This week at Casey: 9 December 2022

There's no spinifex here, or red dirt, and I haven't seen a single kangaroo the whole time I've been here. So in that sense this place is very different, like nothing I've ever experienced before.

It's beautiful here. Pristine.

My photos don't do the place any justice. What's the level below amateur photographer?

I'm still trying to figure out snow. It's an odd phenomenon. Sometimes it's slippery, other times not. Grey is slippery and white is grippy? Or is it the other way around?

I've been here two weeks and it has been a big adjustment. Whether it be learning about the job, learning about the environment we now live in, or getting to know the people I share the dinner table with. It takes a lot of brain power to make the leap. Naturally I've learnt about myself, how I handle risk and challenges, how I go about moving towards my goals (slowly it turns out), what my habits are, how I react when my expectations have or have not been met, the list goes on.

Since joining the 'Div' I have had many Mythbusters moments, where I stand back and think 'I can't believe I'm doing this'. Moments like training as a fire fighter, learning how to measure the earth's magnetic field, how to fix anything from photocopiers to x-ray machines and sleeping overnight on the Antarctic ice. I think seeing snow for the first time and skiing for the first time was a special moment, and it was amazing to finally see some penguins. They really are funny little buggers.

Today however, was a special day. Ben (Station Leader), Maddie (Field Training Officer) and myself hopped into a Hägglunds and drove to Robbo's hut and Jack's hut, both about 45 minutes away from station. It was absolutely spectacular. Not a breath of wind, about -1 degree. It was so pristine, it felt like I was the first person to step foot on this land. That's when I knew I was an Antarctic Veteran. And they're paying me to do it! I'd have done it for free.

I know that all the others around me are having a similar experience which is what makes this place and this team so amazing. So, as difficult as this place can and will be sometimes, it's days like today that will make it all worth it.

I'm very grateful to be here. Although this place is hard work, I know that I'm in the right place.

Special shout out to the chefs and super slushies. The food has been amazing (5 stars - would highly recommend.)

Brendan - Comms Tech