Below are the personal reflections that most of the boys have written. As many mention, it is not an easy thing to put into words the experiences and emotions that they have encountered over this period. There are some that are still putting down their thoughts (I’ll update later).

Firstly, I’d like to congratulate all fourteen boys that have represented St Bede’s so proudly and admirably throughout this journey. As the titled ‘group leader’, I did not know much about this group of students prior to the trip except that many staff members were labelling them the ‘Dream Team’ before we’d even left. They definitely lived up to that title in all aspects of the trip.

Their dedication to the labour work was tremendous. Each day, we would assign two team captains each day however the teamwork and comradery on site was always led by all. Brother Mario praised the boys for their endeavours as despite tough conditions, we were able to work efficiently to complete the project that had been set for us.

Another aspect that they particularly shone in was their ability to form relationships with each other, the kids at the Blue Sky home, and the staff. These boys always showed a lot of respect, compassion and care for everyone around them. As staff it made us very proud that they were exhibiting the core values and principles that St Bede’s aims to instil in them, but also left us saying on a few occasions, “Gee these boys are raised well at home”. They were always conscious to tidy after themselves and clean their own dishes, so for the parents reading, if this is not something you are used to seeing, they have definitely proven themselves capable!!!

A wise teacher (I think it was Br Garry) once said to me “You venture off to Thailand thinking you are going to change the world by giving to the children of the Blue Sky Home, but you end up receiving more in return”. Most of the boys will continue to talk about how great the trip was and what they have taken home from the experience. They can be very certain however, that they have absolutely delivered in spades (quite literally) to the Blue Sky Home by simply giving their heart and soul to the cause for the entire duration. Many have talked about their desire to return back there in the future and they will be forever welcome.

Justin Carino
My experience of Thailand has had a massive effect on me and although has been challenging and confronting at times has been an amazing positive experience.
The bonds made between the Beda boys and the girls of the Blue Sky Home (and who could forget Tanapon) is something I’m sure none of us will soon forget and everyone is keen to stay in contact with them. Over the time staying at the school we were able to spend time with the girls and witness them in their day to day life, their impressive work ethic and commitment to their schooling was inspirational. I have developed closer bonds with some of the girls such as Wanu, Natatui, Sun, Kwanapa and Tanapon by working together on their homework or the massive variety of Thai and Aussie games that we played.
I personally have developed a greater appreciation for the work done in this Outreach program and would like to see its further development in the future as well as contribute in all ways possible. 
My time in Sangkhla Buri has made me extremely grateful for my life and for St Bedes for this opportunity.

Liam Collins
Acknowledging the cliché, words cannot describe the journey we have just been on. We have formed brothers, sisters and a family that will be forever in my heart. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to observe the respect, pride, joy, love and faith that is instilled within each of the Blue Sky Home girls and our most loyal Lasallian Brothers, who provide unwavering care for these girls. Through the bonds forged with each of the girls and witnessing their appreciation for life’s most simple gifts, my perspective and approach to life has been completely reconstructed. 

Rohan Bartosy
This trip has been an experience to remember. I have enjoyed every moment I have spent here and have no regrets with anything I have done. My highlights include meeting the girls at the Blue Sky Home and interacting with them, they have been so fun to talk to and interact with (and some are also good hairdressers). Despite the work being all over the shop, there have been some memorable moments that have came out of it like the iconic ‘BuCkEtS’ scream, the Great Mud War and the Human Gravel Train. I will not forget this trip and the people I have shared this with.

Luis Perpina
I can honestly say that I would do anything for these girls. Personally, I will take out of this trip, the companionship and love that the girls show toward each other, their teachers and especially us. By far the hardest and most painful part of leaving the Blue Sky Home is coming to terms with the fact that the possibility of us seeing them ever again is uncertain. Huge thanks to the brothers who run such a life changing program, and with the future of the college unclear, I hope that it may run for years to come.

Matthew Dunne
I can honestly say that from just the short time with the Blue Sky Home girls, they have changed my life. Their contagious positivity to their everyday life was something that amazed me through the knowledge of what some of these incredible girls have gone through already at such a young age. Their incredibly hard working and resilient characteristics that they possess has taught me many things that I will be grateful to take into my own life and hopefully the lives around me. The last night with the girls was so very overwhelming, with mixed emotions of happiness and sadness, knowing the impact we had on the girls and the impact that they had on us, it was the moment in my overall experience where everything seemingly fell into place. The profound impact that the girls had on me was truly memorable, and with their faces sealed in my mind, and now my life, whenever I find myself in times of trouble, the simple thought of their unbeatable strength and motivation is enough for me.

James Di-Giovambattista
Throughout the trip it was tough work dealing with the heat and the work but hanging out with the girls afterwards made it all worth it. Getting to know the girls and learning their work ethic of waking up at 4 to clean, do homework and get ready for school then afterwards getting back and having to cook dinner and do jobs around the school before getting to do their homework and bed at 9. Overall when it came to leaving the Blue Sky Home it was an emotional time as I had made connections with the girls and leaving felt the connect we made would be severed.

Jonathan Lantouris
The Thailand Outreach Program has been the best experience of my education and possibly my life. The connections that were made with the Blue Sky Home girls was both quick and amazing but shattering when we had to leave. So many things will be missed about this trip: the Thai language, the food, the environment, the work, but above all the girls.

Elijah Barrett
The kids who welcomed us into their environment were extraordinary before they opened their mouths or lifted a finger. Their stories and past experiences would give them every reason to command sympathy, yet their gratitude and thankfulness they demonstrate towards having an education and a safe home is one that will continue to inspire me for every day to come. I could have never predicted the profound impact these kids have had on me and am so thankful I have had the opportunity to share this experience with such incredible people who will also never look at life the same.

Sam Murray
THE BEST EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE. Although when we first arrived at Sangkhla Buri the girls form the Blue Sky Home were shy and reserved, it only took a couple of days before real relationships were formed, and I am sure all of the boys would agree that the experiences had with these girls has changed our lives. From simply spending time with the girls washing the dishes, to playing with them after school and helping them with homework, the bonds i formed with girls and seeing how they approach life has been a truly eye opening experience. Their extraordinary work ethics has inspired me to work harder in everything that I do, and the happiness they all find from the most basic of things and each other has made me appreciate everything we have on Australia. Coming into the trip we all heard of the types of connections made with the girls from members of previous groups, however the words they said or the words anyone could have ever said could have never prepared me for the close connection I made with may of the girls, and the wise range of emotions felt throughout the trip. The relationships are indescribable and something one has to experience to comprehend the impact they have on you. Because of this saying goodbye to all the Blue Sky Home girls, especially the ones I had a close relationship with was a heartbreaking and emotional experience, and one that not only me but all the boys haven’t fully recovered from.

Ethan Wellman
It was a journey of emotions like no other. Coming into it, as like most of the other boys, I didn’t fully believe what the past groups were saying. About the connections and emotional bonds developed with the girls. I think it’s truly one of those things that you have to be a part of to believe and understand. While our first meeting with the girls was a little bit disheartening as the girls were reluctant to talk to us at first, the following couple days and especially the welcome dinner set a really strong foundation for us to build our relationships on. From there I think it was an amazing experience getting to know the girls and connect with them whether that be through helping them with homework or a trip out on the river, every moment was valuable. They taught me a lot about work ethic and appreciating everything that’s given to you regardless of how little it is and seeing how happy they were, making the best out of their situation really was eye opening. As our relationships flourished so did my reluctance to leave the girls and after connecting so closely with some of the girls saying goodbye was a heartbreaking time. While it was a rollercoaster ride of a time, it really was a life changing experience and I wouldn’t of changed a thing about my time here.

Charlie Miller
Words cannot explain how the past 2 weeks have impacted me. It has been a roller coaster of emotion through the journey expressing my feelings in ways I thought I never would. It had been the happiest 2 weeks of my life being over in Sangkhlaburi, and to share the experience with a group that could not be better. I am so grateful and thankful to be given the opportunity to take part in this trip to make some people’s lives better. To build strong connections with these kids and to hear and even see what they’ve come from has a profound impact on all of us I think I can say. It is very hard to understand what it’s like until you’re over there spending time with these kids sharing laughs,jokes, many smiles and even tears to come to the realise of how happy they are for what they have and who they are and think everyone back home could take a page from their book. I feel very privileged to be a part of this trip, but for everyone back home I wish they could all put themselves in these girls shoes and see what really has happened and to see how happy they are for all they go through. Leaving Sangkhlaburi had been the saddest day of my life also as I had no idea what it’s like to leave people that you have such strong friendships with behind. Words can’t explain this trip but I feel actions can. To be grateful for what I have, to appreciate my education and motivation to strive and meet my greatest potential, to help more and share everything like these girls do and to strongly take part in MAD Day to help these girls.

Flynn Morley
The students attending La Salle School in Sangkhlaburi, particularly the Blue Sky Home girls, have forced all of us to rearrange our priorities by displaying unimaginable love and happiness. Upon meeting them you have no option but to be inspired by the energy, passion and gratitude they exhibit in every aspect of their lives. Leaving the girls on the final night was a deeply emotional and overwhelming experience, leading many of us to hope that it was only a temporary goodbye. The lessons we have learnt from all of them will undoubtedly define the rest of our lives and the memories forged with each other will last forever.

William Bunn
To be welcomed so warmly into a school, in a foreign country, of people who do not speak your language and live completely dissimilar and isolated lives to one’s self, was the perfect start to the perfect two weeks. To be part of a body that spans continents, the Lasallian identity shone through and its impact on me and the boys is a testament to the crucial work I now recognise. Every day seeing each child, beaming with a smile and a “hello” or “good morning” waiting to burst out of their lips was a real lesson in appreciating some of the most simple rights we hold at home, an education, safety and compassion. The faces and stories will stay with me forever and the lessons I’ve learnt from these children have altered my outlook on life for the better. The emotions openly displayed by all of us is a testament to the strength of the students of the school and their individual memories will stay with me forever. Thank you so much to all the staff and students at La Salle School Sangkhlaburi!

Bangkok

We woke up at 7am for a breakfast that never arrived, so we headed to the school canteen for plan B. As we sat and ate breakfast, the school was very busy, children everywhere eating, playing and laughing. There was a lot of energy, even for a school of 5000 students, however, once we were reminded that today was in fact a Saturday did the size of the school really sink in. We then jumped in taxis and headed off to the train station. Our itinerary today was to catch the train to Mo Chit station to visit Chatuchak market, home to over 15 000 different stalls selling everything imaginable. The boys spent most of the day wandering through the market, buying souvenirs for home, Patagonia t-shirts and basketball jerseys. Meanwhile, Sherine searched for more handbags, Sally searched for clothes and Mark and Shae found a ‘quiet space’ amongst the hustle and bustle to watch the Bombers win again.

After arriving home, we had some quiet time before heading to a local Korean BBQ restaurant. The students experienced cooking their meat on the table in front of them and enjoyed the unlimited Pepsi on offer. Meanwhile, the teachers had reached breaking point. Sherine was using her chop sticks to make herself look like a walrus and exhibiting various other odd behaviours, leaving the boys to think we had lost the plot!

Sunday

The suggestion of a day of site seeing was quashed by the boys as their energy levels were low. We decided the most trouble-free way of enjoying the final day together would be to go to MBK, a 7 level shopping centre that again sold anything imaginable. Sherine continued her bad luck trying to manoeuvre her group through a successful taxi trip.. This time she had to help the driver shift gears as the gear box broke whilst on the right hand lane of a 5 lane freeway. They then had to stop and wave down another taxi. Once there, we enjoyed lunch, massages and shopping.

Once home it was time to pack before jumping into the buses at 7:30pm for our final trip to the airport. A massive and lift changing journey was over and it was time to head home. Despite the wonderful experience had by all, there were not too many complaints about it being time to head home.

On the last Friday, we collected our belongings and loaded the buses before wandering down to the multi-purpose centre for a morning school assembly where we would be farewelled by the entire school community for the final time. As the rain poured again outside, so did the tears from Sherine’s eyes (and everyone else’s). Br Matthew formally farewelled us, before the entire school community of some 500 students, 20 staff and the brothers, all joined together to sing Happy Birthday to Liam. Then each member of the school lined up and hugged us individually, with some giving us roses, bracelets, cards and other gifts as gratitude. If it was an episode of The Bachelor, Liam was the clear winner with a haul of over half a dozen roses (most likely because he was the birthday boy!)

We then set off on the bus towards Bangkok. The silence in each of the buses said it all as each of us handled the varied emotions of leaving what had become such a special place, full of life changing memories. We were all mentally, physically and emotionally exhausted from the experience as well.

To break up the 6 hour drive, we had a few planned (and a few unplanned) stops along the way. The first being to pull over as a few of the boys (I won’t name names) required ‘sick bags’ to deal with the winding roads on the way out of Sangkhlaburi. Our first planned stop, however, was at the ‘Hellfire Pass’, a famous part of the infamous Burma-Thai Railway, a site where many Australian prisoners of war were sent by the Japanese to dig and clear mountainous terrain for the railway. There was a museum outlining the horrendous conditions that the prisoners faced whilst working in this place, and many did not survive. It was another confronting experience, with some of the boys realising that many of those involved were not much older than them at time.

We then stopped at the Bridge Over The River Kwai which Sally pointed out was famous for a 1957 movie (she honestly knows everything). With many tourists wandering about, Mr Winberg was flattered when asked by a lady to pose with her in a photo. The boys were trying to play matchmaker by falsely advertising Mr Winberg as single, despite trying to get invites to his wedding only minutes earlier!

At around 9:30pm, approximately 12 hours after setting off from Sangkhlaburi, we finally arrived at the La Salle school in Bangkok, home to 5000 students, several stray dogs, two inebriated security guards, an ostrich, and several chickens. The teachers were almost too tired to even tell the boys to just go to bed, but they got the hint.

Pictures to come.

We woke up Thursday knowing that, sadly, it was our last full day at the Blue Sky Home. Exclamations of how quick the final week had gone would be common throughout the day.

The boys were sent back into the classroom, this time teaching Grade 1 and 2. Music, English and Maths games proved to be most popular and the boys were much more prepared this time to fill the one hour classes.

After lunch, the boys spent some time making cards for the girls. We sat around the table cutting hearts, drawing Pikachu (Ethan W. impressed us all with his amazing drawing) and attempting to write in Thai. We then headed to the markets to pick up some final gifts for the girls and brothers. We also picked up matching shirts to wear at the farewell dinner. Mark’s choice of shirt saw him once again having to defend his wardrobe choice. Many thought he may have been wearing a woman’s top, other’s suggested he looked like Fred Flinstone while some went as far to draw similarities to Shrek (after he was turned into a prince – of course!)

Back at the house, we finished our cards and began wrapping the shoes and socks which were brought using our fundraising money. The presents looked particular amazing thanks to the bows donated by Charlie and his mum, Julianne!

We quickly packed, cleaned our rooms and change. After a quick photo shoot of the boys in their fabulous new shirts we headed to dinner. The girls and Brother Matthew surprised Liam with a birthday cake, complete with trick candles. After dinner, we all participated in a candle lit reflection. As we stood holding candles and the girls hands, emotions were quick to take over. It is hard to put in words the relationships that had formed but the broken hearts and tears shed highlighted the genuine connections our boys had made with the girls at The Blue Sky Home.

The girls then performed a goodbye song for the boys. Despite their tears, the boys pulled together and performed the song taught to them by the girls: Loi Krathong. The girls quickly got up to join the boys as they moved in a circle together singing and dancing. Stand by Me was also performed, and girls were so impressed by the boys singing skills an encore was requested.

The girls had also surprised us all with a gift of traditional Thai pants. Elijah was particularly surprised with his, as the slits down the side of the legs left little to the imagination.

The rest of the evening was spent exchanging gifts, bracelets, cards and hugs as we thanked the girls for their hospitality and friendship.

Reluctantly, we called it a night and headed back the house with heavy hearts but wonderful memories. That night, we decided not to complete a reflection as words seemed unable to express the feelings felt at that moment. The boys demonstrated true ‘Beda’ spirit, looking after one another and exchanging hugs and kind words reflecting the brotherhood that had formed within the group. We headed to bed, knowing we had an early and emotional morning and attempted to prepare ourselves to say goodbye.

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The previous night, Winberg had given us some good news – we were all allowed to sleep in. However, the torrential downpour that decided to occur meant our sleep in wasn’t happening today. Half of the boys decided to continue working the previous day which meant they had a delayed start on the worksite today – thanks to the other half of the boys who went to the site earlier!

As the delayed group walked down later into the morning, comments were made about how slow they were to arrive, but when one tool wasn’t picked up, Matt certainly enjoyed the giving the comments back!! Before the boys left the site for the last time, a photo was taken with Sol, a local tradie who was quick to become a legend amongst the boys.

Back at the house, the boys were divided into groups and quickly began planning lessons for classes they were teaching that afternoon. Charlie, Jono, Luis and Liam taught music. Ethan W, Matt, Billy and Elijah taught English. And Ethan E, Rohan, James and Flynn taught maths. The real lesson seemed to be learnt by the boys, who recognised that an hour was a lot of time to fill!

Later at the house, Liam continued his teaching career as he attempted to introduce a new card game to the group. Even with distracted naughty student, Billy, the game was quickly picked up with Elijah and Shower winning! This was then followed with a very competitive round of Spoons, which saw Matt crowned as champion.

For dinner, the teachers were invited to the brothers residence whilst the boys enjoyed dinner at the Blue Sky Home.

At reflection, the boys discussed how their faith, values and Lasallian beliefs had been impacted by the experience. All agreed that the experienced had only strengthened the values taught at St Bedes. Additionally, we noted how far the Lasallian community stretched and acknowledge how lucky we felt to be apart of it.

We all headed to bed, knowing we were in for an emotional Thursday where we would need to begin saying our goodbyes to the Blue Sky Home.

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We spent another day on the worksite, we’re in the home stretch now. We arrived to see So (site manager) adding the sheets to the roof of the carport. They are a lovely shade of jungle green – as someone said “for camouflage”. We had a few jobs to do including removing the edging from our perfect concrete slab, then packing the edges with mud to prevent breakage, cleaning the poles to be added to the carport structure, moving the roof sheets when they were needed, and painting the carport poles black. Shae went with “midnight black” to describe the colour – Elijah and Billy decided that was too basic, but couldn’t decide on something better. 

Several members of the group spent time balancing on beams and scaffolding to paint the top beams, everyone did a fab job of being a circus performer and no one fell. We did all look a bit like the 101 dalmatians though, after being splattered with black paint. Billy’s long suffering shirt gained a smiley face on the front in paint, to go with the mud “patterns” on the back. 

We were also waiting for another load of gravel to arrive to fill up the middle of the driveway. The group was very unenthusiastic about this prospect! Brother Mario did mention that they’d use a digger to move this gravel instead of our bucket chain (thank you Brother Maz!!). Though the gravel was due to arrive at noon, it still wasn’t there when we left at 3:30.

When we finished up for the day we had completed the whole first two sections of the carport and had painted the third, awaiting the roof. The remaining two sections need more beams welded in before we can finish them, and though some of the boys have tried several times to convince us to let them have a go at welding, they are NOT allowed to use the power tools. 

After a good long shower (sadly not a hot shower) to scrape off all of the paint, we had dinner with the girls again and helped them with their homework. I have started a knitting and crochet craze, though the homework still got done. Our reflection at the end of the day involved the boys thinking of something that has challenged them and a trip highlight. Everyone did a great job of thinking deeply about their experiences so far and the boys are treating their reflections with respect and contemplation.

I do think several will be returning with bug phobias though as we’ve had quite a few freak outs with some enormous insects! Luis emptied half a can of bug spray on one poor bug last night alone! 

Sally

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Happy Birthday Justin!

The weekend was over, and it was back to work for our boys. Flynn, Liam and Sally had an earlier start to the day as they hopped on the bus to collect the children for school.

Meanwhile, back at the house Justin was a year older! He was surprised by gifts and cards from home, as well as a Solomon jersey from St Bedes (Go Solomon!) Ethan E attempted to take on the “undefeated” Connect Four Champion, Mark only to be outplayed within seconds.

As we made our way to the work site, we stopped to watch the children who were performing in a marching band. We were all extremely impressed with their talent and discipline.

On the work site, the sun beat down and we were soon wishing for last week’s rain as we began the process of laying cement. We quickly began spreading the first truck load of cement with the boys having to work around Billy who had accepted a dare to create a “cement angel”. He quickly regretted this decision. The group also began working on the challenge set by Sherine the night before: they’d each randomly picked a team member the night before. Their job was to look out for this person, encourage them and report back at the evening reflection with something positive regarding their efforts on site.

Despite the hot sun, the week’s rain had turned the work site into a muddy mess, making it impossible for the second truck to get up to the top of the driveway to drop of the next load of cement. Even with the boys’ cheering the driver on, the truck just couldn’t get up the hill. Brother Mario dismissed us to lunch while he sent for reinforcements. After a delicious lunch, we returned to the work site and soon the truck (with some help from the neighbour’s tractor) was able to join us and we could recommence spreading the cement.

Later on, the unbeatable Mark finally met his match. Three times. Flynn, Liam and Rohan all managed to defeat the undefeated and are now owed an ice-cream. Mark claims their victory is only as a result of his fatigue (although we are sceptical).

Mark recovered from his loss just in time for Monday mass. After mass, we made our way to dinner, with another surprise for Justin as the girls had decorated the dinner area with balloons. A cake was also brought out, complete with trick candles. Many of us thought that Justin may have been there till his 18th Birthday trying to get them to go out.

After dinner, we all helped the girls with their homework, eager to spend as much time as possible with them as we became painfully aware that the time was flying by. Sally’s knitting class was a huge hit, and several of the girls were quick to learn the new skill.

At reflection, we all shared what we had learnt about one of our team members. Lots of positive observations were made about each other’s contributions to the days work. It is abundantly clear that the group has become extremely close, with lots of new friendships forged or made stronger.

With only three full days left at the Blue Sky Home we are all looking to make the most of our final days with the girls. Despite some minor injuries, fatigue and lack of clean clothes, spirits remain high and the boys have been wonderful and eager to ensure they finish their time here strong.

Teacher Shae

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Day 8 begun with the first sleep in of the trip, as many of us woke up at 8:00 in the morning! We met the girls at the kitchen at 9:30 and we carried lunch up to the bus with them. The bus ride was entertaining as the boys played many games with the girls from the blue sky home. After 15 minutes we arrived at the Mon bridge for a day on the water. We entered the house boat and everyone settled in, Elijah even managed to catch some shut-eye before we arrived at the sunken temple. 

As we traveled further into the river many played games such as snakes and ladders, uno, connect 4 as well as games taught by the girls. 

As we walked around the temple, we gazed in its glory and took a group photo with all of the girls. As we climbed back onto the house boat, lunch was passed around and everyone enjoyed the meal of rice, eggs, noodles and a delicious tomato and chicken stew.

As we finished our meal we came to a stop, deep into the depths of the river, it was Luis and Charlie who lead the charge into the water. They were followed by the rest of the boys accompanied by the girls, some of which were more eager than others, at which point Rohan took the opportunity to have a nap. The swim left the boys exhausted, so to freshen up watermelons were handed out which the boys ate in the water despite its depth.

After swimming the boat headed back to land and everybody played some more games, one of which was an intense Uno game with Ethan, Sam, and Justin involving one of the girls copping a 24 card pick up! 

Much like yesterday everybody was exhausted on the ride back due to the intense fun had during the day. After getting back from the lake Luis and Liam played guitar with the kids while Engles took a quick nap, and Charlie, Sam, Justin, Diji and Ethan spent time with the girls in the classroom. 

At 6:00 we all had dinner, and enjoyed delicious rice, crackers and Pad Thai. Soon after dinner we all settled down and the boys were taught a cultural Thai song, and although at first we struggled to get the words right, in the end we preformed an absolute banger. 

We then taught the girls “Riptide”, and even though there were some tricky words for the girls to learn, they all sung it beautifully by the end. From this, we were able to see the community and togetherness developed through the symbolism of music. This unity in song represented the relationships that have been built throughout the trip so far. By 9:00 we all sat down for reflection and Mr Winberg challenged everyone to beat him at a game of Connect Four. By the end of the day the boys were all knackered so we hit the sack early to be prepared for a working day tomorrow.

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Our first break day began with an early wake up and plans to observe the Buddhist monks complete their Saturday morning rituals. However some miscommunication and a Brother Matthew sleep in made the adventure impossible, so we went for a stroll down the road instead. The goal was to reach a river near the school however the muddy track made it impossible to finish the walk, with plenty of shoes being drowned in the mud during so. After, a typical breakfast of toast, bananas, Milo, sticky rice and some chicken and pork skewers were enjoyed by all. Some savvy boys were also intuitive enough to buy some cereal and milk the night before and enjoyed some coco pops. Soon after breakfast, all of our group and most of the blue sky girls came on a journey to the jungle. A 30 minute bus ride took us to our destination . That destination happened to be over an hour’s trek from our real destination, a tiny village in the remote Thai jungle. The walk consisted of wet, winding mud paths up and down steep hills, past rice fields and dense jungle. The entire path was plagued by mud of unknown depths and puddles, resulting in countless falls. Indeed, we were forced to take a longer route than usual because the shorter option was too dangerous. Sherine’s slip onto her backside was a highlight. Other notable stumbles include Charlie’s (iconic/perfectly timed fall), Shae’s and Liam’s. When we finally arrived at the village, we were greeted by the parents of a trio of blue sky girls. We ate a delicious noodle lunch in their humble home, grateful for their amazing hospitality despite their limited wealth. We then proceeded to tour the tiny village, giving packs of food to every family. The walk back was made even harder due to a downpour, but we had lots of fun slipping with the girls. Sam, Ethan, Justin and Liam even went down a smoother part of the path like a slide. The drive back was much more subdued due to our exhaustion, with many of the girls falling asleep. After a brief break when we returned home, most of the boys went to Sangkhlaburi to restock with snacks at 7/11 and munch on some banana pancakes and crepes. The trip included Sherine’s admission of a special talent, getting Panadol stuck in her nasal passage. Some boys remained at the school in their absence, with Charlie and Flynn having their hair braided. Dinner commenced earlier than usual, meaning the group who visited the village arrived at the dinner table after everyone else had finished. Their lateness was not missed by the girls, who joked with them by pointing at their wrist to indicate the time. After dinner everyone congregated in one of the classrooms and played around with the girls, either playing board games, drawing, using yo-yo’s or doing homework. Our time with the girls concluded by watching a Thai version of the Bold and the Beautiful, complete with trag acting and a disturbing story line. One of the girls (Pity), even convinced teacher Mark to let them stay up past bed time and finish the show. Our day finished with a brief reflection, however the boys sleeping in the greenhouse stayed up later to create a hilarious recreation of a Maccas drive through. 

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DAY 6

Another morning in Thailand began what would be a very productive day. Jono and Digi headed off on the bus trip this morning to collect the children. When they returned to the Monster House they were greeted by the group, devouring some delicious donuts.

Back on the worksite the boys, under the leadership of Collins and Flynna, worked on laying a base for the concrete on the extremely muddy ground. The human chain worked productively again and it didn’t take long for Mr Winberg’s coral/salmon/pink shorts to be covered with the brown mud. The leader of the school, Brother Matthew, joined in on the site to get his hands dirty and generously helped out. Best on ground today on the site was Brother Mario who was shoveling away all day.

We clocked off at 11 and hosed off to get ready for lunch at 11:30. Today all kids were dressed in their traditional dresses/clothes full of unique colours and patterns. We played with the kids whilst they were on recess and played some games.

And that’s when the shenanigans began. After lunch we resumed work at 1:30 and the human chain assembled with an increase of work ethic and banter. The rain came and followed by the mud fights where no one came out clean except for James Digi who has his pristine clothes on and stood under the gazebo recovering from injury. Luis, Charlie and Winberg had a rivalry and were constantly trying to take each other down. Ms Hower and Mr Winberg plotted revenge on Charlie, they fooled him by leading him to believe he had a blood nose, but with a quick swipe at the legs Charlie was down. The jokes and play fighting continued all afternoon until 4:30pm when we clocked off from the work site.

Brother Matthew offered us a lift to the river to wash off all the mud from the worksite. We piled into the back of the Ute again and painfully headed down the road to the river due to the rain smacking our faces at high speeds. Upon arrival at the river we went in fully clothed including socks and boots. It was refreshing and was a chance to wash our feral clothes which came out immaculate after.

Back at the school, we got ready for dinner at 6pm. Briefly before Flynn brought a range of yo-yo’s which none of the kids could figure out. Rice, spiced potatoes and noodles were on the menu and went down a treat amongst the boys.

After dinner, we got all our food we bought from 7/11 the previous night (thanks Mr Finn) and assembled in one of the classrooms to watch a movie of the kids’ choice. The group found it hard to pick one movie so we ended up watching the intro of Chicken Run, an episode of Kung Fu Panda ,half of the Minions movie and Flushed away. The kids loved the treats especially all the fizzy drink that was bought. Ethan had to play parent to Tanapon, restricting his soft drink intake from a sugar overdose. It was nice to relax and gave the teachers a chance to have the night off. We loved the girls company and they also loved ours but around 9:30 we called it time for bed. Everyone had an enormous day so we all rested soundly.

Charlie and Ethan

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