Topic

BU56 certainly is the big one
Been there, seen it, done it and got the 'T' shirt.
A very hard but awesome trip, made possible by the sheer effort and determination of a whole bunch of some of the best cavers.
No list of names as we know who we are, but i think we all earned a big pat on the back.

Come on Keith, give us more than that!!!

What happened?

During an 8 day underground camp Phil Rowsell and myself, operating beyond Sumps 1,2,3, for 4 consecutive days, extended Sump 7 and thus BU56 by 250m length and 24m depth.

The hoped for breakthrough into dry passage beyond sump 7 didn't materialise. Sump 7 is huge and the continuing passage is probably flooded to the resurgence or at least for a great distance.

Nevertheless the expedition manged to make moderate progress, survey (to a high grade) all the passages from sump3 to sump 7, improve the rigging in the cave generally, remove a substantial quantity of old rope and in general have a great trip.
A better understanding of the hydrology of this section of the cave was also acheived. All of which will be made available to the caving community and Spanish Park authorities.

Much kudos and respect to the 30+ support team who not only bottomed the cave but also transported all the dive equipment down and out again. A real mix of different cavers came together and worked as a strong team.
Thanks

A presentation will be given at the BCA conference.

Thanks for the update Jason -

Well done sounds like it was extremly hard work.

Looking forward to the presentation at Hidden earth.

Repect.

Sounds superb ... and thanks for the update.

The trip came together well, despite our doubts about a spreadsheet telling us when to be underground and at camp - everything went swimmingly.
Its a big trip which has a bit of everything and doesn't let up for a minute.
Underground camp was comfortable and well equipped.
The walk up though is the tough bit - never will we moan about a walk in again!!

StuW.