Phase 2: Nicaragua, here we come!

Changeover was a busy but fun time. Once all the groups had put all their kit away it was time to relax and have some fun. We had the first ever Raleigh Rally, which is a cross between a treasure hunt and an adventure challenge.

We also had a Halloween party with apple bobbing and many other games. But all too soon it was time to start packing again ready for phase 2. We also had 4 new people arrive ready to join in the fun. The project allocations were announced and the groups are as follows:

Alpha 1

Project Managers: Libby Gordon, Pedro Rodriguez and Roly Hilling-Smith.

Venturers: Emily Waterhouse, Andrey Vasquez, Stephen Chatterjee, Noud Louwers, Jennifer Lane, Joanne Miller, Asher Murphy, Rhys Evans, Hatty Cottrell and Shona McGuire.

Alpha 2
Project Managers: Cam Bayford, Stu Thomson and Rose Drew.

Venturers: Scott Stirling, Alastair Burgwin, Abbie Roberts, Natalia Guzman, Valerie Crasemann, Niall Mullan, Ross McPherson, Matthew Evans, Mags Cameron, Oli Hill and Holly Winser.

Alpha 3
Project Managers: James O'Halloran, Vivianna Aguillar and Steve Perry.

Venturers: Scarlett Storr, Vincent Skiller, Christophe Thomas, Lyan Suarez, Georgina Thomas, Rosie McGinley, Kelvin Lee, Jamie Buttery and Mick Van Oorschot.

So those are the groups but what are they doing I hear you ask!

Alpha 1 is in Achuapa where they will provide water for 8 families by damming small streams and building water tanks to collect the water. They are also living with the families whihc will be an amazing experience as they will also be helping out with the families daily tasks.

Alpha 2 are doing the Maribios Trek which is named after the string of volcanoes called Los Maribios that they will follow. They will also get to climb Volcano Cosiguina which is the site of the largest volcanic eruption in the history of the Americas. From the summit they will hopefully have spectacular views across to Honduras and El Salvador.

Alpha 3 are at the Miraflor Wildlife Reserve which is 206sqkm of beautiful mountainous terrain with many different ecosystems. Here they will be helping to combat deforestation by planting trees as well as developing trails throught the reserve. The group are also lucky enough to be living in the local community with the families.

Sadly though, during changeover we said goodbye to one of our venturers - David Morrell as he returned home. David was a star on trek, never complaining and always cheerful. We wish him all the best with his new career at Sandhurst.