At Casey Station, where the ice stretches endlessly and the winds rarely rest, there’s one thing that reliably cuts through the chill and keeps the team connected — brews. More than just a warm drink, the humble brew has become a symbol of community and care, with a strong culture of making coffees for others embedded deep in daily life. At the heart of it all is the “Run Hot Barista Shop” — not a storefront, but a loving setup where friendships are forged over crema and steam.
While coffee machines hum throughout the day, it’s the lunch rush where this ritual truly shines. As the meal concludes and conversations wind down, the first to finish will often rise with a familiar phrase: “Anyone want a coffee?” What follows is something between a performance and a relay. Names are taken, preferences remembered, and soon the drinks begin flowing — all manner of hot beverages, all made with care. As the orders grow, others step in, taking over the machine or delivering mugs, keeping the rhythm going with cheerful efficiency.
But it’s not just the coffee that keeps the culture thriving — it’s the incredible food that often appears alongside it. Chef Nick Baker’s creations are the stuff of legend on station. From towering éclairs filled with cream and glossed in chocolate, to buttery shortbread biscuits and rustic cookies dipped and drizzled in more chocolate, to baked savoury scrolls still warm, there’s always something tempting on the table. Elegant chocolate mousse in martini glasses add a touch of sophistication, while trays of handmade truffles bring moments of luxury to the everyday. And when State of Origin rolls around, even the dessert joins the rivalry — lemon and lime cheesecake slices dressed in maroon and blue layers, a sweet nod to the footy faithful.
Coffee may be king during the day, but come evening, the Run Hot Barista Shop transforms into a sanctuary for tea lovers. With a surprising variety of loose-leaf blends — everything from peppermint and ginger to chai and our own speciality Antarctic Fire — tea is embraced as a calming counterpoint to the buzz of work. Many a crewmember has made it their nightly ritual, winding down with a hot mug and a quiet chat, finding warmth in both drink and company.
It’s not just about caffeine; it’s about connection. In a place where isolation can be as extreme as the environment, these small acts of kindness create a sense of warmth that no heater can replicate. Making coffee — or tea — for each other isn’t a task; it’s a gesture, a habit, a reflection of what life at Casey is all about. So if you find yourself at the machine with an extra moment to spare, don’t be surprised when someone appears beside you with a grin and a short list of names — because at Casey, sharing is simply the way.
James Murphy
Casey Station Supply Officer
