One of the V1 expeditioners has lived through a hard-to-imagine disappointment on the trip. After getting through the competitive selection process, passing the polar medical and participating in the training program, Chris boarded V1 all ready to start his summer season as a tradie at Davis. But fate had other plans – a medical issue arose on the voyage that meant the medical clearance was withdrawn – and Chris had to watch his new mates settle in to Davis and start their summer without him. Instead Chris has made a round trip and has to get back to Hobart and face new tests before knowing if he’ll get another chance to go to Antarctica.

It did mean Chris was with me on the field trip as a kind of consolation and a chance to experience something of Antarctica.

Chris, I really admire your spirit in handling this – and I’m not the only one. Fingers crossed you’ll get an all clear and be able to head south soon again. And a big hello to your family if you’re reading this – at least you’ll have Chris home for Christmas.