The Australian and New Zealand Chapter
ANZEC is the The Australian and New Zealand Chapter of the Explorers Club – an international multidisciplinary professional society dedicated to the advancement of field research and the ideal that it is vital to preserve the instinct to explore. Membership is awarded to persons who carry out or assist in field science expeditions to study unknown or little known destinations or phenomena in order to gain knowledge for humankind. Evaluation for membership is carried out by a panel in New York.
Chapter members are drawn from all over Australia & New Zealand, and are a mix of people who have contributed to the various fields of exploration. The chapter had its beginnings in Sydney, and has expanded to conduct events in Melbourne, Hobart, and in New Zealand Christchurch and Waikato. Our event video and presentations are available online for all.
Events
Members are free to organise activities & events ranging from get-togethers, lecture evenings and field expeditions under the club’s aegis. For example, a regular public series of ‘Evening of Adventure’ nights are held at The Boathouse Balmoral Beach. Two or three guest speakers give a short lecture on an exploration or adventure topic, a barbecue meal and drinks are served, with members and guests always reporting a great night. More formal dinners with a prominent guest speaker have been held as well.
Opportunities
One of the biggest benefits of club membership is the opportunity to meet and socialise with some of exploration’s highest achievers, and share and learn from some of the nicest, down to earth folk one could know.
Join the Club
Prospective candidates for membership should refer to Join the Club page for details on how to apply. Sponsors are usually very helpful in preparing applications and assisting with the process.
Club houses
Balmoral Boathouse
Sydney club house
The Balmoral Boathouse in Sydney, continues to support ANZEC by allowing us to use their stunning venue for our Sydney Evenings of Adventure. It is owned by ANZEC Member and Chapter Treasurer John Leece.
Sun Theatre Yarraville
Melbourne club house
The Sun Theatre is owned by ANZEC member Michael G Smith. This has now made it possible for ANZEC to conduct ongoing events in Melbourne.