Newsletter, September 14, 2006
From Tribewanted
Contents |
September 1st
Well, as anticipated September 1st has meant SO much to SO many people. We've had the first footers, the first fire for 15 years(!), first full moon party and here we have the first reports from those who have now felt the Vorovoro sand between their toes.
It's been truly amazing to finally have members joining us in the sun and seeing everyone's reactions after the anticipation of this dream experience.
First Footers' Views
Will Spaughton said as he left the island
"tribewanted is a real break from the norm. My week on Vorovoro has been stupidly good!"
The week went so quickly, and no sooner had it started then Will was off home. Also on that boat was Nick Cresner who is now going to the Cook Islands for a more traditional island experience. At the Mali District School visit last week, everyone was really touched by the warm welcome we received. Nick said
"The smiles on the kid's faces were enough to melt anyone's heart but when they started to sing their Fijian hymns for us it was a truly touching moment that is impossible to translate into words, let's just say it was a choking moment for all the tribe members present".
It's been a real rollercoaster of emotions in the past week and there has been so much happening. The first footers were treated to a traditional grog session which went on well into the night. Kim Lindsay who left yesterday enjoyed the event and said..
"I'll never forget the sight of seeing the island for real and people emerging onto the beach through the trees. The ceremony was indeed emotional and the singing and dancing amazing to watch".
Before Nick and Will left, we had the first Vorovoro Full Moon Party. There was a great barbeque, drinks, singing round the fire and some members took the chance to check out the photos from the past week on Poque's laptop. It was a cool night and a fond farewell for those leaving the next day. Check out if there's a full moon when you are visiting, if so get ready for a grand night under the stars!
Bushfire
The week had a surprising end for all those on Vorovoro when a bush fire broke out on Saturday. Thankfully, no-one was hurt and no buildings were destroyed. It was a real test for all those on the island and one which we have all learnt from and are stronger for. It hasn't happened here for 15 years, but the local family was very calm about it which was really helpful! All part of the adventure!
Construction
The site is now starting to look more like a village as the Great Bure is constructed. The Mali boys have been working hard rigging up bamboo scaffolding to erect the roofing structure and it's been amazing to watch, these boys certainly know how to build! Meanwhile, your fellow tribe members have been busy beavering away with their own projects too. Poques has constructed the first Island Forum dining table, along with the help of Nick, Will, Paul O, SteveC, JW, Beccalumps, Raina and Dixie.
Paul O, Will , Nick and Justin also helped out with the second bucket shower construction. It's a joy to have a freshwater shower after a day of sweaty building or swimming in the sea. Be sure to bring your eco-friendly, biodegradeable products with you!
Doug has been constructing permanent housing for the recycling bags along with a composting area for all the kitchen scraps. It's great to see the ideas from the forum coming to life in timber and nails. A massive thank you goes out to all those that have helped out so far.
As this week draws to a close, we'll be saying goodbye to more members who have now become friends of Vorovoro, we'll have their thoughts in the next blog so be sure to check it out.
From all of us here on the island, a huge Moce!
Vinaka, Tribewanted HQ
