The mercury might not reach minus 49 degrees, but for those sleeping rough on Hobart Streets it can be more chilling than an Antarctic winter.
This week, the Australian Antarctic Division is hoping to change that for some at least by donating extreme weather gear that has previously helped Antarctic expeditioners survive blizzards and snow storms.
Hobart City Mission has been presented with the polar fleece jackets, thermals, socks, gloves, sleeping bags and fleece liners to assist some of their efforts in providing clothing, food and shelter, food to an estimated 1000 homeless and vulnerable people in the Hobart area each year.
Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley applauded the initiative of the AAD and said the clothing will go some way to keeping some of the most vulnerable a little warmer this winter, and that it may inspire others to lend their support.
“Sleeping rough anytime, let alone winter, is extremely uncomfortable and dangerous. Sleeping rough during winter, without shelter, adds to what is already a harsh environment for the most vulnerable,” Ms Ley said.
“The gear the AAD is providing to Hobart City Mission has kept our expeditioners warm in the harshest of environments and I hope now, it can bring some comfort to others.”
General Manager of Technology and Innovation at the Australian Antarctic Division, Phillip Boxall, said the gear has faced some of the toughest conditions known to man.
“Each year we take about 500 people south through the Australian Antarctic Program and this involves a full kit-out in Antarctic clothing prior to the expedition,” Mr Boxall said.
“The gear keeps expeditioners warm in temperatures down to minus 50 degrees and blizzard conditions, whether they are working outside at station or in a remote field camp.”
“We hope some of this equipment and clothing will help keep others warm and safe during the coming winter months.”
Chief Executive Officer of Hobart City Mission, John Stubley, said the items will be a huge help for homeless people.
“Winter in Hobart can be like Antarctica at times with low temperatures and high winds, for those without a roof over their heads there is no escape.”
“So these goods will be of great benefit for people sleeping rough, helping them stay dry and warm through the long dark nights,” Mr Stubley said.
