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Despite our best 'fingers crossed' efforts, yesterday's conditions remained prohibitive to cargo operations. The high winds and large swell resulted in further stooging along the east coast of Macquarie Island.
Whilst these delays are frustrating, this is accepted as part of the complexities of running a remote station resupply in such an isolated environment.
Overnight, weather conditions have improved significantly with cargo operations running solidly all morning. This has resulted in the lower hold of the Aurora Australis now completely discharged, and large amounts of RTA now being loaded aboard. This morning's efforts also included the back loading of a number of large bundles, which are now safely strapped into the ships lower hold.
With station projects now complete, this afternoon we are also expecting to welcome back the last of the round trip project personnel. We are also expecting to welcome aboard more of the previous wintering team, as station handover nears completion and outgoing expeditioners get ready to return home.
In other news, the ship's crew continue their stellar efforts in keeping everyone on board fed, warm and comfortable. In addition, the crew working the cargo discharge have also been fortunate enough to experience some of the vast knowledge of the ship's Chief Mate, who today provided a history lesson on the historical word 'gogga'. This 'historical' term, stencilled into the top of a large industrial cooker that is being RTA'd, was described by the Chief Mate as 'a portion of elephant seal sufficient to feed twelve men for one day'. The accuracy of his vast knowledge is unverified.
Cheers
Andy, Justin and Aron
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.