SCOTT BASE SUPPLIES

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29744, 10 February 1962, Page 13

SCOTT BASE SUPPLIES

Final Cargo In Arneb

When the United States Navy ice-breaker, Arneb, steams out of Lyttelton today on her third and probably her last voyage to the Antarctic this season, she will have aboard the final cargo for the New Zealand party which is to spend the winter at Scott Base. Some 35,0001 b of assorted stores altogether, including 10,000 to 17,0001 b of lubricating oils and greases, are to be taken down. About 10001 b of fresh foodstuffs and fruit, 40001 b of potatoes and 100 gallons of milk are included. In addition there will also be last-minute maintenance stores, such as insulation material for roofing at Scott base, a spare motor for the power generating unit, and so on.

For the New Zealanders who are to winter over, one item which, of particular interest is a trial shipment of canned beer being sent down by a Hastings brewery. Though it is said to be only a small consignment, there was “more than enough for a few parties.”

Also aboard the ship for a last look at Scott Base to ensure all is well before the onslaught of winter may be the superintendent of the Antarctic division of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (Mr G. W. Markham).

Mr Markham is expected to arrive at Christchurch. Airport from Wellington! this morning preparatory to going to the Antarctic. As it was not known for certain yesterday whether he would be able to fly to the continent, he is expected to travel' on the Arneb.

The evacuation of the summer support staff at Scott Base—which comprises some 15 men—was to have begun about February 14, but with the cessation of flights to and from the continent by Navy Super Constellations caused by the breaking up of the ice in McMurdo Sound nothing is certain about their movements now.

According to a spokesman for the United States Navy yesterday, 10 flights are operating between the Antarctic and New Zealand and it is thought possible that some of the New Zealanders may come out on these but if not then they will almost certainly return to the Dominion by ship.

Seat in Lords.— Lord Snowdon will take his seat in the House of Lords on February 28, it was announced yesterday.—London, Feb. 8.