On our way to primary school Koileki, 2000m high at the slopes of Pico do Ramalau, in the sub-district Atsabe, Ermera, East Timor.
Many thanks go to the Bakhita Center, who helped with logistics and transportation for our distribution in Ermera district, Timor Leste.
But even with 4x4 vehicles it was not easy getting there.
You cant see it because of the vegetaition, but the slope drops straigt down for 100 meters or more
Unfortunately, one of the vehicles got off the road but luckily got stuck hard against a large stone before slipping down the ravine.
We where lucky that help came up from Atsabe.with heavy chain hoists.
A local farmer who happened bye. I think we were the most exciting thing to happen in that area all month.
Brother Juliano joins the road building team. The road we followed was more for pack animals than motor vehicles. Several times we were forced to stop and widen the path.
In one spot villagers turned out to help widen the track so our cehicle could pass. Since we were providing supplies for their childrens school they were happy to help.
It took several hours but we managed to get the 4x4 back on the road.
Historic Vessel Vega
· 14 August 2016 ·
In some places there was no road so we followed instructions from our guide.
At last we arrived to the outskirts of Koileki. This house is typical of the area.
Surrounded by spectacular high mountain scenery
Late but we arrived. The school is with gouvernment funding newly build but lacking any equipment.
Villagers turned out to welcome us with music and traditional dancing.
The welcome we recieved was heart warming.
Simon and Emily were kitted out in the local fashion.
Teacher bags, fill with all the small things a teacher needs, thanks to Australian International School Singapore.
Teaching aids
Sports equipment is also important.
Science teaching aids
We also had several Music instruments which pleased everyone.
The guitar is almost as big as he is.
Senora Marcelina finaly received the much needed type maschine she has been praying for
While school supplies created a stir reading glasses for the elderly were changing lives. Now this woman can see to help sort coffe beans and do other useful things in the village.
Historic Vessel Vega and Unidade Polisia Maritima (UPM), For someone who is loosing their eyesight these glasses are life changing
Solarlamps for a area where there will be no regular electricity in the near future.
Celebration Dinner. Our team spent the night.
The Ggood food after a hard day was very welcome.
At last our team could have a much needed rest. It was cold high up in the mountains so blankets and shawls emerged.
Nightly traditional dancing with the community and after we spend the night in the classrooms sleeping on the floor.
Fundraiser FAQ – Vega1892
1. Why are you fundraising now?
After major repairs to Vega and a series of surgeries, Shane must undergo one more essential medical procedure in order to safely return to his duties as captain. Without this surgery, Vega cannot resume her humanitarian voyages. The fundraiser covers both Shane’s medical needs and the essential operating costs required for Vega to continue her mission.
2. What exactly will the funds be used for?
The estimated USD 24,800 will go toward:
Shane’s upcoming surgery, hospitalization, and recovery
Remaining maintenance needed for Vega’s sails, rigging, fuel, and basic yearly operating costs
Preparing Vega to return to service for the 2026 delivery missions
All funds go directly to these purposes.
3. Why are medical costs included—shouldn’t insurance cover this?
Unfortunately, due to the nature of Shane’s condition and our location of work, insurance does not cover the required treatment. We have personally funded all previous surgeries, aftercare, and Vega’s refit costs. At this point, our resources are fully depleted, and community support is the only way we can continue the mission.
4. Why is Shane’s surgery necessary for Vega to operate?
Shane is the only licensed captain and technical operator capable of safely navigating Vega through remote waters and handling the traditional rig, without asking to be paid. Until he completes this surgery and recovers, we cannot legally or safely sail, nor continue our deliveries to remote island communities.
5. Is Vega still being used for humanitarian missions?
Yes. For more than 20 years, Vega has delivered nearly 300 tons of medical and educational supplies to remote island communities that rarely receive outside assistance. Our mission continues—this fundraiser helps us resume it as soon as possible.
6. When will Vega return to service?
If Shane’s surgery goes ahead as scheduled and his recovery is smooth, we expect Vega to be back in operation within the 2026 mission timeline. We will post regular updates on progress and readiness.
7. How can we be sure the funds are used responsibly?
We are committed to full transparency. Donors will receive:
Updates on Shane’s medical progress
Updates on Vega’s repair and readiness
A summary after funds are used
Our 20-year track record speaks for itself: every dollar goes toward our mission, not salaries or personal profit.
8. Can I donate equipment or supplies instead of money?
Yes—donated medical supplies, educational materials, or boat maintenance items are always appreciated. Please contact us at: vega@sailvega.comto coordinate.
9. What happens if the fundraising goal is exceeded?
Any additional funds will be used exclusively for Vega’s humanitarian missions: fuel, supplies, medical deliveries, and maintenance to keep her sailing to remote communities.
10. What if the surgery is delayed?
All funds allocated for the surgery will remain reserved until the procedure occurs. We will provide updates if there are scheduling changes.
11. How else can I help?
Share the fundraiser on social media
Follow Vega on Facebook and Instagram
Spread the word among maritime, sailing, and humanitarian communities
Support with donated supplies or volunteer help
Everything helps us get back to sea.
Fundraiser FAQ – Vega1892
1. Why are you fundraising now?
After major repairs to Vega and a series of surgeries, Shane must undergo one more essential medical procedure in order to safely return to his duties as captain. Without this surgery, Vega cannot resume her humanitarian voyages. The fundraiser covers both Shane’s medical needs and the essential operating costs required for Vega to continue her mission.
2. What exactly will the funds be used for?
The estimated USD 24,800 will go toward:
Shane’s upcoming surgery, hospitalization, and recovery
Remaining maintenance needed for Vega’s sails, rigging, fuel, and basic yearly operating costs
Preparing Vega to return to service for the 2026 delivery missions
All funds go directly to these purposes.
3. Why are medical costs included—shouldn’t insurance cover this?
Unfortunately, due to the nature of Shane’s condition and our location of work, insurance does not cover the required treatment. We have personally funded all previous surgeries, aftercare, and Vega’s refit costs. At this point, our resources are fully depleted, and community support is the only way we can continue the mission.
4. Why is Shane’s surgery necessary for Vega to operate?
Shane is the only licensed captain and technical operator capable of safely navigating Vega through remote waters and handling the traditional rig, without asking to be paid. Until he completes this surgery and recovers, we cannot legally or safely sail, nor continue our deliveries to remote island communities.
5. Is Vega still being used for humanitarian missions?
Yes. For more than 20 years, Vega has delivered nearly 300 tons of medical and educational supplies to remote island communities that rarely receive outside assistance. Our mission continues—this fundraiser helps us resume it as soon as possible.
6. When will Vega return to service?
If Shane’s surgery goes ahead as scheduled and his recovery is smooth, we expect Vega to be back in operation within the 2026 mission timeline. We will post regular updates on progress and readiness.
7. How can we be sure the funds are used responsibly?
We are committed to full transparency. Donors will receive:
Updates on Shane’s medical progress
Updates on Vega’s repair and readiness
A summary after funds are used
Our 20-year track record speaks for itself: every dollar goes toward our mission, not salaries or personal profit.
8. Can I donate equipment or supplies instead of money?
Yes—donated medical supplies, educational materials, or boat maintenance items are always appreciated. Please contact us at: vega@sailvega.comto coordinate.
9. What happens if the fundraising goal is exceeded?
Any additional funds will be used exclusively for Vega’s humanitarian missions: fuel, supplies, medical deliveries, and maintenance to keep her sailing to remote communities.
10. What if the surgery is delayed?
All funds allocated for the surgery will remain reserved until the procedure occurs. We will provide updates if there are scheduling changes.
11. How else can I help?
Share the fundraiser on social media
Follow Vega on Facebook and Instagram
Spread the word among maritime, sailing, and humanitarian communities
