Take your place in our JUMP START team
for the
2012 'Vanuatu Island Relay

 

 

In 2001, JUMP START was the first International team ever to participate in this event, and since then we have taken part in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2010. The Round Island Relay (RIR) is part of the Independence Day celebrations for Vanuatu. It signifies the linking of the local people around the main island since independence from the UK and France in 1980.

So the way it works is, the first runner goes off and the rest of us hop in a mini-bus. We go ahead for a couple of kilometres, then as our runner comes past we cheer them on and give them water, then go ahead another few kilometres until our team mate comes past again. As a team, we stay together all day long to help and encourage and support each other, as we jog (or trot or walk) around the circumference of the island of Efate (the main island where Port Vila is). This goes on all day until we finish the relay and everyone has had their turn.

Although it is quite competitive for the local teams, we never worry ourselves about trying to keep up with them. It is just so exciting to see them run past, often bare foot, and not even opening their mouths to breath! They are true, natural athletes.

Each of the villages we pass through has spent days preparing their little piece of paradise and making their part of the road beautiful with palm fronds, flowers and even tunnels of floral ‘irrigation’ for the runners to pass through.

The Ni-Vanuatu line the roadside or perch themselves in trees calling out, singing, clapping and cheering us on (it makes us feel like we are part of the Olympic Torch Relay!)

They set up stalls with local produce and gifts, and all the gorgeous, smiley kiddies are dressed in their Sunday best, ready to ‘high 5’ you as you go past.

The Vanuatu Round Island Relay is life-changing. In previous years, some of our team members had never jogged more than 1km before they put their deposit down, and then to go on and complete a section as part of our team is an incredible accomplishment. So if you are looking to set yourself a fitness goal for 2012, this is the one for you. We will be taking 2 teams. One is a run team (for those who can run their whole section), and another fun team for those who can walk and/or trot their whole section.

 

BUT WAIT! THERE’S MORE! It is also a relaxing tropical holiday during Sydney's winter!

Don’t forget that this trip is not just about the Round Island Relay. Don’t forget about the fantastic holiday we all have in an absolutely spectacular part of the world where you can do as much or as little as you like in a warm, relaxed, tropical paradise. The Ni-Vanuatu would have to be the warmest and friendliest people you could possibly meet. The resort we stay in (Iririki Island Resort) is the most beautiful on the island, with fabulous views, a tropical paradise atmosphere, an excellent restaurant, luxurious pool area, and delicious Pina Colada's served in coconuts!!! Oh, and did I forget to mention that there is a new family section on the resort island, plus the original (and beautiful) child-free area – which means it is now suitable for everyone!

BUT WAIT! THERE’S MORE! You also get to give education packs to children who have so little!

Every year, we undertake lots of fund-raising before we leave Australia and arrive in Vanuatu with many thousands of dollars (and so far a cumulative 850kg of excess baggage) worth of numeracy and literacy resources and sporting equipment, which we donate to two small schools in the rural area who otherwise have very little.

The delight on the children’s (and teachers’!!) faces when we unpack these goods is a pleasure that is hard to beat! And as a thanks back to us, we have been treated to concerts put on by the children, feasts of local produce, hand-made bags woven especially for us, and coconut milk from fresh coconuts supplied for us on relay day!

The opportunity that we have to go into a village and see what goes on in the day-to-day life of these wonderful people is something that 'normal' tourists do not get the opportunity to do. Due to Heidi's special link with Vanuatu and all the good work Jump Start has done over the last decade, ensures we have special permission from the Village Chief to do this.

BUT WAIT! THERE’S MORE! It is an opportunity for you to be a part of our Tanna Sponsorships!

In 2004, we also raised enough funds through the generous support of JUMP START clients, together with Northbridge and Pennant Hills Rotary Clubs to sponsor a team from one of the remote islands in the archipelago, called Tanna. We organised for the team of 10 to be flown to their capital city (these children would NEVER have the opportunity to leave their island normally), have 3 night’s food and board, plus participate in their national event. Not only was this a chance of a lifetime for these kids, but they also ended up winning their section of the event, so were able to take lots of dollars back to their island for the others at their school to share. It was a very proud moment for all of us, and their genuine thanks to us for the opportunity was heart-warming. When I went to visit the students in 2006, I asked them if they had been able to use all the resources we had given them. Their reply was, “We felt that we had been given so much by you already, that we distributed it all to other little schools on the island”!!! So again in 2008 and 2010 we sponsored a team of 11 girls from this school, plus 2 teachers. These gorgous girls have done us proud and ran their little legs off. In 2008 they arrived back in Vila 3hrs before our Jump Start team, waited for us, then ran the last 1/2km with Ken to the finish line. it was fabulous, and they couldn't wait to show us their silver medals that they had won. In 2010, they won first place in their division and went back to their island as heroines with a big trophy and enough cash to help them with their school fees.

Please have a look at the attached package and let us know if you are interested. If you know anyone who does not come to JUMP START but would be interested in joining us, please forward this onto them. If you would like to read the memories of our past participants, click here to read what they had to say about the relay and the trip overall.

There has been an overwhelming expression of interest in being part of this very special cultural and exercise experience for 2012, hence why we are again taking 2 teams. If time allows you to come with us, I can guarantee you will have an exceptional holiday as well as feeling completely satisfied at completing such a challenging (but fun) event.

We already have 6 committed runners for our run team, and 7 committed walkers & trotters for the fun team, 2 supporters, and 3 kids - it's going to be incredible!

I am sooooooooooooo excited about this years trip. Firstly because it has been 2yrs since going to my favourite place; secondly because of the great bunch of people who have already indicated they will be coming this year; and thirdly because we are again sponsoring the team of girls to come over from Tanna to participate in the relay, which I know is so incredibly special for them.

So if you are interested in having an fitness event to work towards this year, keep reading. OR,

If you are interested in escaping the Sydney winter, for a tropical island experience, keep reading. OR,

If you would like to see first-hand how your donated dollars, and literacy and numeracy resources

change the lives of underprivileged children, keep reading.

 

Your Steps for Action

* Call us on 9904 1201 or email info@JumpStartOutdoor.com.au to indicate your intention to join us - yah!

* Write your name on the notice board in the JUMP START office for run team, fun team or supporter.
* A non-refundable $500 per person deposit is required by 30 April to guarantee a spot one of the JUMP START teams, and to hold your flight and accommodation booking.
* You will need to fill in the booking sheet when paying the deposit.
* Full payment is required no later than 30 June.
* Payment to Millenium Travel is by cash, direct deposit or cheque. Payment by credit card is possible but with a 2% service fee.

 

Have a read of some of our past participants thoughts:

 

I had a fantastic time in Vanuatu, not only from a fitness achievement and relaxing holiday perspective and getting to know some great people, but also personally  with the whole experience giving me a tap on the shoulder about "putting things in perspective"!! Thankyou again Heidi and Ken, you both made it fantastic.   Andrea Martens, Marketing Manager, Mother of 2, Naremburn

 

 

“I had been meaning to join the Jump Start Vanuatu team for about 8yrs or so, but in 2010 I finally managed to make the necessary commitment. It was not easy…kids, work, husband, training and allocating funds towards it. But thank goodness I did! From the moment the kids and I received our itinerary and schedule our excitement levels were raised by 100% and I knew that we were going to be a part of something very special! Like-minded people, with a common goal, striving towards the same outcome. The kids and I were part of something bigger, something so memorable, something so enriching. The sound of those kids’ voices from the primary school that we delivered literacy and numeracy packs to is still embedded in my mind. Seeing the smiles on my 2 children’s faces, knowing that they understood the importance of this trip and learning about cultural differences still overwhelms me everyday. We came home with a great sense of achievement! Enriching stories of community and culture (plus a bit of geography for the kids). My heart is filled with love, my soul filled with compassion and I am humbled by the happiness that this trip has given me. Most importantly I got to share it with my kids. I am definitely not missing another one!” Magdaleen Major, Accounts Manager, Mother of 2 Gorgeous Cherubs, Gladesville

"Travelling to Epau village to give out literacy packs to the village children was a highlight of the Jumpstart trip for me and the part of the adventure I was most excited about! Firstly seeing the many any boxes of bags, full of books and stationary and fun resources for the kids filled me with inspiration that through Heidi’s efforts with mobilising people all around the world, these kids would have the opportunity to improve their literacy skills and have fun in the process. I felt privileged to be a part of it! Seeing the kids open their literacy packs and then sitting down with them and opening up books and reading to them was literally a life changing experience for me and one that has now shaped my future. The children were so excited to explore their packs and as soon as I opened up a book with one child, many came over to hear the story I was reading. Seeing their inquisitive faces when each page of the book was turned and when the book was finished each child wanted me to read one from their pack. It was an experience I will hold in my heart forever and one that has shaped my future. If you have the opportunity to go……..do not pass it by!" Liz Nade, Occupational Therapist, lives in Cammeray usually but currently volunteering in Fiji after being inspired by the Vanuatu trip

 

 

" Where do I start in expressing my gratitude for the invitation and thought you gave to including me in your team for the great Vanuatu Round Island race? I will be forever grateful. Firstly your organization of all the Australian participants, your care and attention to detail in caring for their needs and comfort throughout our ten day stay was amazing. No consideration was left to chance. The accommodation, flights and organised tours were all way beyond my not meagre expectations. And so much fun. Then there is the consideration you give to the local ni-Vanuata and the schools. Your donations of schoolbooks, your speeches and presentations mark you as a great ambassador for Australia.  So well done, and such joy on the little faces of the school children and their teachers. That such simple pleasures can help fulfil simple needs. And lastly the big race. You and your team of friends and trainers made me feel so special in being a part of that event. I was so proud to be running for Australia in your team uniform.  And to see those wonderful young girls you sponsored from Tanna win was so emotional. It was such a buzz. All of the above took a huge amount of effort and organization. I know you have a great team that supports you Heidi, but your smiles, laughter, consideration and encouragement made it so much fun to be with you. Thank you also to that special man in your life, Ken. I wish you every success Heidi, together with your team of trainers. You are very special people.” John W. Cockbill (FGF), Entrepreneur and Property Developer, Bayview

 

“We had known of Jump Start's trips to Vanuatu ever since they began and had always been curious but had found other destinations took precedence. However this year 2010 became especially appealing because there was a fun team as well (we are in our late 60's and definitely not runners). Looking after our health and getting exercise has become an increasingly important priority in our lives so doing a leg in the Vanuatu Round Island Relay was indelibly placed on our bucket list. Of course the opportunity to visit "up close and personal" the active volcano on Tanna made this trip an imperative. I was afraid that I would let the team down as I am quite slow but the enthusiasm with which other members of the team egged me on during the race seemed to give flight to my feet so that I did a PB!!! There was one huge aspect to the trip which had sat quietly in the back of my brain and which has now surfaced to become perhaps the real raison d'etre - the support which Jump Start gives to the local people as a result of fundraising. To see Jump Start's team of girls from Tanna win their section of the race, to see the primary school students receiving educational packs, to see the love, pride and hero-worship on the faces of those whom Jump Start has helped put the whole holiday in a different light. I have unfinished business in Vanuatu - to quote a famous WW2 general "I shall return" Penny Cockbill (FGM), Retired Teacher, Bridge & Jazzercize Extroardinaire, Bayview

 

Such A Personal Achievement “I never would have thought I could have run as long as I did (even with my spassy feet!!!!!), or even competing in a “international run”. This really has been a HUGE personal achievement and journey. I now feel like I have more confidence just being me and knowing what I can achieve. When I have a challenging day at work (which I have many in my profession), I think about the holiday and everything slips back into perspective. “ Sal Crennan, Bondi, Human Resources Manager.

 

This is something I will remember forever. Best thing I have ever done. What an experience I now share with 18 other Sydney-siders. Thanks Heidi. Thanks Eva. Thanks team. Until next year. Can't wait to do it again but 20 minutes faster.
Ron Gardner, Cammeray, IT Specialist.

“The Vanuatu RIR 2002 was a fantastic experience. For me it was a personal goal and achievement to be able to run and participate in a team event. As I now say to my friends and family, I am an “International Race Participant”. Once the race was over there was definitely a new bond with all the participants. We all experienced a unique team event, one that we will all be able remember and reminisce, right up until I do it again next year!”
Mandy Judd, Neutral Bay, IT Specialist.

 

"Who would have thought 6 ½ years ago when I started at Jumpstart that I would be running in Vanuatu. Certainly not me! For someone who doesn’t like the heat, not a beach fan, gets stressed about new situations, never run before, it was certainly a long way from my comfort zone…..but it was fantastic and the most amazing experience!
I remember one year there were 2 teams that went to Vanuatu – a ‘serious’ and a ‘fun’ team. I wondered if I might be able to one day and be in the ‘fun’ team. A wake up call from my GP with ongong high BP, increasing weight and I was advised to lose a substantial amount of weight, and increase my exercise in an attempt to drop my BP without medication. So I did! And to give me something to aim for, I surprised everyone and committed to Vanuatu….about 12 months in advance.
The all of a sudden relay day was here!!!! The Jump Start team were great - it just seemed to be the right combination of company, cheering, joking, and serious consideration for everyone’s needs. It is impossible to describe in words, pictures help, but the feeling and atmosphere is unlike anything I have ever experienced. I learnt a lot from watching the other runners race their sections, the other teams and how everyone coped differently.
Then I was off……changeover went smoothly and I was on my way. I knew I would have 10 min or so before the bus came past with water so I tried to concentrate and get my pace settled. It was cloudy, not too hot compared to the rest of the day, but it didn’t take me long to feel really hot and tired. It was now after 5pm and 12 hours since the start of the race. I couldn’t get my pace settled and the road ahead seemed to loom on forever. One of the French runners passed me relatively early and we waved and wished each other luck as she passed. My calves and shins were holding up Ok so far, but my ankles were killing me – they were burning. Thankfully the bus came past and a cheer from the team and some water distracted me for a while. I gave up any thoughts of running the whole lot ( I had still thought that maybe I could miraculously achieve the goal I had set myself) and stopped for a short walk to drink and collect myself. Off again as the bus drove ahead.
The scenery was fairly similar for most of the section, although I found it hard to look around and take it in – I was concentrating on keeping running. I had a lovely coastal breeze from my left and made the most of it when I could. By about 4km everything was hurting and I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to make it…..mentally I was shot! I really thought that I wouldn’t be able to go on.
Some more water, a short walk and I managed to get myself going again. I had one of the team run a little with me around the 6km mark to keep me going which was a godsend. Once I got through 7km, I found my pace and knew I would be OK. I wasn’t going fast, but about 6:30 pace I think. Some more water and the team were telling me that the lights ahead were the changeover……I didn’t believe them, I couldn’t be there already. Mind you, I had been running for nearly 90 minutes and my Nike + said 11.8km or something (my section was 13km). I couldn’t reconcile the numbers in my head and thought that they must be just trying to keep me going. Then they said they were going ahead and see me at changeover…….it was true! I could hear another bus behind and wasn’t sure if it was another team or just someone on the road. It was too dark to tell. Then I thought I could head someone running behind me, but wasn’t sure. I could see the team ahead at changeover and they were all cheering me on. I put on a last minute sprint and flew through changeover and managed to hold off the runner that had been behind me.
I was finished ! I had done it! 1hr 33 by my watch. The relief was amazing and the realisation of what I had achieved hit me all at once. Words can’t describe it.
I had achieved my goal – it wasn’t about running it non stop – it was about being there, doing it and doing the best I could. From non runner, to 13km in an International relay race - DONE!!!"
Cathie Wiltshire, Five Dock, Lecturer and Mother to Charlotte

 

Thank you to the following companies who have generously sponsored and supported our Vanuatu projects:

 

Redecorate of Cammeray Is a charming haven specialising in recycled and new home furnishings, furniture, lamos, curatins, gifts, and accessories. Lynne and her fabulous staff exude warmth and personality and take priding a unique decorator business that serves the eclectic tastes of Sydney-siders.

 

Vanuatu Escapes Is a boutique agency that specialises in holidays to the tropical paradise of Vanuatu.WHatever the date, occasion or duration, we can tailor a package especially for you. Take time out from the every day and step into Vanuatufor a unique and memorable holiday.

Aspire Australia We are a solution driven team, offering to help people realise their dream of living in Australia. They provide honest, reliable and thorough advice and comprehensive visas and settlement solutions for individuals, families and companies.If you or someone you know would like to make Australia their home, then visit our website.

 

Two Men and A Truck They do both small and big moves. There are no hidden travel fees, and they charge by the hour so you can control the cost. They are fully insured as are their vehicles.

 

Raine and Horne Neutral Bay This company is committed to exceeding your expectations. Whether you are renting, buying or selling "we'll look after you".

 

Designers Inc Pty Ltd People judge your credibility and professionalism by the way you present yourself and good design makes all the difference. We will help you produce effective material, whether for print or the web, to attract more customers to your company. Let us quote for one of your projects.

 

Terrific With Tools - Design and Construction Renovations, make-overs and extensions that will be admired by all your friends, families and neighbours. We will treat your home like our own - you will not be left with a mess. Call us today so we canshow you how you can have an enjoyable, stress-free experience in improving your home.

 

If you have any questions please
call me on 9904 1201
email me at info@JumpStartOutdoor.com.au