continue in 2023/24. The takeover period will be used to provide training and orientation to the new Marion80 overwintering team member (Camilla Smyth) and for the current Marion79 Mouse-Free Marion overwintering team member (Elsa van Ginkel) to hand over the field-work responsibilities to Camilla.
The work includes standard invertebrate and vegetation survey techniques to establish a baseline that can be used to monitor how these ecological parameters change following the eradication of invasive mice. These surveys will repeat and build on historical surveys that have been undertaken on the island previously.
We will also be undertaking further bait trials and weather monitoring to help inform the planning of the baiting operation.
Latest takeover update from the island (on 26 April 2023)
Check out the Mouse-Free Marion Website!
Follow MFM on social media for the latest updates:
Text and images supplied by Dr Anton Wolfaardt.
Featured image: The MFM takeover 2023 team. L-R: Dr Anton Wolfaardt (MFM Project Manager), Camilla Smyth (M80 MFM Field Assistant) and Elsa van Ginkel (M79 MFM Field Assistant). Photo taken on Marion Island, April 2023.
Anche Louw, South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI DPS Node), 05 May 2023
by Ria Olivier | May 4, 2023 | Announcement, Antarctica, Gough Island, Legacy, Marion Island, News, Prince Edward Islands, SA Agulhas II, SA Polar Research Infrastructure, SANAE IV, SANAP, SAPolarRI, SAPRI, Southern Ocean
Dear Colleagues,
As I prepare to turn the page of a decade-long chapter of managing Operations and Infrastructure Support for Antarctica and Southern Ocean work and move on to new horizons, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. Working together in enabling South Africa’s presence in this unique and challenging environment has been an unforgettable experience that has enriched my life in countless ways.
The extreme conditions and remoteness of the environment have demanded the best of me, and I am incredibly proud to have been part of it all. It sometimes felt like dealing with the logistical complexities of supporting Marine and Antarctic activities were the same as navigating the harsh ice conditions. We have faced and overcome numerous challenges as a team. Even though we may not have agreed on everything, the bonds we have built and the memories we have made will always hold a special place in my heart. I am truly grateful for the friendships, support, agreements and disagreements we have shared.
I am also deeply appreciative for being entrusted to manage South Africa’s presence in these pristine environments, and to have personally witnessed the beauty and wonder of Antarctica, Marion Island and Gough Island. The rough seas, breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and understanding that there is so few which get this opportunity, have left an indelible mark on me, and I will forever cherish these memories.
As I move on to new endeavours away from the Ocean and Polar space, I will carry with me the valuable lessons I have learned especially when dealing with an unpredictable environment – the importance of adaptability, resilience, teamwork, and tenacity. The various curveballs and unexpected challenges have made me more resourceful in finding solutions. I am confident that the skills and experience gained will serve me well in my future pursuits.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you for your unwavering support, dedication, and friendship during my tenure in the Antarctic and Marine space. I will always treasure the memories and the connections made, and I wish you all the very best in your ongoing work in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean or wherever your paths may lead you.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey, and please stay in touch.
With deepest gratitude,
Nish Devanunthan
Former Operations Coordinator: South African Polar Research Infrastructure (2022 to 2023)
Former Director – Operations and Engineering: South African National Antarctic Program (2013 to 2022)
Farewell gathering at SAEON Egagasini Node end of April 2023
Message from the SAPRI Team:
Even though Nish was with SAEON and SAPRI for only 9 months, he left a great legacy and managed to really ramp up the operations within SAPRI. He has a fountain of knowledge on Antarctica and Islands, DFFE, the S.A. Agulhas II and supply chain management, yet he still has a great sense of humour and commitment to action in the face of bureaucracy.
Nish, fair winds and following seas, we have the watch (although might ring you every now and then!).
SAEON Egagasini Node and SAPRI Team (L-R) Back: Simoné Louw (Node Administrator), Laura Braby (Postdoctoral Research Fellow), Saffiya Seddick (Seamap Coordinator), Juan-Jacques Forgus (Technician), Nicole du Plessis (Science Officer), Arno Botha (PhD Student), Zach Smith (Systems Developer), Nkululeko Memela (Operational Ocean Modeller); (middle) Lara Atkinson (Offshore Marine Scientist), Jennifer Veitch (Numerical Ocean Modeller), Anne Treasure (SAPRI DPS Node Manager), Anche Louw (SAPRI Digital Marketing and Communications Manager), Daneeja Mawren (Postdoctoral Research Fellow); (front) Juliet Hermes (SAEON Egagasini Node Manager and SAPRI Manager), Nish Devanunthan (Former SAPRI Operations Coordinator) and Thomas Mtontsi (Science Engagement Officer).
Feature Image: Nish Devanunthan at the South African National Antarctic Expedition Station, SANAE IV.
Anche Louw, South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI DPS Node), 04 May 2023
by Ria Olivier | Apr 20, 2023 | Announcement, Antarctica, Prince Edward Island, Research, SA Agulhas II, SANAE IV, Science, Southern Ocean, sub-Antarctic
The NRF-SANAP Funding call is now open!
Click on the link below to access the submission portal.
Have you registered on NRF Connect?
Submission deadline: 15 June 2023
Important Documents – as indicated on the NRF website
(Please click on the images below to open the various documents)
Anche Louw, South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI DPS Node), 20 April 2023
by Ria Olivier | Apr 19, 2023 | Marion Island, News, Overwintering Team, Prince Edward Islands, SA Agulhas II, SANAP, Science, Southern Ocean, Stations, Team Photo
The S.A. Agulhas II is on her final stretch of the first oceanographic leg to the sub-Antarctic Marion Island. The voyage has been overall calm, with easy and moderately sea and swells, reaching no more than 3 meters, in the past two days.
The 80th Marion Island overwintering team and land-based takeover personnel will soon reach their destination. The takeover is packed with scientific objectives, for both land and ship-based science groups, which will be shared over the next few weeks.
S.A. Agulhas II - Marion Island Voyage 057
| Departure: Port of Cape Town to Marion Island | Evening of 15 April 2023 |
| Expected time of arrival: Marion Island | Evening of 19 April 2023 |
| S.A. Agulhas II last communicated position (18 April 2023, 23:59) | LAT: 40° 40.6' S
LONG: 27° 45.5' E |
| Destination: Marion Island | LAT: 44° 9.1' S
LONG: 33° 22.7' E |
| Number of passengers on board | 89 passengers |
Message to the overwintering team:
May your team work hard together, take time for celebrations and grow together as a team. We wish you all the best. May you find plenty of happiness and fulfillment during your year in the sub-Antarctic!
80th Marion Island overwintering team
| Team Member | Position on M80 | Affiliation |
| Ndaedzo Nthulani | Assistant Meteorological Technician | SAWS |
| Dylan Seaton | Field Assistant: Sealer | MIMMP (UP) |
| Christopher Jones | Field Assistant: Birder | MAPRU (NMU) |
| Michelle Risi | Field Assistant: Birder | MAPRU (NMU) |
| Treasure Thobatsi | Communications Technician | DFFE |
| Gumede Mbekezeli | Electrical Technician | DFFE |
| Nikitha Fikizolo | Chef | DFFE |
| Tamara Eggeling | Field Assistant: Sealer/Killer Whaler | MIMMP (UP) |
| Zafar Monier | Field Assistant: Sealer | MIMMP (UP) |
| Kuhle Mbalane | Assistant Environmental Control Officer | DFFE |
| Mfezeko Rataza | Electronic Engineer | SANSA |
| Keith Odwa Obose | Assistant Meteorological Technician | SAWS |
| Kyle Maurer | Field Assistant: Birder | DFFE (Oceans & Coasts) |
| Mpumelelo Mabutyana | Field Assistant: Birder | DFFE (Oceans & Coasts) |
| Collen Nkadimeng | Diesel Mechanic | DFFE |
| Kelebogile Mogotsi | Senior Meteorological Technician | SAWS |
| Nkateko Maholobela | Environmental Control Officer | DFFE |
| Sandile Nkebe | Medical Orderly & Team Leader) | DFFE |
| Camilla Smyth | Field Assistant | Mouse-free Marion |
Photo caption: Marion80. Photo taken on the heli deck on board the S.A. Agulhas II. Back (L-R) Ndaedzo Nthulani, Dylan Seaton, Christopher Jones, Michelle Risi, Treasure Thobatsi, Gumede Mbekezeli, Nikitha Fikizolo, Tamara Eggeling, Zafar Monier, Kuhle Mbalane, Mfezeko Rataza; (front) Keith Odwa Obose, Kyle Maurer, Mpumelelo Mabutyana, Collen Nkadimeng, Kelebogile Mogotsi, Nkateko Maholobela, Sandile Nkebe and Camilla Smyth.
Photo credit: Christopher Jones and Michelle Risi
Anche Louw, South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI DPS Node), 19 April 2023
by Ria Olivier | Mar 18, 2023 | Announcement, SA Agulhas II, SEAmester, Southern Ocean
Call for student and lecturer applications for SEAmester VI!
CLOSING date 14 APRIL 2023.
South Africa’s Class Afloat aims to introduce marine science as an applied and cross-disciplinary field to students who have shown an affinity for core science disciplines
SEAmester V 2022 (read more about SEAmester cruises)
Applications are now open for LECTURER and STUDENT participation on the 2023 SEAmester-South Africa’ Class Afloat Programme. CLICK HERE
The Department of Science and Innovation requires platforms to “attract young researchers to the region and retain them by exciting their interest in aspects of global change”. SEAmester introduces marine science as an applied and cross-disciplinary field to students. Its long‐term vision is aimed at building capacity within the marine sciences by co‐ordinating cross‐disciplinary research projects through a highly innovative programme. The strength of SEAmester is that postgraduate students combine theoretical classroom learning with the application of this knowledge through ship-based and hands-on research. The state‐of‐the‐art research vessel, S.A. Agulhas II, provides the ideal teaching and research platform for SEAmester; its size, comfort and shipboard facilities allow large groups of students and lecturers to productively interact over a period of 10 days.
SEAmester will depart on the 19th June returning to Cape Town on the 30th June 2023. PLEASE NOTE: Applicants to be aware that the cruise dates may be subject to change by a few days. For further information please refer to www.SEAmester.co.za
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS : 14 APRIL 2023
by Ria Olivier | Mar 5, 2023 | Antarctica, Commemorative Days, News, SA Agulhas II
Today, 05 March, marks the one-year anniversary of the discovery of the Endurance, the sunken ship of Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton. Two images taken on the Endurance22 expedition were included in the National Geographic Pictures of the Year (2022).
In February and March 2022, a major international scientific expedition explored one of the coldest, harshest and most remote places on earth, to find Sir Ernest Shackleton’s lost ship, the Endurance. The Endurance22 expedition was the first to locate and investigate Sir Ernest Shackleton’s lost ship, which sank in the Weddell Sea in Antarctica in 1915.
What a privilege it is for the South African research and supply vessel, with ice braking capacity, the S.A. Agulhas II, to have been selected as the main infrastructural support for the Endurance22 expedition. The S.A. Agulhas II and its crew is part of this very special day in history and to top it off, National Geographic has included an image of the S.A. Agulhas II in its 2022 Pictures of the Year selection (see image below). The image was taken by Esther Horvath, the official photographer aboard during the Endurance22 expedition. The image shows the S.A. Agulhas II maneuvering among ice floes in the Weddell Sea in stormy weather. National Geographic states that “out of millions of images, just 49 were selected as the best photos of the year”.
Photo of the S.A. Agulhas II maneuvering among ice floes in the Weddell Sea in stormy weather. Credit: Esther Horvath (supplied).
Esther Horvath’s story behind the photo:
The ship was busy for 24/7 as time was tight for the search. I took the photo on the night of February 26, 2022 on the S.A. Agulhas II in the Weddell Sea while the ship was navigating between thick ice floes. Navigation was possible using satellite imagery over the ice floes. During the night after completing one search, the ship was moved to the next search area. I was standing in the snowstorm above the bridge outside on the deck called the “monkey island.” It was very difficult for me to open my eyes because the snow was poking my eyes like needles. I could only stand there for a few minutes because the wind and the very cold temperatures bit into my bones.
Another image selected for the National Geographic 2022 Pictures of the Year is the image of the stern of the Endurance wreck, taken by Nico Vincent and his autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) team.
Stern of the Endurance wreck taken by Nico Vincent and his AUV team. Source: https://endurance22.org/endurance22-news/endurance22-gallery.
Meet Esther Horvath, the official photographer aboard the S.A. Agulhas II during the Endurance22 expedition
Esther Horvath. Credit: Stefanie Arndt
Esther Horvath is a contributor photographer for National Geographic and a photographer for the German Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research. Since 2015, her work has focused on documenting climate research and scientific expeditions in the polar regions with behind-the-scenes science stories. By documenting the work of scientific groups and the lives of scientists who provide important climate data, Esther hopes to help people better understand what is actually happening in the polar regions and, in collaboration with scientists, raise public awareness of this fragile environment. In 2020, Esther won 1st prize at the World Press Photo Awards in the Environmental single category. In 2022, she received the Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography in New York for her work raising awareness about conservation, environmental justice, and climate change. She is the author of “Into the Arctic Ice”, which chronicles the largest scientific expedition to the Arctic Ocean of our time, called MOSAiC.
Watch: Endurance podcast by National Geographic about Endurance22
Check out the Endurance22 expedition team (including 23 South Africans)
If you have a National Geographic subscription, have a look:
2022 Pictures of the Year
2022 Pictures of the Year: Behind the scene stories
Text by: Esther Horvath, contributor photographer for National Geographic and a photographer for the German Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research.
Edited by: Anche Louw, South African Polar Research Infrastructure (Data, Products & Society Node), 05 March 2023.
SEAmester V 2022 (
The Department of Science and Innovation requires platforms to “attract young researchers to the region and retain them by exciting their interest in aspects of global change”. SEAmester introduces marine science as an applied and cross-disciplinary field to students. Its long‐term vision is aimed at building capacity within the marine sciences by co‐ordinating cross‐disciplinary research projects through a highly innovative programme. The strength of SEAmester is that postgraduate students combine theoretical classroom learning with the application of this knowledge through ship-based and hands-on research. The state‐of‐the‐art research vessel, S.A. Agulhas II, provides the ideal teaching and research platform for SEAmester; its size, comfort and shipboard facilities allow large groups of students and lecturers to productively interact over a period of 10 days. 
