The Quirke Tribe: The start of the Christmas Festivities

It is always a big build up to Christmas and with this one being our last in Tonga we definitely made the most of all the activities. First up was the Australian High Commission staff party. A great afternoon of family fun with jumping castle, swimming and plenty of good food and good company. It was a chance for the High Commissioner to say thank you to all the staff for their support during the year and also a chance to say goodbye as many staff were moving onto new postings in the new year, including himself.

Thomas addressing the crowd

Hanging out on the lawn

Dylan with his mates

Lyndon with his brother of another mother, Sal.

Next up was the lighting of the Digicel Christmas tree and Carols by one of the local schools. Unfortunately the weather was not being too kind this night but as usual, everyone made the most of it.

Lyndon using a chair to protect himself from the rain, much to Sals' amusement.

Marion, Craig and I made good use of our Tongan mat to keep us dry during a down pour.

The rain did not bother Emily, Piani and Alice

Rain or no rain, it is always fun to have a dance

I don't know how to explain this one!!!!

Once again the DCP staff put on a Christmas party in the compound for our hard working staff, Tiani the defence clerk, Timoti the gardener and Siwa the night guard. They bought their families along for dinner, a play and a visit from Santa.

Timotis' kids loved the jumping castle

Everyone loved Santa

The face painting lady was awesome. Dylan is under that tiger mask

The DCP boys - Lyndon, Siwa, Tiani, Timoti, Mal, Ben, Peter and Dave

This is Jnr, Tianis' son AKA the hulk

This years Carols by Candlelight were held in a local hotel, not out in the park as usual. Just as well because it was another wet night. All the kids enjoyed themselves (especially when the lolly scramble was on) and sang beautifully during the evening.