Final answer:
Douglas Mawson led Australia's first Antarctic expedition in 1911, contributing to scientific research and exploration of the continent. The legacy of such expeditions is seen in the modern influx of tourists to Antarctica.
Step-by-step explanation:
Douglas Mawson led Australia's first expedition to the Antarctic in the year 1911. This historical Antarctic exploration is significant as it marked Australia's initial foray into exploring the icy southern continent. Mawson's expedition aimed to conduct scientific research and geographical exploration. While the Scottish National Antarctic Expedition had previously built the first permanent base, Omond House, in 1903, the work done by Mawson and his team further contributed to human understanding of Antarctica. Today, Antarctica attracts over 45,000 tourists annually, who come to witness its unique wildlife and landscapes, despite the continent's harsh conditions and the strict regulations imposed by the Antarctic Treaty to protect its pristine environment.