MASKYLENE ISLANDS 16/7/2009
09 September 2009 | Maskylene Islands, South Malekula
Natalie
We anchored next to the small island of Aweii, where the total population sits at around 10 people. We had good shelter from the south easterlies which had picked up. This meant that we could not access the outer reefs to do surveys as there was too much swell. Only able to make a few initial assessments and one Reef Check survey there.
Therefore this week, we've spent a lot of time on the island hanging out with the people, and learning their style of life. This consists of making lap lap with them - a Vanuatu delicacy made from grated yams, taro or bananas, soaked in coconut cream then put on some banana leaves which they then decorate with their catch of the day. This is generally bits of clams, octopus, mud crabs or reef fish. It is then wrapped up in the leaves and hot rocks are placed on top so it slowly cooks. Tastes great!
Schelmi assisted the locals in fixing their generators. After fixing one, the traditional sailing canoes were soon coming from all over with requests to fix more broken machinery. Many people rely on them for their lighting needs.