Mount Tomaniivi and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes
These may not be his exact words, but to tackle this course one has to be able to overcome the nature itself and its complexities. Solomon Island students studying at the University of the South Pacific have had first hand experience of what it meant to be a geographer; being able to conquere high mountains, rugged terrains and deepest of the jungles. The GE201 students have just returned from a life time experience from Fiji's wild side and here is an overview from a final year SI student, Krawford Pita:
GE201 Class of 2005 on the left is Prof.Randy Thaman
Date : from monday 19th - 22nd Sept
Lecturer: Prof Randolf Thaman and other GE Tutors.
Purpose : biogeography and the distribution of native and introduced plant species in Fiji, esp Viti Levu and the land use of native Fijians from the shoreline to the interior fiji. No of students: 100 plus
Destinations :
Monasavu Dum and hydro site plus Power station (supplying
to Suva and smaller towns in Viti Levu, Navai village (place of stay during the week) plant species and land use was taken here. Mount Victoria, Natively known as Mt Tomaniivi (highest Mount in Fiji -about 1500 meters above sea-level),Sigatoka sand dunes.
Transportations Suva-Navai:
- 2 Pacific buses from Suva to Monasavu Dam site, Carriers
from Monasavu-Navai village. Transportation Navai-Suva: 4 Carriers from Navai to Tavua, 2 Pacific buses from Tavua,to Ba, to Lautoka, Nandi, Sigatoka and back to Suva.
Last Lap
Lelebet story:
Mountain:
Very steep indeed, covered with thick forest (primary forest) with both native and exotic plants. Mountain sides: Very steep with volcanic rock stretch downwards.
Caves around the sides of the mountain. Ropes were provided to help climbers on steep places. On the very top: not a very big surface, about 20 meters in diameter. Dew and fog narawe, drops like showers. From the very top: you can see the ocean, Ovalau island, Tavua town, and almost all around Viti Levu. We went up with GE409 students as well. All students reach the top, not like on other previous years where few were not able to make it. Reaching the top is like a dream come true, and a great achievement in my life.
1500 meters above Sea level
Final night, perform cultural dances. Solo and Vanuatu combine. Dances: "Aue Puke, Bilikiki(West), Wakabaoti lo China town, Oka le(guale)" and endless Fijian style Grog session and "Taralala"(dance) till the break of dawn.
Wrapping up the journey
Photos courtesy of Prof. R. Thaman, GE201, 2005
