TC Evan Aftermath

Happy .Birthday To Me!

Some people have been wondering about the date thing and honestly I can't really explain it, I'll try. When you watch the sun set, if you can see it, I watch the same sun set 4 hours later, only it is already the next day here. Upon reaching Tonga I had crossed the International Date Line, Tonga is where time begins, so make sense? Sort of? Anyway you are probably more curious about Tropical Cyclone Evan.

First of all I am fine and the boat is fine. I got a couple of scratches on the hull from bumping other boats and my stern mounted VHF Antenna snapped when it was hit by the errant canvas of a small power boat on a trailer on the lawn behind me. All in all I am grateful. Between the design of the marina, the marina staff and the other yachties here unbelievably no boats were lost and no people were seriously injured. The power of the wind cannot be described. I have heard someone recorded 140 knots on land, the airport reported 110 and inside the marina we figure we felt 100 at the worst of it. This classifies it as a Category 5 Cyclone. A few big trees fell down around the marina, about half a dozen roller furling headsails came partially unravelled and shredded, small trees branches and leaves where everywhere, part of the roof of the bar caved in, one very large ketch lost all its bow lines and many of the boats around it suffered damage to their toe rails. As of now the power is still out but we have water and internet is around but difficult. I am sure this cyclone has made international news and you have heard about the destruction in other parts of Fiji. What was really amazing here is how it really brought people together and the willingness and dedication of the staff.

After the cyclone the marina put on a free lunch and debriefing, basically they asked for help in cleaning up and getting everything safe again. That night they also put on a free dinner. The yachties had already decided to do the same for the staff and donations where collected. The Tahitian staff where amazing, many working long hours to make the marina safe forsaking their own homes and preparations. During the cyclone security was around to respond to any emergencies and at one point they where swimming for hours trying to fix the broken surge boom at the entrance to the marina. You have to keep in mind that while they are doing this as their homes and families are experiencing the same thing. A few of the staff lost their homes entirely. Again I cannot describe the dedication they showed.

Last night we gave the money we collected to the marina manager and he bought food and drinks for the staff, we cooked and served them dinner and drinks. A poll was taken and it was decided that the money left over was going towards buying a computer for the staff to use on their breaks and before and after work. Most Fijians are quiet poor and I have heard they make around $2-$4 an hour. So a home computer is not something many have. It was a wonderful evening and some very touching speeches where given.

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers, birthday and holiday wishes, and hopefully internet service will improve soon and I can post some pictures.