Falkland Islands Newsletter

PPublishedublished bbyy TThehe FFalklandalkland IIslandsslands AAssociationssociation www.www.fi aassociation.comssociation.com

NNoo 111717 OctoberOctober 22019019

ppeopleeople ppoliticsolitics fi sshinghing ttourismourism aagriculturegriculture eenvironmentnvironment 111 1 Falkland Islands editorial Association Newsletter by FIA Chair John Duncan OBE Published by: The Falkland Islands Association, Falkland House, London The old order changeth - prepare for the new SW1H OBH It is diffi cult to fi nd a something new to describe the turbulent events that most of the Tel 020 3764 0824 world is experiencing; Brexit dominates the UK news, Trump in the US, Gilets Jaunes in honsec@fi association. France and Greta Thunberg world-wide. Order, both in the sense of the established way com things are done, as well as the people who lead and represent us all, seems in fl ux. With ISSN 0262-9399 all this churn and change, in this issue of the Newsletter, we bring our members up to date with the Committee’s work to prepare for the challenges. Edited by: Lisa Watson The Falklands may be 8,000 miles from the UK but is a modern, developed society, Stanley with world-wide links as amply shown by the articles in this Newsletter, The Islands’ Falkland Islands people are not immune to winds of change. With a high proportion of Falklands squid lisawatsonfi @gmail.com catch destined for European markets, Falklands MLA’s and the London Offi ce have been keeping in close contact with UK Minsters, MPs and offi cials to make sure the UK WEBSITE Overseas Territory’s vital interests are not forgotten. www.fi association.com For their part, MPs carried out their fi rst Inquiry for many years into Britain’s relationship Advertising with the Overseas Territories and the way they are represented and administered. For rates and other Falklands MLA Teslyn Barkman gave evidence to the Inquiry. The full Foreign Affairs information please apply Select Committee report, recommendations and the Government’s response can be to Arianne Brownlee on found on the House of Commons website. Links can be found on our social media feed. [email protected] Only time will tell the extent to which the MPs recommendations will be taken forward. Release of copyright Personalities we have all become accustomed to have changed, or are about to change. Sir Alan Duncan, the FCO Minister for the Falklands, a longstanding and stout All copyrights on the defender of the Islands stepped down in July. Sukey Cameron who has worked at the content of the Falkland Falkland’s Islands London offi ce since it was created and has been the representative Islands Newsletter are since 1990 steps down at the end of October. Sukey and her team have been the “Face released except on of the Falkland Islanders ” at every party conference and memorial service for over the pictures, cartoons and past 30 years. maps. Other publications are invited to quote Icons from the confl ict have also left us with the passing of Capt David Pentreath who freely. took the Argentine surrender on South Georgia and Ian McDonald, the inimitable MOD press spokesman in 1982. However, we ask that quotations are made in In Argentina, the gradual improvement in relations under the leadership of President context and the Falkland Macri now looks under threat with the resurgence of former President Christina Kirchner Islands Newsletter is in the new guise of Vice Presidential candidate to Alberto Fernandez. President Macri acknowledged as the lost heavily in the Argentine primaries in August and, at the time of writing, opinion polls source. were giving the Fernandez/Kirchner team a lead of between 11 and 21 points. The elections on 27 October will be held against a backdrop of the severe fi nancial crisis For further information which has been provoked by the prospect of Christina Kirchner’s return. turn to the inside back page or alternatively In this issue our Hon Secretary, Tym Marsh, outlines the comprehensive revision of our contact the Editor Lisa 1984 Constitution. We have also completed a major overhaul of our on-line presence Watson (contact details with a new website linked to the major social media tools and simpler payment methods above). for membership subscriptions. We are also looking at how to expand our membership and reach out to a new generation of supporters. Printed by: Platinum Press Ltd This issue also covers the many ways that the Falkland Islanders themselves are Tel 0844 880 4722 responding to the challenge of a changing climate and working to protect their unique environment, while developing their economy. Typically, while the mainstream news in www.PlatinumPressLimited.co.uk the UK is all too often dominated by negative stories, the Islanders just get on with life. Front page image by Louise Clarke In turbulent times the interests of small communities can easily be ignored. The Islanders and the legacy of those who fought for their freedom deserve our support. Let us make sure we are ready if the need arises.

www.fi association.com

2 Fishing From the Secretary’s Desk

New Constitution voting at the AGM. So, after careful thought and with Discussions are still proceeding, reluctance, the Executive Committee MEMBERS will have seen in but it is intended that the new has decided to discontinue the the Chairman's Editorial that the Constitution will be placed before Cenotaph event. Executive Committee is engaged on a the AGM this coming December and, Instead, there will be a short service wide-ranging review into all aspects of providing Members agree, take effect of remembrance and laying of wreaths the Association's operations. immediately after that. in the Great Hall of the Palace of One of the main aspects is a Westminster at 11.00am on Saturday, review of the Constitution which has Battle Day 7 December 2019 7 December. been in place since 1984. By the It is a great privilege to hold our time Members see this Newsletter For many years, the Association has ceremony in such a historic location they will all have received a draft of held a wreath laying ceremony at the and for the opportunity we must thank the proposed new Constitution and Cenotaph on the nearest Saturday to Andrew Rosindell MP who is a staunch had the opportunity to comment and 8 December to remember the lives supporter of the Association. Entry to provide ideas. lost in the Battle of the Falklands in the Great Hall involves airport-style We see the new Constitution as a 1914 as well as subsequent confl icts. security checks and Members will be major step forward which will place Some Members faithfully support required to identify themselves and the Association on a sound foundation this event year after year. show a ticket. for the future. Most importantly, it However, in the last 12 months, Following, the service, we will walk clarifi es the Aim which is "... to support Westminster City Council has raised the short distance to 61 Whitehall for the right of the people of the Falkland the question of the proportionality of the AGM and Lunch. Islands to decide their own future." closing Whitehall to traffi c for an hour If you wish to attend any part of To avoid any misunderstanding, it on a busy Saturday morning for what the proceedings, ie, the service, the makes clear that the Association has is, in relative terms, quite a small AGM or the lunch, please complete no part to play in the domestic politics parade. the form which is enclosed with this of the Falklands which are the concern In addition, owing to terrorist Newsletter. of our elected representatives sitting incidents in the capital, the As always, I would like to take this in the Legislative Assembly. Metropolitan Police feel the need to opportunity to thank all Members for There is recognition for the fi rst time mount a signifi cant security operation their support. of the role of the Falklands Committee to make sure the event passes off and the basis for a system of distance safely. Tym Marsh

3 Fishing

Falklands fi shing company seeks new markets in Europe FALKLANDS fi shing company Fortuna suppliers, media and other industry to work with vessel owners to open Ltd and their Taiwanese partners professionals from over 150 countries new markets and distribute Falklands- Go-Rising, exhibited at the Brussels attended the event. caught product together.” seafood show earlier in 2019 in a bid Fortuna Ltd and Go-Rising have “Traditionally, the majority of Illex to “explore the European Market for worked together in the Illex fi shing products processed on board jiggers Illex squid,” stated a spokesperson for business for many years. in Falklands waters is destined for the company. According to a press release, “the Asian markets but as the global The show is the largest seafood- purpose of this event was to explore markets for cephalopods change there dedicated trade event in the the European market for Illex squid are opportunities for well positioned world. More than 30,000 buyers, and establish a basis for the partners operators to capture new value.” In 2015 Fortuna purchased a signifi cant shareholding in Loligo Products SA, one of largest distributors and processors of squid Local presence, international reach products in Europe. Pinsent Masons is an international law firm with an office Although Falklands catches of Illex in Stanley. in the 2019 season were low, the company hopes to establish a market Our Falklands work covers the full range of practice areas and network for future seasons, “a number we are specialists in a range of sectors, including fishing, maritime, oil & gas and infrastructure. of European distribution channels are emerging that possess the right Alison Inglis / Stirling Harcus characteristics to take advantage of 56 John Street, Stanley larger volumes. T: +500 22690 “Illex is a migratory species, catches E: offi[email protected] in the Falklands zone are highly Gavin Farquhar variable. But during a high catching Partner year the combination of the South 19296 UK American Atlantic Service (SAAS) T: +44 (0)131 777 7368 container service connecting with a E: [email protected] well established distribution network in Europe, specialized in frozen squid products, would be an encouraging www.pinsentmasons.com proposition for buyers competing © Pinsent Masons LLP 2019 in what can be a highly competitive marketplace. It’s a matter of getting things lined up for when that happens.” 4 Fishery and conservation

Above: Stomach samples of squid and a mother feeds her baby The Albatross and fi sheries discards THE Falkland Islands is home to accessible to scavenging seabirds, revealed the remains of multiple sprat over 70% of the breeding population including to the black-browed individuals. One sample contained of the black-browed albatross, an albatross. over 500 fi sh eye-balls, potentially internationally protected species. In order to help predict the response from fi sh larvae. Yet others revealed Over the past decade, increases of the world’s largest black-browed multiple fresh squid, typically of loligo in the Falkland Islands’ albatross albatross population to changes in or Illex. Single pieces of nylon string population resulted in the discard availability, it is important to (of approximately 20 cm in length) downgrading of the species’ IUCN gain a more solid understanding of were found in 10% of samples. Red List Status from Endangered the extent to which albatrosses rely Whilst these regurgitation samples in 2003 to Least Concern in on discards, by assessing the species’ can provide very detailed information 2018. An ongoing PhD project by dietary requirements and fl exibility. at the taxonomic level, SIA will provide Amanda Kuepfer is now looking In summer 2018/19 Amanda important complementary information to determine to what extent that spent several weeks on Steeple in terms of long-term consistency and success is down to discards from Jason Island (with support from overall contribution of particular prey fi sheries. Falklands Conservation) and on groups (eg demersal versus pelagic The positive population change New Island, collecting dietary data prey) to the diet. is often assumed to be a result of from black-browed albatross chicks. The next step is to combine results improved seabird bycatch mitigation Using a complementary approach from SIA and stomach content, as well as the availability of discards of conventional stomach content and establish what food source is from trawl-related fi sheries. However, analysis from regurgitation samples, providing the majority of the energy to contrary to popular belief, available and stable isotope analysis (SIA) the birds. Whilst discarded demersal research based on tracking and of tissue samples, this data will be fi sh may by bulk provide the majority dietary studies have provided used to provide a fi rst assessment of of food compared to natural pelagic inconclusive information on the true the importance of discards to chick prey, the latter prey type tends to be importance of fi sheries discards in development and condition. SIA much more lipid-rich and energy- driving the species’ ecology and makes use of trace elements in the dense. population trends. blood and feathers of the birds, and Further plans for Amanda’s Although extensive scavenging provides information on their diet over PhD involve obtaining a better behaviour of black-browed the course of days and weeks. understanding of albatross diet during albatrosses behind fi shing vessels is Data analysis is still in progress, the winter period, and to use tracking a well-established fact, dietary studies but preliminary information from technology to quantify seabird- in the 1990s concluded that our regurgitation samples from New fi sheries interactions at sea, both albatrosses obtained just 10-15% and Island showed that chicks were being during the breeding season as well as 4.4% of their required energy budget fed both on discarded deep-water during the wintering period. from our squid and fi nfi sh fi sheries, (demersal) species, predominantly A Kuepfer respectively. Similarly, a more recent hoki, made available by the vessels, Amanda’s research is funded by study from Steeple Jason in 2014 as well as on naturally foraged Fortuna Ltd. and through the Falkland found no evidence of albatrosses shallow-dwelling (pelagic) prey, such Islands Government’s Environmental specialising on discards. as sprat and lobster krill. Studies Budget. An upcoming discard management Each regurgitation sample has The PhD is conducted in affi liation policy in the Falkland Islands trawl been like a Kinder-surprise egg. with SAERI, the Falkland Islands fl eet in 2021 will help to reduce Some contained the skeleton of a Fisheries Department, the University seabird-bycatch in our fi shery, but single hoki, whilst others consisted of Exeter (UK) and ISPA Instituto will inevitably make discards less exclusively of dozens of lobster krill, or Universario (Portugal). 5 Environment

World Oceans Day WORLD Oceans Day is an international day, recognised by the United Nations, to raise awareness of the ocean and everything gained from it, as well as how to protect it. In June the Falkland Islands South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute (SAERI) along with Falklands Conservation, the Fisheries Department and others, held a public event involving games and crafts in Stanley which included no single-use plastics. There were ocean-themed games, an origami station and visitors could examine a collection of sea creatures and seaweeds in a touch tank. There were also ocean-themed documentaries and visitors could pledge to be more waste aware and reduce their waste. The Falklands Government promoted their new glass collection scheme with a stall which had recycling questions and the Fisheries Department displayed fi sh, and otoliths under a microscope, and promoted responsible fi shing. Top: A fascinating day for young Islanders. Top right: Stock Assessment Scientist Thomas Farrugia at the Fisheries Stand. Above right: SAERI cookies by Coastal Mapping Project Manager Neil Golding. Below: A toothfi sh is a star attraction. Right: All of the origami creatures made by young visitors are displayed

6 Environment

Cobb’s Wren by Michelle Winnard and South Twin by Andy Stanworth Where the wild things are ISLANDS are special places. Their As owners of 19 islands/islets, to support healthy populations of isolation means they can act as Falklands Conservation (FC) strives endemic Cobb’s wren and tussac bird, havens for wildlife. Undisturbed, some to manage these national assets to and the count of over 450 endemic have even evolved their own species. conserve and enhance them for future Falkland steamer duck on the main This is true of the Falklands with its generations of Islanders. Some of beach of South Twin is likely to be a own species of wolf, three species of FC’s sites are recognised as globally count rarely equalled on record in the bird and 14 species of plants found important, supporting plants and Falkland Islands nowhere else on earth. New species animals of international signifi cance. Generally, FC islands are looking of insects, mosses, lichens, sponges Many of FC’s site are remote and well, though like for all offshore and seaweeds, to name a few, have diffi cult to access. But since 2017, with islands, pressures remain. Across the been found nearly every time a the support of the Detroit Zoological Falklands, soil erosion is a problem in thorough survey has been conducted Society, several islands have been windy locations where vegetation is – more new species undoubtedly visited and we have updated our sparse through historic overgrazing or await undiscovered. understanding of them, all in an burning, or increasing lightning strikes What makes islands very special, effort to inform future management as storminess is predicted to increase however, also makes them vulnerable. activities. The visits have provided in the Islands through climate change. The intentional or accidental impacts some fantastic information on the Ecological restoration techniques are of human activities are felt strongest status of these sites and revealed a being developed to revegetate burnt where there has been least exposure. few surprises. or eroded areas, but the logistical Sadly, in a time of global extinctions, For example, Motley Island in diffi culties of working on such remote Island species have been more often particular is a botanical treasure. islands are challenging; climate the ones to suffer. The Falklands Identifi ed as a globally Important change is everyone's responsibility. is no exception, with the historic Plant Area, the island has signifi cant The arrival of invasive plants and eradication and extinction of the populations of the Falklands endemic animals, which could decimate Falklands wolf (Warrah) due to its and globally threatened hairy daisy vulnerable Falklands species, needs interactions with livestock farming, and the scarce and protected yellow preventing through biosecurity the loss of the endemic Cobb’s orchid. It supports huge swathes of measures and eradicating these wren from many Islands due to the vulnerable bluegrass meadow rich invasives when they occur. Many introduction of predatory rodents, and in native species including dusty sites are remote, rarely visited and the increasing rarity of many plants miller and lady’s slipper, and has are without management plans to and habitats through unsympathetic a surrounding tussac grass fringe guide monitoring and actions needed land management practices. which was alive with birds. The if problems are detected. Protection Apart from the Warrah, things are recent visit and survey revised the for such sites is often poor or non- not too late. Wildlife and fauna thrive number of hairy daisy plants from 70 existent. on the offshore islands where there to an amazing 290. A newly recorded Challenges aside, these amazing is least pressure on their natural breeding site for sooty shearwaters places in the Falklands can inspire habitat. But now many landowners on Motley’s smaller sibling ‘The Mot’ and inform future efforts to conserve have realised the value of the Islands’ gave additional cause for celebration. Falklands biodiversity. With wildlife. Some have removed grazing Another FC island reserve ‘The investment and good decision making stock; others have had rodents Twins’ is two islands of signifi cant value the Islands can be celebrating not eradicated and some are actively for biodiversity and good examples of just having the places where the wild restoring lost habitats. For some near pristine tussac islands. Based on things are, but where they thrive. they represent their own privately counts during a 2018 trip, South Twin To fi nd out more or to support the protected nature areas. Some of these is one of the most important breeding work of Falklands Conservation, visit sites undoubtedly are home to the locations for the southern elephant www.falklandsconservation.com or last glimpses of the Falklands before seal in the Falklands. The rodent-free email [email protected] humans exerted their infl uence. status of The Twins enables them 7 Falkland Islands Trust

Alexandra Wood, Port Howard 2019 photo by Jim McAdam Origins and Role of the Falkland Islands Trust YOU may have heard of the Falkland Islands Trust (FIT) and wondered, amongst all the acronyms that abound in the Falklands, who we are, what have we done and why we exist. We are a UK and Falkland Islands registered charity formed in 1981,and run by volunteer trustees, some based in the UK who in the past worked in the Falklands, and some well-known Falkland Islanders. The Trust is dedicated to providing specialist advice and contacts to assist in the economic, environmental and social development of the Islands. It has been an initiator of ideas/concepts and a catalyst to support growth. Activities now are- supporting initiatives which have the potential to result in real, sustainable Table 1. Examples where the Trust has promoted the Falklands at development for the people of the academic conferences Falklands by providing and sourcing consultancy advice in a wide range of areas, mainly rural development and planting. Hence they commenced a facilitating new developments in the environmental sustainability. research programme approximately mechanical planning of tussac grass. The Trust promotes its message 25 years ago which was taken up by Other projects include; promotion of through publications, meetings, the Department of Agriculture which the wider use of the seaweed resource conferences and a web page successfully established a series of around the Falklands; establishment (www.ukfi t.org). Trustees are also shelterbelts. The Alexandra Wood of a database of scientifi c publications responsible for the Shackleton at Port Howard is named after FIT’s on the Falklands and building links Scholarship Fund. Patron, HRH Princess Alexandra. with the University of Magallanes in Achievements and Outputs “The Trust carried out trials on the Punta Arenas, Chile. The Trust felt that farmers and suitability of tussac grass for soil The Trust has been involved in landowners should have properly erosion control, wildlife enhancement promotion of the Falklands at national researched and backed information and livestock fodder. Working closely and international level through the available to help them make a with the DoA and local charity, work of its Consultant, Prof Jim decision on the suitability of tree Falklands Conservation, we are McAdam (see table 1). 8 Falkland Islands Trust

Above: Jim McAdam leads a soils and A climate change mitigation strategy for the climate change workshop, Fox Bay. Inset: grasslands of the Falkland Islands Enrique, James, Ben, Sonja and Jim at Jim McAdam, AFBI . Michael Poole, MLA Falkland Islands Government Cape Dolphin Nick Rendell, Environmental Planning Dept, FIG.

12,000km2 , 52°S, pop 2,800 Climate Cool (2-10°C) Dry:640mm Windy: mean 8.5 m/s Exposure Index 9.8 (cf Shetland Is 9.2; Orkney Is 7.3) Climate change and soils Climate change predictions (100yrs) in the Falklands Temp:1.3-2.2°C increase Rainfall: No change but The Falklands take their obligations to more sporadic and intense Wind: More stormy climate change resilience, risk avoidance Agriculture is based on sheep farming for wool from extensively grazed grasslands. Soils are peaty and shallow. There is minimal cultivation and and mitigation very seriously. For the past ten reseeding. Large areas have traditionally been burnt to remove years, the Trust has been very active in the accumulated dead herbage whole fi eld of climate research. From its own Small oceanic islands are particularly vulnerable to climate resources and with help from FIG, it gathered change given their isolation, biodiversity and self-reliance all local weather records, provided these for an Key risks identified: changes in soil moisture and drying; changes to invasive plants, pests expert analysis of climate change predictions and diseases; plants unable to shift ranges; increased fire risk; changes in soil organic carbon; and participated in a major EU funded project changes in yield and quality of forage species planted on the impact of potential climate change on Burning Soil erosion the Falklands. Evapotranspiration This project highlighted the need for a more detailed soil resource map of the Falklands. Following a successful bid by the Stanley based South Atlantic Environmental Research . Solutions Institute - SAERI - with the Trust as a key 1. Reduce sheep numbers- farm subdivision partner, a two year project to create an online and meat production soil database to quantify carbon reserves 2. Highlight erosion risk using soil map and GIS and deliver individual farm maps to highlight to overlay soil depth, slope and rainfall 3. Restrict cultivation and burning erosion risk, and build in resilience through 4. Use more drought tolerant forage species reducing soil moisture defi cits, commenced in where reseeding 2018. The Future From the Falkland Islands Government perspective, a sustainable future for the camp is a core commitment of “The Islands Plan” refl ecting its environmental, socioeconomic and heritage importance. The Trust has always had a proactive role in supporting that EvenEven thoughthough it is a small councountry,tryryry, tthehe Falklands is rerecognisingcognising vision and is currently exploring ways it can itsits globalglobal obliobligationsgations to climate chchangeange mitimitigationgation by adadoptingopting continue to do so best evidence-based practice. For further information see our website Attendance and presentation funded by the Environmental Studies Budget, www.ukfi t.org or email exec.sec@ukfi t.org Falkland Islands Government 9 Agriculture Falklands wool company at Venice convention VIKKI Berntsen and Farrah Peck of The Falkland Islands Wool Company attended the 88th Congress of the International Wool Textiles Organisation (IWTO) this year, along with Adam Dawes of the Department of Agriculture, and Robert Hall of Falkland Wool Growers. Farrah talks about the congress and how Falklands wool fares in the world market. This year the annual conference held in Venice, Italy offered the opportunity to bring together its members to strengthen the wool textile supply chain, and to reinforce the value of wool in the fashion industry and far beyond. Italy has a strong textile tradition, especially in the production of wool Falkland Islands Wool Company’s Farrah Peck and Vikki Berntsen fl ank fabrics and is a leading innovator Adam Dawes (Department of Agriculture, Falkland Islands Government) in the industry. The Congress programme combined Italy’s rich wool very positively received. Released in 2016, this voluntary heritage with the latest research and Vikki also secured a place on the certifi cation is applied across the entire developments in wool applications. Young Professionals programme, supply chain, right from farm through More than 320 delegates from across allowing her to introduce herself to fi nal garment manufacturing, and the globe, representing all stages on stage to the entire delegation provides a guarantee that animals are of the wool textile chain were in as a representative of the Falkland treated well, land health is preserved, attendance, discussing such topics Islands. the supply chain is traceable, and that as wool sustainability, traceability, The Falkland Islands was listed for regular audits prove the certifi cation is wool décor, and health and wellness. the fi rst time alongside major wool credible. Attendees were also invited to visit producing countries such as Australia, Take-home messages were; the headquarters of both the Benetton New Zealand, South Africa, Argentina the importance of networking and Group and Marzotto, providing an and Uruguay in a statistical overview promoting the Falklands brand by insight into some of the biggest users (provided by the Department of providing a high quality product; of fi ne greasy wool. Agriculture). This was made possible encouraging transparency and For the Falklands, the conference by IWTO accepting the Falkland collaboration across the industry; provided an excellent opportunity to Islands as members, initiated by and promoting our side of the story to promote on the international stage Adam in Hong Kong the previous counteract animal activist claims. how the country can contribute to year. Each country has its challenges, the wool industry, the background Falklands wool generated a such as drought, disease, variable and qualities of the product, and to substantial amount of interest, and our prices, trade embargoes and pressure bring back contacts, new interest and unique selling points were refl ected from animal activists. what has been learned about global in the industry’s increasing interest Beyond the familiar uses of wool demand. in sustainability and traceability. in garments and soft furnishings, Falkland Islands wool, despite Attendees were impressed by the innovative designs in pharmaceutical being only 0.1% of the global clip, Falklands’ ability to adapt to industry packaging, studies into emergency was very well received throughout asks, given the extremely quick and services clothing and for eczema the Congress. The wool has valuable positive take-up on phasing to nylon sufferers were introduced. It attributes (bright white, low vegetable wool packs. was also extremely exciting to matter and high yielding compared to The delegation learned there was see a presentation from a NASA other countries) and the unique ‘story’ now much more customer demand representative outlining why they of Falklands wool makes it highly for reassurance on where their have chosen woollen clothing for their sought after. woollen garment originated, and astronauts. Adam and Vikki gave an that it was grown sustainably. The The next generation of consumers introduction to Falklands wool to the potential damage that animal activist is more mindful of the environmental Heads of Delegation. This provided organisations might infl ict on the wool impacts of ‘fast fashion’ and an excellent opportunity to promote industry also cannot be ignored. That petroleum products that contribute to the ‘Falklands story’ to some key is why it is extremely important to micro-plastic pollution. The wishes of and infl uential individuals in the wool promote the Islands’ good working customers to be more eco-friendly and industry. The presentation included a practices and standards throughout the diversifi cation of wool products video portraying farming, renewable wool, and indeed meat production. are promising trends for the long-term energy, scenery and wildlife of the One tool to achieve this is to use the future of the wool industry. Falklands, which was powerful and Responsible Wool Standard (RWS). 10 AAgriculturegriculture

Falklands Landholdings farm managers pick up the prizes from the Acting Governor Top quality Falklands stock at annual Rural Show EACH year the Falkland Islands Rural apiece, including the champion ewe 145,000 sheep and 750 head of cattle. Business Association draws farmers class for Hope Cottage. Further prizes Their primary product is wool, with and non farming visitors to its annual went to Kingsford Valley Farm, Moss about 500 tonnes of greasy product agricultural show held in Goose Side and Walker Creek. shorn annually and exported all over Green’s massive shearing shed on Aside from the stock competition, the world. In the past two decades East Falklands. the show involves demonstrations of their fl ock has largely been infl uenced The gathering showcases Falklands hand and machine shearing, as well by the National Polwarth Stud Flock. wool and meat (sheep and cattle) as a number food and craft stalls. In recent years FLH has invested and farms battle it out for prizes in a The show completed and prizes substantially into Merino genetics number of categories. handed out, proceedings moved into from Australia. They say their main This year Falklands Landholdings the social club for a performance by objectives are to reduce micron, farm North Arm took the most points the 2 Scots bugle, pipes and drums maintain fl eece weight and improve in the sheep classes, as well as band. fat and muscle traits to produce a securing the Champion Ram Prize. What is the Falklands Landholdings more robust animal that thrives in the Hope Cottage and Blue Beach farms Corporation (FLH)? It consists of Islands’ challenging environment. showed equally high-quality stock, three farms and four settlements, Below: Experienced judges with both winning several classes totalling 295,313 hectares, with examine the farmers’ best beasts

11 Tourism Hoteliers launch The Falklander

A BEAUTIFUL Stanley-based They said the next step would be boutique hotel and spa and three a feasibility study and they were outlying luxury lodges with low seeking local investment. environmental footprints, is the The aim of the hotel would be to ambitious plan of Falkland Islands offer adventure and access to the hoteliers Alex Olmedo and Vanessa Islands' stunning wildlife. Ramirez. However, they would also provide Alex and his business partner the food and hospitality along with Vanessa already successfully run the striking interiors so that guests live popular Waterfront Kitchen Cafe and and feel the Falklands from the inside Waterfront Boutique Hotel in Stanley. as well as the outside. The pair told an expectant audience Falklands hoteliers Alex said: “Spectacular, panoramic of invited guests at the museum in Vanessa and Alex views are at the heart of the concept.” August that the lodges would be in would be sustainable and ecologically Following the opening of a new undeveloped and exciting locations, friendly buildings woven into the direct air link with Sao Paulo in and they had already spoken to landscape “and at one with the Brazil, a strong increase in tourism is landowners who were on board. They environment.” expected in the Falklands

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12 Tourism

Record breaking year and tourist season for the Falkland Islands ANNUAL tourism statistics for 2018, expenditure of leisure tourists rise, in visitor nights, achieving over 6,600 from the Falkland Islands Tourist part due to them staying longer than in 2018, with Argentina on just over Board reavealed tourism smashed in recent years.” 4,000. We have seen a signifi cant several records all in one year. Cruise visitors reached a record growth of arrivals in the shoulder Overnight leisure tourists passed the high of 62,505 arrivals, and spending months of April and September, and 1,900 mark in 2018 and spending was was £4.1 million, “which is also a an increase in the average length of £4.2 million; the most ever recorded. record,” said Mrs Middleton stay, both of which are key elements Average spend per night of leisure “Add to this the Falkland Islands of our Tourism Development Strategy. tourists was £214, and on average Government Air Service carrying There has also been growth in visitors they stayed 10.4 nights. more leisure visitors (3,039) than ever from our targeted Tactical Markets Executive Director of FITB, before over the six months of the 2018- (South America) and Investment Stephanie Middleton said: “It is a great 2019 season, and the Jetty Centre Markets (various European countries achievement to build on the growth welcoming a record 23,000 visitors in and Canada), which have also been in 2017 when the 35th Anniversary February 2019,” she reported. a focus of FITB marketing activities was marked and there was a spike in Mrs Middleton added: “The UK is still over the last three years.” arrivals. We are also delighted to see the largest market in terms of leisure

Top: Jetty Visitors Centre. Above: Shallow Bay House self catering. Right: Take a trip on an Islander Aircraft. Below: Check out the King Penguins. Pictures courtesy of Falkland Islands Tourist Board

Want to know more about visiting the Falklands? Go to www.falklandislands.com 13 FFalklandsalklands societysociety Liberty Lodge’s 10th birthday FEBRUARY marked Liberty Lodge’s tenth year of providing a home in Stanley for visiting veterans of the 1982 confl ict. Trustee Gary Clement and Liberty Lodge Manager Ali Dodd talk about the Lodge’s beginnings and achievements over the ten years. Ten years ago Liberty Lodge was created by the Falklands Veteran Foundation, FVF, the fi rst UK-based charity for Falklands Veterans and their immediate families, who still own and run it to this day. In fact it was the Chief Executive of the FVF, Derek ‘Smokey’ Cole, that fi rst put the idea of a lodge for veterans into motion. The FVF approached the Falkland Island Government in 2004 to request a plot of land to build the lodge, which they looked upon favourably and agreed to lease the plot at Rowlands Gary and Ali at Liberty Lodge Rise. Some fundraising had taken Ali admits that the prospect of thought, she’s got it, she’ll be able to place but it was not until the 25th dealing with veterans experiencing talk to anybody.” Anniversary of the Falklands War a very emotional return was initially That ability to talk to anybody taps when ‘Smokey’ teamed up with Lt daunting, “but you quickly learn how into one of the core values of the Colonel Tony Davies, then the Chief to make them welcome.” Lodge; that every veteran, regardless Executive of the Union Jack Club in Key to making them welcome, she of the rank they may have held, is London and Chairman of SAMA82, says, is organising a full itinerary for treated the same. that they raised awareness of the them when they arrive, and often well That’s not to say that every FVF’s project. Once the Royal British in advance, “a lot will send you their visit goes smoothly, “you do get, Legion got on board and made a wish-list before they get here. Ones occasionally, someone that doesn’t fi t large donation, a number of military from the Royal Navy may want to go with the whole ethos of what this is charities pledged further funding for up to Campito, and the Paras will do about,” says Gary, “but they do by the the project. Goose Green if they’re 2 PARA, 3 time they leave.” By 2009 the Lodge had been built PARA Mt Longdon..” The transformative effect of the and was ready to receive its fi rst Those itineraries hinge on local lodge can be such that it is used as a visitors. It was not what you’d call drivers, and their knowledge provides selling point by veterans to convince over-subscribed that fi rst year; only a unique experience; not only in other veterans to take the leap and 40 or so veterans visited. As word getting them to the positions they visit, “a lot of people go to different spread, however, that number has want to fi nd (“it sometimes takes a reunions all over the UK and of signifi cantly increased with the Lodge couple of days, but they’re usually course they will say ‘did you see what receiving 170 visitors in 2018. all found”), but also in opening an happened to me earlier in the year, if Not only have the numbers changed, invaluable window into the other story you want me to I’ll come down with but so have the nature of the visits, of the war; the locals’ story, “you’d you’. “now we’re getting lots of groups: from be amazed, still today, people are “So you’ll occasionally get one Ships, Army Units, Welsh Guards, coming back and saying, oh, I never person bring another group back,” Scots Guards, the Gurkhas. That sort even thought of the locals, I didn’t says Gary. of thing has changed, before it was know what you were going through... For Ali, the Lodge’s success is down dribs and drabs, two of one, two of To get that story across to people is to one simple factor, “it’s a home for another.” really important,” says Gary. them to come to, which a lot of them And that, says Gary, changes the While the trips keep the veterans pick up on. The fi rst thing a lot of them dynamics altogether for them, almost busy, the task of keeping order in do when they come through that door becoming a form of group therapy, the house is not easy and requires is they head for those windows for the “they’re probably friends, they all a particular set of skills, particularly view, but then they’ll say: ‘it’s so nice bounce off each other really well, when groups visit. to come back to a house at the end they’ve all got a story to tell. And they Ali’s predecessor, the late Ellen of the day, after you’ve been out and tell it to each other, and that’s what’s Davis, showed the same knack from done all the memorials and relax.” interesting. Some of them had no day one, remembers Gary. When a Having a home they feel idea what Joe Bloggs was doing ten visiting ex-Marine asked about going comfortable in, says Gary, also helps metres away... It’s interesting seeing fi shing upon arriving, but admitted he them in telling their story, “they can that sort of thing come out.” hadn’t brought any fi shing gear, Ellen invite drivers back, anybody who has Ali Dodd, Liberty Lodge Manager, simply said, “well you’re going to look helped, them, they can put a function sees the benefi ts of that group bloody stupid standing on that bank on of their own to say thank you, and dynamic all too well, “they’ll sit around then aren’t you?” that is very important as well.” the table, tell each other stories, bring “That was her fi rst meeting of R Cordeiro them back up if they’re feeling down.” veterans in that position, and I 14 FFalklandsalklands societysociety First Falkland Islander Regimental Sergeant Major FALKLAND Islander and Combat Medic Technician Sara Halford was in, March 2019, promoted to Regimental Sergeant Major of 16 Medical Regiment of the British Army. Falklands Journalist Roddy Corderio spoke to Sara about her new role, her career in the Army and becoming the fi rst woman in the regiment to hold that role. First off, congratulations! What will your new role entail? A really diverse number of roles and responsibilities really. These range from being the senior soldier of the regiment, therefore the go-to person for advice; not only from soldiers but offi cers alike. I’m the lead Combat Medical Technician and the voice for soldiers to the hierarchy. The majority of the time though I’ll act as the Commanding Offi cer’s confi dant and right-hand person. The role of a regimental sergeant major seems to be quite an emblematic one in the Army; how does it feel to be the fi rst woman to serve in that role within 16 Medical Regiment? Ah the dreaded question! It’s an honour really. Equality in the British Army is something we strive for. Has RSM Sara Halford it improved? Absolutely. Is there room for improvement? There always will be. Women taking up powerful deployment to the Falklands. My OC What have been the highlights appointments such as this needs to at the time said he knew the perfect and the biggest challenges of your become second nature, not because person if they didn’t mind having a time in the Armed Forces so far? of their gender but if they are the most female! They didn’t so off I went home Highlights would be seeing appropriate candidate it should be for four months. This is really when I your junior soldiers progress into awarded on merit. realised I had the right mentality and successful, highly motivated leaders What drew you to a career in the the motivation to serve in 16 Brigade. themselves knowing you had a large Armed Forces? Immediately getting back from home part to play in it. I think always having a military found us deploying to a war zone; What advice can you give to any presence when growing up in the one that I would later be spending girl considering a career in the Falklands played a massive part. I was 19 months out of the following three Armed Forces? drawn to the prospect of travelling the years in. The same as what I’d give any world, playing sports, going adventure Iraq was unimaginable. All three of male joining the Army. Make sure training, all the while getting paid for my tours were as a company medic you’re joining for the right reasons. it! I didn’t really know what I wanted for 1 and 2 PARA. I saved friends. I Understand that you’re a soldier fi rst, to join up to be until I visited the lost friends. You come back a different regardless of gender. career centre and that’s when I chose person after each tour. Maybe not Regimental Sergeant Majors Combat Medical Technician (CMT). always for the better either. have a reputation for being a bit, How has that career developed? After three tours of Iraq I made the well, shouty; is that reputation a When you complete the second decision then to have a bit of time out fair one? phase of CMT training you submit a from the tempo of 16 Brigade. This Well it’s defi nitely a trait you require! posting preference for which I put 16 was short-lived as I was promoted to I think with the culture change in Medical Regiment. I was successful Sergeant in 2008 and requested to generations joining now, there has in that choice and turned up to return to 16 Medical Regiment. I’ve been a need for change in the way Colchester in June 2000 as a young not left the regiment since. It’s like a we lead and the way we manage our and mostly naive Private soldier. second family to me and I’ve served soldiers. There is defi nitely no place Within 12 months I was deploying on in every rank and every squadron. for the bullying tactics previously my fi rst operational tour of Kosovo. This plays a huge part, I think, in why I used but, that said, when there is a The following year 2 Para were was successful in taking up the role of requirement for ‘shouty’ RSM that is requesting medics for a four-month Regimental Sergeant Major here. what they’ll get. 15 FFalklandsalklands societysociety

A CHAT with Falklands residents about Falklands Smoko favourites. Smoko is the traditional morning break imported into the settlements from Australia and New Zealand. Scorpions, smoko biscuits, hard-tack biscuits, uncle Joe’s buns... All the same name for a biscuit that has as many tales of folklore as it has recipes (fi ve different recipes alone surfaced in writing this article). Whatever the name, Scorpions (as they are classed in the horticultural show programme) have become the iconic biscuit of smoko. Certainly it’s the biscuit that fi rst crops up in conversation when smoko is mentioned to bakers. “In our house they were always known as hardtacks,” says Lisa Pole- Evans. The name alludes to their similarity to the hard crackers of the same name (many of the recipes do not use Scorpion biscuit dough egg). Others, however, suggest that the pronunciation often omits the d and sounds more like “har’ attack”, in a tongue-in-cheek nod to the biscuits’ possible health effects. The name Scorpion is perhaps The lost art the one most surrounded by legend. According to Tim Simpson’s book, Cooking the Falkland Islands Way, the name is said to have originated in Chartres, West Falklands, when someone noted that the dough left of Smoko behind after cutting rounds resembled the curved and hooked tails of for cruise ship passengers, notes “There was an element of keeping scorpions. that basic smoko favourites, such as up with the Joneses”, says Jenny, and To this day, says Lisa, the usage scorpions, are often the most popular, the number of smoko tins that would of the name Scorpion appears to be “they get enough fancy stuff on the get laid out became a source of pride limited to West Falkland, whereas ships,” she says. and competition. on East Falkland they are known as The multitude of recipes that exist Although still popular in Camp, Smoko Biscuits. refl ect the forgiving nature of the fi nal smoko has become something of a Jenny Luxton, Arlette Betts, and product. lost art in Stanley. Viv Hobman (all of whom grew up The older recipes, for instance, The convenience of shop-bought together in Chartres) recall that they reveal the temperamental nature of alternatives has certainly played a were rarely made with butter, which peat stove ovens, and rarely give part in that, says Lisa, but ultimately was relatively scarce, but with dripping more indication than low or moderate. it’s also about time; more time spent from roasts. One of the recipes in Tim Simpson’s doing other things and less time to Dripping still fi gures on the recipe book simply refers to a “fairly hot” bake, but also less time spent visiting, that Jenny wrote down as an eight oven, while others simply say “Bake “you always got the cake and the tea year old. until cooked.” out... people just do a lot more things Although it may have since been Not that the fi ckleness of Rayburns now.” replaced by butter, it’s the recipe couldn’t be put to good use; Viv As for recipes, two key texts are she still uses. In her childhood, that Hobman notes how a good slam of referred to time and again. The fi rst recipe will have been made from the oven door could make a Madeira is thought to have been introduced sugar bought in sacks, she recalls, cake sink in the middle, giving it a by New Zealand travelling teachers. and often had to be sieved for weevils fudgy gooey texture. Edmonds Cookery Book was once a prior to using, “there was always the Like scorpions, most smoko recipes promotional give-away with the baking odd weevil leg that made it through were simple and the product of the powder of the same name, but has the sieve...” ingredients that were available: ginger since become a household staple. “I must have made thousands biscuits, spice rolls, fruit “slab” cake The other is Cooking the Falkland of scorpions in my life”, she says, cooked in the meat pan. Islands Way, by the late Tim Simpson. recalling how she used to bake More than a tea break, smoko was Part cookery book, part history text, batches to take with her give away an important social ritual, and one it has become the fi rst port of call for at BirdFair; the UK bird-watching fair that was religiously followed in every those looking for any local recipe from which she attended for work. household, “every house you went to scorpions to scurvy. They would always go down a have smoko in the morning and tea Tim’s book, says Lisa, has become treat, and she was often asked for the in the afternoon, there was always the Falklands’ own Edmonds Cookery recipe. at least three or four different tins of Book, “I wonder if he ever knew how Arlette, who hosts afternoon teas cake or biscuits,” recalls Lisa. popular it would become?” 16 FFalklandsalklands societysociety

THERE is little about the distilling room of Falkland Distillers that reveals it as such. The walls are of fresh magnolia-coated plasterboard, the fl oors spotless, surgically so, and on the wall, straight out of Good Housekeeping, hangs a shelf of Kilner Jars with all manner of seeds, spices and botanicals. Even the shining copper stills themselves look more museum gift shop than industrial premises. Spruce and tidy though the room may be, it is nevertheless the place where Richard McKee of Falkland Distillers has distilled, bottled, labelled, and, as of last week, sold Darwin’s Botanicals Gin. Though the gin’s production is relatively short - it takes two weeks to produce a batch of 100 litres - the company itself has been some time in the making. Richard made the The gin and its creator Richard McKee decision to set up a micro-distillery six years ago. Since then, he started (and is about to fi nish) a Postgraduate Diploma in brewing and distilling Falkland Distillers with the Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh. Their help in getting this far, he says, has been invaluable. Though his initial plan was to make creating gin with a a whisky, he was encouraged to start with gin by an expert on whisky of all people, “I went to hear a guy speak in Edinburgh, a real whisky buff. I teaberry soul chatted to him afterwards and he said ‘start on gin. Don’t tell anybody I said completely manual and, given the to smell it and you’ve got to taste it a that, but start on gin, and take it on small size of the plants in question, little bit just to make sure you’re happy from there’.” meticulous work. about where you’re making your cut.” Richard heeded the advice, and in “It’s very, very labour intensive,” Getting the right cut consistently at 2016 began experimenting with local says Richard, “you need to pick a lot. the beginning is hard enough as it is, botanicals to create a gin with an On occasion this place will be shut for but in these early days, Richard also unique Falklands fl avour. The local days at a time.” But that, he says, is worries about how the gin will develop character not withstanding, the gin also part of what makes it special “ it’s after it is opened and whether it will is a traditional juniper-forward gin (a part of what makes the gin what it is, be able to retain those notes and gin in which the juniper remains as it’s a human process, you’ve got to go characters that make it unique. the distinctive fl avour) and a London out and pick the stuff, there’s no way Trying to retain that original character Dry Gin. To qualify as such all the round it.” for longer is part of the challenge, botanicals must be infused in the still Along with ensuring that he has “there are various botanicals that I’ve and it must produce an early product enough botanicals stored away used to bind, that go into it less for of no less than 70% alcohol content to see him through the berry off- the taste and more for the ability to by volume. From that 70%, the fi nal season, in these early days Richard is hang onto really volatile compounds. Darwin’s Botanicals is diluted to 43%. primarily concerned with maintaining They’re the ones that will come over The choice to retain a classic a consistent product. fast and you want to manage that and juniper-forward gin was a deliberate As the distillation process runs, the retain the fl avour in your gin. So some one. “I didn’t want to make something key to consistency is making sure that of the botanicals that are in there are that was too delicate, that doesn’t the right fraction of the spirit produced fi xatives, and although they do have a refl ect the character of the Islands, the by the condenser is kept - what is taste and a character, they’re in there history... I was trying to bring in local known as cutting the heart. “You don’t to try and maintain the integrity of the fl avours and botanicals that work well want all of the spirit, some of it is too product.” with traditional gin botanicals as well. powerful, some of it is too weak, and Richard has his eyes set on future Hopefully we’ve got to a point where some of it will have taste notes that products too, and is planning a second there’s a gin that people will be able to you don’t want in the gin, so you have gin to partner Darwin’s Botanicals. enjoy, and that refl ects, in as much as to be careful what to cut.” He hasn’t completely given up on his you can, the character of the place.” That, he says, is mostly scientifi c, original dream to produce a Falklands The character that those botanicals but also requires a little judgement. whisky either, even if that process will - teaberries, scurvy grass, and diddle “No two batches are ever the same. be a lot longer than two weeks. dee berries - lend the gin may well They will always be different, a little bit For now, however, Darwin’s be unique and extraordinary, but different, so you’ve got to try and be as Botanicals (and picking the berries then so is the labour required to pick consistent as possible... You can read that go into it) monopolises his time them. That stage in the process is the a lot into the strength of the alcohol and efforts. slowest and most intensive, being that’s coming off but also you’ve got R Cordeiro 17 Education

Falkland Islands Community School students prepare to learn about The Amazon and colourful wildlife Amazon adventure for Falklands school children A GROUP of Falkland Islands bucket to fl ush the ‘en-suite’ toilet was and collecting data on the birds. Community School students made a the perfect setting to get to know your Student Regan Newman described once-in-a-lifetime scientifi c research room mates really well. Cold showers, a visit to a local village: “We were met trip to the Amazon in July. using water taken straight from the by a bunch of enthusiastic looking Teacher Paul Muncaster, one of river, and a generator which powered footballers; they were JUST as tall as the staff accompanying the group, up only three times a day, offered my knees. It was game on. We split explained it was, “hard to prepare for respite from the continuous attack of into two teams and played a game a journey to the Amazon jungle to live mosquitos and 30-degree heat. Our of muddy, splashy, slippery, so called on a scientifi c research boat for two students, being hardy folk, took to football. I was amazed with some of weeks with 16 school aged students.” working and living in this environment the moves we came out with due to But after 18 months of meticulous without complaint. In fact, making wearing wellie boots. The fi nal score planning and fundraising, the leaving friends with the resident large spiders, was 3-2, with the opposing team day arrived and a 36 hour journey praying mantis and another school’s winning. We gave the local footie ensued before they could begin ‘A’ Level students, proved to be players some hats and sweets to an expedition focusing on climate remarkably straightforward.” show our appreciation.” change and measuring the immense Each regimented day the students Mr Muncaster said: “It’s clear to biodiversity that the Amazonian experienced scientifi c surveys and FICS staff that this school trip was a Rainforest has to offer. environmental lectures, debriefi ng remarkable success, with the students The group fl ew via Lima and sessions and quiet research periods. learning about climate change, Iquitos and eventually reached the An example of a day might be trekking scientifi c methodology, localised houseboat - close quarters with through the rainforest surveying evolution and gaining invaluable life limited facilities. Mr Mumcaster said: macaws; counting the macaws that changing experiences, which will “Bunk beds in small rooms with only a fl ew over them, recording the species hopefully impact on their entire lives.” The Houseboat and student Nathan Watson

18 Education

Amber Goss, Sorrel Pompert Robertson, Shannon Alazia and Hannah McPhee all achieved First Class Honours Degrees Falklands university students First Class MORTARBOARDS were thrown Columbia with a Nature-Based Oxford Navigation team from Oxford aloft in August as Falklands students Tourism Management Degree. University Zoology Department until graduated from universities in the He said: “When I get back to the the end of September. UK and elsewhere. We caught up Falklands I’m hoping to do some farm Amy said: “It was always my with a few of those who successfully work and also do some work with a intention to return to the islands after completed undergraduate studies, yacht for an Antarctica trip.” university, and luckily there are so many achieving First Class Honours, Theo’s degree is described as many opportunities at home in this to celebrate their achievements and examining “the various components fi eld of work. ask about their plans for the future. of the nature-based tourism system, “I am due to fl y back in early October Students are fully funded in their giving emphasis to the entrepreneurial to start work as a Fisheries Observer studies by the Falkland Islands perspectives and sustainability issues with the Falkland Islands Fisheries Government. in the industry.” Department. I was actually accepted Sorrel for the job before I fi nished my fi nal Hannah Sorrel Pompert Robertson studied exam, so the pressure was relieved a Hannah McPhee emerged from BA combined honours Ancient History little bit.” Queen’s University Belfast with a First- and History (with study abroad) at the Shannon Class Honours in BSc Biomedical University of Exeter. She said: “It was Shannon Alazia read Geography Science, a degree focussing a fantastic four years in a beautiful BSc at the University of the West of on medical sciences including part of the country. In my third year I England (UWE), Bristol. microbiology, genetics, pathology and went to St Francis Xavier University in She said she considered a number oncology. Nova Scotia, Canada which was one of environmental and conservation- She has been accepted onto of the most exciting experiences of based degrees before fi nally selecting Queen’s University Belfast’s Medicine my life.” physical geography, which proved to course and will be studying for the She also graduated with a First be the right choice for her. next fi ve years to become a doctor. Class Honours. The main component of her fi nal year Amber “Thanks to my degree I am now included completing a dissertation “in Three years ago Amber Goss working as an PR Account Executive which I chose to research the subject moved to Bristol and began studying at Blackstock Consulting in London.” of drought in UK agriculture.” for a Biological Sciences degree at Amy She said she was extremely proud the University of the West of England Amy Elstow-Guest graduated from to have achieved a First-Class (UWE). her four year Honours Degree in Honours Degree. This summer she graduated with a Biology at Oxford Brookes University, Ross First Class BSc (Hons) in Biological which included an optional placement Ross Stewart confi rmed he had Sciences and in September will be year that brought her home to work undertaken a three-year Degree of continuing at UWE on a Primary at SAERI from September 2017 until Bachelor of Science in Sport and PGCE course, in order to gain her September 2018. Exercise Sciences at Leeds Trinity. primary teaching qualifi cation and For her dissertation project, she He is now taking some time-out to specialise in primary level science. looked for marine microplastics in earn money and is hoping to then take Theo Falklands seawater, blue mussels a Masters in Physiotherapy. After four years in Canada, Theo and limpets. In addition to his degree at his own Deligniers graduated in April from She is now spending the UK cost he qualifi ed as a personal trainer. the University of Northern British summer volunteering with the 19 Sport

The Falkland Islands team at the NatWest Island Games in Gibraltar in July. Right: Badminton athlete Vicky Chater and Swimmer Nell Ford Falklands athletes fl y the fl ag around the globe

Above: Ross Stewart and Duane March win a game in Gibraltar. Below: The Shearing and Woolhandling Team at the World Championships in France. The shearing team were placed 9th in the world and the woolhandlers 7th. Pictured: Pilar Castro, Lee Molkenbuhr, Paul Phillips, James Butler (manager) and Vikki Berntsen

THE Falklands Rifl e Association sent four experienced entrants to the 150th Imperial Meeting at Bisley in the UK in July 2019 and recorded great scores and a win in the Kenya competition for Mark Dodd. Above Falklands competitors Ken Aldridge, Gareth Goodwin, Christian Berntsen and Mark Dodd with wind coach Eddie Brice (centre) 20 Politics Argentina’s campaign continues MONITORING the Argentine press for Argentine pilots. But many veterans’ Falklands. By contrast, TDF prefers the Association is not a pleasant task. stories are exaggerations, or false – permanent confrontation, and anti- Day after day Falklands-related like their bogus news stories during British rhetoric. articles appear. Often it’s their the war itself. Britain is blamed for The current governor of TDF is diplomats, politicians, or ‘Malvinas’ “starting” the war, ie for reacting to Rosana Bertone. She claims to be specialists discussing how to take Argentina’s invasion. And Argentines governor of the Falklands too, and in over the Falklands. Sometimes it’s routinely pretend that they were TDF the Falkland Islands Government about their representatives pursuing “defending themselves” against is routinely described as “Illegitimate”. their claim in international fora. British aggression. British casualties She is dismissive of Falkland Islanders’ Sometimes it’s their grossly inaccurate are often grossly exaggerated. rights. Within a week of Boris Johnson history of the dispute. Sometimes it’s Argentine veterans take part becoming Prime Minister, she called Argentines trying to use the Pope, in all national events too. On on the Argentine foreign Minister to who is Argentine, to promote their Independence Day, July 9, this year, “renew” the claim over the Falklands claim. a huge contingent took part in a with the Johnson government. She There’s been a lot too about how military parade. And veterans have needn’t have worried. Shortly after Brexit might help Argentina. Another obtained so many fi nancial benefi ts the Mercosur/European Union Trade regular is a plea for “peace”. There that servicemen mobilised in 1982, Agreement was signed last June, hasn’t been a shot fi red for 37 years, but who did not get to the Falklands, Argentine Foreign Minister Jorge but to Argentina “peace” means a have long waged a campaign to share Faurie said: “sólo le falta recuperar British capitulation. in these. las Islas Malvinas” – Only the recovery Most frequent of all are reports of UN Resolution 31/49, back in of the Falklands is lacking now”. their calls for “dialogue” with Britain. 1976, forbade any unilateral change Gustavo Melella will succeed This is a euphemism for negotiating in the status of the Falklands while Rosana Bertone as TDF governor the handover of the Falklands. negotiations were going on. Argentina in December. He has already urged And there is no regret for starting broke this dramatically with its invasion the Argentine Foreign Ministry not the 1982 war. The 2nd of April is a in 1982. It did so again in 1994 when to give way to British “pretensions”. national holiday to commemorate its it put a claim to 100% of Falklands’ And Presidential candidate Alberto attack. There are ceremonies then sovereignty in its new Constitution. Fernandez signed an agreement with throughout Argentina – with coverage This made any compromise solution him in August, promising to annul the on television and dozens of press impossible. post-war treaties with Britain. So if he articles. All major Argentine politicians Tierra del Fuego gets elected, the situation could revert take part in these. In 2009, Argentina broke 31/49 to the bitterness and confrontation of As a way of softening their defeat, yet again. President Cristina de the years just after the war. Argentines tend to glorify the 1982 Kirchner put the Falklands, according Former President Cristina de war. And Argentine veterans do to Argentine law, into the Province Kirchner referred to the British as their best to maintain interest in it. of Tierra del Fuego (TDF). There “Pirates” and called the Islanders Every province and most cities have are about 130,000 voters in TDF. “Squatters” when she was in their veterans’ associations. Articles So if Argentina ever did get control, offi ce. Despite many accusations about their activities are published Islanders would be outvoted on of corruption, she is now Vice- every day – lionising their members. provincial matters by some 80 to 1. Presidential candidate to Alberto The Malvinas Foundation website At this moment TDF is under hard Fernandez in Argentina’s approaching correlates all Falklands-related line Peronist government. It does its election. stories, some about veterans, but best to undermine the more subtle Dangerous Times others from national and provincial efforts of President Macri to establish These are dangerous times for the papers and websites. Altogether, good relations with Britain. TDF fi ercely Falklands. Hard line Peronists may there are between ten and twenty-fi ve opposes the agreements signed with return to power soon. There is political of these articles every day! Britain since the war – particularly the uncertainty in Britain too. Islanders Argentine veterans often talk about one in September 2016 which relaxes and their supporters must keep their their courage and success, and some Argentine measures against the guard up. did fi ght valiantly; for example, the

Left: Cristina Kirchner and Alberto Fenandzez. Hard line Peronists may return to power soon 21 HHistoryistory

IN the early hours of April 10, 1984, fi re swept through the King Edward VII Hospital in Stanley, leaving eight people dead and others in a serious condition. John Fowler of Falklands newspaper Penguin News examined the tragedy that devastated the Falklands community.

LIVING through the 1982 occupation of Stanley from the invasion to the liberation was nobody’s idea of a pleasant time, but what followed after the Argentine surrender and for a considerable time afterwards was in some respects even worse. In the immediate aftermath, all sorts of things which had miraculously held more or less together suddenly fell apart. This was true for essential services The old wing of the hospital before it was destroyed like water and electricity, which despite the best efforts of the men who had heroically kept them going for so long, fi nally tended to succumb to a variety A dark day in of pressures. These included bad weather, damages infl icted during the fi nal battle for Stanley and the hugely increased demand caused by the presence amongst us of the liberating Falklands history British Forces. Little town deep in trash The tragic story of the hospital fi re Falling apart was observable in many people too, once the immediate Mount Pleasant base was nearing all-time low. To quote Graham Bound euphoria of liberation had died down completion and while the troops with in the Penguin News of the time, a bit. Everyone was tired and having whom we were sharing our lives were “Just when it seemed that Falkland our previously neat and tidy little town no longer the very same ones that Islanders’ fortunes were looking up, deep in trash and fi lth did not help to had liberated us, we were still grateful fate delivered us another body blow.” lighten the mood. for their presence, but beginning to Former Governor and now Civil Some, returning to houses which look forward to getting our town back. Commissioner Sir Rex Hunt, wasted were at best suffering from neglect Another body blow no time in announcing the formation and, at worst, from desecration by an And then, in the early hours of of a board to enquire into the angry enemy, may have missed the Tuesday April 10, 1984 came an circumstances surrounding the fi re. feeling of togetherness, engendered initially unexplained fi re which The Penguin News reported, “It was by enforced and lengthy contact destroyed the civilian hospital and originally planned that the enquiry with people in the same boat, who also damaged an adjoining 23-bed would be led by Attorney General previously had perhaps been only prefabricated military wing, which Michael Gaiger, and other members acquaintances. had been in existence for barely two would be councillors and prominent Whether in Camp, among the months. people in the community. However, shelves of the West Store, in the Due to luck, or more likely to the timely on the advice of the Foreign Offi ce, hospital corridors, or in designated surrender of the occupying Argentine these plans have now been altered, ‘safe’ houses in Stanley, all of us forces before the Parachute Regiment and a highly qualifi ed legal team from were brought together by the same had to begin the task of winkling them the UK, aided by Mrs Jan Cheek dangerous circumstances. In groups out of Stanley – a process they refer and Mr Eric Goss, will now form the large and small, an enhanced feeling to as “house clearance”- the civilian Commission.” of community grew, which was one of population of the Falkland Islands had The blame game starts the strange and unexpected benefi ts come through the seventy-four days Penguin News went on to report, of the occupation. between invasion and liberation with “A Home Offi ce Fire Inspector has It took a long and tiring time for the loss of only three lives. already visited the Islands, and after people to get over their collective When daylight arrived on April 10, a week of intensive study, produced weariness and for things to begin to 1984 and the BBC’s reporter Robert a report that will help the Commission get better. By April 1984, however, Fox was reporting of the hospital, of Enquiry.” the resumption of normal life was “all that was left was four stumps of Decorated for her part in brokering beginning to seem possible. Although chimneys, the thin wood boarding the cease fi re between the Argentine the population of the town was still of the walls, and fi ttings fl apping like and British forces, Senior Medical infl ated by the presence of several charred tissue paper in the wind”, Offi cer Dr Alison Bleaney, OBE, who hundred British troops, at least they it was discovered that eight people in 1982 had voluntarily come back were now for the most part separately had died. These included the wife from maternity leave to run the civilian housed, either in the fl oating barracks of the Fire Offi cer, a British nursing hospital when Dr Haynes was exiled or ‘coastels,’or in other encampments. sister, and a mother with her new- to Fox Bay by the Argentines, was fi rst With few exceptions, members born baby. The morale of the people to come in for blame. This was to such of the armed forces were no longer of Stanley and, indeed, of the whole an extent that she feared she would billeted in private houses. The new of the Falkland Islands, now hit an be charged with manslaughter and 22 HHistoryistory had to seek legal representation and counter rumours about how 14, 1989, where he admitted to two In fact, there had been many reports the fi re had started, it might all have cases of arson at Little Aston Hospital of the inadequate fi re precautions ended, but for one man and a series and was committed to a psychiatric in this and other public buildings in of amazing coincidences. hospital. Stanley in the 1970s and in 1982 Dr Fire and Safety consultant Alan New investigation forced Bleaney, along with other doctors, Cox, is a leading expert on fi re safety Following this media exposure and the Fire Offi cer, and the military in hospitals. During years working questions in the House of Commons authorities had demanded the urgent for Warwick County Fire Service, the Falkland Islands Police forced installation of fi re doors in the old West Midlands Fire Service and the opening of a new investigation wooden hospital, as the only way of West Birmingham Health Authority, into the KEMH fi re, despite the British stopping a fi re should one break out. he was responsible for developing a Government Home Offi ce’s evident Arson eliminated computerised hospital fi re evacuation lack of appetite for re-opening the It was widely believed that the fi re program which has been used in case. began when embers from a barbecue many major hospitals. Offences suppressed were placed under the fl oor boards of Given his profession, when Mr Cox Following the new investigation, a small storage room near a bathroom visited the Falkland Islands some once again Clive Shorters, was in the old part of the hospital, though years after the fi re at KEMH, he was arrested, and after being charged this assertion was challenged later in interested to fi nd out more about in Wolverhampton, with the court. At the time, the Commission’s it, particularly when he discovered manslaughter of the eight people own report, published on July 12, that none of the Falkland Islanders who had died in the Stanley fi re was 1984, failed to identify the cause of he spoke to, including members of committed for trial at the Old Bailey. the fi re. the Royal Falkland Islands Police, Acquittal That this was not discovered, Dr believed the offi cial report that the fi re By this time, further investigations Bleaney feels, is hardly surprising, was an accident. into Shorter’s past had revealed that given that the hospital site was bull- No Home Offi ce response he had been present during two fi res at dozed fl at in less than 48 hours With his interest awakened, Mr military bases in which he had served: after the fi re, ruling out any hope of Cox wanted to apply to the event one in Munster, Germany, before his forensic investigation. Member of the an investigative mapping system time in the Falklands and another Commission, Eric Goss, does not developed in the USA, but found to his at Catterick Barracks in Yorkshire, remember who gave the order for this surprise that the offi cial report by HM afterwards. This information, together to be done. Inspectors of Fires, lacked suffi cient with Shorters’ own admissions of Despite this diffi culty, the information to enable him to do this. A arson at the Little Aston Hospital, was Commission’s report concluded: “We request for this information in the form not allowed to be known or taken into have eliminated arson, the electric of twenty-four simple questions about account by the jury. Shorters was heater in the bathroom, an electrical fi re alarms, fi re escape doors, fi re acquitted. fault, spontaneous combustion of hydrants and emergency lighting and Brought from Australia to give the mattresses stored in the rooms, the like, sent via FIG to the report’s evidence at the trial, Dr Alison Bleaney and an external source of fi re as the authors, yielded no response, despite is still angry about it. She claims causes of the fi re. We are left with several reminders. Shorters’ legal team had portrayed the probability that the fi re must have Timeline misfi t her testimony and that of others as been due to an accidental internal There was no response either “unreliable” because, “we could not source of fi re, inadvertently caused by to a question Mr Cox had asked remember how many mattresses were either a patient, member of staff or an about a member of HM Forces in the store room at the time of the fi re intruder.” who, in his words, “during the fi re or how many times the bathroom and PWD criticised did not fi t the timeline.” With the storeroom had been painted and what The strongest criticism in the report Home Offi ce refusing to answer any colours (they had been) in the years was levelled at the Public Works questions it seemed to Mr Cox that his preceding the fi re.” Department. It was found, for example, investigation could not be taken any Shorters’ defence counsel, for his that fi re doors, requested by the Fire further. From now on, any mystery part, later claimed that due to the Offi cer in November 1983, were never surrounding the events of April 10, poor initial investigation into the fi re, ordered and hose reels, although 1984 was going to be allowed once the prosecution had been unable to fi tted, had not been connected to the again to sink into obscurity. provide suffi cient proof of his client’s water supply. The electrical wiring in No interest from HMG guilt. He cited the fact that the site the hospital was safe, as faulty wiring Some years after his Falklands visit, had been bull-dozed immediately had been recently replaced. However, while investigating two non-fatal fi res afterwards as a particular weakness. two trailer fi re pumps failed to work, at Little Aston Hospital in Stafford, in Following his acquittal, Shorters and the low water pressure in Stanley 1988 and 1989, Mr Cox came upon was once again returned to a secure was inadequate to permit the hydrants a familiar name among the list of staff mental hospital, where he would to operate properly. recorded as being on duty at the time. remain unless his release was Debate about the fi re and its causes This, it turned out, was the name of ordered by the Home Secretary or a reached Westminster and led to a the member of HM Forces who had Mental Health Tribunal. damning parliamentary investigation. provoked his earlier question about Hero or poisoner? Speaking in the House of Commons on the KEMH fi re. Surprisingly, when he Evidently Shorters was released, August 1, MP Michael Stern reported, wrote to HM Government suggesting because on November 29, 2008 “Lack of fi re doors was perhaps the that the case should be re-opened, the Birmingham Sunday Mercury principal and most obvious cause of they showed no interest. Not so the reported that Shorters, described as the rapid spread of the fi re, which was British media, who were happy to “a Falklands War veteran hailed a the reason why so many lives were publish Mr Cox’s concerns. hero after he helped save dozens of lost.” Questioned by police, as a result of lives in a horrifi c hospital blaze” was Amazing coincidences Mr Cox’s investigation, former Lance due to make another appearance in And here, except for the mourning Corporal and military paramedic, the Wolverhampton Crown Court in of the many who had lost friends and Clive Shorters, was brought to trial at December, this time charged with the relatives and the inevitable rumours Stafford Crown Court on September attempted poisoning of a child.” 23 Advertising

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24 History

Above: RRS SIR DAVID ATTENBOROUGH. Right ERNEST SHACKLETON in Stanley Harbour and below in Antarctica

WITHOUT any particular ceremony, the RRS SHACKLETON on March 15, 2019, slipped through the Narrows of Stanley Harbour on her way north to Farewell to the UK. This was the last time that she would serve as a scientifi c maritime work horse for the British Antarctic Survey. The ship, which is an ice- RRS ERNEST strengthened cargo vessel was built by Kverner Klevin Leirvik A/S, in Norway for GC Riebe Shipping, based in Bergen and launched in 1995 as the MV POLAR QUEEN. She was acquired by BAS in SHACKLETON August 1999 under a long-term charter arrangement and registered popularity after it was chartered to headquarters in Cambridge. in the Falkland Islands on September escort the cruise ship CRYSTAL The new ship will contain much 30, 1999. Her maiden voyage with SERENITY through the Northwest better and more extensive facilities for BAS took place during the 1999/00 Passage. scientifi c work, including a ‘tide pool’, fi eld season. Her renaming as the Speaking last week on Falklands essentially a hole in the hull bottom, to RRS ERNEST SHACKLETON by Radio, Director of the British Antarctic facilitate safe oceanic observations. Alexandra Shackleton took place on Survey, Dr Jane Francis, said that The RRS SIR DAVID May 13, 2000. she thought it likely that the ERNEST ATTENBOROUGH will also have Primarily a logistics vessel SHACKLETON might return to the greater cargo-carrying capacity to used to transport cargo, fuel and Antarctic under new operators, enable it to make ‘one stop’ supply of passengers to the Antarctic bases, though she was not certain about the fuel, food and equipment for what the RRS ERNEST SHACKLETON also ultimate fate of its sister vessel, the Director described as “tractor trains.” had a basic scientifi c capability and RRS JAMES CLARK ROSS. These are a combination of vehicles, undertook some research work. Both vessels were due to be sledges and living accommodation During the northern summer, she was replaced by the much larger and which allow science and support commercially chartered and usually better-equipped RRS SIR DAVID teams to live and work in remote worked in the North Sea. ATTENBOROUGH. This change areas a long way from the research In August 2016, the RRS to single vessel operations was stations at Rothera or Halley Bay. SHACKLETON gained worldwide already being planned for at the BAS 25 Remembrance 1982 fallen remembered A MISTY, mild morning with light rain greeted those setting out to the Cathedral on June 14 for a thanksgiving service held to remember the British forces who lost their lives in the Falkland Islands War of 1982. After the ceremony the congregation moved to swell the ranks of the many that had already arrived at the Liberation Monuments for the Act of Remembrance. His Excellency the Governor Nigel Phillips with the Commander British Forces Brigadier Nick Sawyer and Member of Legislative Assembly Leona Roberts attended, and the parade comprised members of the Falkland Islands Defence Force, the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force and the Parachute Regiment as well as the Merchant Navy, 1982 war veterans and FIDF veterans. Members of Falklands youth groups were as ever present. Many wreaths were laid at the monument after prayers. The large crowd clapped loudly as the parade marched past the Liberation Monument. After the ceremony a civic reception was held at the FIDF Hall where all were welcome.

Below: HMS CLYDE contingent. Right: RAF member

26 Remembrance

Above: To loud applause the Parachute Regiment and all contingents passed the 1982 Liberation Monument at the close of the parade. Below: The Falkland Islands Defence Force

27 Obituaries Remembering Captain David Pentreath CAPTAIN David Pentreath, DSO, CBE, was the commander of HMS PLYMOUTH during the 1982 confl ict. He died on June 26 after a stroke, at the age of 86. Pentreath was prominent in the iconic image (right) showing Lieutenant-Commander Alfredo Astiz signing documents of surrender at South Georgia on April 26, 1982. Astiz, who was known as the Blonde Angel of Death, and who is now serving life in prison for crimes against humanity, had surrendered offi cer of HMS BRILLIANT, said his childhood in Australia before after receiving a message from of Captain Pentreath’s time in the returning to Britain and becoming a Pentreath. Falklands: “Of course Plymouth was Naval Cadet. The message explained that always going to cop it. She did not He met his wife Judith at a wedding anything short of surrender would really have the right kit to fi ght these where he was best man and she result in Pentreath shelling the cliff kinds of action. But I’ll never forget was chief bridesmaid. Having asked behind the Argentine camp, causing her in Carlos Water when we were her to dance and taken her hand, an avalanche of rocks to crush it. Astiz, under such serious attack - she just she was expecting him to whisper knowing he had been outthought and steamed round and round the other some romantic words. Instead he outfought, immediately capitulated. ships in a gesture to the Argentines of said “I can tell you’ve been pulling HMS PLYMOUTH later sailed to the total defi ance. She had comparatively on a mainsheet.” Judith was indeed Falklands, and was the fi rst ship to little to fi ght with, just guns and an old missing a day’s yachting at Cowes enter San Carlos water, on May 20. Sea Cat, but she gave it everything. Week to attend the wedding. She provided air defence support and Pentreath? Bravest chap I’ve ever Captain David Pentreath is survived escorted landing craft until she was hit seen.” by three sons, Tim, Jon and Ben, as by four 1,000lb bombs on June 8. David Pentreath was born in well as six grandchildren. Captain John Coward, commanding London in 1933. He spent some of Above: David Pentreath, far right, watches Alfredo Astiz sign the surrender of South Georgia on HMS PLYMOUTH in April 1982

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28 Philately Remembering Ian MacDonald - offi cial spokesman of the MOD in 1982 War IAN McDonald was the offi cial fi ght a war 8000 miles away with no for greater transparency. Sir Frank spokesman of the Ministry of Defence assurance of success, there was a Cooper, MOD’s senior civil servant, (MOD) during the Falklands confl ict strong concern about military security. was persuaded to resume confi dential in 1982. His role was controversial It was therefore decided that all ‘off the briefi ngs for the press, the fi rst such because of the degree of censorship record’ briefi ngs previously granted to was held on 11 May 1982 and twice and control that the UK Government defence correspondents should be a week thereafter. Neville Taylor sought to impose on the public stopped with information released only assumed responsibility for all MOD’s reporting of the war, impossible now to through offi cial statements delivered PR policy on 18 May although Ian achieve with the advance of satellite by Ian McDonald, which were carried McDonald continued to act as MOD communications and social media. on national and international news. spokesman until the emergency press His idiosyncratic style – described He decided to adopt a measured, centre was closed down on 18 June as sepulchral and devoid of emotion unemotional tone in his delivery and to 1982. yet also as calm, and reassuring – dampen speculation by sticking strictly After the confl ict, Ian McDonald left brought him detractors and supporters to the content of the press statements. the PR world to become head of the (and, as a bachelor, female suitors). Media correspondents chafed at this Adjutant General’s secretariat and But overall, he gained the trust of the but his quirkiness transformed him into then in 1986 head of the Defence British public, who were not taken a national celebrity, often lampooned Export Services Secretariat dealing in by the excitable rhetoric of the by cartoonists, both critically and with UK arms sales policy abroad. Argentine junta. A lifelong civil servant, affectionately. Heavily bespectacled, Following the fi rst Gulf War in 1991, his career in the MOD ended on a dark suited and with a penchant for he became embroiled in the public sour note following criticism of him erudite aphorisms, he gained the revelation that the UK Government in the Scott inquiry report, published public’s confi dence and the grudging had endorsed the sale of arms in 1996, into the sale of arms to Iraq. respect of the media. by British companies to Saddam After retirement, he enjoyed the quiet The confl ict between the need for Hussein’s regime and was criticised of his villa in Umbria, Italy. security and the media’s pressure for for in Sir Richard Scott’s report of his Born in 1936, the son of a successful more openness became a subplot to judicial inquiry published in 1996. He businessman, Ian McDonald took the actual war itself (as well as the therefore left the service on retirement law at Glasgow University followed subject of a parliamentary inquiry at age 60 on a sour note. by postgraduate studies in English afterwards). Even within MOD and A confi rmed bachelor, Ian McDonald Literature and Classical Greek. After the military units involved in the Task spent much time in retirement at his spells in the army working as an Force, there were tensions over villa in Umbria, Italy. He died, aged 82, interpreter in Cyprus, in a law fi rm in the right way to handle the media. on 28 March 2019, a day before what Scotland and a year as a teacher in Neville Taylor, who had decided to would have been his 83rd birthday. Karachi, Pakistan, he joined the MOD transfer early because of the confl ict, as a civil servant. He rose steadily took up duty in the MOD on 13 April Information drawn from obituaries through the civil service grades before 1982 only to fi nd that matters relating in the Daily Telegraph and Glasgow heading MOD’s recruitment and pay to the Falklands were to be kept Herald as well as Robert Harris’s book section. In 1979, despite having no outside his remit ‘for the time being’. "Gotcha! The Media, the Government experience in media relations, he Bernard Ingham, himself a master and the Falklands Crisis” published by was appointed deputy chief of MOD’s of background briefi ngs, argued Faber & Faber 1983. public relations unit. In 1981, the post of chief of MOD’s PR unit became vacant. Ian McDonald applied for the post but was passed over in favour of a professional PR expert, Neville Taylor, who was then head of PR in the Department of Health and Social Security (DHSS) and the preferred candidate of Bernard Ingham, Mrs Thatcher’s powerful press secretary at No 10. Because of work pressures in DHSS, Neville Taylor’s transfer to MOD was to be delayed and it was agreed that Ian McDonald would continue as acting chief of PR, MOD until June 1982. So, when on 2 April 1982 the Argentines invaded the Falkland PHOTOGRAPHY by Falkland Islander Georgina Strange adorns the Islands, Ian McDonald was thrust into most recent Pobjoy Mint, Falkland Islands stamp issue. the limelight as MOD’s spokesman for With a colourful ‘feathers’ theme, those of a Striated Caracara are the war. The media wanted enhanced shown on a 32p, and a Black-browed Albatross on another of the same and extensive access, on the ships price. The speckled feathers of a Barn Owl can be found on one 78p going down to the Falklands, on and those of bright Yellow-billed Teal on another. Steel blue, and white Ascension Island, and in Whitehall. are the beautiful Black-crowned Night Heron feathers on a £1.26 and Yet amongst the Chiefs of Staff, black, yellow and white of a King Penguin on the alternative. worried about the risks of going to 29 Births, marriages and deaths Births, marriages and deaths All information is obtained from the Falklands registry. If your child has Falklands status at birth but was born outside of the Falklands please let us know so that the FIA can include the announcement in a following edition, if that is your wish

Births Helena Jane Buckley-Whitney & Kurt 17/08/2019 Ariane Storm Goss 10/01/2019 Keniah Louise Clifton Ian Whitney & Michael Stewart Brownlee – - Michaela Sara Monica Clifford & 05/08/2019 Ben David Hawksworth Government House, Stanley, Melvyn Clifton – Cara Jane Hawksworth & Falkland Islands 11/01/2019 Oana Mihaela Rose Christopher Hawksworth 25/08/2019 Richard Fraile Flores & Vatamanu - Paula May Vatamanu & 08/08/2019 Georgina Christina Short Paul John Cotterill – Lafone House, Gabriel Ionut Vatamanu – Rachel Mandy Short & Scott Daniel Stanley, Falkland Islands 10/01/2019 Mila Rose Clarke - Sarah Felton Short May Bo Clarke & Luke Anthony Deaths Clarke Marriages 08/01/2019 Barry Marwood Neilson 26/01/2019 Miley Christine May 02/02/2019 Gary Clement & Gloria 74 years, Falkland Islands - Tanya Louise Ford & Shawn Linda McRae – Liberty Lodge, 16/01/2019 Thelma Ferguson Christopher May Stanley, Falkland Islands 85 years, Falkland Islands 12/03/2019 Blake Christopher James 16/02/2019 Kyle John Hobman & 17/01/2019 Sharon Elizabeth Coleman - Racquel Emily Irene Berta Del Carmen Pavez Araya – 21 Middleton 65 years Falkland Islands Francis & Jamie Leemarc Coleman Ross Road East, Stanley, Falkland 22/01/2019 Susana Binnie 17/04/2019 Annaliese Juliet Islands 85 years, Falkland Islands Goodwin-Dominguez – Karina 03/03/2019 Beverley Rose Reid & 25/01/2019 Vivekanand Narayan Daniela Dominguez Aguilar & Adam James Glanville – Sandy Bay Kulkarni 80 years, Canada Matthew Gerald Goodwin Beach, Bleaker Island 07/02/2019 Evelyn May Poole 23/04/2019 Nicole Summer Tabjara 04/05/2019 Maeve Ann Daly & 92 years, Falkland Islands Davis – Janith Pabol Davis & Michael Ian Sutcliffe – Lafone House, 10/02/2019 Serge Jean Wolman Nicholas Davis Stanley, Falkland Islands 69 years, France 07/05/2019 Charlie William Evans 04/05/2019 Tonisha Louisa Goodwin 14/02/2019 Thomas Forsyth McGhie – Leigh Francesca Evans & Duane & Nathan Reginald Eugenio Lowe – 83 years, Scotland Richard Evans Whalebone Arch, Stanley, Falkland 13/03/2019 Gerald Alexander Smith 09/05/2019 Jordon Levi Williams – Islands 79 years, Falkland Islands Daniella Dawn Curtis & Rico Dakota 01/06/2019 Chloe Elizabeth Ford & 19/03/2019 Eric Ernest Albert Gene Williams Lorenzo Dave Green – Christ Church Decroliere 76 years, Falkland Islands 13/05/2019 Oscar Ali Reynaldo Cathedral, Stanley, Falkland Islands 28/03/2019 Karen Judith Langford Rodriguez-Reid – Carly Chelsea East 22/06/2019 Katherine Almedilla 64 years, Australia & Axel Reynaldo Rodriguez Reid Alburo & Jessie Mark Duncan – 01/05/2019 Yvonne Alazia 18/05/2019 Atticus Gawain Daille Registry Offi ce, Stanley, Falkland 72 years, Falkland Islands – Jacqueline Ann Cotter & Antoine Islands 03/05/2019 James Terence Smith Reive Daille Marchant 02/07/2019 Marta Alejandra Allendes 92 years, Falkland Islands 29/05/2019 Callie Rose Dickson – Soza & Katherine Ibeth Garrido 14/06/2019 Gladys Carey 91 years Jessica Rose Morris & Jason Edward Rivas – 11 McKay Close, Stanley, Falkland Islands Dickson Falkland Islands 14/07/2019 Pascal Adam Whitney –

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30 FIA information Membership Application The Falkland Islands Association A photocopy is acceptable to save cutting your copy of President: The Rt Hon The Lord Hurd CH CBE. the Newsletter or forms can be downloaded from the FIA Vice Presidents: General Sir Peter de la Billiere KCB website at www.fi association.com KBE DSO MC MSC DL, General Sir Michael Rose KCB CBE DSO QGM DL, Mr David Tatham CMG, I wish to support the right of the people of the Falkland Hon Cindy Buxton, Mrs Merle Christie, Islands to decide their own future. I wish to join the Falkland Mr ECJ Clapp MBE, Dr R Elgood, Islands Association (see membership rates elsewhere on Councillor RE Walker, Mr Alan Huckle. this page).

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