East Burwood's adventure

by Anita Aarons | 09 Oct 2013

Burwood East Combined Probus Club members toured the Cook Islands recently, shopping up a storm, visiting Rarotonga and breaking bread in local homes.

May is a perfect time to be in the Cook Islands, as a group from the Burwood East Combined Probus Club recently discovered! Eight days were spent at the Edgewater Resort on the beachfront, with a daily program of outings well planned by the club's Tour Director. 

These included a boat trip around Rarotonga and its naturally formed surrounding reef, with optional swimming and snorkelling in the clear, pristine waters. Following this, a wonderful barbecue lunch was served on a private beach. A fun bonus was watching one of the guides gracefully and swiftly climb a coconut tree nearby. Needless to say, none of the group took up the opportunity to try this!

Members also visited the colourful Saturday market, and helped the economy of the Islands quite a bit!

This was followed on Sunday by participation in a typical Cook Island Church service, said to be like none other in the world.

The music, which emanates from a mixed chorus dispersed throughout the church pews, was magical and brought tears to many eyes. The morning was completed with the entire group invited to join the parishioners at their luncheon, prepared each week by the Ladies Committee, showcasing their generosity and good cooking.

The definite highlight of the trip was the final night’s progressive dinner, visiting three homes where the food was delicious and abundant, and the welcomes something the tourists will always remember. The families shared with tales of their ancestors, and their close communal ties were evident. Ultimately it was the warmth and genuine friendliness of the islanders that won the group's affection and gave them a great desire to return there.

Pictured, top: East Burwood Probus members take a bus ride in the Cook Islands. Left to right: Bruce Saunders, Lionel Aarons, Rita Mancs, Lesley Horn, Judy Peacock, Margaret Tate, Brian Glynn, Lois Miles and Barry Horn.

Burwood East members Lionel and Anita Aarons enjoy lunch in the Cook Islands.

Burwood East Combined Probus Club members enjoying lunch during their Cook Islands tour.