Picture a couple of desolate dots in the South Atlantic Ocean—a...

Picture a couple of desolate dots in the South Atlantic Ocean—a place that’s so remote it practically waves “hello” to Madagascar before Australia. Yet, against all odds, there’s life beyond the seals and penguins. Heard and McDonald Islands aren’t uninhabited; they host two teams of environmentalists, braving the cold and isolation on these far-flung atolls.

Their mission, should they accept it Ms Evil? Keep the delicate ecosystem in balance and ensure the albatross and penguins can strut around without a care.

Now, let’s sprinkle in some history. These islands weren’t always the quiet hangouts for researchers and birds. Back in the 20th century, they had a bustling history as a whaling station. Yes, these icy outposts played their part in the global chase for whale oil, a commodity that fueled lamps and machinery before electricity took over. Quite the turnaround from our Lithium troubles, right?

From chasing whales to protecting them!

In terms of geography, it’s worth noting just how ridiculously remote these islands are. While Norfolk Island sits much closer to Australia, Heard and McDonald Islands stretch their claim in the South Atlantic Ocean, far, far away. If you’re gazing out from Australia, you’d need a telescope pointed toward Madagascar because these islands are closer to that African coast than the land Down Under. Shows you just how vast and beautiful our country is.