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Despite a bit of a slow start yesterday, things went very well. We were once again delayed by weather in the morning, but by 1045 our IRBs were being lifted into the water. There is quite a bit that has to happen before we can actually start pumping fuel. The hose has to be deployed from ship to shore by IRB. Once there, it is connected to the shore valve. We must then leak test the hose. This involves pumping compressed air into the hose at 3 bar and then, if no leaks appear, 5 bar. After 5 minutes and no leaks, we vent the hose and begin to pump fuel.
Yesterday, the first leak test showed an air leak in the rubber gasket at the shore-point pig catcher. This was an easy fix and we were underway again shortly. After repeating and passing the leak test, we were ready to pump fuel. As we hoped, it was a reasonably boring afternoon for those on the refuelling roster. The deck pumps checked their pressure gauges and requested fuel farm tank dips every 15 minutes. The IRBs mulled around and monitored the 150m length of hose between ship and shore. Jeff and his assistants controlled the operation from the bridge. A lucky few AIVIQ Watercraft Operators got to spend their four-hour break ashore. They enjoyed a delicious lunch and the chance to stretch their legs around station.
Today has got off to a cracking start. We awoke to low winds (finally!) and our IRBs were ready and in the water for 0900. Within an hour of commencing operations we were pumping fuel. We hope to fill all of Mawson's tanks by the end of the day.
Another three lucky Watercraft Operators will have lunch ashore today. We also have three of our Watercraft Operators sleeping on land tonight so they can be ready first thing tomorrow to help with slushy and green store duties (and simply enjoy the experience of spending time on the Antarctic continent!).
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.