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It's been a hectic sea here for the last 24hrs but we are on track to be in the calm Derwent River tomorrow morning. We will anchor for the day until a berth becomes free at the wharf and then come alongside as planned at 1800.
Tomorrow will be the end of another long shipping season for the Australian Antarctic program and at the heart of this is the crew of the Aurora Australis. The first voyage left Hobart in October 2016 and since then it has been non-stop with the resupply of all 4 stations, a big marine science project and lots of other science and operational projects all supported from the ship. The crew are amazing keeping the ship going with the engineering crew ensuring mechanical serviceability a long way from any parts shops and playing a key role in station refuelling. The bridge team navigating through ice and stormy seas, keeping the ship on station and maintaining the wind direction just right for helicopters and watercraft operating to and from the vessel in often tricky conditions. The deck crew working long hours out in the elements keeping up the cargo flow to and from shore, craning large and tricky loads on and off in wind and swell and working the high tempo helicopter deck while the galley crew serve up meal after superb meal in all conditions imaginable with constant smiles. The most impressive thing is that all these men and women are so hardworking all season and so friendly and welcoming for the many expeditioners who sail on their ship over the 6 months of voyages they undertake for the program.
It's a real highlight for expeditioners to sail with the Aurora Australis and her crew. Thank you from all of us.
Cheers,
Robb, Nicki, Aaron and Eliza.
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.