Penguin biologist and Antarctic first-timer, Maya, joins her colleagues at Bennett Station for the start of the summer season. But when a penguin causes havoc on the station, Maya’s scientific credentials are called into question. 

After four weeks roaming the station, Maya joins a group of expeditioners to do their safety training with Kyle out in the field. However, the dangers of the Antarctic continent pale in comparison to the tensions within the group, and within Maya herself. 

It’s finally time for Maya to join Catherine out at the penguin colony. Regarded as 'the Yeti of Pemmican Bay', Catherine cuts an intimidating figure, but Maya is nonetheless determined to get her boss on-side.  

Visitors from the nearby Russian station send the women on station into a libidinous spin. Despite having a boyfriend, Maya decides she wants in on the action.

The Federal Minister for Environment (and Sport) has made a snap visit to Bennett station for a 'listening and seeing trip'. But when a nasty bout of gastro wipes out the station, it falls on Maya to show the Minister a good time.

It’s Christmas and Embeth, Maya and Nat from the social committee are charged with decorating the station. Meanwhile, in equally bad news, Kyle attempts to counsel the homesick expeditioners. 

Buckling under the patriarchal load, the women head to a field hut for a 'jolly. There, the women unload about ageism, sexism, racism and workplace misogyny only to have Maya interrupt with an issue of her own: she’s in love and no-one gives a frig about it! 

It’s the end of the season at Bennett Station and as a shocked Maya discovers, all the Summer expeditioners are leaving Antarctica. Maya decides to be the exception to the rule and immediately sets about trying to stay for the Winter.