RELATED CONTENT: Vanuatu residents thank Narooma
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Our story in last week’s Narooma News about the shire fundraising effort for cyclone-ravaged Vanuatu struck a chord with reader Jen Morrison.
It was the picture of a group of people holding a banner saying thanks to the people of Narooma that really caused a pang.
“These are people we know and love very much,” Jen said.
“Our Ni Van family are a remarkable resilient mob and having travelled there many times, particularly after Pam, we know how much help has been appreciated.
“To see the decimation three months later was heart breaking, but Vanuatu is recovering with assistance.”
We were curious about her words “our Ni Van family”.
Jen explained she had first visited Vanuatu as a 19-year-old on a cruise ship “and loved it”.
“Years on, Tony, my husband, and I have been numerous times, both by ship and air, and continue to be awakened to the beauty of the people and the country.”
Their visits resulted in membership of a new clan.
“We befriended a taxi driver, Ray, about seven years ago and from that came a deep relationship with him and his family,” Jen said.
“We are all family now; they are ours and we are theirs.”
After Cyclone Pam struck in March, 2-15, the couple sent aid to Ray’s family to help with roofing, water, food and anything else needed.
“We were able to send funds to the hospital as well, as they are always in dire straits,” Jen said.
“We have wonderful friends in Bermagui who also gave us funds to send, which has been extraordinary and proves the mettle of a small community.”
Jen described the relationship as “a personal journey”, but one with eye-opening moments.
“We have experienced much with our Ni Van family and many friends that we have made their,” she said.
“The devastation after Pam was huge three months after, when we flew to check on our loved ones.
“Children were still suffering from what the locals call ‘Pam Flu’.
“Expats said if another (cyclone) came, they would high tail it before it hit.
“Blue tarps still shelter many, boats are still submerged.
“(However) hope is always there and the people smile and are happy with their lot; they are resilient.”
Jen has echoed the urging of others for Eurobodalla people to consider a holiday in Vanuatu to help boost the tourist-dependent economy.
“Vanuatu needs tourists,” she said.
“There is much to see and learn.”