An Overdue Update

Firstly we’d like to say a belated (sorry!) welcome to Expedition 19, who joined the island in time to celebrate Christmas by the ‘eating ceremony’ of Sage and Onion, our ex-resident turkeys. Following this staff and volunteers headed down to the village to join the celebrations and at midnight the British touch was introduced with the singing of Auld Lang Syne after which there was much kissing and wishing of Happy New Year to everyone. Young and old were out to see in the New Year and it was a wonderful atmosphere, enjoyed by all. On the 4th January BV staff marked the New Year in a more formal way with the Nahoda and members of the Fokoltany of Andavadoaka. BV expressed their happiness at having been working with Andavadoaka for over 2 years and were looking forward to a continued collaboration for the benefit of the village. The Nahoda expressed similar sentiments and were happy to be celebrating the New Year with BV. So it was a happy time all round.

We also have other important pieces of news to update you with. Firstly we’d like to welcome the new Expedition Manager Alex Mason who has also now arrived on site to take over from Jenny in early February.

On 5th January BV organised the first public screening of the film "A message from Andavadoaka" which was produced by independent filmmakers Richard Scrase and Christina Parau in collaboration with Blue Ventures. Two television sets were set up in the centre of Andavadoaka just outside the Mr Coco’s house and in front of the BV Noticeboard. Approximately 400 people attended the screening, from very young to very old. The film was very well received and there was much excitement - probably the first time many people had seen pictures of their village on television not to mention themselves!"