Or as they say in the RAF, a rigger. I started the day as a riglet, lugging harnesses and equipment around the point to prepare for the days work – deconstructing a mast antenna which collects atmospheric measurements. 

Andy climbed the mast, whilst Liam worked as ground crew, removing all of the wires which connected this mast to the surrounding ones. As the mast was in three sections, held by guy lines from the top, they set up new guy lines at the two thirds point and a gin pole to support the top section when the guys were removed. In reality, I did very little, but apparently was a good omen for wildlife as we spotted Orcas in the water as we finished up the mornings work. 

The greatest spectacle was the makeshift way to transfer forgotten or necessary items up the mast – a good throw. In a circus worthy performance, boats, rope and even spanner’s defied gravity.  When it was my turn, gravity didn’t do me any favours. Luckily, the only attempt caught on camera was my lucky (seventh?) attempt! 

As we returned for the afternoon, they removed the bolts holding the top section and set up a hauling system to lower it. This was repeated on the second section, and eventually the third section could be unbolted from the base and lowered.

The fur seals were lulling about, getting up occasionally to growl and fight.  The penguins, mid molt, were congregated on the remaining snow, either powered down in a nap, eating snow, or annoying their neighbour, which all made for good viewing.

As we returned at the end of a successful day, we were divebombed by two angry Skuas. Skuas behave this way to protect territory or young, but sometimes appear to do it at their own prerogative. As they are often above you attacking the highest point, you can raise your arms. I thought I had escaped unscorned until one came horizontally. My thinking was to throw myself to the ground, which was funny to everyone, including me and the Skua. He just looked confused.

Despite all that, I’m told I’m a rigger now. Can’t be that hard..