Further Planning

At the Seattle conference of DVDP in May 1974, Kyle suggested Black Island as a possible DVDP drillhole site. A reconnaissance of the area was scheduled for early December or January. An early ice-breakout affected DVDP sites in McMurdo Sound, with the result that Barrett and Powell devoted their attention to the new New Harbour hole. Furthermore in May 1974 Barrett had learned of the existence of trapped sediments on the Crary Ice Rise, Ross Ice Shelf. Correspondence with the Ross Ice Shelf Project manager failed to elicit assistance from RISP. However discussions with Newman at Scott Base eventuated in a 10 day visit to the Ice Rise.

A detailed programme and flight schedule for VUWAE 19 was submitted to Antarctic Division in July 1974 and was revised in August and September as flight schedules to Antarctica changed.

Once in Antarctica changes in flight dates and requirements were implemented following discussions between Newman and Stanton at Scott Base and Keys, Barrett and other VUWAE members.