I’m back again….
I always had a plan to visit all the Antarctic Station from when it was first apparent that I would be accepted into the Australian Antarctic Program (AAP) midway through 2019. And so, the journey continues, this being my third winter with AAD, and second at Macquarie Island, albeit a little unplanned. I’m still constantly reminded of how privileged I am to be associated with the AAP and the people that are also part of the program.
Each year is its own unique experience of living and working in a micro environment, not so different to a Big Brother House. A mix of work (electrical work that is as I am a Sparky), station duties, social interactions and a chance for personal improvement; but the best parts here on Macca are the chances to enjoy the Island, on land and at sea.
This is an introduction to the body of my article and essentially a snapshot of life as a Coxswain that happens to be an Electrician (or vice-versa?) on Macquarie Island.
What else can I say, the only thing that possibly tops being able live and to roam largely freely (but on the tracks) on and around this Wilderness Reserve is to experience the island from the sea. The chance to see orcas breaching, penguin’s porpoise-ing, albatross gracefully soaring and the feeling of fresh salt air on your face is an experience not many of us will enjoy.
Whilst my first wintering season at Casey was a completely different experience to my last and indeed this year at Macquarie Island, I remain grateful for the experiences I’ve had, the goals I’ve achieved, the people I’ve met and for the opportunities made available to me.
This year at Macquarie Island has been a welcome extension of my journey with the AAP with myself and the 30 or some 77th ANARE expeditioners spending significant portion of our lives in this special place.
For whatever reasons and there are several…. I love this Island and you never know, I may very well be back?
Pete
Boating Officer/Station Electrician
