Icy News – 28 February 2025 – Lin Hu
It might seem surprising that a rural generalist obstetrician from the tropical town of Nhulunbuy would move to the coldest and driest place on earth. However, working at one of the Antarctic research stations has been my dream job ever since I first learned about this opportunity in medical school. My curiosity about the icy continent, combined with the professional challenge of practising medicine in such an austere environment, has motivated me to pursue this role.
I began my polar medicine training in Kingston, Tasmania, in mid-2024, alongside doctors preparing to head to three other Australian Antarctic and sub-Antarctic stations. The five-month program broadened our scope of practice to include dentistry, physiotherapy, wilderness medicine, and radiography. During this time, I also got to know my fellow Mawson crew members as we participated in expedition training, providing us with essential skills for life down south. More importantly, we formed a bond that will support us through the season while we are away from home.
Our journey south began with a seven-week voyage from Hobart. For many of us, this was the trip of a lifetime where we spotted our first icebergs, experienced the midnight sun for the first time, and became certified South Polar Sea Dogs as we crossed 60° south. We visited and resupplied Casey and Davis stations before arriving at Mawson Station, our new home. The voyage mascot, Barbie, a renowned atmospheric physicist, fell in love with the breathtaking mountain ranges behind the station and decided to stay for the year on a whim. She is now the resident scientist at the Aeronomy Building.
The daily responsibilities of a station doctor include maintaining the medical facility, conducting monthly quality assurance tests on equipment, and managing inventory. The station is equipped with an advanced medical facility capable of performing x-ray imaging, point-of-care laboratory tests, dental procedures and emergency surgeries, all supported by telemedicine. I also have the privilege of working with four lay surgical assistants - expedition members who have undergone additional training to help deliver medical care. We regularly conduct practice scenarios to ensure we are prepared for medical emergencies.
Another exciting aspect of my role is supporting international research projects aimed at advancing human health in space, using Antarctica as an analogue for space conditions. This research collaboration emphasises the shared experiences of Antarctic expeditioners and astronauts living in extreme environments with limited evacuation options.
One station routine I have come to enjoy is slushy duty. Every couple of weeks, I spend a day in the kitchen with the station chef, helping to prepare meals and wash the dishes. Slushy duty provides the perfect excuse to step out of the office and learn a few cooking tips from a professional chef.
A popular pastime amongst many of us is photographing the friendly local wildlife. Adèle penguins and weddell seals are abundant around the station, and the expeditioners are often greeted by the inquisitive Adèles during their daily commute.
As summer comes to an end, the days are getting shorter, and the sky puts on an incredible light show at sunset. I am excited about what Antarctica has in store for us as winter approaches. The auroras will soon illuminate the night sky, and the frozen sea ice will become our new playground.
Lin Hu - Doctor
