Project Background Overview:

In 1997 a film crew visited Vanuatu (Port Vila) to capture file footage for ongoing promotions. These promotions were aimed at increasing visitor numbers to Vanuatu and encouraged Australians to experience island life. Hammond David, the manager at Blue Water Island Resort established contact with the film crew. Paul Simbolo, who worked at the resort, also invited the film crew to visit his village at Epule.

Since 2000 the Brunswick Valley has had a special connection with Vanuatu hosting a cultural visit from Blue Water Island Resort under the co ordination of Hammond David.

Many Australian travellers have visited Port Vila since 2000, keeping in touch with our friendly neighbours in the Pacific Islands. Media promotions showcasing selected villages on Efate, encouraged Australian families to experience round island tours. These tours provided families with an enjoyable and educational holiday experience as they connected with the friendly Ni-Vanuatu.

It was not until the damage which was caused by Cyclone Pam in 2015 that a greater need was identified to help the villages of Efate. Visitor numbers to the island had declined leaving the families and villages short of previously generated tourism funds.

Contact was made with Tahnia Cook in 2015. Support was given to her to help with the North Efate Community Projects.

In 2017, Australian resident Larry Budd, whose family is from the island of Tanna, provided a number of items which would help the villages to rebuild their communities. Contact was then made with Stuart Friend (Air Vanuatu Pilot) who introduced the SHaRM Foundation Community Projects under the co ordination of Steph Neilson, founding Member.

The current Re-build Vanuatu Community Project builds upon past friendships and initiatives. Working together, sharing the resources and expertise will hopefully underpin the success of the community-based programs being set up for the villages of Efate.

Please help the people who have welcomed so many Australians to their shores by donating to the “Good 4 Global” Campaign. Be assured your support will be felt in the most needy areas.
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