07/11/2024
Growing up in the 1990s at Brandi was a truly magical time for me. I can still picture the lovely place where I livedβthe Brandi Water Board compound, now known as PNG Water. Nestled on the east coast of Wewak, it was about a 30 to 45-minute drive from the bustling town of Wewak in East Sepik Province.
Back then, we were children without mobile phones, and we found happiness in the simplest things. One of our favorite spots was the famous Brandi River. This river was not just a source of water for the town; it was a playground for us. We would spend hours splashing around, diving in to catch fish. The thrill of catching a fish and then cooking it over an open fire, paired with sweet bananas, was a joy I can still taste.
Brandi Beach was another cherished place, right next to Brandi Secondary School, the largest high school in the province. On weekends, we would wash off the weekβs adventures in the sea, riding the big waves on pieces of plywood. Those waves felt like freedom, and the salty air was filled with our laughter.
Our entertainment was simple too. The only TV channels we had were QTV (Channel 10), ABC TV, and EM TV. We didnβt have many options, but we made the most of what we had, gathering around the screen to watch our favorite shows.
As Christmas approached, excitement filled the air. In October and November, we worked hard to raise money for our Christmas βkaikai.β We would ask families if we could help with small chores or assist our fathers in cleaning the water tanks. For our efforts, we earned between K50 and K200, and at one point, we even raised over a thousand kina!
We made sure to involve our parents and little siblings in the fun. They helped us cook, and we invited them to join our picnics. We even saved up to pay for fuel for Dadβs vehicle to take us to Wom Beach on the West Coast of Wewak, where we could all celebrate together.
Looking at the photo below, I canβt help but feel a wave of nostalgia. I miss my Brandi H2O family deeply. Those were truly special times, filled with laughter and love, that I will always hold dear in my heart.
Russell Wosen, Nathan Jinimbo, Priscilla Nimiago, Jason Jinimbo, Josiah Jinimbo, Amos Sasingombi, Robert Wosen, Lenox Wosen, Son Son Pomart, Mamate Dingo, Dara Frank, Steven Gitmu, Stephanie Gitmuβthese names bring back a flood of memories, and I cherish each one.