Mawson Resupply
The arrival of the Aurora Australis was as much a welcome surprise as it was a relief. After a seemingly impenetrable ice barrier had been breached the sight of the AA in Kista Strait triggered a photographic feeding frenzy.
 We're over here Murray. |
|  The view from the hill |
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Even our resident iceburg moved over for a short time
 I dare you to try |
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The arrival signaled the long awaited and needed re-supply and for some the sight was a moment to celebrate.
 Come on!!! |
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Eager exiting expeditioners from Davis and Casey lined the ship to glimpse Australia's premier Antarctic station. None were disappointed in what they saw as they took in the majestic sight of mountains, sea and ice.
With the helicopters flying in much needed cargo and snail mail, the scene was set for the re-fuelling of the station. Some of the more unusual gifts from friends and relatives included wind chimes, soap and chocolate.
 In coming |
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One problem though, Aeolus-Gandalf was still stuck fast and in the way. The solution was to re-fuel over West Arm, the Harbour and on to the fuel farm.
 Throw us a line will you mate? |
|  Fuel line laid out |
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With the line secured, the much needed fuel found its way safely into the fuel farm under the ever watchful eyes of the expeditioners.
 Ray prepares to lasso the AA |
|  IRB checking the line |
|  A job well done |
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As a reward for all their efforts the night sky was ablaze with a magnificent Aurora in a cloudless sky. The task of feeding the hungry hoards has fallen on Zane and with assistance of the two chefs from Davis and Casey.
 Nice set up here Zane |
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The task of field training the new incoming winter expeditioners has fallen to Thomas. For Gary, Robin and Andrew this meant Thomas finally had the chance to visit the wreckage of the Russian aircraft and a seal carcase many kilometers inland.
 IF its not tied down properly |
|  Petrified seal |
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As always, the Mawson weather determines the work schedules. With the inclement weather the shelter of the Red Shed has allowed rest and recreation until re-supply can return re-commence in earnest in a few days
Beche epilogue
News flash: penguin Veni Vidi, Visa, Vici (I came, I saw, I shopped for things seen, I conquered!)
The weather was nice last week, so we boated over to Beche for our last chick count before resupply. Our chick count last week revealed zero chicks left on the island. We could find no chicks, nor any fresh carcasses around, so presumably the 30 or so that were present a week ago have all fledged.
With no chicks left we prepared the field huts for winter and headed back to base. There remains only some computer work counting penguins and chicks from automated cameras and our work will be done for the current season.
Our thoughts turn now to the trip home, and the endless hours on the open ocean staring at a computer screen counting little men in dapper tuxedos.
 A job well done |
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Farewell to Bob
Charlie and Tony D say goodbye and thanks to Bob for a great summer.
 raising the standard |
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Farewell and good sailing
