I’ve now learned that even after a decent career in leadership, nothing truly prepares you for landing in a C-17 on an ice runway in Antarctica - and being handed the keys, the radio, and the responsibility for Casey Station. As the wheels lifted on the last plane out for the season, it was just us - the 33 diverse, skilled, and committed expeditioners of Casey Station Winter 2025.
Now, as we approach the two-month mark of our winter mission, one thing is clear: this is a team that can face any challenge and solve any problem thrown its way. We’ve already endured some wild blizzards and extreme temperatures, overcome complex mechanical and electrical issues, many of the team have endured a high-paced summer season, and — most importantly — we have formed a cohesive, respectful team ready to take on the season ahead.
The environment here is extraordinary, but it’s the daily observations that continue to amaze me. Our hydroponics room flourishes with carefully raised herbs and greens. Our search and rescue and fire teams regularly train and upskill. Our highly capable tradespeople are fine-tuning their lay surgical assistant skills under the guidance of our station doctor, and the food our chef produces is nothiong short of remarkable as together we ensure that the first layer of defence against the cold is ever present.
After a blizzard, massive snow groomers clear the station. Every day, expeditioners venture out into the freezing cold to pump fuel, complete essential site service checks, keep tracks groomed, and move critical pieces of heavy equipment to strategic locations around station - all before the depths of winter really set in. Behind our home, the Red Shed, a mechanical system melts ice from a frozen lake - our main source of water. Even in the field, every footprint matters. Nothing is left behind, not even our personal business. Everything, including human waste, is carefully collected and returned to station and processed through our own waste management facility. After a few nights out there, the Red Shed really does feel like a five-star hotel.
But beyond the technology, the science, and the survival systems, it’s the people who make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience. What stands out most is how this community lives its values. They’re not just posters or fridge magnets - they guide how we work, live, and support each other as we carefully execute this mission.
Here at Casey, our team values are:
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We not me – the foundation of how we live in community.
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Hear and be heard – whether in toolbox talks or late-night chats, every voice matters.
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Just own it – stepping up and taking responsibility, no matter the task or challenge.
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Be your best self – striving to grow, reflect, and support one another, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
To the families and friends reading this back in Australia: thank you. Your support plays a quiet but powerful role in this mission. By allowing your loved ones to be here, you’re part of something much bigger — supporting science, exploration, and international collaboration in one of the world’s most remote places.
As Station Leader, I want to reassure you: we are safe, we are strong, and we are growing as a team every single day. We are committed to making the most of this remarkable experience and to returning home later this year with stories to tell, friendships that will last a lifetime, and a deep sense of pride in what we’ve achieved together.
Warm regards from Antarctica,
Andy Warton
Station Leader, Casey Station
