Raoul Island diary December 2008
By Greer Gilmer
“Six months on Raoul Island? With only eight other people? Working without pay? WHY?” everyone asked, while looking at me as though I had landed from another planet. My reply was, “Why not? What are you doing for your summer?”, and I definitely think I got the better deal.
Granted, it is really hard work and as a volunteer you do it for love, not money. And I love it. When you love tramping, bashing around in the bush, scrambling up and down hills and cliffs, seeing gorgeous views every day, fraternising with wildlife never or rarely seen on the mainland, hanging out with a great bunch of people, and of course killing weeds, then it never feels like work.
Setting off for Denham Bay
At the end of the day you forget about the gnarly hills you had to climb, the scratchy, spiky bushes and windfalls you had to clamber over/under/through and the fact that you reek and are totally covered in dirt, sweat and grime, because that is when you get to go for a swim and/or surf in the delicious ocean that surrounds us. It is the best part of the day, all the dirt is washed away, scratches are cleaned and the body rejuvenated. After that you get to sit on the porch, have a cold drink with your mates and look at one of the most beautiful views in the world. The gnarly times in the weed plot are turned into great stories, near misses are exaggerated and finds of ‘the hugest weed on the island’ are shared with everyone.
Sunset over the shipwreck at Denham
Bay
In December we undertook the first phase of weeding over at Denham Bay on the other side of the island. Four of us (plus various visitors), led by our fearless leader Chauncy, camped for a week at the bay and weeded our little hearts out. We had an idyllic week of fern bashing, sunset gazing, swimming, crab watching, weed killing and general Denham Bay goodness. A brilliant and enjoyable week was had by all involved and we went back to base with great memories and loads of limes from the historic tree. I am sure there will be many more good times over at Denham Bay in the future.
The improvised swimming pool
In preparation for the Christmas and New Year holiday, the swimming pool/fire water tank was emptied, scrubbed and refilled. The pool was a great addition to our holiday and was a novelty after going to the beach everyday (and a lot closer). Many hours were spent floating lazily or involved in bomb and diving competitions.
Food is a major part of life on Raoul Island and discussions about Christmas breakfast, lunch AND dinner went on for most of December and it was a momentous day when it finally arrived. The eating began early and continued until everyone went to bed. The lunch table was beautifully decorated by Sian and was well covered with delicious food for both the meat eaters and the vegetarians, with plenty of leftovers for the next week.
The Christmas feast
As usual the day called for little bit of fancy dress, which is popular with everybody. Fancy dress parties occur on a regular basis and we currently have an extensive list of ideas for future festivities.
After two months on Raoul Island I have already gathered a wealth of special memories and great times and I look forward to having lots more adventures with the superb bunch of people that I am sharing my island experience with. For anybody wondering whether to come… DO IT!!! It’s choice!!!