Sir Ed's passing recognised in the Antarctic

14 January 2007
By Major Toni Duffield

The news that Sir Ed Hillary had passed away was received at Scott Base in Antarctica just before lunch time last Friday, 11 January. 

Staff gathered in small groups and discussed Sir Ed's passing.  Some had met Sir Ed and shared stories of his visits to Scott Base. Others reflected on his impact on them individually and New Zealand as a nation.

It was a very subdued group that sat down to share a meal, coincidentally Sir Ed’s favourite - bangers and mash.  At 1300 everyone mustered at the Flag Pole and after a few words from Dr. Dean Peterson, the Senior Antarctica New Zealand Representative, shared a minute’s silence as the New Zealand Flag was lowered at Scott Base.

Today at Scott Base the flag remains at half mast, but the work here goes on; science events are being transported to the field and supplies and stores are being positioned in preparation for the next influx of scientists who are arriving at the Pegasus Ice Runway later this morning. 

The main topic of conversation here is Sir Ed. People’s favourite pictures of him have appeared on walls and notice boards.  A Memorial Service for Sir Ed was held at the Chapel of the Snow, McMurdo Station, 12.30 Sunday – and as many staff as could attend were there.

That won’t be the end of it though, the Hillary Field Centre bears his name, he started this station, he will always be important here.  It is his Base. Legends never die.

Ends

See our Image Gallery of Sir Ed's 2007 trip to Scott Base

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