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Today finds the Aurora sailing on a light swell under blue skies. General crew duties, the retrieval of the continuous plankton recorder and some water sampling has been the extent of the operational activities onboard as crew and expeditioners gathered together to celebrate Christmas Day on the ship.
Normally in the midst of station resupply operations this time of year, it is a rare pleasure for the ship, still well out in the open ocean, to celebrate Christmas on the 25th, affording many the opportunity to relax and take part in the celebrations.
The Aurora's galley team, have once again provided for us a Christmas feast, including a range of seafood, traditional meats, salads and desserts including of course, an excellent Christmas pudding and cake, ceremonially sliced by the Chief Mate. Through days of preparations ably supported by volunteers, the galley staff have once again exceeded what one would think possible in the confines of a ship's galley in ocean swells. We are very grateful to them.
After a lunch of many courses and much good cheer, festivities moved to the ship's library where Bharat, continuing our V2 tradition of inter-faith Christmas elfery, distributed gifts for the ship's crew and expeditioners.
On such occasions, the thoughts of all on board turn homeward, to colleagues, friends and family. This year especially, with many at home in Australia whose Christmas will be marred by bushfires. Our thoughts are with them, and with our colleagues across the Australian Antarctic Program.
On behalf of all on the Aurora, Merry Christmas to one and all.
James, Anthea & Gemma.
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.