The Faces of Aurora

For 35 years, Aurora Expeditions has been shaped by the people who bring it to life. From expeditioners and expedition leaders to crew, partners and long-time members of the Aurora family, these stories offer a glimpse into the moments, connections and experiences that have defined our journey. Together, they celebrate the spirit of exploration, curiosity and community that has been at the heart of Aurora since the very beginning.

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Meet Tarn Pilkington, Aurora's Alpine Activities Supervisor

Tarn has been part of Aurora’s story for over two decades, bringing his passion for alpine environments to some of the world’s most remote regions. Today, he leads Aurora’s alpine program, continuing a legacy of adventurous exploration in Antarctica and beyond.

Meet Ania Baranek, A Decade with Aurora

Ania has spent almost a decade as part of Aurora’s story, evolving from the Sydney head office to the expedition team. Today, she brings that journey full circle, guiding guests as a snorkel guide and Zodiac driver in Antarctica and as a Tour Manager across Aurora’s small‑ship voyages.

Meet Emma McEwin, Writer & Great-Grandchild of Sir Douglas Mawson

Emma McEwin is a writer and great-grandchild of Sir Douglas Mawson. Her strong personal connection to Antarctic history has shaped her journey with Aurora Expeditions, including joining the inaugural voyage of the Douglas Mawson, where she also serves as the ship’s godmother.

Meet Joanna Ruxton, Plastic Free Pioneer

Jo Ruxton is an acclaimed ocean conservationist, filmmaker and founder of Ocean Generation, whose career has been dedicated to inspiring action for a healthier ocean. From sailing to Antarctica aboard the inaugural voyage of Sylvia Earle to sharing her passion for marine conservation with Aurora guests, Jo reflects on the power of responsible travel, meaningful connections and finding hope in the wild places that continue to inspire her.

Meet Christine Gee AM, Ex Marketing Manager

Christine Gee has been part of Aurora’s story since its early days, bringing a wealth of experience in adventure travel, marketing and exploration. From witnessing some of Antarctica’s most unforgettable moments to helping shape Aurora’s growth, Christine reflects on the people, experiences and pioneering spirit that have defined the journey over the past 35 years.

Meet Heidi Krajewsky, Expedition Team Lead and Naturalist

Heidi brings a wealth of experience from the remote coastlines of Canada to the polar regions of Antarctica and the Arctic. From driving Zodiacs and sharing wildlife knowledge to contributing to citizen science programs, Heidi is passionate about helping travellers connect more deeply with the wild places we visit while staying true to Aurora’s spirit of exploration.

Meet Stephen Anstee, Expedition Team Lead

Stephen Anstee has spent much of his career guiding travellers through some of the world's most remote coastal and polar environments. From the rugged wilderness of Canada's northwest coast to the icy waters of Antarctica and the Arctic, Stephen shares his passion for exploration, wildlife and meaningful travel, while helping guests discover the unexpected wonders that make every Aurora expedition unique.

Meet Val Jessop, Past Expeditioner

Val Jessop is a long-time Aurora Expeditions traveller whose love of Antarctica spans decades and multiple voyages to the White Continent and Ross Sea. Through her reflections, Val shares the unforgettable experiences, remarkable people and enduring sense of wonder that have kept drawing her back to the polar regions with Aurora.

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