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Big birds on home stretch

By Daniel Ziffer
June 13, 2004

Having risen from an apparent death, the favourite in the world's first albatross steeplechase is edging towards the finish line, overcoming sharks, storms and the expanses of the Southern Ocean.

After a migration of almost 10,000 kilometres, Aphrodite - who was believed dead after her transponder signal failed for over a week - is nearing the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, the culmination of the Big Bird Race.

The event, organised by the Conservation Foundation, the Tasmanian Government and gambling giant, aims to provide scientific information about the birds' migration and the dangers posed by long-line fishing practices, which kill about 30,000 seabirds each year.

"Interest has ebbed slightly after Aphrodite's soar to South Africa, but as I write, it is starting to pick up again," said Ladbrokes spokesman Warren Lush.

One of 18 Tasmanian shy albatrosses being monitored as they migrate from the Australian coast, Aphrodite may finish first but has been disqualified due to the failure of her satellite transmitter. "Punters who backed Aphrodite will get paid out (but) we are now betting on the race without Aphrodite," Mr Lush said.

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With the race drawing to a close, it appears the aptly named albatross "The Ecologist" may collect the Duke of Edinburgh's Challenge Cup for its owner, European environmental commentator Zac Goldsmith

The birds from three different islands - Pedra Branca, Albatross Island and Mewstone - undertake one of the world's longest migrations, starting in the Great Australian Bight before the long and perilous journey to Africa.

Event creator and Conservation Foundation spokesman Tim Nevard said, "What is emerging through is that each of the three islands, Albatross Islance, Mewstone and Pedra Branca is generating a different migration pattern, with Mewstone birds generally being the most adventurous."