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The Aurora Australis remains anchored off Davis a bit more than half a
nautical mile, or around 1.2 kilometres, from shore in around 15 metres
of water.
Winds have increased to the point where barge operations are no longer
possible. Two of our three helicopters are being used to transfer
expeditioners aboard. Prior to getting on the helicopters passengers
have to don an immersion suit. The suits are fully waterproof even
having dry suit seals, it's very much a two person job, especially the
heavy duty waterproof zip.
We are carefully watching the weather in the hope that we can bring the
last half heights of cargo to the ship. The half heights are like a
twenty foot shipping container, only half as high, and with no top. Each
one carries 39 drums of aviation jet fuel for the helicopters which will
be needed if we are to fly the cargo and fuel into Mawson station in the
days ahead.
Once the remaining expeditioners and their baggage are aboard we have 8
barge trips to complete before we can depart for the pack ice edge.
Cheers, Andy, Brett, Dave and James.
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.