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Around 2000hrs last evening it was apparent that the ship was dragging its
anchor in the 35 knot wind that had persisted all day and curtailed any
barge operations. The decision was made to pull the anchor and steam
north leaving Davis in our wake. There was a short but much appreciated
red flare farewell from station and some returning semaphore from the
bridge.
All aboard wish the expeditioners remaining at Davis a safe and happy
winter.
The ship is now stopped in the pack ice awaiting a final decision on
whether to proceed straight back to Hobart or towards Mawson in
preparation for a fly-off operation. After our stop at Davis the ship
now has sufficient fuel for the three helicopters aboard to deliver a
substantial amount of cargo and diesel to Mawson. However, this option
needs to considered against mounting a dedicated voyage, with both options
having pros and cons.
As we await further instruction another complication has been added to
the decision on which way we turn. Earlier today Japan’s Antarctic program advised
that its vessel the ‘Shirase’ may have required assistance and we were put on
stand-by the AAD in case our support was required. The Shirase is located near Russia’s
Molodezhnaya station close to the western edge of the Australian
Antarctic Territory. It was good to hear late today that the 'Shirase' did not require assistance and we wish them well for the rest of their voyage this season.
Tonight we will be having our second BBQ for the voyage before our
expected return to open and rougher water.
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.