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We are ready to pump fuel. At 0800 this morning AIVIQ's Chief Mate competently manoeuvred the ship into Horseshoe Harbour. We are now sitting on DP about 100m from shore. The wind is steadily blowing at 30kts. Once it drops to 25kts all gears will be put into motion. The IRBs will be lifted into the water and the Watercraft Operators will deploy the fuel hose from the back of the ship to shore. Once deployed, we will leak test the hose before beginning pumping. We have 780,000L of fuel to deliver over two to three days.
This operation is only made possible because of the hard work of every person on ship(s) and station. After weeks and months of planning, we finally managed to commence operations yesterday. The Mawson winterers were transferred ashore in the afternoon. They are now settling into their new home, beginning handovers, and helping with our refuelling operations. Our Watercraft Operators also got some time to give their boats a spin and take a tour of station. They came back buzzing after a wonderful day in this exciting location. AIVIQ's Chief Mate also spent some time on station yesterday setting up the ship's Dynamic Positioning reference systems. While this was all happening, Anthony was leading cargo operations from the back deck of AIVIQ. With the help of Happy Diamond Watercraft Operators and their barge, we discharged refuelling equipment, 70+ passenger bags, and two refrigerated 20-foot containers.
It was quiet on board the ship last night without our Mawson winterers. The round trippers enjoyed a peaceful evening and beautiful sunset from various vantage points on the ship. Those who headed out to the heli pad were even greeted by a minke whale.
The wind is starting to ease and we will look to put our IRBs in very shortly. Wish us the best of luck! Hopefully it is an awfully boring day.
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.