30 Oct 2016

Local Island Children Provide Warm Welcome to Expeditioners

After our keen birders set off at 0630hrs again today to make the most of the cooler part of the day, the remainder of us had a later start and headed ashore at 0830. We were greeted with a delightful 'local' welcome from the children of Star Habour.  After the traditional Sing-Sing, which is unique to each village we visit, we took some time to explore their village which gave an intriguing insight into their way of life.  

Our ever-friendly zodiac drivers then took us around the mangroves and through a small channel to get as close as possible to the start of a short hike through the lush rainforest to reach what is known locally as 'The Million Dollar View'.  This view looks due south over the reef system from a small village of just 60 locals.  As it was Sunday morning, the locals were in church when we got there.  We took the time to take in our surroundings and the view before we were invited into the church.  The vocals and vibrance of the island voices singing in harmony was really a highlight.

All too soon it was time to make our way down the track and find our zodiacs and make the long run across to Nendo, which is our island for tomorow.  We have a full afternoon of educational talks from our guides/lecturers to help frame our experiences in this region.  The seas are flat and thus we are making good speed. 

Photo of Local Welcome in Melanesia (from file): Heritage Expeditions