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Hidden away in jungle in West New Britain, Ocean of Light Early Childhood School is a remote but vibrant school started by a community leader who saw the need for it and decided to make it happen.

Now 10 cartons of books donated by Books 4 PNG Kids and shipped to Kimbe have reached the school, thanks to Tiana Reimann of The Bucket of Love Foundation PNG, as these photos show.

The books arrived at the school, at Garu on the western side of the Willaumez Peninsula, after a 10-hour boat trip north and around the Peninsula from Kimbe, followed by a 30-minute banana boat ride and then a 20-minute walk along the river.

The children’s enthusiasm was palpable as they ran to greet Tiana and team, she says.

“We were warmly welcomed with a beautiful welcome song, which set the tone for a wonderful visit. We then proceeded with speeches and the distribution of essential items to support the school's development,” Tiana says.

The school was started by Mr Metta, who saw the need for early childhood education in the community and took matters into his own hands.

“He funded the teachers and school from his own pocket, and his son has followed in his footsteps, becoming a trained teacher and working alongside him,” Tiana says.

The school is on track to gain official government registration as a school.

“They're also embarking on an exciting project to rebuild a primary school with proper infrastructure,” she says.

Garu is famous for its thermal river, set in rainforest and fed by volcanic springs, that flows with crystal clear water that’s close to body temperate.

Tiana’s delivery was backed by Kimbe Bay Shipping Agencies, BAIA Sportfishing PNG, Liamo Reef Resort, PNG and Malama Enterprises.

Thanks to Maureen Thom in Kimbe for her ongoing support for Books 4 PNG Kids.