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The last SITREP for Voyage 4/12 and we are now just over 200 nm to run to Hobart, where we will enter the Derwent tomorrow morning to berth at Selfs Point at around 1100. The Expeditioners will then be bussed across to Macquarie No. 4 to receive certificates and reunite with family and friends.
In the last 24 hours the weather has improved significantly allowing everyone to complete their personal preparations for our return to Australia. This afternoon all Antarctic and protective clothing will be returned onboard, and the last minute details and paperwork for arrival are being completed also. Cabins are being cleaned and bags packed in preparation for leaving the ship.
While the Cianchi Antarctic medal campaign is now officially defunct (for the time being at least) , the general feeling is that the voyage has gone well, with over 5000nm steamed in the last 28 days for an average speed of a little over seven knots. The resupply was achieved in just over four working days, a saving of almost half of the eight days scheduled. There were nil injuries and 98% of voyage objectives were achieved. All this and Chunky still managed to sleep in until ten this morning (Yawn... 10:20 actually. Ed.). Give that man a medal!
And a big thanks to all the crew of the Aurora Australis, the Expeditioners onboard, at Mawson and Davis, and the support team in Tasmania for their hard work, good humour and friendship... Our ETA into Hobart remains alongside Selfs Pint wharf at approximately 1130hrs. Expeditioners will be disembarking the vessel at 1230hrs and meet family and friends in the Macquarie No. 3 Shed, Hobart, at 1300hrs.
Until V5,
Yours Aye,
Andy, Sharon and Chris
Map
A map showing Australia and Antarctica. The map shows the journey of one voyage that has occured in the season, with each route highlighted in a distinct colour.