Life in Antarctica maintains a constant connection with the weather and the environment that dominates our day to day existence. And it is the coldest, darkest day of the year that that we look forward to more than any other on the calendar. The winter solstice marks an occasion to join with our southern family and celebrate the shortest day of the year, the now increasing daylight, the triumphs of our year to date, and enjoy the company of some of the finest expeditioners this side of 60° south.
In 2025 at Casey the celebrations were not limited to the day of the solstice. Rather the team adopted the ‘Midwinter Festival’, which saw the celebrations stretched over six short days and five long nights that none of us will forget any time soon.
The festival was set to start on the Thursday. An early swim an opportunity to gather photos and footage to share with the world about our midwinter exploits. Antarctica had other ideas though, with winds around 40 knots the swim was not to be. Still plenty to do though as gifts were finished off and wrapped with love, the finishing touches applied to our icy outdoor engineering marvels (igloo and bar), tables set and flags hung in preparation for the midwinter feast, and musical equipment setup and sound checked, ready to be unleashed.
Thursday evening saw the unveiling of ‘Casey’s Got Talent’ with many of our fearless expeditioners braving the southern spotlights to kick off the entertainment spectacular. The corks were out as the team was serenaded with acoustic renditions, keyboard solos, modern hip hop and rock covers, and a performance of Waltzing Matilda that had the whole crowd singing along. A recital of Pi to the 80th post decimal digit keeping the crowd on the edge of their seat. The crowd was well and truly warm by the time Casey’s own ‘Frozen Bogans’ took to the stage, performing originals and covers that had the whole Red Shed bouncing. It was an amazing effort by all involved.
The Midwinter swim was looking good for Friday. This saw multiple teams deployed in the morning darkness to remove any residual ice from the swimming hole, set up the decorations to give the pool some pizazz, and ensure all the safety preparations were in place and ready to go. Swimming exploits would have to wait though, as we all gathered in the Odeon (our station cinema) to dial in with our Kingston and station colleagues to view Midwinter well wishes from dignitaries, and join in celebrating the winners of the 2025 midwinters awards. Technical difficulties aside, you can imagine the cheers that erupted when the Casey 2025 team was announced as one of the winners in the category of ‘Teamwork’. This was fantastic recognition for a united team that has delivered beyond expectations through the first half of the year.
Award celebrations were quickly soured with our old friend Antarctica whipping up a 25 knot breeze which meant the swim would have to be put on the backburner again. Back down to the wharf for a few to pack up all of their mornings efforts. While a dip in the ocean was off the cards, the outdoor hot tub provided a worthy substitute. There is something pretty special about being outside in a warm tub with snowflakes falling and looking out at icebergs. Ever heard of an Antarctic crumbed sausage? Neither had we until a few adventurous souls termed the phrase after jumping out of the tub, rolling around in the fresh snow, then back in the tub.
With the wind backing down, spirits were high as the station ventured outside to celebrate the grand opening of our very own ice bar and igloo. The hard work from many that started weeks and weeks prior paid off as our front yard was transformed into a winter wonderland. The fact they had stood strong through some pretty decent blows is testament to the work (and luck) that went into the structures. The 78 in lights a constant reminder of our place in the history books.
Saturday, Midwinters day had finally arrived. The Saturday brunch spread is an event looked forward to every week. But Midwinters day there here was some extra excitement in the air to see what our talented chef had in store. No one was left disappointed, everyone left full after an assortment of handmade pastries, croissants, breads, muffins, and croissants served as the foundation for the bacon, eggs, beans, berries, syrup and cream that was dutifully piled on top.
A tradition of Midwinter is a Kris Kringle-style gift exchange of handmade gifts between expeditioners. The amount of effort and secrecy that had gone into the creation of many, many extraordinary gifts was breathtaking as everyone took their turn receiving and unwrapping an artefact that will open the floodgates of memories and emotions for many years to come. Looking at the treasures proudly displayed on the viewing table for all to see was a fine exhibition of the many talents hidden amongst the Casey team.
With emotions running high it was time to return to the Odeon for an audio-visual surprise. Carefully and lovingly created ‘The Present’ was a composition of videos and messages from loved ones back home, reminding us all of the important people in our lives that love and support us outside of our Casey bubble and are very much looking forward to our safe return. Not a dry eye in the house as we thought of those most important to us. To those of you reading this now, we thank you for your contributions.
Midwinter dinner, the main event. Shirts were ironed, suits dusted off. Dresses flowing as everyone dolled up for our Casey night of nights. But for all our efforts there was one that stole the show, the man in the kitchen that had been preparing for weeks. Giving us a meal that would delight our senses, and unite us in our appreciation for the truly amazing work that he does for us, not just at midwinters, but every day. There were five courses of bliss, photos to commemorate the occasion, memories of our life journeys to date, speeches to mark the moment, and laughter and smiles forming bonds between friends for life. A midwinter night whiled away enjoying the company of a spectacular group or expeditioners, the Casey 78th.
Sunday, a day to rest and reflect. And rest some more.
With the Midwinter celebration nearly done, it was all hands on deck Monday to restore some order. Flags and decorations packed away, the cutlery polished and stored for next time, the gift table emptied as owners were united with their prized possessions. Carpets vacuumed, couches rearranged, instruments transported back to their homes. Back to business as usual as the team gathered as a group to set our sights on what is still left to achieve before the 25/26 summer season arrives.
And just when we thought it was done, what about the swim? With a window of friendly weather on Tuesday morning the team sprung into action to finish the festival with a splash. The pool officially open for business as 20 something adventurous individuals took the plunge into the icy Antarctic waters. Smiles all around from participants and onlookers alike, as the crowd hollered and cheered and the Casey 2025 midwinter festival closed with refreshed bodies and minds.
No names in this summary, but such a mammoth weekend would not have been possible without the efforts of everyone in the Casey 78th team. Thank you all for everything you bring to the table every day.
Cheers
Casey 78th Winter Team.
