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All at sea. We left Macquarie island at 1830 last night, and into a Westerly with a vigorous SW change this morning with snow showers, gales and seas to 6m. This is passing and moderating as the day goes on.
Aboard most expeditioners are well and plenty appearing at meals. After a hectic time at Macquarie island most enjoying a quieter day and catching up on sleep or yarning. A ships muster was held after lunch, and we will change toe clocks to Hobart time tonight. Looking forward to seeing film of the Macquarie island pest Eradication Project (MIPEP) activities over the last year filmed by Claudia Babirat after tea.
The final operation at Macca yesterday was to get the 3 helicopters, 1 IRB boat and watercraft operators aboard. It was hurry up and wait until mid afternoon when conditions eased slightly as forecast, allowing a hectic operation to get all 3 helicopters on board the ships helideck before darkness one at a time, de bladed and moved into the hangar allowing the next to come to ship.
This was supported by IRB craft providing on water SAR cover in marginal conditions before the last craft was hoisted on board. We then made ready for sea, and waved off the winter team in darkness illuminated by waving torches and flares, and left the 2012 team to reclaim the island and begin their winter.
Firm ETA Hobart yet to come but we expect it to be middle of the day Tuesday.
Cheers Don, Simon, Brett.
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.