There I was at Casey Station two weeks into my Antarctic experience.
Then due to medical issues I was sent back to Hobart for some tests, and I thought my season was over
I was, however, lucky enough to return on RAAFs premier mover, the C17 Globemaster III.
With my summer experience taken away from me due to unforeseen circumstances I returned to Casey on Skytraders Airbus A319.
A quiet and comfortable flight compared to the C17, but I was able to enjoy the scenery a lot more, with a long cold winter awaiting me.
It was definitely a challenging year at Casey where we laughed, we cried, we partied, we worked hard and got the job done.
I cooked ooohhh soo much bread, I went through grief, I grew as a person I made new friends.
Heading towards the end of the season I was offered the opportunity to go to Davis as a relief chef over summer.
So many questions; how would I get there, how long will it be, how will I get home, when will I get home, will I get along with the crew at Davis?
I’ll miss my best friends wedding, my niece's 18th, Christmas with the family and many other events, so it was definitely a hard decision to make, but a great experience on offer.
In comes Kenn Borek Air (KBA) with the ever reliable Basler BT-67, that’s how I’ll get there.
With one question answered and many more unknown, my flight was planned and my decision made, off to Davis I go.
Soon to be known as “Bobby’s Basler”, I packed my bags and headed off.
Built in the 1940’s and flown in WWII, it's was pretty surreal flying to Davis and the views were amazing.
We managed to scare a bunch of penguins off the runway and land safely, welcomed by the aviation ground crew and the chefs I would be spending summer with.
I’ve been in Davis barely a week and it already feels like a good fit for the summer.
As nervous as I was about trying to fit in with a crew that has already spent so much time together, everyone has been so friendly and really welcomed me into their home, and though I still don’t know everyone’s name yet, I do know I’ll make some really great friends here.
Now if only I can get a flight on KBA’s Twin Otter, I might win Antarctic Bingo (Aviation addition).
Robert Boorman - Davis Summer Chef
