In November four of us took a trip to an old Geo field station at Grunehogna, which is about 55km from Vesleskarvet.
The purpose of the trip was to test some of our field equipment before take-over and to assess the condition of our caboose, which had gone unused for almost a year.
By this time, having spent almost a whole year within the confines of SANAE IV and surrounds, we were desperate to take in some new sights and to get away from the base for a while, so this trip could not have come at a better time.
After spending a few days preparing the vehicles, sleds and the caboose, we set off from SANAE IV. The weather was absolutely splendid and we stopped several times along the way to pose for photographs.
Unfortunately, the weather did not last long and by the time we arrived it was almost completely overcast. It remained like this for most of the trip but the temperatures were still very good, around -10C and the wind was not too strong.
There was a storm coming our way so we knew that we were only able to spend two nights out in the field. We occupied ourselves by braai-ing, driving skidoos and doing a little hiking. We also pitched a tent to experience what it would be like to sleep outside.
All in all, it was a great trip with some much needed R&R from SANAE life. The area was surrounded by mountains and very beautiful scenery, which created a very relaxed atmosphere. Even after being here for so long, I still find these places most breathtaking.
