Helen Newton's blog

In memory

I felt I should post the only photo I took of Christchurch Cathedral in 2005.

 

Riverboats on the Rhine

I was amazed at the number of these riverboats cruising the Rhine, carrying all types of freight. Keeps it off those wonderful autobahns. Maybe Australia could consider shipping freight up the coast by boat instead of the Pacific Highway?

Quick post from Athens.

Quick post from Athens. I will be here for a few days yet, as my plane out was cancelled due to the volcano. Over the next few days, I will try to post a photo or two.

Lilifia school and some of its teachers and students, Malaita, Solomon Islands

Helen takes baby sister Jemma for a paddle. This is how Helen and her brother travel to school daily

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Some photos of the Pirates...

Some photos of the Pirates, plus adopted granddaughters, Helen and Jemma in their canoe.

I'm os cold here in Australia that I wish I was there right now.

Lagoon House Update

The house lost its roof in the January cyclone, but it was fixed before I got back there - the advantage of using local materials (sago palm thatch).

I will post more over the next few weeks, including photos.

Lau Lagoon Sunset

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Going Solar

Going Solar

This week, my solar power system was officially connected to the national power grid, and I am producing electricity. I may not produce all I need with a 1000 watt system but it will significantly reduce my contribution to global warming. The net cost will be about $2000, once I get the promised government rebate, and the state is promising to pay for power produced (we are not sure how much, or whether it will be gross or net).

However, I am already running my meter in reverse during the day.

Lau Lagoon

I've just added 2 photos , and will add a third in a minute. Berlin is Safo's island - she is the mother of 11 adult children, and I have lost count of the grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Lismore was built by one of her sons (the artificial island, that is), but the house was built for me, and is available as accommodation for paying ivsitors, with all proceeds going to the village families providing a variety of services (meals, transport, entertainment, tours etc.)

The third photo shows one of the "ships" that provides transport to the area, and a group of boats arriving to meet it.

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