Julie:
Highlight was taking Jason and Charlotte this time for the experience. Going as a group has allowed them to get to know each other better. Working alongside each other through the day and relaxing in the afternoons/evening. Stayed in a beautiful resort on the beach, all inclusive with a pool.
Seeing the progress has been fabulous, especially knowing the adversity with the government and policing that they are up against.
While on the safari trip Kate, Julie and Charlotte got stuck with the kids in the bathroom while a herd of elephants (with a baby!) went past.
Kate:
Has previously been in 2015 and 2017. First time there were no children and was building structures. Next time there were children, this time (9 years on) getting to see the same kids as older children and how they had flourished was fantastic. Camaraderie between those who went was great.
The kids at the orphanage have had a rough life and anything we can do for these can help.
Alare is a gorgeous kid and is doing well in school.
Sue:
No idea what to expect and was very nervous. Arrived and luggage went missing - 30kg of it was donations so was a bit worrying, although was sorted out. Was a little quiet after arriving at the Orphanage but soon got stuck into what needed to be done.
Kids are beautiful. Hamesi, was found on the side of the road as a 5-year-old - won Sue's heart and was hard to say goodbye.
Would go back in a heartbeat if asked, it's been a life changing experience.
Megsy:
Was taken with the greeting from the children and the thankyou speech that they gave, they really appreciated everyone being there.
Very well run orphanage by Cathy and Patrick and it's amazing how they do it, although heartbreaking to see how the kids have come to be there.
Adults took the kids out on safari and wasn't enough seats. Megsy and some others stayed back and were picked up by a tuk tuk, came across a big pothole and bottomed out while avoiding it then had to get out and push!
Jeff:
Gayle and jeff had been 2 years prior - more and more block houses (slightly more substantial) and an increase in tourism. Still particularly poor and conditions aren't great.
Pipes with water are available but have to pay to connect so still lots of water carted back and forth in containers.
Five of the group had been before, which meant that they were able to hit the ground running and achieved a lot more than previous visit. Jason put his scout's skills to use playing games and interacting with the kids.
None of the kids had been on safari or had seen a train before - they loved the zebras. It was nice to see the kids getting to experience something they hadn't had the opportunity to before.
$1,000 from the Club plus additional donations of $500 and $300 were used for upgrades to the Poultry Shed which will allow poultry to now be able to be turned over every 3 weeks. Another shed would allow a 2-week turnover. Irrigation system upgraded with further donations.
Went on the back of a motorbike with the plumber, Cathy wasn't overly impressed. Will definitely be going back.
