Hi I'm Alexander Tatton and I’m one of the diesel mechanics, or as they call us down here a 'dieso'.
If someone asked me where I would be and what I would be doing in a year's time, there would have been absolutely no way I would have envisioned that I would be given the opportunity to work for the Australian Antarctic Program, let alone be down in this beautiful continent for 12 months. Along with being my dream job becoming a diesel mechanic I still remember all those years ago sat in the smoko room as an apprentice and saying to my tradesman Keith, I want to go work in Antarctica at some point in my life. His reply was go for it. Little did we know that 14 years later I was fortunate enough to be selected for the season 24/25.
July 31st 2024, I set off from my home town of Perth to Hobart, Tasmania. Upon arrival we received extensive training on cold weather controls and measures on diesel engines and plant equipment. Nothing can prepare you for the first time trying to do a simple task like removing a battery clamp and battery in −15°C with no gloves for a minute. That being said, it's all part of the experience they say! Working in such a cold climate definitely has its challenges but that’s what makes the experience the experience haha.
I was fortunate to be selected to be a Lay Surgical Assistant (LSA) while down on the continent, which involved a crash course for two weeks at the Royal Hobart Hospital working alongside some of the best doctors, surgeons and nurses. WHAT? A diesel mechanic helping out in surgeries and assisting the doctors? That’s nuts, you're supposed to be fixing machines and engines! That is normally the case, but down here we only have one doctor for the season, Dr. Anthony. Although he is a very good doctor unfortunately he doesn’t have two sets of hands. So that’s where we come in to help assist. I am forever grateful to have been chosen and to learn said skills to assist and being able to take those skills away with me is just awesome. There is no way you would be given the opportunity elsewhere.
The journey down on the RSV Nuyina was a breath taking experience, I still to this day can't believe how beautiful the deep vibrant blues of the ocean and the 8m swells we got to witness and be a part of on the way down. One journey I'll cherish for the rest of my life.
The day in the life of a dieso on station consists of four daily observations of the power house and on-going servicing and repairs to ensure the condition of the engines and power house is kept to a high standard as it’s the most important building on station. This is our only source of power so between our team and our friendly sparkies we try our best to keep the lights on! (TOUCH WOOD). Other duties include maintaining and repairing anything from small petrol augers right up to fixing the CAT 966 loaders, groomers, Hagglunds and D6 dozer. Coming from a mining background, it’s a nice change working on the smaller style of gear and there is no shortage of variety.
Thanks for reading about my journey so far. My only advice for anyone thinking about applying is just apply and come down and experience it for yourself. There is no way I thought my trade would lead me here but here I am writing this paragraph. Please see some of the photos I have taken in the time I have been down. Photos and videos don’t do this magical place justice.
Regards,
Alexander Tatton - Diesel Mechanic
