There are different transport options available at each station, to account for weather conditions, environmental impacts and varying terrains. At some times of the year, vehicle use can be restricted due to snow and ice melt and other conditions.

Aerial view of traverse vehicles on the ice sheet
Traverse train to Law Dome, winter 2019 Photo: Juan Guerrero Pachon

Casey

Much of the Windmill Islands and adjacent coastline is accessible by foot (or cross country ski) in winter and early summer, as well as by different vehicles.

At certain times of the year, vehicle use may be restricted in some areas due to melt and other conditions. Crevasses and other terrain factors restrict vehicle access inland in some places within 120 km of the station.

Over-snow vehicles (including a Hägglunds and a Nodwell) are available for logistical support within 120 km of Casey for approved and endorsed programs. We recommend that a diesel mechanic accompany the vehicle on any journeys 60 km or more from the station.

Davis

Vehicle travel is not available at all in the Larsemann Hills.

In the Vestfold Hills area, there are environmental restrictions on the use of surface vehicles outside the immediate environs of the station. This is particularly so in summer, but access to some areas is restricted at all times of the year.

Mawson

Much of the area around Mawson is accessible by cross country ski during winter and early summer.

The station has a number of over snow vehicles, including the Hägglunds, available for use for approved and endorsed programs on the sea ice and the plateau during the winter and spring period, and on the plateau only during the summer months. Again, we recommend that a diesel mechanic accompany the vehicle on any journey 60 km or more from the station.

A number of quad bikes are available for limited field and station operations, and only where no other vehicle is considered suitable.

Macquarie Island

Macquarie Island is a nature reserve, and no mechanical transport is allowed beyond the isthmus (within 300 m of the station). The only exception is one of limited vehicle use on the beach for approved and endorsed science programs.

Most travel around the island is by foot and small boat.There are two John Deere tractors on the station, one for general station use and the other one dedicated as a science support vehicle, available for limited use only on the beach for approved science programs.

There are also two quads available for use around the station and on the beach for approved and endorsed science programs.

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