BODY AT THE MELBOURNE CLUB – ARMYTAGE

Bertram Armytage, son of a wealthy Australian squatter, fought in the Boer War and later was a key member of Ernest Shackleton's Nimrod expedition (1907 – 1909). In London, he was decorated by royalty for his achievements. On his return to Australia, having left his wife and infant daughter in London, he went to his part-time city residence, the exclusive Melbourne Club, put on his dinner suit and polar medals and, at the age of 41, shot himself. This biography traces the enigmatic life of an unsung explorer, providing a new perspective on one of the great polar expeditions.