With a full lap of the sun complete for our Macca experience we reflect on the achievements of the season as trades group custodians of this little slice of wilderness.
Much like the 75 seasons that came before us, Macquarie Island has provided a unique and challenging environment in which our team busily toil with the daily operation and maintenance of existing facilities while combining our efforts into new capital project works as part of a major upgrade of the overall facility. Nestled smack bang in the middle of the Southern Ocean, Macquarie Island bears the full force of the elements that at times feel relentless.
This environment also makes for challenging resupplies and a restricted logistics envelope in which to deliver essential materials and machinery required to do our work. Unlike the continent stations, heavy materials and equipment are delivered across the beach via LARC, restricting capacity to about 4 tonnes per load.
The AAD share responsibility for management and operation of Macquarie Island with Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service who keep a close eye on all activities and ensure we are performing all works in accordance with the guidance provided under the Heritage Management Plan.
The ESS Team who make up almost half of the station population this year have achieved a lot and will depart Macquarie Island leaving it with heads held high after a significant contribution leaving the station that little bit better than we found it. It’s been a privilege to live and work alongside this year’s Engineering and Services Team. My sincere thanks go out to my ESS teammates Azza, Lil Wayne, Curl, Pig Dog, Dingo, Beads, Maverick, Bunji, Scotty, Walshy, Merce & Camo – Champions the lot of you! A special mention also to our Dieso Mike “Magic” Coombe, Nanching from our Stores and Matty Roberts our loveable winter FTO for lending a hand across the season.
Some of our works and achievements are captured in the photos below.
Jon Hatton
Engineering and Services Supervisor 76th ANARE
