From Weligama to Paro a 30 year journey.

My Photo scholarship 2010 entry

Worldwide | Wednesday, October 13, 2010 | 5 photos

As a young traveler I spent 5 years venturing alone across the planet. Lured to the coast of Sri Lanka, I settled amongst a small fishing community on the beach, embraced by their hospitality, in awe of the simplicity of their lives and the sheer beauty of the bay of Weligama.

Living alongside Walter and his family in a coconut leaf hut, I provided the family with the funds for a new boat. I took on the Indian Ocean and lived the life of a fisherman. Life on the beach was incredible, busy, joyous and very noisy. I secured some tranquility by building a small hut on an island that lay 500 meters offshore.
My own little piece of paradise, life was basic but exhilarating. The cost was minimal, the memories enormous.

I returned to Weligama last November, thirty years had gone by. My good friend Walter had recently passed away, but his family were overjoyed to see me. Hundreds of old friends appeared, children I had known years before had families of their own. Some had perished in the Tsunami that devastated the coast line. I had the opportunity to give a photo to a woman who had lost an entire family. I had a picture of her son from 30 years ago (the beauty of film). Faded as it was it was a truly magical moment that I will never forget.

These photographs (although not of a standard that this competition may be looking for) show my island paradise, my friend Walter and the original boat I purchased 30 years ago. Last year I captured Walter’s son out on the ocean, and on the beach with one of the five new family boats.

I am currently studying a Diploma of Nursing; I ride track work, swim regularly and keep fit. My plan is to take some nursing skills back to remote areas of the world. I would love to learn some photographic skills and continue my adventure in Bhutan.