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Team Mawson wrapped up their ERT training yesterday with the implementation of their Incident Action Plan in a table top style format. Utilising the ICCS model each team member assumed a role and then openly discussed this role and their responsibilities with the team. With re-supply firmly in their sights and with the Search & Rescue scenario, which was now into its fourth day, reaching a successful end, Team Mawson turned their attention to Fire Response. The guys cast their minds back to their Fire Training which they attended in mid December and with their tails in the air after four days of ERT training it didn't take long for them to develop an immediate 'Fire' Response Plan.
That saw the end to The Mawsonite ERT Training Program but not an end to training altogether. Immediately afterwards Team Mawson were treated to a Communications training session facilitated by one of the AAD Comms Operators, Mick. Mick took The Mawsonites through Comms 101 starting with the basic functions of a VHF Radio through to radio protocols, procedures and etiquette. For the benefit of those expeditioners who have not been South before Mick would support his teachings with practical reference to Antarctica and life on station. The training concluded with Team Mawson breaking into smaller teams (referred to as Mawsonettes) where Mick ran each team through a simulated 'Sked'. Mick has spent many years working in Communications and is regarded by many as one of the best in the business and Team Mawson are very grateful for his time and expertise. Thank-you Mick.
Last night we were treated to an amazing slide show from one of our more experienced expeditioners onboard, Dave Mac. And yes it was an actual "slide show", so for the younger readers of our SITREPs, you may want to ask Mum or Dad on what a "slide" actually is! Dave has wintered and summered in Antarctica on numerous occasions and his slides took gave us a fantastic insight into the conditions and experiences he has had over many years. Dave is passionate about the history of Antarctica, especially the plant and equipment that has been used down here over the years and his passion is evident for all to hear during these presentations. Thanks again Dave, it was brilliant!
We are passing more and more ice bergs as we head further south and the air temperature is dropping as well. Ice is starting to form on the outside decks of the vessel and every now and again we get a light dusting of snow gently fall down on the ship. We should encounter the sea ice edge tonight at some stage which I'm sure will have a lot of people up on the Bridge as it's always a great sight watching the ship enter the sea ice zone.
Cheers,
Deepy and 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.