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No goals kicked yesterday afternoon as the wind continued to blow and swell continued to build. There was a short lull as one weather system passed over the island and we attempted to get our people back to the ship but before the LARC could get to the ship, the swell had picked up and it was sent back to the island. At 1630 play was cancelled due to poor light and weather and we picked up the the anchor and left Buckles Bay and headed to sea and spent the night in the lee of the island, which made for a very comfortable night.
Today has been a bit of an experience for those not used to the Southern Ocean with a nice 6m swell at times and a subtle force 10 wind thrown in as well. It was also the time for thermals as the thermometer dropped to a chilly -4 plus whatever the wind chill was on top of that. We've also had a dose of hail as well as blowing snow and reduced visibility - sensational! Doesn't really get any better than this!
As I write this, the island is completely covered in snow, making for a spectacular sight in between the passing rain, sleet and snow showers.
The Southern Ocean's performance has precluded any resupply activity today, but it looks like tomorrow may be a bit more favourable for helicopter operations and maybe for some LARC loads and to get some people off the ship who are starting to get cabin fever.
The snow and sleet have made the decks very icy so upper deck access has been limited to essential personnel only in the interest of keeping everyone safe. So the DVDs and books are getting good use. The Navy personnel are working in various parts of the ship in order to get a good appreciation of life at sea on a working ship.
For all those concerned about Andy, I hear he has made himself very at home in the Macca mess telling war stories, to all those that will listen, of his time in the world's trouble spots and something about a helicopter. I also think it was a bit harsh of those people who sent me an email saying a 'make and mend' (refer to yesterday's SITREP) was a typical day for Andy or implying that I deliberately left him on the island!
For those interested in last night's dessert, you will be pleased to know that it was home made pancakes with macademia nut ice cream and berry sauce. Have to say they were pretty special and very popular with the troops.
Navy term of the Day:
Shake - to wake someone up to go on watch. Something we have to do constantly to Andy, but its Macca's problem at the moment!
Regards
Rob and Andy (You lose a days pay for every day ashore!)
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.