The unsung heroes of the great southern land
Travelling from the Australian shore
We rode the waves of the Southern Ocean
Arriving at Davis; a land to explore
Setting our season into motion
With bright fresh eyes
And smiles all round
We walked by each other’s side
To take in this new ground
Every skilled person here
Is the reason the station runs
But it’s nothing without the cheer
It’s the heroes that make it a good one
It’s all about the little things!
The way people care in all kinds of ways
Like saving plates when you’re late to dinner
The tight hugs on hard days
or extra patience when yours is thinner
The constant offer of a helping hand
And covering communications when you’re away
A sturdy shoulder for when you can’t stand
And check-ins to make sure you’re okay
Covering slushy* when you’re in need
And the secret fairies that help with duties
The team in hydroponics sowing the seeds
And the person that puts on the movies
It’s the bonding over board games
And the evening sharing of stories
The collaboration of brains
To achieve all the glories
Driving around and offering a lift
The treats made from avid bakers
The effort put into presents and gifts
From all kinds of crafts and makers
It may be a cold and harsh environment down here
but the opportunity to spend a year
with these people being alone is not a fear
For the true heroes of Antarctica are clear
- Ash Forrest
* Slushy refers to rotational kitchen duty
