I have finally arrived at Davis station in Antarctica! We departed a day late as there was a small weather window that could allow us to get to Davis station. We departed Hobart at 7am for the 4hr 39min flight to Wilkins Runway located near Casey station. Was a fairly long flight, we had some turbulence out of Hobart as we flew around some big thunderstorms. Just before arrival at Wilkins we all had to change into our survival gear to ensure that we were adequately dressed for the occasion. Gracefully touching down on the ice with an outside temperature of around -1deg cel we disembarked to await arrival of the US Air Force C130 Hercules.
Just as we were coming into land at Wilkins Runway.
Getting changed into our survival gear.
My first few steps on the continent!
Arriving about an hour and 1/2 later we boarded the hercules for the approx 3 hour flight across to Woop Woop near Davis station.
At Wilkins runway, the last 3 winter expeditioners await to board the C130, (Myself, Winter stores person, and winter station leader).
Ready to board the C130 Hercules.
Not the most comfortable ride, but really appreciative of the other countries assisting in getting us to our destination.
Once again gracefully landing on the ice we made our way to the helicopters and made our short flight to Davis, being welcomed by a large group of the summer and winter expeditioners.
Disembarking the C130 at Woop Woop.
Boarding the helicopter at Woop Woop for our short ride to Davis station.
Approaching Davis Station!
Just some of the welcoming crew!
The next day getting involved with the food shopping inside the freezers at -18 deg and the dry store for all our weekly food supplies. I managed to unpack a few of my personal belongings and that afternoon even went rock climbing on the indoor wall. I'll definately make use of this during the winter months.
Me on the left attempting the difficult wall on my second attempt! I need more practice on the beginners wall!
This day was a no fly day, so the expeditioners that were heading across to Mawson were delayed. With winds gusting up to around 64kts (109 kms per hour). Was interesting to walk around in the strong winds.
There are so many photo opportunities it's crazy! And I've only been here a few days! In case anyone was wondering, yes I did work today, on an anemometer (Measures wind speed) and the reverse osmosis water treatment plant. Hope to post another blog again very soon. ~ Aaron.