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Yesterday offered an opportunity for almost every person on board AIVIQ to get off the ship and spend some time ashore. Five of our team had spent Wednesday night on station and were put to work in the kitchen and Greenstore on Thursday. Thursday morning also saw another four Watercraft Operators head ashore. Two made their way directly to the Greenstore to help with resupply. The other two headed to the boatshed to run and prepare station's IRBs, which we will use for today's science project. Next up was Anthony, Doctor Kev, Nadia, and Chief Mate Eric. This was a special IRB trip to deliver the immunoglobulins and vaccines and retrieve AIVIQ's DP reference systems. It was also well-timed for the four to enjoy some food ashore. Next up, ten of the AIVIQ crew were transported ashore in the AIVIQ's Daughter Craft. This is a jet boat with a heated cabin capable of carrying up to 15 people. It arrived at the wharf in style, with ten smiling crew and music blaring from the speakers. Station Leader Bec guided them around station and they were incredibly grateful for their time ashore. Finally, after everyone had had their chance to step on land, Sam headed to shore herself. She enjoyed an afternoon downloading her emails, ate too much of Donna's delicious food, and caught up with some old friends. Anthony was in charge on the ship and apparently everyone had the BEST afternoon and evening without the Voyage Leader. Dinner was 'Brinner' (breakfast for dinner). There was southwest eggs benedict, banana bread, french toast, pastries, and cheesecake, topped off with a deliciously warming (non-alcoholic) hot cider. Sam came home to a very happy ship and a hug on arrival. The rest of the evening was spent drinking hot cider on the helideck and enjoying the beautiful surrounds of Mawson and the Framnes Mountains.
Today we continue to support resupply. Eight people have been sent ashore to wash dishes and move boxes. We also have another ten AIVIQ crew heading to station in the Daughter Craft, which is being crewed by Anthony and Maddie. In addition, we have two IRBs undertaking the Emmerson science project. Four lucky Watercraft Operators will transport Mawson's Communication Technical Officers and new Field Training Officer to four of the nearby islands to change out sea bird nest cameras. AIVIQ has SAR (Search and Rescue) Command for this operation and Sam will be on the bridge at all times to receive the 30-minute scheduled radio calls plus any other comms that should come through.
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.