NEARLY HOME
The end is near and what an exciting journey it has been. Starting with the old colonial town of Kuching with its historic buildings from the “white rajahs” era and lovely promenade on the waterfront, to the acclimitisation trek with full packs to the beaches and waterfall at Bako national Park. Then the flight to Miri and the small plane to the hill town of Bario in the Kelabit highlands where all in the group did an outstanding job on construction at the primary school. Trekking in the humid jungles Sarwak with swollen rivers and swollen leeches, meeting the Penan people with their blow pipes and crossing swollen rivers in what was once head hunter territory. Down to Niah caves where locals risk their lives climbing bamboo poles to reach the nests of swifts which are sold to China for birds nest soup. Next stop KK then the climb up Mount Kinabalu under the light of a full moon, coping with near freezing temperatures and the rarified air and eventually everyone in the group summitting (an unexpected achievement _ (congratulations to all for their perseverance). The Orangutans at Sepilok and snorkelling amongst the coral and fish on Manutick island. The students have had a challenging, diverse and enriching experience and it has been gratifying to watch the growth in their leadership skills, the development of their team spirit and their willingness to generally uncomplainingly rise to the challenges they faced. Although everyone is now looking forward to getting home and catching up with family I am sure the trip has been a rewarding and unforgettable experience. Photos of the awesome climb up Mount Kinabalu and also the Orangutans should be on the site tomorrow and they are well worth checking out. Thanks to all who participated in this adventure.
Dane De Kretser DOB:- 5/7/1970 Singapore Airport