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Another day of blue skies and sunshine here off Dumont d'Urville. Once again, both French and Australian teams have made the most of the conditions, discharging station bound cargo safely and efficiently, both from the ship's heli-deck via sling-loading helicopter and over the side onto the waiting sleds. A number of these sleds – pulled several hundred metres in towards the shoreline have served very effectively as elevated platforms for sling loading operations by the French dogmen wearing their hi-vis , (Ed: gilet rouge, pas gilet jaunes) whilst other sleds continue to ferry containers to and from the shore point. Overseen by our deputy voyage leader and her stalwart logistics liaisons from the French programme they together, and in concert with the excellent P&O crew and counterparts on station, have managed a remarkably effective cargo operation.
Our refuel supervisor and assistant travelled to station early this morning to assess the station's fuel infrastructure and commence planning the refuel operation. Whilst not a priority for this resupply, the refuelling of Dumont d'Urville has remained on the schedule, though subject to the completion of higher priority operations. Unfortunately its schedule has not enjoyed the same benign weather conditions as the cargo operation. As of this afternoon, forecasts received courtesy of the Bureau of Meteorology indicate potential gale force conditions here early tomorrow morning, negating the prospect of either overnight or day time refuelling. This forecast, coupled with the prospect of a clear albeit limited weather window Thursday/Friday at Macquarie Island is compelling us to conclude our operations here this evening and turn towards Macca.
Though not before we welcome a contingent of 19 French expeditioners onboard for the journey North. Once they're safely onboard, our crew will make ready the ship and all things going to plan – we'll be stealing out of our little cul de sac here in the fast ice offshore from Dumont d'Urville and bidding our French comrades a fond farewell.
That's the plan.
Regards,
James and Leanne
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.