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Quaint spot, hidden from south-easterlies where the freshwater stream empties into the ocean. The stream water is clear, which stalls the growth of coral. The village, however, embraces all tourists.
They are working through the last two cyclones, causing major erosion and house damage. Their income is '0 - none', making donations their only way forward.
We were welcomed with open arms, leaving a touching impression.
Southern Cross Catholic School special delivery to Port Resolution Primary School. How 'giving is sharing' for this poor community.
A heart-warming must-see and a gift from mySerenity.
The community here really struggle. Being one of the last southern Vanuatu Islands, the spoils of the larger Vanuatu towns seldom reach these outer communities. Money for repair is non-existent. They rely on handouts from people like the sailing community to remain above the poverty line.
The sailing community supports this area through their yacht club, the Port Resolution Yacht Club. If you are interested in reading about the devastation of the recent two cyclones that flattened the club, I would encourage you to search Down Under Rally, who have voluntarily taken on the massive task of trying to get them back on their feet.
The South Pacific beauty, in particular around New Caledonia and the Loyalty Islands certainly did not disappoint. The winds were a little crazy at times, but certainly manageable.
In the start, we made a dash to Lifou and Ouvea (Loyalty Islands) and worked our way back via the east New Caledonian coast, Isle of Pines and then the west coast to Noumea.
mySerenity performed flawlessly.
Apart from the sightseeing, it was the coral that we pursued. Below is a summary of that experience.
Next is the journey to Tanna, an island of south Vanuatu.
The indigenous Melanesian inhabitants of New Caledonia (Kanaks), still maintain very strong bonds to their culture and this is a very good example.
'Chief' visitation rights are required on each island, as many of the surrounding islands are their property. Island resources are minimal, with fish, rice and yams being their staple food source.
The local chiefs oversee the local challenges of day-to-day life on these islands. The people are always happy and ready to chat.
Lifou island contains some of the most beautiful corals we have seen in the South Pacific. Whilst in the cyclone belt, areas of high cliffs protect this fragile ecosystem.
Most of our time was spent on the northern side of the island, protected from the southeasterly winds and swell.
The village of Jokin is situated 100 meters above the sea and a stiff climb to the top. After paying our respects, the chief's wife opened her small cafe and provided a beautiful dinner.
Leaving from the Gold Coast (Australia), the passage to Noumea (New Caledonia) took 5.5 days.
The initial few days presented some challenges, but the mid and latter days were far more comfortable.
Midway through the passage, there was an unfortunate incident that resulted in surgery back in Australia.
This is that story.
My nephew recently joined us on a rally. He kindly put together this sneak-peek 'as he say it'.