Tribewanted: Vorovoro

It is always so hard to say goodbye when the time comes for someone who has become like family to move on from Vorovoro. Such was the case earlier this week when the day arrived to sing Isa Lei to Tomasi. The island now feels a little empty without our sleepy chief around to inspire good natured teasing and laughter. He’s been a part of our island family since we arrived in mid-November, and now that he’s gone I can’t walk past his empty, dark bure without missing the familiar sight of him polishing his bilo or sharpening his cane knives by candlelight.

Tomasi arrived on the island in early November, and then became our December chief. As Chief, he contributed greatly to Vorovoro and the surrounding communities. He made a generous donation of $2000 FJD, which funded the purchase of four large tarps and rope for preparing the Grand Bure roof for the rainy season, several gallons of paint and paint supplies for rejuvenating the kitchen area, several tools for restocking the tool shed, new knives for the kitchen, and several new mats for the Grand Bure. His donation also allowed us to provide wages for December to Jone V. to return to the project to apply his artistic skills to the revamping of the kitchen, as well as employ Wati and Poasa full time to lend additional hands for several island clean up and maintenance projects, such as the tear down and rebuilding of the firewood shed, landscaping and cleanup around the new office area in Tanoa Park, installation of a new firepit, washing and storing of all mosquito nets, intensive cleaning of the Old Vale, and cleanup after Cyclone Mick.

Because of his generosity, the month of December was a wonderful blend of productive work and festive frivolity. We worked hard, we played hard, we celebrated hard. He injected a playful energy into our tribe that kept us light in our hearts. He earned the title Tui Moce for his propensity toward deeeeeep, looooong sleeps. He was also was an initiated member of the Lamp Chop Society, and under his leadership the tribe spent most evenings festively laughing, joking, and singing on the grog mat.

A big vinaka vakalevu to Tui Tomasi for his leadership and generosity. He intends to return to Vorovoro later in 2010, and we look forward to sharing a big “Welcome Home” tanoa upon his return. Better start polishing a bigger bilo now, Tomasi!