Victoria University Antarctic Research Expedition Science and Logistics Reports 1967-68: VUWAE 12

FIELD LOGISTICS

FIELD LOGISTICS.

Mileage covered, towing sledges 700 miles.
Total mileage covered - approximately 1,300 miles per toboggan.
Fuel 440 gallons.
Kerosene 30 gallons.
Oil 6 gallons.
Travel days 20
Geological days 27
Lie-up days (including 3 waiting rosupply 23
Camp sites (separate) 21

RADIO COMMUNICATION (11):

We carried two 557 radios which proved very efficient and good reception and scheds were had most of the time. Apart from a few black-out periods we received Scott Base on the Main at Strength 5. The Commander proved inadequate and was sent out on the re-supply. The problem of the 557 still seems to stem around the weight of the unit.

Repairs Made:

  • 1 Ski replaced.
  • 1 Clutch replaced
  • 2 drive belts
  • 1 Track runner temporarily repaired
  • 2 Carburettors replaced
  • 1 Fuel pump
  • 2 Throttle cables
  • 12 Throttle linkages replaced
  • 1 pivot bush replaced.

The perspec windscreens again proved inadequate and I feel a heavier material would be much better.

One toboggan had to be replaced on re-supply due to sheering of a drive gear which could not be repaired in the field. I feel it is essential that someone with mechanical knowledge should accompany these parties.

Sledges:

On the main, the manhaulers proved extremely good and apart from one runner breaking we had very little trouble with them. The main problem seems to be that no spares are available at Scott Base for repairing them, especially runners.