Rebuild Nananu-i-ra

As many of you know, my family have a small place on an island in Fiji which was severely damaged over the weekend by Cyclone Winston. The category 5 cyclone was the worst cyclone on record to ever hit the South Pacific.

My aunty Maxine has dedicated her life to running the family business - solely operating and maintaining 7 bures and dorms since 1999. She's responsible for staffing, cooking, maintenance, guest services and everything else associated with running beautiful but simple accommodation on an island with no direct power or water. She also provides several jobs for locals from Raki Raki on the mainland (Viti Levu) who assist in various aspects of the business.

Contact with my aunty on the island has been intermittent with lines being down, power out etc. but we have found out that the damage includes:

- The 80 meter jetty (which my Grandad built in the 1960s) being completely washed away;

- The blue and yellow building "the sun house" being completely flattened;

- The entire roof of my Aunty's home being completely ripped off;

- The generator being broken meaning no power;

- The boat being blown into the mangroves resulting in a huge hole rendering it unseaworthy; and

- Severe water damage to all cottages.

At this stage tradesman and materials are the priority which is difficult given the state of the entire country however we are hoping to send resources from Australia once flights resume and roads open up. All contributions will go towards materials, tradesman, water, food and any other assistance that might be needed for family and staff.

This is obviously something very dear to my heart but the extent to which I can help alone is limited which is why I have decided to ask each of you for help.

Every dollar counts so any amount you wish to contribute would be greatly appreciated.

Any additional funds above what is required to rebuild Nananu will be donated to Raki Raki village.

Thank you in advance for your thoughtfulness and generosity.

Lots of love,
Caitlyn xx