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Australian Antarctic base marks Anzac Day in subzero temperatures

Australians in Antarctica have held an Anzac Day dawn service against a "backdrop of icebergs".

The Casey research station dawn service.
The Casey research station dawn service. Source: Supplied

Australians working in Antarctica have held the southern-most Anzac Day dawn service, at temperatures of -15 degrees Celsius. 

A team of 26 expeditioners who are spending the winter at the Casey research station gathered at the station's flag-pole just before dawn.

They lowered the Australian flag to half-mast, listened to several readings and held the traditional two minutes of silence.

The event was the southern-most Anzac Day dawn service.
The event was the southern-most Anzac Day dawn service. Source: Supplied

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The service was to be followed by a "gunfire breakfast", games of two-up and watching a live stream of the Anzac Day AFL match.

Casey is one of three permanent bases and research outposts in Antarctica that is managed by the Australian Antarctic Division.

The service was led by Australia's Casey station leader Rebecca Jeffcoat, who has served for 28 years in the Royal Australian Navy.

"Anzac Day is a special time to reflect on the contribution made by past and present service personnel, and the sacrifice these people have made in serving their country," Ms Jeffcoat said in a statement.

"I've been to many Anzac Day events over the years and today's service, held against a backdrop of icebergs in Newcomb Bay, is one I will never forget."

"As we dig in for a long winter, we can imagine some of the challenges our Defence men and women face when deployed to far-off and often hostile places, away from their families, in service of their country."


2 min read

Published

Updated

By Nick Baker



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