Issue date: 13th November 2025
Gough Island Scientific Survey 1955–56
The Gough Island Scientific Survey was the vision of John Heaney, an engineering student at Cambridge who set out to map one of the world’s most remote and uncharted islands.
Led by a small team of young Cambridge and Oxford graduates, the 1955–56 expedition aimed to chart the island, study its rocks, plants, and animals, and assess its potential as a weather station. Despite early setbacks — including injuries, delays, and rough seas — the team built their base, conducted surveys, and made lasting discoveries.
Their work produced the first accurate map of Gough Island, identified new species, and confirmed its global importance for seabirds and fur seals. The expedition’s findings also led to the establishment of a permanent weather station, ensuring the island’s ongoing scientific legacy and its later recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stamps
55p Exploring party on Michael’s Ridge: Harold Green, Martin Holdgate & Nigel Wace.
55p Michael Swales recording the call of a Brown Skua.
65p John Heaney surveying Gough’s eastern cliffs.
£1.00 Michael Swales documenting an elephant seal.
£1.50 Roger LeMaitre overlooking the uplands from Gonçalo Alvarez Peak.
£1.50 Map of Gough Island by John Heaney, Royal Geographical Society.
FDC GISS members outside their base hut: Green, Repetto, LeMaitre, Heaney, Hall, Mullock, Wace, van der Merwe, Swales & Holdgate.
With thanks to Sir Martin Holdgate for his assistance.