The FMC Expedition Scholarship awards are a highlight of every year, and a signal that summer is on its way. This year FMC is very pleased to be able to support the following people on their outdoor adventures:

• Ivan Andrews (VUWTC) – a Southern Alps crossing from the Rakaia to the West Coast via the Bracken snowfield and Ivory Lake Hut – 11 days, party of 5. This is the first FMC Expedition Scholarship awarded to members of the VUWTC.
• Dulkara Martig (FMC Individual Supporter): an all-women traverse from Arthur’s Pass to Mt Cook – 32 days, party of 4.
• Stacey Hendricks (MUAC): an expedition into Nelson Lakes National Park – 8 days, party of 4. This is the first FMC Expedition Scholarship awarded to members of MUAC.
• Nathan Sturrock (FMC Individual Supporter): an east-west traverse of Upper South Island from the Clarence to the Buller – tramping – climbing – pack-rafting – mountain-biking – 6 days, party of 6.
• Sam West  (OUTC): Findlay Glacier – South Westland – 7 days, party of 4.  A novel expedition to pay homage to the late John Findlay (Sam’s grandfater). Jet-boating on the Arawhata, finding a way to the Findlay glacier, climbing adjacent peaks and returning to civilisation with packrafts.
• Justin Venables (NZ Canyoning Association): Tuke River (Westland). An ambitious first descent by a tough local team. Will it be mainly kayaking or mainly canyoning with kayaks?  – ‘multi day,’ 8 in party – this is the Simon Bell Memorial scholarship award.

One of the Expeditions is already underway. The Girls Southern Alps Traverse can be followed online, or on their facebook group. Inspiring stuff!