On Friday 26th August a work party – Dave (communication), Paul (trip leader & supervising mechanic), Vas (electrician), Lesley (chef), Jen (supplies) departed station with two Hägglunds and a trailer of supplies bound for Brooks, Bandits and Platcha Huts.
Our mission was to retrieve and replace fuel drums and gas bottles, telecommunication tests and repairs, conduct electrical checks and maintenance and stocktake all hut food rations and equipment for replenishment in preparation for the summer season.
With clear skies and minimal wind, yet braving −30°C temps, we pushed on to achieve what was seemingly impossible to a previous field party.
Over three days we worked tirelessly winching gas bottles to the top of the hill where Bandits hut stands, and with the help of the Hiab crane we replaced fuel drums with new bunded stores.
Dave braved the elements on top of the hut replacing the VHF antenna and with Vas and Paul assisting, installed new radio battery chargers with impressively tidy cabling.
We took a break to explore Walkabout Rocks and the icebergs through Tryne Bay before saying ‘hello’ to an emperor penguin on the way back to station.