ANZEC Evening of Adventure Inspires Sydney Audience
Photos by Lindy Smith
The Explorers Club Australia & New Zealand Chapter (ANZEC) welcomed members and guests to a sold-out Evening of Adventure at the Balmoral Boathouse in Sydney on Thursday, 25 June 2026. Expertly emceed by ANZEC Chapter Chair Todd Tai, the evening celebrated exploration, scientific discovery and conservation through presentations by two of Australia's most accomplished field scientists, Professor Bryan Fry and Dr. Vanessa Pirotta.
Opening the evening, Professor Bryan Fry delivered his thought-provoking presentation, Bites, Blood, and Bombs: A Journey Through the Toxic World in Extreme Environments. Drawing on decades of expedition science across more than 40 countries, Professor Fry shared remarkable stories from the front lines of venom research, reflecting on the personal challenges that shaped his career, including life-threatening envenomations, serious injury and recovery. He demonstrated how these experiences have driven internationally recognised research into venom evolution, environmental contamination and occupational health, highlighting the real-world impact of expedition science.
Dr. Vanessa Pirotta followed with an inspiring presentation, Connected Pathways: An Exploration of Humpback Whale Connectivity in Oceania. Taking the audience on a journey across the Southern Hemisphere, she explored the annual migrations of humpback whales and the growing pressures they face from climate change and increasing human activity. Dr. Pirotta also showcased the importance of collaboration with First Nations knowledge holders, including the Gamay Rangers, and her work through the Tongan Whale Tourism Project, illustrating how partnerships between science and local communities are helping protect marine ecosystems while inspiring the next generation of marine scientists.
The evening sparked lively discussion throughout the presentations and over dinner, with guests enjoying the opportunity to connect with fellow explorers, researchers and supporters in an intimate setting.
ANZEC extends its sincere thanks to Professor Bryan Fry and Dr. Vanessa Pirotta for generously sharing their expertise and passion, and to Todd Tai for expertly guiding the evening as master of ceremonies.
The success of the Evening of Adventure once again demonstrated the strength of the ANZEC community and its commitment to fostering exploration, advancing scientific understanding and bringing together people united by curiosity, discovery and a passion for the natural world.
