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Yesterday we successfully deployed the first of five ARGO floats. Expeditioners milled about on the bridge and back decks in anticipation of seeing the little yellow buoy go over the side. You had to be looking just at the right moment, but luckily most of us managed to catch a glimpse of it bob along in the ship's wake.
We also saw our first iceberg yesterday. Crew member Josh won the iceberg competition AGAIN (he has won every voyage. Some are starting to suspect cheating). AAD Expeditioner Scott was just half an hour behind and the decision was made to award him equal first, given Josh's uncanny gift for iceberg spotting. Incredibly, despite the icebergs and snow showers, a couple of Mawson expeditioners were spotted outside in t-shirts and tropical themed shorts.
All 33 expeditioners gathered in the mess for the nightly 1900 meeting. We celebrated Watercraft Operator Felix's birthday with two indulgent strawberry cheesecakes. Sam also announced the scavenger hunt and pre-quiz questions. These questions range from 'how many heads (toilets) on the AIVIQ' to 'what is the rating of the ship's tow pins and shark jaws'. Each team was also given a question to ask the Chief Mate. As context, AIVIQ's Chief Mate is a colourful character who loves to talk and sometimes play (friendly) tricks on Voyage Management. But you get what you are given and the Chief Mate will today be bombarded with a range of philosophical questions. I should add that this will in no way impede the Chief Mate's work nor the safety of the ship.
Today, field training continues for the ingoing Mawson wintering team. Another ARGO float will be deployed. Felix will brief the sea ice observation volunteers on how to monitor and record the sea ice. The Watercraft Operators will spend some time outside checking over their IRBs. Tonight, Mawson expeditioner Ryan will host a quiz night. This will be the last night of 'fun' before we become busy with operational briefings.
REGARDS: Sam and Anthony
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.