When people think of Sydney, they think harbour,
sunshine and city- what does not immediately
spring to mind however, is polar bears.
But that’s exactly what trotted into town last
week, heralding the start of winter and aiming to
raise awareness about global warming and the
plight of its endangered brethren.
Sponsored by Aurora Expeditions and carved over
a few hours by British sculptor Mark Coreth and his
team, the bear was fashioned out of a bronze
skeleton which was frozen in a block of ice.
Speaking to media at the launch, Coreth said
that the ice bear was an interactive sculpture where
onlookers become part of the sculpting team by
touching the bear.
Each touch melts the bear “this is the human
impact” Coreth said, by way of explaining the
parallel between the ice bear and the plight currently facing real polar bears.
“Aurora believes that taking guests to these Arctic and Antarctic destinations creates lifelong
ambassadors,” said Aurora Expeditions CEO Lisa Bolton, who described the Arctic as
a “precious laboratory”.
“Sensitivity to the environments we visit is key to Aurora’s philosophy,” she said, adding
that the company takes deliberate steps to preserve and protect the regions it sails.
If you want to experience these regions, check out Aurora’s upcoming European Arctic
and Antarctic seasons at www.auroraexpeditions.com.au, or see your local travel agent.
