“Newburgh News” Issue no 9 October 1988 – ANTARTIC ADVENTURE

Who says the spirit of adventure in modern youth is non-existent? While most of us dread the advent of our winter 10,000 miles distant from Newburgh on Antartica, Graham Burgess of Parkhill faces really harsh climatic conditions. Temperature of -40c winds, 80 knots and blizzard conditions for over 200 days, for Graham is a member of the British Survey team on the most southerly base at Halley. Graham maintains generators, skidoos, and all mechanical vehicles and before leaving was subjected to intensive tests and training on mountain safety, survival and first aid.

The team left Grimsby on 28th October 1987 on R.R.S Bransfield (supply ship) sailing South via Biscay towards the equator. At the equator Graham found himself before Neptune facing many charges with penalties of a haircut (which he escaped) foul medicine and the customary ducking at the “Crossing of the Line” ceremony and he has a certificate to prove it. When calling at Montevideo he was thrilled to be given a guided tour of a Russian Survey ship – very modern and well equipped, which he was able to photo freely.

On December 22nd after calling at Falklands and South Georgia they reached Halley. This is an underground base where meteorologists, geologists etc work not 9 – 5 but any hour when weather permits. From May to August daylight is virtually nil. Underground living quarters are comfortable, men in t-shirt attire and leisure time is catered for with films, well stocked library, music and gym.

Graham has made use, during breaks, of his photographic talents visiting the 5,000 strong Emperor Penguin Colony and arial views from a German survey plane. He has also witnessed spectacular auroral displays (similar to the Northern Lights) which are a feature of polar regions,

All in all Graham is enjoying this experience and will have endless tales to tell of his two years of adventure. His family must be proud of him and we wish him well. Graham would like to hear from anyone in Newburgh. Please contact …….. for his address.

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