Meeting two Aussie diggers before their trek across Antarctica, Prime Minister Tony Abbott has expressed admiration and a hint of jealousy.
Despite his fondness for a boot camp, the fitness fanatic doubted he had the capacity to take part in the race to the south pole against other wounded soldiers and Prince Harry.
"These are younger, stronger, fitter men, tougher in every sense," Mr Abbott said.
"I can only wish. Don't tempt me."
Aussies Corporal Seamus Donaghue and Private Heath Jamieson, both wounded in combat in Afghanistan, are taking part in the 335km-journey to the South Pole, along with wounded soldiers from the UK, US and Canada.
Prince Harry is joining the UK team on the gruelling journey, during which temperatures are forecast to drop to minus 40C.
Mr Abbott says the two Aussie soldiers are embarking on an "extraordinary journey".
"I suspect in fact they will be boiling the billy for Prince Harry when the British team staggers in, having no doubt gone round and round in ever decreasing circles," Mr Abbott joked.
"They're officers and you're men and you'll get straight to the point."
Mr Abbott presented the pair with a cricket bat signed by the Australia team and two Australian flags before inspecting the gear the soldiers have to haul across the ice.
The local team is walking with charity Soldier On, which raises money for defence personnel wounded in conflict zones.
Share
