Disclaimer: This article was written as a part of Teacher Takeover.

Arrival and First Impressions

On March 18th, he landed on a remote island, ready to embark on an ambitious plumbing project. The heatand humidity were immediately overwhelming, but he was determined to get the job done. With three helpers—two of whom spoke little English and had no plumbing experience—he set out to tackle a major overhaul of the island’s drainage and water systems for the new maternity ward. Dinner the first night was curried chicken without any curry.

The Challenge Begins

The initial days were filled with hard labour. He and his team focused on installing septic tanks and absorption trenches, but their progress was hindered by the elusive backhoe, which disappeared at lunch on the first day and failed to return as promised. Despite the setbacks, they pressed on, using whatever materials were available—thankfully, there was an overabundance. He was given a motor scooter for transportation, navigating a rough and uneven track to get to the worksite. Accommodation was basic, with cold showers and minimal breakfast options, but the stunning sunsets provided a welcome reward at the end of long, hot days.

Progress and Small Victories

On the 20th, the first hint of a breeze came, and the worksite had some cloud cover! By March 21st, they had completed the external drainage work. The days were punishing, requiring him to drink nearly six litres of water just to stay hydrated. Despite his best efforts to delegate physical tasks, he often found himself deep in the work. In the evenings, he enjoyed local Tuskers beer and much-needed rest. A local man, Robert, unexpectedly joined the team, eager to learn about plumbing. By the end of the day, he could confidently explain an overflow relief gully—a small but satisfying victory in knowledge-sharing.

Tough Conditions and a Race Home

By March 24th, they took advantage of a backhoe to lift two solar hot water heaters and the local workers onto the roof. It was a rare break from the usual manual labour. Underneath the building, however, the work was gruelling—dusty, cramped, and physically exhausting. The following days were even tougher. He rolled around in dirt, cutting his scalp repeatedly and waking up with an eye infection. On the bright side, his accommodation got an unexpected upgrade—a tiled floor, ocean views, and better water pressure (though the floor drain was still blocked). Small luxuries on an otherwise demanding trip.

Teaching and Milestones

A surprise visit from 43 TAFE students enrolled in a plumbing certification program provided an opportunity to share knowledge. It was rewarding for him to explain their progress, reinforcing the importance of practical training in remote settings. By March 27th, they had completed the drainage under the hospital—a monumental task, better suited for younger workers. Next came the water plumbing, which promised to be a bit easier.

A Birthday to Remember

March 30th was a day he won’t forget. After a half-day of work, he returned to find they had no water, forcing him to improvise a shower with a bucket and cut-up drink bottle. The evening, however, made up for it—a trip to an active volcano. The ashen landscape felt otherworldly, and watching the molten magma bubble and churn was mesmerising, like a scene from Mordor.

The Final Push By April

1st, he was preparing to leave the island. With one last push, they turned on the hot water after the solar system was running. Many of the island’s residents had never experienced a hot shower before—it was incredibly satisfying to know they had made a lasting impact.

Rest and Recovery

On April 2nd, he arrived at The Warwick Resort, a well-deserved retreat. The journey from the airport in a rickety bus only emphasized the contrast between the challenging worksite and the comfort ahead. With air conditioning, a proper shower, and no more plain pancakes for breakfast, he was finally ready to relax.

This journey was one of the hardest yet most rewarding experiences of his career. From battling the elements to teaching the next generation of plumbers, every moment—gruelling or gratifying—was worth it. Now, it’s time for him to rest and reflect before the next adventure.

This member of the William Clarke College maintenance staff can inspire us to live out the college virtues of compassion, courage, hope, humility and integrity.