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As this report is being typed, the Aurora Australis has entered its first field of broken sea ice, interspersed with a range of smooth and angular icebergs, including some very large tabular bergs which would dwarf many smaller coastal islands around the Australian mainland. The smoother bergs have typically been shaped and weathered by the effects of wind and water. A smooth surface is usually a fairly good indication that the visible portion of the berg had previously been the 'underside', until weathering and melting below the waterline changed the berg's centre of gravity, and it has rolled to expose the smooth surface.
The icy spectacle has again drawn crowds of photographic 'gawkers' from below decks, dressed in warm clothing to maximise the time they can spend on the exposed upper decks taking photos. There was a collective sigh of relief amongst the bird nerds aboard – as several of the larger feathered Antarctic residents finally made an appearance alongside the ice today. Southern Giant Petrels, Sooty Albatross and Cape Petrels amongst many others. Those patient observers on the upper decks were also periodically rewarded with sightings of pectoral fins, tails or the glinting backs of various whale species moving in and amongst the ice.
The ship is now making its way carefully between the sea ice, with a gentle bump or rocking felt occasionally as the ship moves across ice floes.
Following the notification yesterday of the ship's new destination (Davis Station), preparations have been well underway – with the Aurora's Chief Mate and crew briefing expeditioners on cargo operations, safety and communications. There'll be a large team of 'round trip' watercraft operators who'll be working aboard the Division's jet barge and IRBs (inflatable boats) in rotating shifts to see the fresh water supplied to the station in regular trips between the vessel and shore. The team is a diverse group, coming from all over Australia (including the Northern Territory!) and from a range of different backgrounds. Many will be working within the sensitive and challenging Antarctic environment for the first time, but they're keen and looking forward to the opportunity to support Australia's scientific and operational activities on the continent.
The vessel is expected to reach its anchorage off the coast at Davis Station sometime on Saturday, where we'll meet with the Station Leader and other key personnel ashore to plan the delivery of the vital fresh water supplies.
Cheers
Mark & Fred
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.