Visiting Scotts Hut at Cape Evans, Antarctica

 As part of the New Zealand Antarctic programme, those of us involved are usually lucky enough to get out to the historic huts of Shackleton and Scott at least once before the sea ice gets too thin.  This trip down, I only made it to Evans but theres no disappointment in that, I feel very blessed to have visited a second time!  And, like the first time I went, its a totally amazing, magical and awe-inspiring experience that almost leaves me speechless. 

I could post pages of photos but Ive left it fairly simple.  

This is Scott's Hut, a testament to the courage, determination, and tragedy of Captain Robert Falcon Scott's ill-fated Terra Nova Expedition of 1910-1913.

- **Terra Nova Expedition (1910-1913):** Led by Captain Robert Falcon Scott, the British expedition aimed to be the first to reach the geographic South Pole.

- **Race to the South Pole:** Scott's team faced fierce competition from Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen. Tragically, they arrived at the Pole on January 17, 1912, only to find Amundsen's flag already planted.

- **Tragic End:** Scott and his team perished on their return journey. Their deaths sparked a global outpouring of admiration and mourning for their courage and sacrifice.

Situated at Cape Evans on Ross Island, the hut provided shelter and a base of operations for  It was constructed primarily from pre-fabricated wooden panels, which were transported to Antarctica aboard the Terra Nova ship.  Expertly designed to withstand the harsh Antarctic conditions, there's double-layered insulated walls, a pitched roof to shed snow, and raised wooden floors to provide insulation from the frozen ground.

Scott's Hut served as living quarters, scientific laboratory, and storage facility for the expedition team, housing provisions, equipment, and personal belongings, most of which remains to this day.

Scott's team spent months preparing for their Antarctic expedition, meticulously planning supplies, equipment, and logistics for the journey.  The Terra Nova ship departed from Cardiff, Wales, in June 1910, carrying Scott and his team, along with supplies and provisions for the expedition.  After a treacherous journey through icy waters, the Terra Nova arrived at Cape Evans in January 1911, where the hut was swiftly assembled to provide shelter for the approaching Antarctic winter.

Following Scott's tragic death and the end of the expedition, subsequent Antarctic missions used Scott's Hut as a base of operations. It remained in use until the 1930s when it was abandoned and preserved as a historic site.

**Overall History and Important Facts:**

Scott's Hut, along with artifacts and supplies left behind, provides invaluable insights into the daily lives, challenges, and scientific endeavors of early Antarctic explorers.  Conservation efforts have been ongoing to preserve and protect Scott's Hut and its contents from the harsh Antarctic environment, including restoration projects to stabilize the structure and prevent further deterioration.  Scott's Hut stands as a symbol of human exploration, endurance, and sacrifice in one of the most inhospitable environments on Earth. It serves as a poignant reminder of the triumphs and tragedies of Antarctic exploration and continues to inspire generations of adventurers and scientists.

Stepping inside Scott's Hut, youre immediately transported back in time to an era of exploration, bravery, and discovery. Not only is it the purity and wonder of it all but theres a smell too.. The stack of weddell seals at the door certainly have their own aroma, the animal section where the ponies and dogs were but the preservation is also remarkable - not a cobweb or hint of dust in sight. The spirits of those who dared to venture into the unknown linger amidst the frozen silence of Antarctica's icy landscape.

5th Summer as a Chef in Antarctica!

I can't help but feel a rush of excitement surging through my veins with the fifth summer in Antarctica ahead of me!  Again with Antarctica New Zealand, ready to dive into another four-month contract filled with who-knows-what adventure and experiences.

Returning to Antarctica feels like coming home in a way. Having been here already with New Zealand and three times with Australia, each trip holds its own special memories and challenges.

The application process for this role is no walk in the park. It involves various screenings including interviews, psychometric testing, and a comprehensive medical examination, so its always a relief to pass all of them.  

Once on the ice, my role as a chef will be familiar - different kitchen than last time due to its upgrade since I was last there, but working alongside other chefs, we'll cater to the diverse palates of up to 130 individuals, comprised of staff and scientists. Despite the remote location, our kitchen buzzes with activity and we'll prepare meals that fuel both body and soul with frozen veges, a variety of proteins, pa

ntry staples and select 'freshies' when fresh fruit and vegetables arrive on inbound flights.

It's not all about the kitchen hustle though. One of the perks of working in Antarctica with New Zealand is the opportunity to explore what's outside during downtime. From walks to  activities like skiing and fat biking and, luckily, arranged 'fam trips' in a Hagglunds vehicle to historic sites like the iconic huts of explorers Scott and Shackleton, or, simply make the 3km trip over the hill to Americas McMurdo station.  With upwards of 1000 staff its akin to a mining town and has everything from gyms, to a chapel, yoga, a hair salon, store and alcoholics anonymous.

The landscape down here is nothing short of amazing. Glaciers, ice caves, mountains, ice shelf,  sea ice and the charismatic residents of Antarctica – seals lazing on icy shores, the occasional adelie or emperor penguins in the distance, and the majestic Mount Erebus dominating the horizon in the background.

Living in Antarctica comes with its own set of unique quirks. With the sun not setting during the summer months, darkness is a luxury reserved for our cozy sleeping quarters. Staff and science alike share all facilities - bedrooms from 2 to 4 in a room, bathrooms, a big laundry with 4 machines, kitchen area, gym, movie rooms, 2 libraries and a bar.  

As my time in Antarctica draws to a close, I reflect on the incredible journey I've embarked upon once again. Flying home on the NZDF 757, I can't help but feel a sense of awe at the vast expanse of icy terrain stretching beneath us. Touching down in Christchurch, I'm reminded of the stark contrast between the frozen wonderland I've just left behind and the bustling world awaiting me beyond its icy borders.

Until next time, Antarctica. You'll always hold a piece of my heart, and I'll forever cherish the memories forged amidst your frozen splendor.