TribeWanted - Member Blogs

The Andina Diaries: Santa Cruz Trek by Giles Dawnay

Giles Dawnay — Sun Jul 05 23:59:18 UTC 2009

Just back from the incredible 4 Santa Cruz Trek, more meke and this time with a special guest….......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWTBQHMgtos

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SztIJvfYnRc

The Hammock Society Interview with Francis by James Kerridge

James Kerridge — Sun Jul 05 22:18:21 UTC 2009

Jump, jump, bubble and twist if you eat too much sugar it’ll make you go like this. The Hammock Society is buzzing from a sugar overdose thanks to the beauty sitting with me who’s been cooking up plenty pawpaw jam. It is with great pleasure to bring to you the mother of the tribe, the one who’s been keeping you fat and happy, the one and only… Francis.

Bula sia everybody.

What’s it like to be a mother on a remote island?

The mother’s job is very hard. When its five… wake up… make the fire, make tea, scrape the coconut, father is still asleep… after that spread the table and you call the family. Then after that you wash the plate and think about the lunch… need to feed the family three times a day. If no fish, and no man to help… you go pull some cassava and cook. You can rest a little bit after lunch but at three o’clock need to make dinner. If six people in the family, like my family, then its very difficult. But now, all my children grown up… just Chelli at home.

Where did you grow up?

In Hawaii.

Really?

That is what we Mali people call Ligulevu… we call it Hawaii because the people very happy there hahahahaha. My mother is from Ligulevu so that’s where we brought up. Now my mother and my daddy all lost and my uncle, only my aunty is there still alive.

Did you grow up in a bure, like the ones we live in here on Vorovoro?

Yes, I live in the bure, many kids stay together… we are nine children plus adults… just one big room, when we sleep girls that side, boys this side and our mum in the middle.

And your mum had to cook for all of those children?

Yes, and my grandmother help. We use the fire, no gas back then, just the fire. When I was a little girl I saw a match for the first time, before the match it can take a long time to light the fire.

Do you miss living inside the bure?

It is difficult to call the man to cut the reeds and coconut leaves and repair the roof. Now its good because we don’t change the roof because the iron on top.

So your mum cooked for many mouths, but they were all Fijian mouths and here you are cooking for an international tribe as Tribewanted’s Head Chef!

Now we know many new foods, before it was only Fijian. We now cook lentil flans, sheppards pie, mashed potato, pizza… hahahahahaha.

Does Poasa like pizza? I bet he loves a margarita!

Hahahaha… we don’t cook pizza for Poasa, he just likes Fijian food. All my family like that, we eat Fijian food. We just have cassava and vundi and another type of banana and green vegetable, we plant some bele, plant some pumpkins, we have fish in the sea. Everything we want, we got it.

How do you catch the fish? Do you use dynamite and blow them out of the water?

Hahahaha, no dynamite. Sometimes… we can use a net to catch the small fish and then use the small fish on the line to catch the big fish… and small hermit crabs make the fish very hungry… the fish love that and we love the fish hahahaha… I put the bait on the hooks and when the fish eat the bait… PULL THE FISHING LINE! Hahahaha… and you be careful you take the fish properly and you bite the head to kill it. Finish hahahahaha…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxWiYsWcIt8

If I was a fish I would be more scared of you than the sharks!

That’s not just my way, every Fijian lady does that hahahahaha…

Do you eat the fish raw or do you cook it?

You can it eat it roar, sure, but better to fry it in coconut milk, if not you can boil the fish or curry the fish. We eat all parts of the fish, only the bone left hahahahaha… in Fiji the important part of the fish is the head. The chief will always have the fish head, we serve him that, the eyes are very beautiful… ooooo very tasty.

Tui Mali once offered me the eye ball of a big, decapitated fish… when I politely declined he looked like I had just turned down gold.

Yeah, its like that… fish eye very tasty.

Do they teach you mat weaving at school?

No, we just learn this in our family because this is our Fijian custom… when we are small kids we learn from our mum. But now my daughter Chelli, she always runs off when I’m trying to teach her to weave the mat hahahahaha…

How long does it take to make a mat?

First you must grow the tree, then take the part you need and dry it in the sun. Then you boil it, beat it and cut it into the pieces you need. Takes a very long time, not easy… no. Then you begin to weave, the big mat can take two or three weeks to weave… ooooo long time.

I’ve seen many mats get buried with the coffin at funerals… mixing the old burial style with the new. Do you think it’s a waste of time making something that will just be buried and rot away?

Yeah… but you know that’s our Fijian custom, its very important. That’s our last gift to them.

I also heard that in your custom; only the woman cry at funerals. Is this true?

Just the woman cry but its up to the man… if it take their heart, it aches to them… then they can cry.

Your family structures are very interesting to me because they’re very different to what I know. Back home, people are always moaning about their ‘in-laws’ but here in Fiji you cannot speak to the in-laws.

Like myself, I cannot talk or joke to Poasa’s older brother Tui Mali. I’m not allowed to talk to him, that’s our Fijian custom. When his parents were alive I can only speak to the mum, not the father. But only Poasa’s mother angry with me.

Why, were you a naughty girl Francis?

Because… if I’m doing something wrong… carelessly… she talk very hard to me. Its good because I learn more from her, talk very hard but talk straight… when she saw something wrong she talk to me, not to other ladies like that… always talk straight.

You’ve invited many tribe members to visit your church, and some are surprised its not on Mali, instead you travel a little further to the mainland. Why is this?

One of my daughters was very sick… for three years! I took her to every church for the pastor to pray for her but she not get better. I took her in the hospital but they cannot find any sickness… x-rays and everything but no sickness there. After that I hear about the Revival Fellowship and they say if my daughter receive the holy spirit she can get alive… make her better. It was new to me to hear that kind of thing. So I took my daughter there and they pray for her and now she has received the holy spirit she speak in tongues and now the sickness has gone. That was in 2005 and the sickness has not come back.

I was born into a catholic family and during my confirmation ceremony I was waiting for the Holy Spirit, was hoping for some Jedi powers but when the bishop placed the sacrad oil on my forehead… I felt nothing. What does it feel like?

This, one time they pray for me and the pastor touch me and ask me what I want to pray for… please I want to receive the Holy Spirit… I just want to know ay! When they touch me… long time, long time… I just say hallelujah and after that I speak in another tongues. I was filled with happiness, very happy that time. It start from inside, like a wind, very cold in my stomach that’s going round… very happy. I now know that this is true, that’s why we go back to that church.

It sounds like the Revival Fellowship Church has changed your lives, how has Tribewanted impacted on your life?

This island was just one family, but now its very good to us… all the people come from around the world. We thank Alan Kelly very much for bringing us the wind turbine because before… we use the fuel generator and it costs a lot of money. We now have jobs to help pay for schooling, I’m very happy the tribe is here.

What would make you even happier?

Every time I wash by hand, all the kids growing up… washing washing washing… my shoulder very weak now, I would like a washing machine. Maybe some day we can get a washing machine.

Or otherwise your arms might fall off and there’ll be no one to cook pawpaw curry!

Hahahahahaha… yeah that’s right… hahahahaha…

Any last messages for the readers out there?

About half past five in the morning we sit together and sing hymns, if we have power we can play the keyboard hahahahaha…

So bring some ear plugs and get yourselves over here pronto to sample this amazing atmosphere and culture. What’s for lunch Francis?

Pawpaw curry… you favorite ahahahaha…

Yes yes!... its another great day in Vorovoro. If anyone is travelling from the UK and you have some spare room in your luggage for a couple of hammocks, please email geoff@paradisehammocks.co.uk – we’ll need more chilling space for the extra visitors next month! And remember readers… chill out, don’t workout. Go Hammocks!

WAVU WANTED by James Kerridge

James Kerridge — Sun Jul 05 22:13:37 UTC 2009

Wavu down, I repeat… wavu down. Jerome has decided to return home to California which leaves an exciting opportunity for one lucky person:

JOIN THE TRIBEWANTED ISLAND TEAM
Your role is to be the bridge between the tribe and teams.
2 months – immediate start.
Previous island time essential.

WHAT WILL YOU DO?
Support the on-island team in the run up to the big celebrations.
Help with island duties.
Lead excursions like the school trip and fishing trips.
Make sure the tribe are having the time of their lives.

WHO ARE YOU?
Easy going, friendly, trustworthy and adaptable.

You will have to get yourself to the island but once you’re here:
- Free accommodation on the beach
- Delicious food (pawpaw curry)
- Plenty of grog
- Fijian acoustic concerts most nights
- Guaranteed laughter
- Plus $100 each week.

If you’re interested, have lots of energy and enthusiasm for the
project please email with a little bit about your good self: jim@tribewanted.com

VINAKA!

A big Tribewanted Dream Foundation - Thank YOU! by Helen Lang

Helen Lang — Sun Jul 05 13:24:38 UTC 2009

Vinaka vaka levu to you all!! I’ve just seen all the photos and the film and it looked fantastic. I’m so pleased so many of you were all able to make it. The guys looked chuffed to bits, we raised over £400 and the food and weather looked fantastic.

I’m gutted I wasn’t able to be there to share the day with everyone (sadly the date picked I was already on holiday), and would especially like to thank Vicky, Christina, Hugh and Zeenat for all their hard word for helping to pull the day off, to John W for bringing along the tanoa, music etc to make it a properly Fijian day and to Nienke for her amazing film and photos.

So thank you, thank you to you all for making it such a special day and for helping raise all that money for the families back in Fiji – we’ll be in touch to let you know when the projects are under way! xx

Eden Project visit: "Welcome to Fiji!" by Nienke Krook

Nienke Krook — Sat Jul 04 19:15:57 UTC 2009

Yet another great day for Team Fiji, this time visiting the Eden Project in Cornwall. As they got a tour, walking around in the two big bubbly biomes, they gave away mini-concerts that were such a succes to the public that i heard whispers about the new Jackson 5 going on a worldtour…

Here’s the footage from a memorable day:

At the end of the video, Tevita gives a speech about his own Eden (paradise). He explains how he found a lot of Fiji in the tropical rainforest biome, and that he felt like home there, but that the real Eden can only be found in the heart; and for him in Fiji self.

More Fiji Good Times next week during the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show! Pack you sulu and join in!

Check out the photo’s from the Eden Project visit here!

Sota Tale!

August Chief - Vote Now Open! by Adam Carter

Adam Carter — Sat Jul 04 05:16:04 UTC 2009

Who will lead the tribe on Vorovoro as Tribewanted’s third anniversary approaches?

Read their manifestos and cast your vote:

Charlotte Cline

~~Jimmy Cahill~~

*Latest news from the island…

Jimmy Cahill would like to pull himself out of the race. He apologises for any hassles caused by this, he feels that if he became chief this would take him away from his family and that’s the whole purpose of the trip.

This means that Charlotte is now the only applicant for August Chief

Cast your vote now!

Charlotte Cline's August 2009 Chief Manifesto by Charlotte Cline

Charlotte Cline — Sat Jul 04 04:45:47 UTC 2009

Why would you like to be chief?

I spent an inspirational 2 weeks on Vorovoro back in March, and have not stopped thinking about it since. I would love an opportunity to play a bigger part in this amazing project and give something back to the island. In the spirit of no regrets, I’d love to take on the challenge.

What, other than your skills, makes you he right person for this role?

Before going to Vorovoro I wondered and worried what a Graphic Designer could offer a million miles away from her Mac?
If I were creating an island community I would choose useful people like a farmer, a chef and a builder. After spending time on the island I realised that albeit in a small way I could be all these things; planting and singing to the plants with Crimestopper, making a mean Paw Paw jam with Va and… well I still need to work on the builder part.

It also dawned on me that the attributes that make me a good designer would also make me a useful tribe member and a good chief:
- Engaging and inspiring all kinds of people.
- Sharing passions and ideas.
- Understanding the small things that can make a big difference.
- Being creative yet practical, hard working and fun.

What would you like to achieve as chief?

Sustainability looks at how we can fulfill the needs of this generation without damaging the those of future generations. August will see TribeWanted’s 3rd birthday so as chief at this exciting time, I’d like to ensure the celebrations are magical and unforgettable, and that the island is ready for the next generation of Tribe members.

How will you spend your legacy?

Not sure this is still available, but if it were: Chuck’s blog is full of great ideas, especially the bee keeping (mmm Vorovoro honey) and water desalination.
Let’s increase the islands self sufficiency show the rest of the world how it’s done.

Tell us something interesting about yourself.

The average belly button is 0.5cm deep, mine is almost 4.
Although I have every confidence team Fiji and the tribe can fix the leak in the dam, if not my freakishly deep navel could come in useful!

In one sentence, why should the tribe elect you as chief?

Being chief would be an honor and a challenge, I promise to do my best to make the tribe proud, if they’ll have me ‘Minavandoooooooooooooooooooooooo!’

Cast your vote now!

Jimmy Cahill's August 2009 Chief Manifesto by Jimmy Cahill

Jimmy Cahill — Sat Jul 04 04:36:45 UTC 2009

Why would you like to be chief?

During my stay on Vorovoro, I have encountered such a variety of wonderful people, and been a part of so many projects, I can think of no better way to spend my last month on the island than leading and helping my fellow tribe members prepare for the celebration of the third anniversary of this amazing project. I believe that my enthusiasm, and leadership skills are a perfect fit to help Team Fiji, and all of the Tribewanted members both on and off the island really put our heads together and make this celebration all that it can be.

I have traveled a long way with my family to be here on Vorovoro, and the 10 weeks that we are on the island will surely be some of the best 10 weeks of our lives. As a father of 3, I am already in a sense the chief of my own small tribe, and to blend the responsibility and honor of that role, with the honor and responsibility of being chief of my larger tribe would be an accomplishment I would love to call my own.

What, other than your skills, makes you he right person for this role?

Since arriving on Vorovoro, this island has felt like home to me. I resigned from a 13 year career, and brought my wife and 3 children all the way from Indiana, USA to live in this home for the next 2 ½ months, trusting that this place was exactly where we were supposed to be. I have a thirst for learning the culture of the local Fijians, and that thirst, coupled with the desire to share my knowledge and abilities with the people here, have already proven to be an incredible mixture for fun, laughter, productivity, and a mutual respect for one another. I am a good listener, and a fast learner, and not afraid to jump right in and get my feet wet. I have led and followed on several projects big and small in the short time that I have been here, and the fact that I will be here for a long period of time, has already ensured that I will be around to see the larger ones through to fruition. I have worked with Chuck on the Bio-gas project, and he and I have begun redesigning the collection tank for that. He and I have also redesigned the gutter system on the rainwater collection area, and repaired on of the holding tanks that was burned in a fire. I have helped weave coconut leaf roofs for 2 buildings, and have helped to furnish our home, the family bure, with new shelves that will be of use to the families that follow ours.

In part due to my recent resignation, and in part due to the contagious sense of pride for this project which is present here on the island, I find myself eager to get involved and do my part to help make this project a more inviting place for families, and other members to come and experience a part of the world that they can experience nowhere else. To be a part of this fills me with a wonderful sense of accomplishment and joy, and I am loving every moment I am here.

What would you like to achieve as chief?

As chief, I would like to make some changes that will make things flow a bit better here on the island with a larger tribe present, which will be the case in August. I would help to redesign and build a new system of bins for the recycling and rubbish, as the current one is collapsing and can be improved with a couple of tweaks. Another project I will be working on is the tree house. With all the coconut leaf weaving that has been going on here, and my children’s affinity for the tree house, a new roof and some updating will be some welcome changes to that structure. Other projects would include preparing the island for the big celebration in September, making sure that the grounds are fresh and clean, and that the materials needed for the celebration are all here and organized. I would also like to promote this project more to families. My kids have bonded so well with Team Fiji, and the other members, and they have also brought a sense of wonder with them that seems to be contagious. Without all of the everyday distractions from back home, and the endless supply of new adventures, this is a great place for the family holiday.

How will you spend your legacy?

After speaking with Jim and realizing that this has been cut while we ride out the world recession this is not available. But there is a little pot of spending money that we can use for the progression of the project.

Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I have been employed at a car dealership for the last 13 years, working my way up from an apprentice technician, to a Parts Manager.

I have 3 beautiful children, ages 10, 8, and almost 5, and that career has always gotten in the way of my enjoying my time with them. I am currently enjoying the second of 10 weeks on the island with them and their mother. This trip to Vorovoro is a jumping off point of sorts for my family, as I put in my resignation 1 month before we left to come here, and I am putting my focus back on my family, and following my heart to a life that will be much more fulfilling and rewarding than the one we left behind before Vorovoro. Our 10 weeks here will be the beginning of a new chapter in our lives, and, I am certain, a new level of connection for each of us.

In one sentence, why should the tribe elect you as chief?

Together, we can make a mark in the Tribewanted history book by electing your first Tribal dad and welcoming the entire “First Family” into this pioneering project.

WAVU WANTED by James Kerridge

James Kerridge — Fri Jul 03 22:31:54 UTC 2009

Wavu down, I repeat… wavu down. Jerome has decided to return home to California which leaves an exciting opportunity for one lucky person:

JOIN THE TRIBEWANTED ISLAND TEAM
Your role is to be the bridge between the tribe and teams.
2 months – immediate start.
Previous island time essential.

WHO ARE YOU?
Easy going, friendly, trustworthy and adaptable.

If you’re interested, have lots of energy and enthusiasm for the
project please email with a little bit about your good self: jim@tribewanted.com

VINAKA!

The Andina Diaries: Mountain Meke Madness by Giles Dawnay

Giles Dawnay — Thu Jul 02 02:54:30 UTC 2009

Just back off a tough but amazing day climbing up to Lake Churup (4400 ms), so inspired were we that we thought we´d do the one thing that connected us all…...........meke

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0QwUun9E9U

Off to the Santa Cruz Trek tomorrow for 4 days, pictures and potentially more meke to follow….............

The first and the last... by Jerome Luther

Jerome Luther — Wed Jul 01 21:48:01 UTC 2009

Bula sia everybody.

My name is Seroma, the new Wavu on Vorovoro. I arrived in Fiji last Thursday, the homesickness still settling in my stomach. As I waited in the Nadi airport for my connecting flight to Labasa, tears welled up in my eyes, as it finally hit me that I had left my life behind. I’ve been to Fiji three times before, including two stays on Vorovoro, so I knew that I was heading towards paradise, but I still had to drag myself onto an uneventful flight to Labasa.

The moment the plane touched, my apprehensions melted away. Lui was waiting for me at the airport, all smiles as always, ready to hurry me on to my next destination. Hurrying, of course, being a relative term in Fiji. We operate on Fiji time – Viti Taimi – which meant we had time to stop in town for a quick lunch at the Kwang Tung before moving along to Malou. Jone Robinson and Team Fiji met us there, with two huge pigs to take to the island. We lifted them into the boat in giant crates, like pallbearers at a funeral, leaving only scattered room around the edges of the boat for myself and the Fijians. A few even sat atop the crates during the boat ride to Vorovoro. When we arrived on Vorovoro, we had to reverse the process, uncrate the pigs, and get them into the pen on the hill. The Fijians tied a rope onto the back leg of each of the pigs, which barked in displeasure and fought every step of the way, and dragged them backwards uphill, while the rest of us stood back in amazement.

The rest of the week here has been a blur of activity. Friday we visited the Mali District school on Liga Levu. We seperated out into three groups to teach the kids, which was amazing fun. Our group wandered into a classroom with no teacher, which had us a little intimidated, but the kids made it easy on us. They crawled over us like ants, requesting crayon drawings, and being incredibly pleased with the stick figures we managed to produce. The kids sang for us, and performed a few Mekes, followed by games outside: netball, football, airplane (swinging the kids around by their hands), and probably others I missed while passed out on the grass from too much airplane. The highlight of the day was when one of the tribe members, Samu, performed a Maori war dance called a Haka, which involves screaming and chest beating, in the middle of the field – the kids went wild.

Monday we learned a new Meke – the Monkey Meke – “Meke Ni Veli” – that the Fijians from Liga Levu brought with them to the island. It’s based off of the mannerisms of a monkey, with goofy arm movements and swinging heads. The Fijians were awesome teachers, and we all managed to get the Meke down by Tuesday for Sevusevu, so that we could perform for Tui Mali. We wore banana leaf tassels on our arms, and in true monkey fashion, as a headband so that it looked like we were peeking through the leaves. The performance was charged with energy, and Tui Mali and his guests made sure to show their appreciation for our effort. The Monkey Meke wasn’t the only performance for Tui Mali that night. Tribemembers put on a musical show as well: Tomasi on guitar, with Safaira, Fiona, Anna, and Lisa adding their beautiful voices. We even had a breakdancing exhibition from another tribemember Atama. All in all, it was an action-packed Sevusevu. We even had a female Tanoa Guard, Safaira, which I hear is a first on Vorovoro.

Wednesday and Thursday were more relaxed, until Thursday’s grog session. The Fijians dedicated the evening to two tribemembers, Safaira and Mata, who were set to depart on Saturday. Because the Fijians leave the island on Friday afternoon, Thursday was the last night they’d be able to drink with the girls. Mata, one of the girls’ Fijian names, translates as “empty,” as in “empty that bilo of grog,” and she lived up to the moniker that night. Safaira and Mata were the last ones on the grog mat, pounding yaqona while the Fijians serenaded them with goodbye songs.

Friday’s school trip again provided a burst of activity. The Mali Sharks rugby team were at the school, so they joined in the usual activities with us and the kids. We returned in the afternoon for a farewell Tanoa with the Fijians, followed by a lazy evening around the Big Bure.

The tribe was in flux this week. A family of five arrived on Saturday: Jimmy and Jenny, and three kids aged 10, 7, and 4, Lucas, Bethany, and Oliver. They plan on staying for 10 weeks, and immediately began making this place their home. Samu left the island on Monday, finishing his Isa Lei with another Haka, to everybody’s enjoyment. Mary, Timoci’s mother, also left on Monday. Timoci left with her, to help her to her plane, and take the rest of the week as well-deserved holiday. Three more members left on Wednesday: the couple Atama and Hayley, and Anna. Saturday morning saw the departure of Safaira and Mata. Four new members are set to arrive Saturday evening.

The week was a whirlwind, but in every quiet moment, my homesickness returned, stronger every day. They say that you don’t realize what you have until it’s gone. When I left my world behind to travel to Fiji, in search of paradise, I didn’t realize that I had already found my paradise. Vorovoro will always retain a place in my heart and soul, but everything I came here to seek, is waiting for me back in in California. Vorovoro helped me reaffirm my love of life, to which I will be eternally grateful, but this is not the place for me now. I apologize for any inconveniences this causes, but my first Wavu blog is also my last. So as I leave this part of my life behind, I wish the island and tribe the best until my return.

Vinaka vake levu,
Moce, sota tale
Seroma

Pumpkin Pie from Vorovoro’s Vale Ni Kuro by Amy Briden

Amy Briden — Wed Jul 01 00:30:07 UTC 2009

As promised to complete this month’s deliciousness, another super sweet recipe from Vorovoro’s Vale ni Kuro…

soOOo straight out of our famous handbuilt oven, this week we bring to you Francis’ tantalising Pumpkin Pie!

Pumpkin Pie (Pai ni Papukeni)
fills a 15cm x 30cm baking tray

INGREDIENTS:

4 tablespoons butter
3 cups flour
¾ cup demerera sugar
2 eggs
Approx. a quarter of a pumpkin
3 teaspoons baking powder

METHOD:

Firstly turn on your oven to 180 degrees to warm it up!
Throw the butter and sugar into a bowl and mix. Unlike cake mixture, it doesn’t mastter if the sugar’s not dissolved.
Plop in the eggs and stir all together.
Then add the flour and baking powder and give the pie mixture a good swirl.
Grease your baking tray with butter and pour in the gloop so it covers the whole base.

Ready to place in the oven…

...and cook for 30 minutes (English way) until golden. I asked Francis how long she normally cooks it for and she said, ‘we don’t know the time, we just open the oven and keep checking. This is the Fijian way, hahahaha. As long as it looks brown, soft and dry and looks like a cooked cake, you know it’s ready, hahaha’

So whilst the pie is cooking…

Cut the pumpkin into small pieces to fill about 3 cups.
Place in a saucepan, cover with water and let it boil until the pumpkin is soft.
Drain the water and then mash the soft pumpkin with a fork to get rid of any lumpy bits and to make it all the same consistency.

...and a little tip from our Fijian nana,‘to make it sweet, put the sugar in the pumpkin. If you don’t like sweet, you don’t have to. It’s up to you. Fijian way, add a few spoons of sugar, hahahah. Tastes a lot better’

Back to the oven…

Check if the pie is ready. Once it has that golden appearance, take out and leave to cool for 10 minutes.

Once the pumpkin’s been mushed and the pie has cooled down, spread the pumpkin over the pie making sure it covers the base. It should be about 1cm in thickness of pumpkin deliciousness…
and for a real treat, scatter some cinnamon and tea massasla which compromises the pumpkin flavours and adds a warm glow…

The final step and a very important one…

..the icing!

When we make pumpkin pie on the island, we make butter icing (a combination of butter, icing sugar and a dash of lemon) and spread it lavishly over the top of the pumpkin.

To decorate, we sometimes scatter cinnamon and grate chocolate on top to add to the deliciousness…and of course a few Fijian flowers always helps!

Oooh scrumdiliumptious!

SERVING TIP FROM FRANCIS:

‘If you want to be naughty and want to make a sweet pie, use the condensed. Hahaha, here in Vorovoro’s kitchen, no tin allowed. But at home, we buy a tin of condensed milk and add with lemon juice and then pour over the pumpkin. It’s good. Really good. Hahahaha! The tribe love it when they come. Don’t tell Timoci, hahaha’

Thank you Francis for sharing your Pumpkin Pie with everyone and if you would like to make more tasty dishes from Vorovoro, please follow this link: http://www.tribewanted.com/blogs/recipes

Thank you from the Tribewanted Dream Foundation by Kim Lindsay-black

Kim Lindsay-black — Mon Jun 29 18:43:23 UTC 2009

Just wanted to say a huge thanks from the Tribewanted Dream Foundation to everyone who came to the picnic in Hyde Park and helped to raise so much money towards our projects. The volunteers worked really hard to pull it all together, and it sounds like a fantastic time was had by all! Thank you also for welcoming Team Fiji so warmly, especially after the kindness they have shown to many of us over the past 3 years. I’m sure they will have plenty of stories to tell when they return to Vorovoro!

I was really sad that I wasn’t able to make it to Hyde Park, but the photos and video had me laughing and yearning to be there. If anybody has more to post, please do.

Hope that some of you can also make it to the Hampton Court Show. I’ll be there on the Tuesday, so can finally catch up with the team. Can’t wait!

If anyone has any questions about the Tribewanted Dream Foundation, would like to become involved with future projects, or organise a fundraising event, please write to us at dreamfoundationtrustees@tribewanted.com

Looking up in London (Team Fiji goes sightseeing) by Nienke Krook

Nienke Krook — Mon Jun 29 15:48:40 UTC 2009

Since Ben already wrote a great recap of the day, here’s just the hilarious footage of Team Fiji’s day out in London city. Enjoy!!!

For all my photos of this day and upcoming events, check my Flickr site here

Api: Today is something I can never forget by Ben Keene

Ben Keene — Mon Jun 29 08:45:38 UTC 2009

What do you need for a summer day session in central London? Sunshine. Friends. Maybe Bruce Springsteen. Well yes but you could also add 8 Fijians, a tanoa (large wooden drinking bowl), a trio of guitars, some ‘bula’ shirts and a tribal collective.

Nienke’s brilliant pictures

Sight-seeing Tour, Fiji style

Respelendent in bright bula blue shirts and guitars tucked under their arms, the team walk down the steps from Waterloo station and swing round the corner so we’re standing directly beneath the London Eye. I turn to Leavi – aka Crimestopper – and ask,‘So where next?’ Leavi says, ‘OK, I am the tour guide today, follow me,’ and proceeds to march off towards the river.

This joke continues for the next three hours to much Fijian laughter, as with a growing number of tribe members in tow, the boys ambled over Westminster bridge (ice-creams and peanuts in hand), around Big Ben, stopping at Westminster Abbey for ‘masu’ – prayers – Leavi reminding us that this was where Princess-what-was-her-name got married. Onwards to the parks, over the bridges and to the ‘Queens house’.

As we turn out of St.James park and into full sight of Buckingham Palace, a band marches by in full chorus. Tevita turns to me, ‘ah yes, they are here to welcome us.’ A photo shoot in front of the palace is followed by Api asking why the guards stand so still, in fiji they just sleep – ‘those fellas, they should have a rest.’

Our increasingly cocky tour guide assures his tourists that we will meet the queen as (fact #15 of the day) the flag is flying so she is at home. He then turns to me to ask which window she is in, so that we can wave.

Before disappointment sinks in that her Majesty may not in fact be welcoming us today in person we move onto Green Park for a ‘morning tea’ of cookies and juice.

An hour later and we have passed the Bruce Springsteen fans and are making our way around the Serpentine Lake. Api, noting that the primitive mode of transport on the water – pedalos – could easily be upgraded with a 40 hp outboard.

Tribal Gathering Hyde Park

In all 50+ tribe members made their way to Speke’s monument in Hyde Park. Blankets, sulus and even a woven Fijian matt made were laid out next to a luscious picnic prepared by the Dream Foundation team.

After sevusevu (yes we even managed to bring a large tanoa to the park) presented by Tevita, we drank two bowls of kava. Members who had visited the island last three years came and greeted the boys, and what has always amazed me, continued to happen – the Fijians remembered everyones name, their place and role within the project. From toddlers to grandparents, as Tevita always says – ‘I cannot forget them, they have helped build us a new life.’ It was a moving, if not surreal re-union.

The Vorovoro Sessions classics were sung followed by on-mass tribe photos before rolling out of the park and invading the Swan for a couple of sundowners.

£420 was raised for the Foundation to go towards the new compost toilets at Mali school where some of the teams children attend. Big thanks to Helen (chair of TWDF) her board members (Kim and Jonny) and the volunteers on the day for making it happen – Hugh, Zeenat, Vicky, Christina and Sophie.

If you would like to help push this up to £500, please send a donation here

Eeeeeehh-ooooooo Tube

Finally team fiji stumble out of the Swan, tanoa and picnic left-overs bagged. Onto the Underground we go – and as we stride down sweaty sunday night tunnels in a world 180 degrees removed from island living – the voices of 5 strong men reverberate down the tubes.

The laughter has intensified and before we know the whole carriage is engaged with this colourful group of revellers. As we exit at Waterloo a man puts his arm around Tevita – ‘I watched all of you on the BBC, it was an uplifting story, thank-you.’

It was strange to think that one of the reasons people escape to the Fiji islands is because of spending too much time commuting the networks like the underground. Seeing Fiji to the London underground, even for a few minutes, made for the best tube time yet.

Sitting down in the middle of Waterloo as we waited for their train back to Hampton Court, the boys tucked into more of the picnic. Api, the man who has safely navigated nearly 1000 tribe members to and from Vorovoro, turned to me and whispered, ‘you know this, today is something I can never forget.’ Neither will I captain, neither will I.

Team Fiji will be visiting the Eden Project on Thursday 2nd July and at Hampton Court 6th-12th July. They return to Fiji 13th July

Full itinerary here

For more information and pics please also follow us on facebook and/or twitter

Vorovoro - Pas Deux!! by Marie Wemett

Marie Wemett — Sun Jun 28 22:43:43 UTC 2009

I can’t believe – it will be almost a year to the day that I return to Vororo.

I’m celebrating a huge milestone birthday – and can’t think of a more perfect place to do it.

Mind you – my friends think i’m a bit crazy – no running water – no traditional loo – no restaurant – no bar!!!

I’m hoping to see all my favorites from team Fiji – Savi (jazz hands) and Va – Api – Saucy – the whole lot.

I no Giles has moved on but look forward to seeing Ben and of course Chief Tui Mali.

I can’t wait to see what is new at camp – especially in new vale where I hung the wire to keep our things sand and bug free a year ago.

I have so many pics and great memories from the last visit – I can’t wait to add to the collection.

My back pack, supplies that I kept from last year are in a pile – not quite time to sort them all out yet.

So for now – Bula Sia all – see you soon!!

Marie

Ni sa bula, Londoni! by Sophie T

Sophie T — Thu Jun 25 16:22:31 UTC 2009

Team Fiji UK itinerary and events

Ni sa bula, Londoni!

The boys have landed….. hooray!

Yesterday afternoon Ben, Jane (representing Tourism Fiji) and I headed to Heathrow T3 to greet some very special, long awaited VIPs. A slightly jetlagged Tevita, Leavi, Marau and Api arrived after a couple of days sightseeing in Korea, along with our new adopted team members Charlie, Jim, Matthew and Jimmy – the band boys from Pacific Harbour. After some typically Fijian last-minute visa interview dramas it was a huge relief to see they guys on terra firma in London. The world continues to come to Vorovoro, and now Vorovoro has come to us.

So, what do you do with 8 Fijian friends in the UK? After settling the boys in to their accommodation, we headed straight to a traditional English pub, of course! Hidden on the banks of the Thames, down the river from Hampton Court Palace, everyone tucked in to bangers ‘n’ mash, pie and chips, and a refreshing pint. Given the location the guys were keen to hear learn about Henry VII and the local history along the river, check out the moored power boats, and completely bowled over by the sight of two enormous Afghan hounds on their evening stroll. “Is England full of big hairy dogs?” was Leavi’s response to the sight, though Api wants to know where all the other wild animals are. Monkeys, specifically.

We spent a really fun evening sitting by the river (once the gang were fleeced up!) singing some songs, and having a good yarn. Tevita and Leavi also had a chat with Tui Mali who was delighted to hear that they had all landed safely.

All the gang were up bright and early this morning. We were scheduled to leave for the site at 7am this morning, so up they got at 3am for morning baths and prayer. 3am!!! Hopefully once they are accustomed to the fact that it’s NOT too hot to work at 1pm they will be able to enjoy a bit more sleep. Though I think they might be internally hardwired to survive heavy grog sessions, a couple of hours sleep, and begin the work day at 6am!

We took a beautiful drive through the palace grounds, and everyone enjoyed the sight of deer, ducks and swans, and are already scoping out the best fishing spots along the Longwater, next to our spot in the grounds. After we blessed the building and ancestors in the traditional Fijian way (let’s face it, we don’t want any broken bones having angered Henry VII!) work began at an astonishing rate. It’s wonderful to be witness the energy and teamwork these guys show, and my cheeks are hurting from all the laughter so far.

The frames of the four bures that will be the centrepiece of our ‘village’ had already been erected by a local team, and the roofing reeds (flown in from Fiji) were ready and waiting to be laid. Whilst this is a laborious and lengthy process in Fiji, involving lashing the bundles of reeds to make the thatch, we’ve been provided with flattened dried palm panels – another traditional Fijian technique for roofing. Having had a good conflab over a cuppa and bacon sarnie, the boys set to it… but this is no Fijian construction site. Each man is kitted out with hard-hat, high-visibility jacket, gloves, and steel-toed boots and a metal scaffold tower takes the place of mangrove poles. Not a flip-flop or machete in sight! But thankfully the familiar whooping, laughter, and friendly teasing have been abundant. You can take the boy out of Vorovoro, but…..

No word of a lie, by morning tea the roof of the largest bure was nearly completed before anyone had the chance to even break a sweat, and we hope to have all the major work completed by Saturday, leaving plenty of time for sightseeing and socialising.

Speaking of socialising, come along to the Dream Foundation Picnic on Sunday 28th June in Hyde Park, if you can. Grub, grog, guitars! What more could you want? Marau, Leavi, Api, and Te will be there and are all looking forward to catching up with everyone. Tickets can be bought (until 6pm, Friday 26th) here http://www.eventbrite.com/search?loc=&q=tribewanted for £15 (£5 to cover your food and drink, with the remainder going to the Dream Foundation).

What a week. Vorovoro’s Team Fiji arrive in the UK, as Tribewanted:Andina sets off on it’s first trek in Peru. Thank you for being part of Tribewanted…. this trip is a dream come true for our friends, and it’s down to each individual’s involvement that it’s been possible. Vinaka vaka levu!

Sota tale.

Fishing on the island? by Daniel Karpathios

Daniel Karpathios — Thu Jun 25 03:45:41 UTC 2009

Hi Guys,

Just wondering if there is anybody who has ever taken a rod over to the island and tried their hands at fishing. Are there any places where you could rock fish with some spinning lures or just bait?

What kind of fish are we surrounded by over there?

Cheers!

Skarpathio

The Andina Diaries: Getting High on Latin Fever by Giles Dawnay

Giles Dawnay — Wed Jun 24 23:54:44 UTC 2009

So after months of planning and preparation, the first Andina group is almost upon us. I arrived back to Peru on Thursday and have been up in the town of Huaraz just checking over some final details before the first group arrives on Saturday. Within hours of being back here I was reminded of what I find so special of this country. It’s unique blend of peoples, history, culture, scenery, vibrancy and general ‘Latinness’ come together to create what is quite an intoxicating mixture that few can ever forget.

Huaraz is the base town around which Andina takes place. It is very much an up and coming town that consistently seems to develop everytime I come back. There are always a few more shops, restaurants and businesses springing up which reflects hopefully a growing economy and it is quiet and well organized. One of the most striking aspects of Huaraz is how relaxed and hassle free it is. Traveler, urban Peruvian, climber and indigenous Q’echua rub shoulders with almost effortless ease as each goes about its daily business. It reminds me of Labasa in in the way that being foreign is met with mainly and inquisitive yet positive curiosity, you are definitely made to feel welcome here.

Part of what gives the town this tranquil aura I believe is the stunning scenery that is on all sides. Rising up to the left is the green and brown ridged Cordillera Negra; to the right is the jagged and majestic white peaks of the Cordillera Blanca scraping against an almost endless sky. And at the end of the tunnel formed by these two patiently sits the enormous Huascaran (Peru’s highest mountain at well over 6500 m’s) dominating the skyline whilst at the same time almost teasing you to come a bit closer. Being surrounded by such vast scenery it would be impossible to feel anything other that extremely small and inconsequential, thus lending the town its very laid back atmosphere.

Stepping out of Huaraz in the villages (as we will do on our treks and climbs) is like almost stepping back in time. Quiet rustic communities sit on the sides of these mountains with vast backdrops as part of the view. Leathery faced but cheerful men tend to the fields; open faced and welcoming women in elegant sombrero and a vast multitude o brightly colored skirts play with their young ones and children can be found herding anything from donkeys, cows and bulls down what would loosely be referred to as the road. Whilst mountain life is unbelievable arduous and tough, these people seem to approach their daily lives with great joy and fulfillment. You are always greeted by inquisitive yet welcoming smiles and never made to feel as though you shouldn’t be there. As though echoing Vorovoro, you are never too far from laughter.

So now all we need are the Tribe! The first group arrives on Saturday on what promises to be a tough but incredible adventure in one of the most spectacular parts of Latin America.

If you are interested in more info on Andina then have a look at the following
www.tribewanted.com/blog/andina

There are still spaces on the 15th August Group, if you are interested please drop me a line giles@tribewanted.com
Days 1 – 14 £1000
Full trip £1500

Sunday Social 28th June - Mali Fundraiser - the home stretch by Helen Lang

Helen Lang — Wed Jun 24 22:21:10 UTC 2009

Team Super Sunday picnic met this evening so just wanted to let you know the final details are.

First and foremost please can you make sure if you do want food that you buy your tickets by 6pm on 26th June so the team have time to go shopping.

People will be planning to be at Speke’s monument at 2pm and for those who have tickets the plan is to start eating between 2.30 – 3.00.

Anyone who has cakes or loves baking cakes please bring one along I can’t think of a more Fijian way to spend an afternoon (tea might be a bit more difficult).

If you are lost please can you give Hugh, Zeenat, Vicky, Christina or Sophie a call.

Hugh tel: 07939 135556
Zeenat tel: 07961 389030
Vicky tel: 07980 300401
Christina tel: 07977 565591
Sophie tel: 07746 710576

Final things please bring along your sulu or something equivalent, rugs, chairs, grog if you can get hold of it and a grog bowl would be great.

We all agreed that it would be great if any guitarists were able to bring along their guitars as it would be lovely to have a bit of Fijian singing for the day!

Finally please do take loads of photos and even better if anyone is able to film let me know as we’d love to have some good images of the day.

The Hammock Society Interview with Amy by James Kerridge

James Kerridge — Wed Jun 24 01:19:23 UTC 2009

Reaching across the waves, calling all the massive, we have a Hammock Society code red, I repeat… a code red… the person sitting in the hammocks with me has been breaking all sorts of Hammock Society rules under the disguise of ‘charity’ work. She’s the beautiful Tribe Manager and she doesn’t like to be called ‘Short Stuff’…

No I don’t.

Or ‘Noodles’ – cos of her famous curly wurly hair…

That’s not so bad but I prefer my real name.

Ms Briden?

No, my first name… Amy. Bula sia everyone.

And bula sia to you. Now readers, Amy wanted the Hammock Society questions written down and submitted to her so she could carefully compose her answers… something about not trusting me… of course, I refused her request. But she has the power of editing blogs once they’ve been uploaded and she’s threatened me with proof reading and tweaking parts. I hope you’re reading ‘the REAL version’… if not, I’ll tie her to a coconut tree for a week.

You wouldn’t dare.

We will see. When you arrived in March 2008, I was your Chief, then I became the gapper and worked in a supporting role and now I’m Project Director… what’s this rollercoaster of a power struggle been like?

Its been quite nice actually, being able to build up a friendship over time, share the same memories, experiences and stories. The people you work with become your family here on Vorovoro.

I’m touched, but you’re still banned from the Hammock Society! You were one of the first people to be banned for taking part in Queen Pulse’s legs, bums ‘n tums exercise class. I would happily accept you back, with a sincere letter of remorse, but here you running up and down the beach each day. Why, why, why?

For the big event: the Iron Maiden!

I’m an old skool raver, not really a fan of heavy metal…

No you silly monkey. The Iron Maiden is to run the four peaks and swim around the island without your fins. It was first completed by Ben and Giles last August and since no girls have done it I thought it would be first!

Are you the sort of girl who would burn her bra as a political statement?

You’re so rude hahahahaha…. I don’t know. The Iron Maiden is a personal challenge for me but its also something I really want to do and raise money for a worthwhile cause at the same time.

And when is this madness taking place?

On 2nd July if the weather and tides are OK.

And whom are you putting yourself through so much pain for when you could be chillaxing in the hammocks?

Its for Survivor International, a charity helping tribal people around the world so its very appropriate for this project.

I’m a tribal person, will you be helping me?

I knew you would say something like that! No, its for indigenous people who are oppressed by governments and corporations trying to take away their land rights and stuff like that. If you want to know more look at the website www.survival-international.org

And how can we sponsor you? Do you accept coconuts?

No coconuts, although one might be nice when I finish, just click on http://www.justgiving.com/vorovoroironmaiden/

The Hammock Society is happy to help you in your quest. For example, I’ve been launching coconuts at you from the beach while you swim to help increase your speed and reflex.

Oh I didn’t know about that! It was probably a rubbish throw.

You’re right, with these puny arms its hard to get good distance. But that’s OK cos I’ve got a whole artillery of tricks… I’m even in the process of making some strap-on shark fins.

Hahahaha… you’re meant to be supporting me not scaring me!

I’ll support you with ideas to increase your fundraising… here’s one… do the Iron Maiden challenge naked?

I tova taki iko!

What does that mean?

Behave yourself!

Sega (no). So will you be running it naked?

No, there’s far too many prickly bushes!

Hahahahahaha… good answer. And it would probably wake the ancestors from the eternal sleep in a mighty wrath!

I will be running it in the respectful attire Mr Kerridge.

And so you should.

Biuti iko I wai

Hmmm, what does that mean… something about water?

Throw you in the sea.

Your Fijian is coming on really well, its not an easy language to learn.

You can’t translate English sentence structure straight into Fijian, it’s a different mind set. I found its best to learn phrases and build up on it that way.

I notice you’ve been spending lots of time up in the showers recently, yet you aren’t washing… what exactly are you up to?

I’m actually working on a shower mosaic with all the shells I’ve collected over the last year. I’ve never worked on anything this scale before, its bigger than me! I’ve had to do lots of experiments with different glues and cements. Its a really fiddly design and there’s a long way to go but its brilliant to be creative again.

You squeeze so much into your day.

I get up at 5.45am.

There’s an old Indian proverb: he who misses dawn, misses life.

I like that time of day, it gives me time to do some exercise before the bell rings for breakfast. After that there’s lots to do… if it’s a town day I have to write the shopping lists/kitchen menus, make sure all the eco bags are on the boat because we don’t want plastic in the kitchen. Organise the kitchen gang – Team Kana.

Our head chefs, Va and Francis, often take the glory for the meals but you deserve lots of the credit working quietly away and overseeing the operation, its improved loads under your guidance, especially for vegetarians.

I don’t know about that. I guess it helps that I’m vegetarian as well, we use the ingredients that we have but mixing it up a bit, trying new ideas, the tribe are brilliant bringing in new recipes and its getting away from the typical omelets for the veggies.

What’s the biggest challenge for you managing this cross-cultural kitchen?

Obviously, I’m a lot younger than Va and Francis… so I need to respect them but also manage them effectively. Its about getting a balance and the best way I’ve worked out is just being positive and praising them a lot – that seems to work a lot better than going in and telling them off, I don’t like doing that, it just creates barriers. Its always important to have a variety of Fijian dishes and western foods. This really helps with people who aren’t familiar with Fijian dishes and also families who need simple dishes. So we have a mix of BBQ fish with minti and dalo and also home comforts like sheppard’s pie and vegetable layer bake.

And pawpaw curry! I love pawpaw curry.

It makes me go to the toilet.

In contrast, I’m constipated and pawpaw is good for constipation.

Hahahahahaha…

What do you love about living on a remote Fijian island?

I love the simplicity and being immersed by nature and as well as sharing my life with lots of different people. But also the highlight is the Fijians and their laughter, it’s a really inspiring place to be.

You live in a little hut by the sea and it looks like its seen one to many storms…

At the moment Pupu and the boys are weaving some coconut fronds to replace the roof and apparently some of the wood is rotten so they might even replace those. But to me, I absolutely love it, a really beautiful sea breeze that blows through, its basic but its perfect.

Any spiders?

One or two, but that’s OK. Sometimes when they’re playing volleyball next to my hut and the ball bounces off the roof dirt falls on my head hahahahaha…

It sounds like it can’t take many more hits…

No. Liavi told me the other day “its not even a house by Fijian standards, its more of a pigpen!”

And you quite like sleeping in pigpens don’t you Amy?

A few of us, including the legend Pupu, recently slept in the new pigpen before the pigs arrived. I like sleeping in strange locations… I’ve slept on the boat but that was a bit rocky, the tree house, the breakfast tables under the stars.

Is there anywhere else you would like to sleep?

Yes, I would like to sleep on peak one and the secret beach.

Do you think you’ve grown as a person? …Cos you still look 4ft 2” to me!?

Oi! I’m 5ft 1” actually hahahaha… yeah, I’ve definitely grown as a person. This place has been incredible for my life journey, I’ve learnt so much from everyone I’ve come into contact with, even you! Hahahaha… being here has also made me appreciate what’s important, and to me, that’s family and friends… my Grandma’s 94 and I’m looking forward to spending time with them all after September.

You’re looking a bit fidgety to me, like someone who needs to exercise… so… any last messages out there for the tribe?

What I’ve learnt in Fiji is that Fijians make the most of every single day and don’t really look in the past or the future… just live in the moment.

And if you want to sponsor me chase Amy swimming around the island in a shark costume just click here http://www.justgiving.com/vorovoroironmaiden/

Oi! Vinaka everyone!

And remember readers… Chill out, don’t work out! Go Hammocks! Waterbomb Amy! Wohooooooo!!!

missing fiji... by James Atkinson

James Atkinson — Mon Jun 22 22:19:25 UTC 2009

hey all. just a quick update. im in america now. working at a summer camp in the north woods of wisconsin. right next to a lake.

i have a great group of kids though and its going to be a good summer.
Im missing a few things from fiji though..
1- the hot weather – my first few nights here i was shivering under blankets at night!
2- walking around bare foot – im teaching campcraft skills and have to wear shoes and longpants while working – hard to adjust after living in bare feet and boardshorts for 4 months.
3- i miss the clean ocean water. the lake here can be a bit murky and full of pollen.
4- im missing the fesh food as well.
5 – missing the grog mat! the kava, the songs, the company, i really miss it all..
6 – and of course i miss my fijian family!!!!!!

i feel bad having a hot shower here everyday, although theres no restrictions here, and im pooing more frequently which is exciting!

anyways hope to make it back to vorovoro one day soon!

semesa.

Lisa Nairi 's July 2009 Chief Manifesto by Lisa Nairi

Lisa Nairi — Sun Jun 21 07:17:35 UTC 2009

Bula Sia Tribe!

My name is Lisa Nairi and I am currently on Vorovoro, enjoying my 3rd visit to Tribewanted. In 2008 I visited the island twice and stayed for a total of almost 3 months, the experience changed my life and I found somewhere that I connected with.

Why would I like to be Chief?

One of the first reasons I would like to be chief is to support the island team here, especially during a time where team Fiji will be absent – away in England. Secondly I feel it is very important that we maintain the great lines of chiefdom. Having a chief here on Vorovoro greatly enhances the day-to-day experience of tribe members and provides a link to those online also.

What other than my skills makes me the right person for the job?

To date I have now had 3 ½ months experience getting to know the island and its people. I have truly fallen in love with the culture and Fijian lifestyle. As a trainee primary school teacher I also have a passion of sharing knowledge and experiences, which will help maintain the connection between on island members and online members.

What would I achieve as Chief?

In the month of July the main projects that I would like to see done will be mainly maintenance – preparing for the big third year celebration. Also, Chuck the sustainability manager has some ideas for the island and I would like to see these put into place. For example, the biogas project and the possibility of bringing a bee hive to the island to increase the productivity of plants by 25%.

Tell us something interesting about yourself?

I have quit my previous job in order to run for chief.

In one sentence why should I be chief?

I want to play a bigger role in a place that I love.

Cast your vote now!

Lemon Drizzle cake from Vorovoro’s Vale Ni Kuro by Amy Briden

Amy Briden — Fri Jun 19 23:18:06 UTC 2009

Team Kana have been busy perfecting their cakes recently and even more delicious delights are coming out of Pupu’s hand crafted oven! Recently we have had Va’s famous banana cake, deep, dark chocolate cake and a few new additions to the sweet menu…pawpaw upside down cake and pawpaw spice cake. Ooooh deliciously scrumptious!

Sega ni lega! (no worries…) I will post all these tasty tantalizers with the tribe in the next few months but today, Chelli is sharing the keke goodness and bringing to you on a plate…the zesty and zangy, moist lemon drizzle cake!

This cake is easy peasy to make and is bursting with citrus flavours and a soft, silky sponge. Oooh it’s making my mouth water whilst I am writing this…

So let’s get cake making!

Lemon Cake (Keke moli)
To fill a baking tray 15×35cm

INGREDIENTS:

3 cups flour
1 cup demerara sugar
3 tablespoons real butter
1 tin coconut milk and 2 cups of water (...otherwise its too thick and creamy!)

...or if you want to do it the Fijian way, grate 3 coconuts into a bowl. Then add 5 cups of water and squeeze both together with your hands to let out all the creamy goodness from the coconut. Then strain, using only the milky liquid

2 Eggs
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
3 lemons

METHOD:

Place the butter, sugar and eggs together in a bowl.
Whisk until all the sugar has dissolved and the texture is s m o o t h.
On the island, Team Kana have got the whisking down to half an hour by hand…strong keke muscles! As Chelli explains the reason why whisking is so important and for so long…‘it makes the cake soft with no crunchy bits!’ Even if you do have an electric whisk, have a go at it by hand and save some extra power :)

Add flour, baking soda and powder to the mixture and stir together.
Put the coconut milk in as jug with the 2 cups of water and stir together. Then pour the liquid into the mixture and stir again.
Finally s q u e e z e the 3 lemons through a strainer to avoid any pips escaping into the cake mixture.

Ooh it’s looking good!

Turn on the oven to 180 degrees so it can start to warm up!
Keep stirring together until there are no lumps and the cake mix is soft and fluffy. The secret to a moist cake is to fold in as much air in as possible into the mixture..

Grease baking tray with butter and pour in the cakey goodness.
Lick the bowl! (it’s a necessity and a very crucial part of the recipe!)

Now the cake is ready to be baked!

It takes on average about half an hour but check after 20 minutes to see if the cake is burning. If it is, turn your oven down a little bit and turn around the cake.
To test if its cooked, take one little leaf from a coconut tree and stick into the middle of the cake. (you can always use as knife too!)

If no dough sticks, you know its ready!

The cake goes a gorgeous, golden colour. If it still looks gloopy in the middle, keep baking for another 10 minutes.
Leave in the baking tray and let it cool for 20 minutes. (don’t be tempted to take as spoonful of warm cake, hehehe!)

So whilst your cake is cooling, you can make the super dooper sugary icing…

SUGAR ICING:

1 ½ cups sugar
4 lemons

Heat together and stir for 3 minutes until sugar dissolves.
Pour over cooled cake making sure all corners are covered.
Leave to cool for 10 minutes and then place in fridge for sugar icing to set before serving.

This cake looks great cut into small squares. To add to the lemony essence, you can always grate some lemon rind on top or for all those chocolate lovers out there, a small sprinkle of white chocolate…oooh my!

SERVING TIP FROM CHELLI:

‘Can also change icing by putting sweet oranges with icing sugar and butter. Like the butter icing. And what we did today, sprinkle some nuts on top too. Cake always tastes good with a cup of tea, lemon leaf…Hahahaha’

It’s tuesday which means the important Sevusevu ceremony and Chelli has just iced the lemon cake ready for afternoon tea. Wow, the plates are brimming with colour and decorated with Vorovoro flowers. Everyone loves this day. GROG AND CAKE!

Vinaka Chelli! Now time for the Sevu sevu ceremony…

Maleka! D e l i c i o u s

Forage, repair and create! by Chuck Mccay

Chuck Mccay — Fri Jun 19 22:41:21 UTC 2009

Hi guys

I really appreciate all the feedback you guys are sending me and the links are really helpful…they save me heaps of time sorting through what is appropriate.

There were a couple of things that struck me when I visited here a month ago for the first time in over two years. Firstly I saw that a number of things that had been damaged and ordinarily would be thrown away were repaired. My no. 1 example of this is the kitchen water tank featured with Dan in the Paradise or Bust series. It seems that a log fell out of the fire one day and burned a massive hole in the side of the tank. Most people would have thrown this out but not TW. Someone got out the fiberglass mat and fixed the damn thing! No. 2 was on old shovel that I just know should RIP, but once again the Fijian boys put a splint on the handle and put it back to work. I have to admit that I’m learning something here…and I’m the sustainability manager! I haven’t seen this sort of thing since gramps passed away! I think in this day and age, most of us have lost the ability to fix stuff. It’s great to be part of a team that still keeps these old values alive.

Amy wouldn’t even let me toss out some of our rubbish because she said Epeli could probably make something out of it…and I think she’s probably right! I’m now looking more closely at the things we use and the waste we produce and wondering what I could salvage from the heap. I’ve learned that since the beginning, TW has been busy cataloging the food we bring in to the island and weighing the rubbish produced to see how we have changed since we started. This raises some good sustainability questions.

Are we reducing our inputs and meeting more of our own needs?

What are our main wastes and how are our efforts to reduce them going?

What wastes are produced elsewhere that affects us here in Vorovoro?

Some people think you are only “sustainable” if you are completely self reliant in every aspect, but I don’t think anyone can really claim that. Sustainability is a process and as long as we are bit by bit meeting more of our own needs and having less to toss today than yesterday, then we’re on the right track and that’s good enough for me!

If I was ever going to leave Fiji permanently (I won’t) and there was just one legacy I could leave in Fiji, a revolution in the way people think about and handle waste would be a hot contender for that position. I took up Amy’s suggestion to take a peek at the south side of the island as this tends to be a catchment for all the rubbish drifting from town. Sure enough within a few minutes I was able to collect over a bag full and as Amy predicted, there were the indomitable flip flops. Of course we don’t have a lot of control on what people in town do unless we launch an awareness campaign. As I picked up a plastic bottle and looked at it, I suddenly remembered that TW wants to rebuild the old pontoon and the words “floatation device” came to mind shortly followed by “air tight storage container” and a few days later, “insulation bubble”. From then on I started to try to find new names for every piece of rubbish I could see. Maybe you can help suggest new names and possible uses for some of the common items of rubbish. Of course a plastic bag looks a lot like a floating jellyfish in the eyes of a turtle and therefore could truthfully be termed “turtle choking device”, but let’s keep it positive. What else could you call the following?

A plastic bag
A shampoo bottle
An old flip flop
A bit of fish net
chicken wire

Elisabeth (on island last two weeks) told how she had experimented with Epeli to cut off the tops of beer bottles to make cups using a string soaked in kerosene, placed around the bottle to be cut then lit, then dunked in water. Apparently it comes off clean! I have got to try this at home with the kids!

Scraps of wood could be used everyday here to feed Pupu’s oven and reduce the need to cut trees for firewood.

We’re now looking for a tribe member to create a flip flop sculpture as a statement. Any creative ideas?

Rubbish can be an eyesore, however as friends of the environment, we want to reuse as much as possible and reduce the need to burn fuel to cart it off to the rubbish dump, therefore we need to hoard a wee bit! Perhaps we need to screen off an area behind a woven bamboo wall where we go to forage when we need to. That wouldn’t look too bad hey?

Thanks to Patrick and crew two weeks ago for cutting off the top of lots of plastic bottles and threading them onto a hosepipe. The hot water system is much improved…who knows…24 hour coffee could be just around the corner.

God bless to you all

Chuck