Op tempo flies as the 78th says goodbye
CASEY STATION, ANTARCTICA — With only days remaining before their departure, the 78th ANARE is working at full pace with the newly-arrived 79th ANARE to prepare Casey Station for the busy summer season and the major resupply that will occur after they leave.
Although RSV Nuyina will arrive later under the watch of the incoming expedition, much of the groundwork is being completed now. The early-season air support has been critical, with RAAF C-17A Globemaster III flights delivering key cargo during a limited and weather-dependent window. These arrivals have allowed teams to help prepare and support projects like the Million Year Ice Core, the Traverse Team, and various science projects.
The effort has been bolstered by the RAAFs own Mobile Air Load Team (MALT), deployed specifically to assist with the C-17 tasking. The team quickly integrated into station life, supporting load building, certifications and cargo movements. Their contribution has been widely praised by station expeditioners, who noted both their technical skill and willingness to participate fully in the community. Both a dab hand at working any problem and working through a pile of dishes!
While Casey station focuses on handover preparations, the station is also supporting other parts of Australia’s Antarctic network. The Basler BT-67, flown by Kenn Borek Air, has been conducting inter-station flights carrying expeditioners and priority cargo for both science and station projects. The aircraft’s reliability has ensured broader continental endeavours continue despite the shifting logistics season and the usual weather challenges.
On station, supply officers – with the support of the entire station – have been managing a high workload. Container staging, cage preparations and the always exciting paperwork completions have been underway for weeks as the 78th positions the station for a smooth transition. Many lessons learnt during the previous handover with the 77th, as well as the 78th ANARE's knowledge of station life and expected challenges the 79th will face, are the topic of a lot of conversations.
For the 78th, the intensified workload comes with an emotional edge. Their departure looms large, marking the end of a year defined by shared isolation, challenges overcome and proud accomplishments. As the final A319 flights draw nearer, the mood is a mix of exhaustion and reflection. After more than a year on the ice, the 78th is preparing to hand over a station in strong shape – proof of a season where dedication, cooperation and persistence carried the team through.
- James Murphy, 78th ANARE.
