Day 7 & 8. Great

Dear Reader,

So I didn't plan on writing anything for yesterday or today, but recent events have changed that.

Yesterday I spent most of my time doing some uni, in particular, a major analytics assignment. It will investigate the effect of weather and other such variables on AFL game scores and margins. As we all know, when it rains, game scores are usually lower. What I'm interested in is are there other variables that may act similarly. For instance, does humidity, or crowd size influence scores?

Moving on to the eventful today and why I'm blogging at all...

Someone on the flight that came in earlier tested positive whilst mid flight. Usually, you self-isolate until you get your results, but this individual decided otherwise. There is a problem here. And this isn't the first case of this happening. Not long ago, two women were caught doing the same thing. Surely after that incident there was great reason to put in place some way of determining passenger eligibility. A simple database which holds individuals who have been tested and whom have a result?

It boils my blood, because now, everyone that arrived is compromised, and may not show symptoms for a few days. On top of this, the passengers have been placed within our facility site. I thought they would put them in a different region of the place, or even section it off for a few days, but I guess we are all bread in the same basket.

Some people here aren't even wearing masks, and walking around as if nothing is wrong. The rules are being enforced to a very low standard it seems. As I'm scheduled to be released on the 7th, although I get tested again in the next few days, I could still develop symptoms after being released.
 
Optimistically, I think we'll be ok. Most people here are following the correct procedure and doing the right thing. I just hope that this hasn't done any harm for those who travelled here today, unknowingly with a person whom was positive.

Yes, it's largely effects older people and those with underlying health risks, but how do you know you're not at risk? And if I asked you to take a jelly bean out of a large bag, and just one of those could kill you, would you put your hand in? And it's really more about your parents and elders. Don't be putting them at unnecessary risk.

It just worries me how contagious this virus is.

Stay safe, Oskar

Day 6. This is day six

Dear Reader,

Today once again, was quite uneventful. Spent most of my time doing uni, then around lunch FaceTime'ed a friend to play some chess. We've done this a few days now, and it's been real nice to catch up whilst doing something interesting. Little things like this help to break up the day.

Writing these each day, although difficult and frustrating early on, has gotten easier. I can see myself doing this a little more regularly outside of iso. I just thought that given it's Covid and all, it would be interesting for people to read. Anyhow, as I grow older I feel it's important to document the little things, and a daily journal is a great way of doing that.

There was some talk today we may be moved to other rooms during our room clean, but I hope that's not the case. I've just gotten my bearings here, and if we were to move, I'd get lost on my walks again. In either case, I don't mind terribly much.

Bloke I met earlier who impersonated that actor in a previous post made another appearance. It seems he is being accompanied by two officers wherever he goes now. Not sure why that is, but I imagine it is something to do with his general demeanor. Don't get me wrong, I think he's a great guy and means well, but I reckon he's lost a marble or two in here.

Later that evening after dinner I jumped onto discord to chat with some mates. Played my first game of four-player chess. Didn't know it was a thing, and yes, it is as chaotic as you would think it is. Will I play it again? Hmm, it is still to be decided. Probably. This is riveting content I know.

It's Hump day tomorrow. One more of this and it's over. Although I reckon as Monday comes next week time will really be flying. Tomorrow I reckon I'm gonna speak to a few more friends I haven't yet, and as per, more uni. I've become the annoying group member I thought I'd never become. All this work will be undone in due time though, starting the second I'm out of here. Anyways, until tomorrow...

Goodnight,
Oskar

Day 5. We got WiFi

Dear Reader,

Today was the crusiest of them all. I've gotten my routine going now, and it's only a matter of time before I wake up and I'm outta here!

This morning was reasonably standard, apart from the breakfast. Don't get me wrong, I'm a fan of the variety (I don't think I've had the same meal yet), but when I see a chicken croissant in front of me, questions must be raised. And judging by the neighbours, I wasn't the only one. It was pretty good though, didn't taste bad at all. Oh, did I forget to add it was accompanied by some baked beans? Yeah weird.

Got the usual temp check around 9:30am again, reading a lovely 36.4°C. I'm feeling great. I've said this before, but the sleep cycle seems to have cleared me out mentally. Days feel nice and full, and there's enough variety in their that I can relax.

Our WiFi was fixed later this afternoon which is great. All they did was replace a little box in our rooms. Would've been nice if they answered our prayers day one instead of taking the piss... Either way, it's good it's going again. My phone data was beginning to run on fumes.

Most interesting part of the day was also the most frustrating. It seems one or two of the new arrivals can't be fucked wearing masks. I really don't want to talk about this a whole lot because of how much it boils my blood, but seriously. We're in an ISOLATION CAMP. You'd think here would be the one place they WOULD wear a mask. Anyways, enough of that.

Uni was good today. Managed to tick a few things off. I'm finding that using a Pomodoro timer has helped immensely. I can get burnt out quite easily, and breaking study up just works. I don't know why I don't do this outside of iso. Going to have to make a habit of including this in my daily routine.

All in all, it was a rather standard but full-feeling day. Excited to smash out some uni over the next week or so to get on top of things for my eventual release. Until tomorrow,

Take care,
Oskar

Day 4. Settled

Dear Reader,

This is the first post written as the day comes to a close. The time is 8:17pm, the weather is crisp, and most of the days work has been done. Since uni has been back it's given me a lot more to do. I had class this morning and more around dinner time, both of which were information packed and really kicked me into gear.

Oh also, last night before dinner I got a care package of coffee and toilet paper etc. This is good news, as I wasn't too keen on switching over to 'Yellow Label' black tea anytime soon. Although I do like it with some milk and sugar. Three sugars might I add. Sometimes four. It's as much as I want since I'm stuck here.

The morning was quite relaxing. I woke up at the usual time of 7:00am and made a coffee, then proceeded to talk the usual shit with the neighbours. Theories about the virus, and other such topics came up, which were hard not to entertain. Someone else also brought up the Bubonic plague. I mean seriously.

Anyways, a bit later on around 9:30am I got temperature checked again. For those interested, this time it recorded 36.5°C. Around this time I also got a text notifying me that my Covid-19 test was negative. I get another on day ten I believe. I feel healthy and well.

The middle part of the day wasn't all that eventful. A bit of life admin here and there. I feel like it's going to get quite routine over the next few days or so. Looking forwards to the weekend. Not sure if it's the concept of it, but I just am.

Some bloke I met early on I ran into again. I then proceeded to record what is currently the highlight of my trip. I can't really provide any more details other than he for whatever reason, impersonated Shia LaBeouf's just do it video, bag and all.

Some thoughts on oranges. Prior to arriving here, I didn't care much for them, and never really ate them. But since eating a few over the past few days, I've really grown to like them. I quite like pealing them and then chewing on their delicious fleshy insides. They are full of flavour, and make me feel quite full and fresh. Might even buy some when I get out of here.

I didn't think my Coles order would arrive today, but low and behold, around 8:20pm I got that sweet sound of a knock on my door. It's funny, usually you find something like that annoying. Hearing a knock that is. But here, each knock is usually some sort of gift, whether that be food, or ice-cream. I mean yes, we get the odd temperature check, but it's a chance of social interaction with someone other than your immediate neighbours.

In my self ordered care package I received some two minute noodles, chocolate bars, tuna and a phone charger. Thank god I got lent one, I would've absolutely struggled with uni today if I couldn't even be connected to the internet. My group members would've loathed me.

Tomorrow is looking a little more structured, with more uni planned and the potential workout. Really depends how the body is feeling. I mean, there's no rush...

Until tomorrow,
Oskar

Day 3. Where art my feet?

Day Three,

Starting to feel more at home today. Meditated this morning after the routine breakfast and chat with the neighbors. Everyone seems in pretty good spirits. Some absolutely classic people here. Also talked a lot about Formula 1 with the bloke next door, and birdwatching with the other. It's fascinating the different people you meet under unusual circumstances.

As predicted, breakfast was hot today. I think they must be alternating between hot and cold breakfast and lunches, and all dinners thus far have been hot, and quite tasty might I add. Also had a cheeky extra tea today. This does make me concerned about my coffee and tea stocks, although I'm less stressed about this now I know I can order things from Coles among other places

No signs of mask handouts at the minute. I think we're just expected to put the ones on we have until the end of iso if we're out of our room, but I could be wrong. Good thing I bought a few spare, they get stinky quickly. I actually find it good, as it makes me floss more frequently.

I feel like this routine is going to be really good for me. Prior to arriving here, I was sleeping pretty erratically. Going to bed between 10pm - 3am and waking up at even more varied times. And given that most research indicates a solid sleep cycle is the hallmark of stable homeostasis, it's no surprise I'm feeling good. If I keep meditating daily, and a little exercise here and there, plus all the uni I gotta do starting tomorrow, I reckon this time will fly. However, it doesn't help seeing friends stories of Darwin's blissful nature. Knowing I'm ever so close. It will all be worth it though.

Sometimes I can get a little sad in here, but then quickly remember things are much worse in Vic, and I can't imagine what it'd be like if I stayed. The cases just keep lingering at quite a high level. Also lucky uni is completely online this semester, which is going to be what I do majority of my days starting tomorrow.

Later this arvo, they came around knocking to deliver ice cream. It was god damn delicious. They really do seem to look after you here, as well as taking it all seriously.

For the rest of the day I plan to watch some movies then the footy. I also have not been tested for anything. I may get a temp check later this afternoon however. Haha so as I was writing this, I just got my temperature checked. It was 36.4°C if you're curious, which puts me at ease. Might read a bit before bed too. Anyways, see you tomorrow.

Yours truly,
Oskar

Day 2. First full day

Day Two,

Much more interesting day. I think it's the initial adjustment and realisation that I'm going to be here for a little while. Some analysis of my supplies given. Coffee. I have seven instant 'Blend 43s' left so I'm going to have to switch to 'Yellow Label' black tea on the 2nd of Aug (day 10). A friend of mine also suggested alternating between tea and coffee, which is a fine idea, but unpractical as when I wake, I cannot talk or be spoken too without my coffee.

I started with two large 1.5L bottles of water but today they delivered another two. Might be a daily thing who knows but I currently have six large bottles of water. No dramas in the hydration department. We were also given laundry detergent sachets, but I won't be needing them as I purchased exactly fourteen days of clean underwear prior to my departure to ensure each day I get some sort of enjoyment, which has been a blessing thus far.

We seem to get temperature checked at random times, but I'm sure theres some method involved. I've seen some people test higher than me getting retested more frequently, so I imagine they're keeping close eye on those with a slightly elevated body temp.

Breakfast was pretty good. Some fruit, cereal etc. Standard but fulfilling stuff. Can't complain when you're meals are prepared and delivered. Also, remember to make friends with your neighbours. After a little chat this morning, the bloke next to me happened to have a spare lightning charger. What a godsend.

Later in the day to pass the time until the footy started, I contacted Optus to try and organise some more data for my plan as the WiFi here is practically non-existent. Tip for those out there whom are long time customers anywhere, it never hurts to just ask. All I did was state to an Optus employee that I am in isolation, and that I've been with Optus for a while, can you sort me out please? Fifteen minutes later they've given me 10GB of free data straight to my account. I was always willing to pay but as I said, it really does never hurt to ask.

Before the footy started, I put on a movie called 'Vicky Cristina Barcelona,' an unconventional drama romance further blurring the lines of what love is. Thoroughly enjoyed, albeit left slightly unsatisfied, but I think that's the point? Also watched a bit of the footy during this time, but not much as Port started to fade away which fucking shits me, but it is what it is. Anyways...

See you tomorrow,
Oskar

Day 1. Springsolation

Day One,

It was pretty swift moving from Darwin airport to the Covid-19 facility out in Howard Springs. As we got off the aircraft, we were escorted through a specific direction, keeping us separated from standard travelers. It was humorous to see people without masks in the terminal having a little giggle saying things under their breath such as 'haha they must be from Melbourne.' I Felt like quite the celebrity. It was however kind of intimidating the amount of police presence around but I guess there would be a few people that would try to take advantage of the current situation so they need to be prepared. Immediately after exiting the main terminal we were put in busses that would eventually take us to Howard Springs.

Once off the bus (we were let off in groups of two) they took our details. This didn't take long, although like almost every admin encounter of mine, my name was spelt wrong, and my C was promptly adjusted to a K, giving it it's typical signature corrected look.

The complex itself used to be used as mining housing for FIFO workers, so picture rows of demountables. Sort of like an army base if you will. I gotta admit, it was pretty cool being escorted around the place with doctors and nurses in full PPE, though fuck that in this heat. It was pretty unforgiving to me even though all I was wearing was jeans and a t-shirt. I commend all those involved.

Once at my new home for the next fortnight, we were given a little more info then left to our own devices. My set-up included a generously sized balcony (about 1.8 x 3.7 meters by eyeball), with a table and chair out front. The room itself was cozy too, with a king sized single, plenty of desk space, a nice bathroom and shower. We didn't have a microwave, but I guess there wasn't any real point given we were delivered three meals a day.

After settling in a little, a few doctors and nurses began testing the new arrivals. I didn't think it was as bad as people made it out to be. Yes, it was weird getting something shoved down my nose, but no, it didn't kill me. It's kind of like getting a light booger fragment stuck in your nose, then accidentally sneezing it inwards, if that makes any sense.

That night I wigged out a little as I began to adjust to my new surroundings, kind of like the first night of school camp, minus the canoeing, card games, BBQ's and sneaking into friends cabins... Anyways, later on not much really happened, apart from falling asleep to the Giants vs Richmond game. Also, I forgot my phone charger, which means I'm screwed until Monday, as the WiFi here does not work where I am located. Anyhow...

Until tomorrow, good night,
Oskar

Should I stay or should I go?'

Dear Reader,

A few things have happened over the past few weeks. As the virus situation has continued to cause problems for many regions of the world, I've decided to take refuge in the oasis of the Northern Territory. It is one of the only reachable destinations for me that is coping quite well given the circumstances. They've only had 31 cases total, which as of the time I am writing this, is roughly 0.002% of all cumulative cases in Australia.

It was a late Wednesday night I contemplated leaving for the NT. Having already been in lockdown in Melbourne during the first wave, as the second started growing I quickly realised I needed to get home. I usually visit once a year for around a week or two, and the last time I had was late last year. Also, my brother is expecting another child, and as I missed his first, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to be there for his second. So with all this, I thought fuck it, and booked my flight to Darwin two days before its departure.

The morning of the flight, one of my roommates was so kind to give me a lift. Another, in their signature inebriated morning state, also accompanied us. It was when I got to the airport things got a little interesting.

The place was a ghost town. No taxis, grounded aircraft and most surprising of all, a closed McDonalds. Making my way into the terminal, I was half expecting my flight to have been cancelled and my ticket a bamboozling. It was when walked up to the security check point my stomach sank to the balls of my feet. They were asking each traveller intimate details of their travel, where they were going, and more importantly, what for... I explained that I was going to see family, and details about my brother, but the man was not convinced. He then asked for my license, and as I pulled it out, a supervisor peaked over his shoulder and immediately came over to wave me through. I'm not exactly sure why this granted me safe passage, but I imagine it indicated I in-fact was a legitimate Territorian. Crisis averted, I continued to make my way to my gate, again observing the ghastly nature of the place, whilst an ominous announcement echoing every so often reminding me to keep my distance from other travelers.

The flight itself was pretty standard, with both crew and pilots acknowledging the strange circumstances. People were kept apart by at least a seat unless you live under the same roof. Later during the flight, food was given out, which pissed me off because prior to my flight I purchased a banana bread only to find out I already get one, and of course after eating one I wasn't hungry anymore. In hindsight, I probably should've taken the second but I'm too stubborn for that.

Anyhow, as this post is already getting quite long, over the next fourteen days I will be going into more detail and recounting my incredibly interesting, jam packed days, for your, not my, pleasure.

As per usual, time for a useless fact to lighten the mood. Did you know that when you receive a kidney from a donor, unless your diseased kidney is causing major problems, it is usually left alone, and the new kidney is placed in your lower belly? You didn't? Neither did I. You now have three kidneys.

All the best,
Oskar