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EST ARRIVAL DATE: 25 Dec 22
Last 24hrs - A lot has been happening on AIVIQ as the ship draws nearer to Antarctica. The most significant and interesting event for the crew yesterday was sighting the first iceberg of the trip. The iceberg was truly spectacular with magnificent white colour mingled with vivid blues. The iceberg also had a series of large arches eroded into its sides making it look somewhat like the Avengers Antarctic garage. Even seasoned ship's crew and AAD staff were busy snapping photos on the Bridge.
VM has been kept busy with a number of tasks including deploying another Argo float this time at 62 degrees latitude. This now puts the total Argo floats deployed to three. The fourth float will be deployed at midnight tonight and VL Cam has reassured DVL Trent he has special permission from Santa to be out of bed for this important science activity.
The team have also been busy preparing for arrival at Casey with a number of mandatory briefs taking place. The first mandatory brief delivered was the environmental brief which reminds all personnel of how we can protect Antarctica's flora and fauna. This presentation includes vital information about the best ways to clean clothing and equipment prior to departing the ship. Prior to departure, all personnel will move to a central cleaning facility where they will use tools, equipment and cleaning products to clean and disinfect all clothing and equipment.
The second and equally important presentation was delivered after lunch today and was the refuelling brief. The refuelling brief is approx. 1h long and provides the refuelling supervisor with an opportunity to pass on vital information regarding the upcoming refuelling operations. This brief forms just one small part of our training and preparation and aids in ensuring the refuelling operation is conducted as safely as possible.
The team will receive arrival day and station briefs tonight prior to having a much-needed day of rest on Christmas day.
From everyone onboard MPOV AIVIQ, we wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas.
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.