Mawson’s Huts Foundation Gala Dinner
Description
As part of the Australian Antarctic Festival 2026, join the Mawson's Huts Foundation for an unforgettable after-dark celebration of Antarctic heritage.
Begin the evening with an exclusive champagne reception and private viewing of the Hadley's Art Prize before enjoying a three-course dinner with drinks, an inspiring presentation by internationally renowned Antarctic scientist Professor John Priscu, followed by a keynote address from acclaimed broadcaster and Antarctic advocate Andrew Denton, who will share stories and reflections from his personal experience with Antarctica.
Connect with fellow Antarctic supporters, researchers and explorers while helping preserve Mawson's historic huts through live and silent auctions, a lucky door prize and exclusive experiences, including the chance to bid on a voyage to Antarctica with Terra Nova Expeditions.
Every ticket purchased and every auction bid directly supports the Mawson’s Huts Foundation efforts.
Dress code: Smart casual evening wear.
*Please note that we are unable to accommodate dietary requirements for bookings made after 18 August 2026.
Keynote speaker
Andrew Denton
Andrew Denton is an award-winning writer, performer and producer. His TV programs include The Money or the Gun, Enough Rope, Election Chaser, CNNNN, Hungry Beast and The Gruen Transfer. The Andrew Denton Breakfast Show on radio Triple M was a ratings winner between 1997-2001, and included the legendary Musical Challenge. He also pioneered documentaries on difficult subjects done in a different way including The Year of the Patronising Bastard, about disability, and Angels & Demons about mental illness. A passionate advocate for Antarctica, Andrew has travelled to the continent multiple times and has visited the historic huts at Cape Denison, gaining a firsthand appreciation for the extraordinary achievements and hardships of Sir Douglas Mawson and the Australasian Antarctic Expedition. He has also supported the work of the Mawson's Huts Foundation and the preservation of this unique Antarctic heritage.
Opening Speaker
Professor John Priscu
Professor John Priscu is a Regents Professor Emeritus at Montana State University and Research Scientist at the Desert Research Institute, Nevada. A world-leading polar microbiologist, he has spent more than 40 field seasons in Antarctica studying life beneath ice shelves, glaciers and the Antarctic ice sheet. He led pioneering expeditions that proved functional ecosystems exist beneath the West Antarctic Ice Sheet and has contributed to research in Greenland, Tibet and the Arctic. Professor Priscu has published more than 300 scientific papers, mentored over 200 students in polar research, and received numerous international awards for his groundbreaking contributions to Antarctic science.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
