It was quite an emotional time. There was mainly the excitement of going into winter but for many perhaps just a little bit of apprehension too and of course the sadness at saying goodbye to the many friends who left on RRS Bransfield . As the ship left we activated many flares so that the wharf was filled with dense orange smoke and rockets shooting up skywards. Bottles of champagne were produced and we toasted the start of winter as RRS Bransfield tooted away on her whistle. We watched the vessel disappear and then all went back to the main building to have lunch - everyone with big grins on their faces.
Antarctic stations remain staffed through the winter months for two main reasons.
First, to keep data gathering and scientific work running, since progress in many subjects benefits from year-round observations. Secondly, so that the station is fully operational and ready for the next summer season before it actually starts. To do this 21 of us remain here at Rothera. I'll introduce everyone and explain what we all do. Dave is the Generator Mechanic and our Winter Base Commander.