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There were many tired eyes on board AIVIQ this morning at the daily 0730 toolbox meeting. It is a good sort of tired, however. The last couple of days have had everyone out and about and we are exhausted from the excitement and energy invested in enjoying such a beautiful place.
Yesterday we completed our fourth science project for the voyage. Watercraft Operators Mick, Tim, Ollie, and George accompanied station personnel to four of the local islands (Bechervaise, Verner, Welch, and Petersen). The team of eight were gone for around 4.5 hours and successfully swapped all the cards in the bird nest cameras.
In the meantime, the other five Watercraft Operators and the two refuellers were busy unpacking boxes and washing dishes. In amongst helping out wherever they could, the team made sure they also 'had fun', as instructed by Sam. Jeff made it out to West Arm for the first time (after 17 voyages!) and Mick had the chance to see the workshop and the brand-new green Haagland which he had lovingly built back in Kingston. Another ten AIVIQ crew spent two hours ashore and relished the opportunity to walk on dry land. Between drop-off and pick-up for the AIVIQ crew, the Chief Mate, Anthony, and Maddie took the AIVIQ's Daughter Craft for a scenic cruise.
We left the 75th and 76th ANARE to enjoy their final night to themselves and conduct the official Handover Ceremony. Once everyone was back on board and had excitedly shared their stories from the day, it was a reasonably quiet night on the AIVIQ. Tim and Maddie spent hours on the heli deck searching for whales, but sadly none were seen. Nevertheless, it was a gorgeous, windless evening and we all felt incredibly lucky.
Myself, Anthony, and all expeditioners and crew are extremely grateful to Station Leader Bec for effortlessly accommodating our visits and time on station. This has certainly been a memorable experience for all.
Today, we board the outgoing wintering team and set sail for Davis. We look forward to having thirteen new people on board and hope the next leg of the voyage is as good as the last.
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.