Nine men from Rakiraki took it upon themselves to travel on fishing boats for six hours to deliver groceries and clothes to people affected by STC Yasa on Yadua Island, Bua, last week.
The group are from Nanuku, Wailevu and Moke settlements in Rakiraki.
Group co-ordinator Munesh Naicker said they acted after receiving information about the situation of people on the island.
He said they managed to raise about $1700 that was used to pack 55 grocery packs.
“We left Nanuku at 11pm on Tuesday night and arrived at Yadua in Bua in the morning,” he said.
“The men were so emotional and tears were shed.”
Mr Naicker said they also took 20 bags of clothes for the villagers.
“The villagers thanked us for making the long trip across the sea to help them.
“For us, it felt good that we were able to bring smiles to the faces of the villagers.”
He said they decided to go in fishing boats to save money.
“Going in the ferry would have been expensive, so the idea was floated why not use fishing boats.
“The boat owners who went are experienced fishermen and know the waters, so we decided to go with them.”
