We had a great sail from Efate to Epi with the water tanks. In fact we went so fast that we ended up four hours early even with a double reefed main and a reefed genoa.
Fortunately the seas were not huge and the water tanks hardly moved at all. We did though manage to collect 46 flying fish on the deck by morning. The chief who was with us was very happy to take them. Additionally the chief (Simon) asked if we maybe could stop at his village as it was on our way and help two seriously sick people at his village. So at 7am we arrived at the beautiful harbor of the village of Sara. After six hours and seeing about half the village with various medical issues Shannon finished her clinic. The children played at the soft black sand beach, and the chief let all the children ride on his horse up and down the beach and through the town.
By the time we made it to the first drop point for the tank it was getting dark, so we anchored off the village in glassy clear water. Chief Simon also arranged for Shannon to run another clinic the following morning, explaining that there had just been a doctor and a nurse there for a week, so there should be only a very few patients.
The unloading of the tank was hilarious and with the help of the spinnaker halyard there was no damage to the boat, people, or the water tank. (pictures and videos to follow when we have internet) All able bodied people of the village swam out to the boat as the water tank was being lowered into the water. Fortunately the tank floated perfectly right side up, and the people had no issue swimming it to shore. Then there was a large welcome onshore where all the beautiful ladies put flower lei's around all our necks, including little Valiant's! He was so proud! Then there were about 4 short speeches of gratitude from the chief, and other important people of the village. They were so grateful for both the water tank and for us bringing a doctor to help them.
On a side note there had been a doctor and a nurse there for the past week, so we thought there should not be any medical issues. But unfortunately the doctor and nurse were very shortsighted, and only interested in pushing their agenda of birth control, so they did not see any of the sick or injured. Hence Shannon had another full day of seeing patients.
It sure would be nice to have our other two doctor buddies!!!
Tomorrow we will rest and dive in the crystal clear water!
Tomorrow we will rest and dive in the crystal clear water!
Courage
It’s good to hear how communal the handling of that water tank was. Water tanks can be quite beneficial for communities, especially if the water source isn’t stable in their area. One can only hope that the water tank itself holds up and doesn't break down, so that it can continue to serve them for the years ahead. Cheers!
ReplyDeleteRosemary Bailey @ Wabi Iron & Steel Corp.