Let the Volunteering begin!

It’s day two of our life changing adventure and my oh my have we been doing some big lifting!

Most eyes were open by 6:30am, an early but eager start for our team. Big lifting tunes blared through the house and I’m sure I wasn’t the only one impressed by Michael and Jelena’s performance of Superbass!

Showered, fed and packed up ready to go, we assembled in the yard for some energising morning games – Aru-cha-cha put a smile on everyone’s face =), while Little Sally has become a group favourite (a game that involves showing just how groovy your moves are!).

After meeting Mayor Sam Murray of Cherbourg, we split up into 3 groups – 2 groups for tree planting and 1 group for rubbish removal. Members of the community drove us to the tree planting sites while giving us some local knowledge along the way.

We planted trees with members of the community and were honoured to meet some of Cherbourg’s local elders! The Murri Rangers helped us to dig holes while the students of Cherbourg school joined in to give us a hand. It wasn’t too long before a dance circle was formed between the students and some our of Big Lifters. Despite Michael’s impressive efforts, the students weren’t as keen to show us their moves as we were to show them ours.

One of our Big Lifters found some heritage in Cherbourg! Her grandfather was a stockman in Cherbourg and her father John grew up in the town. Imagine the surprise on Emma’s face when one of the community members Percy, knew exactly who she was talking about when she mentioned her father’s name.

Back to the council office for a BBQ lunch and an inspirational speech by the Mayor. It think it’s safe to say that we all left full and satisfied!

A final clean up of the house and an extra clean of the bathroom (thanks to our dirty feet!) and we were back on the bus, ready to say goodbye to the inspirational community of Cherbourg.

Currently on our way to Eidsvold for a 2 night stay. Bonds have been formed throughout the team which will only grow stronger as we continue our journey.

I am so proud of our QUT Big Lifters!

Signing Off

Mikaela
(AKA Magical Miki) =)