Never would I have imagined, while growing up amidst the scrublands that envelope Perth, that I'd be fortunate enough to witness not just one, but two auroras within the span of two years.
It started as a conversation in Purnululu National Park a couple of years ago. "Hey, wouldn’t it be cool to work in Antarctica?” a colleague asked. It had never crossed my mind but I was intrigued by the notion. A few months later I sent off my application. In the meantime life went on. I was lucky enough to explore Europe in January 2023, the final leg of that adventure was dog sledding in Lapland, northern Sweden. Eight days sledding from cabin to cabin with a special group of strangers, where I was lucky enough to see the aurora borealis on my journey. A truly amazing experience for sure!
It was on my return that I received word that I was on the shortlist to be a chef in Antarctica. I originally only planned to do a summer but the offer for winter chef at Casey came and it was too good of an opportunity to turn down. My season was not to be as planned, having to return to Australia early in the summer for unforeseen circumstances, however I was determined to return. I did return, and I was on the first flight back . It took a while but my Casey adventure with a new special group of strangers has begun to feel like home. Last week I was lucky enough to get out to Wilkes for the first time. It was our first clear night we’ve had in a while and I was lucky enough to get to see the aurora australis for the first time. At -30*C outside the moment was brief, special and fulfilling as it passed us by. So what has Casey taught me? Well, that plans can change, try to adapt as best you can, some days are a real grind but when you get the opportunity to take in a fleeting moment, cherish it.... and who knows where you’ll end up while chasing lights.
Rob Boorman - Casey Chef 23/24
