New complex at Scott Base

Press, 24 April 1984, Page 28

New complex at Scott Base

The new Scott Base complex which will house the 240 people who will be involved in the New Zealand Antarctic research programme during the 1984/85 summer season. At left are the two scientific laboratories. The sleeping quarters and kitchen are in the centre, and at right are the powerhouse and command centre. The large building at lower right is the hangar. The original six huts built in 1956 are situated in the foreground. Construction of the new complex started in 1976. By 1990 most of the original huts will have been replaced by larger and better equipped buildings. The complex was designed by the Ministry of Works and Development and constructed by the New Zealand Armed Forces. Scott Base was originally built to provide support for the Commonwealth TransAntarctic Expedition and for the International Geophysical year in 1957. The base was only intended to be occupied for three years, but the Antarctic proved to be so scientifically Interesting that it was decided to retain the base. The new sleeping block can accommodate 42 people, compared to the original huts which could house up to 27 people during the summer season. Of the 240 people who are expected to be involved in the research programme this summer about 40 will be base and support staff. There will also be about 30 construction workers. The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research has received 1065 applications for jobs at Scott Base. Of those 400 have been for general duties. About 40 positions are available. The department has narrowed the number of applications to a short list of 125. Applicants will know by the end of May if they have a job.