Antarctic Postcard
By LAC Sam Shepherd RNZAF
LSTD Theresa Muller is one of four Comms Ops at Scott Base this summer, along with myself, SSGT John Leef, and LAC Reece Gutsell. Together we maintain a 24 hr radio watch to ensure the safety of scientists and Scott Base staff in the field, along with making certain everyone has the right—and most up to date—information.
It’s been an event-filled season so far. For example, the NZ scientific program has over fifty people in the field, while we also hosted a wide range of visitors, including: the Erebus air crash anniversary; science teams using UAVs to collect air samples over the McMurdo Sound sea ice; and a construction crew who have been working hard to build three new wind turbines. The turbines have enabled the base to switch to renewable energy, eliminating the dependence on diesel-fuelled generators.
We have been very fortunate with the weather so far. While the temperature was around –30 to –40°C when we first arrived, it has reached the dizzy heights of 4°C—which makes it feel like summer has arrived here at Ross Island!
There are eight NZDF Scott Base support staff this year: two plant operators, a cargo handler and the SNO, as well as the four communications operators. The SNO, SQNLDR Nick McMillan, is constantly flat out balancing an ever-changing flight schedule with weather, logistic and personnel requirements to ensure scientists are where they need to be and when. Meanwhile, CPL Angie Welsh co-ordinates the never-ending cycle of passengers and cargo to and from NZ, and the two Army Engineers spend their days operating heavy plant around base, or taking part in 18 hour traverses across the sea ice transporting science equipment and field camps.
However, while the daily operations can be demanding and the environment harsh, it’s not all work—with opportunities to experience close encounters with Emperor penguins, and to visit the huts of the heroic explorers Shackleton and Scott. Everyday has been a once in a lifetime experience. And we also have our own ski field, with some of the best snow you could hope for!
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