Working life by Freddie Gillingham

Freddie from Charlie 2 talks about the gruelling work they are doing on sustainable agriculture.

Based in a picturesque setting where vibrant greenery dominates the surrounding landscape, Netikal Hundi sits with undiscovered character and beauty. On first arrival our presence was imeadiately acknowledged by a flock of fascinated villagers who’s warm welcoming manner was exactly what a group of fatigued venturers needed.

The daily routine consists of early morning awakenings prompted by the sing song of nearby roosters who seem to take joy in sabotaging any possible chance of a lie in. Breakfast consists of hearty porridge which although tastes like warm sweet mud, makes a change to curry and rice. Work begins at 8:30am and it’s up to the day leader to motivate and make sure the deadline is met. The locals draw an outline measuring one metre square and three venturers are assigned to one hole. Each person takes it in turns to either plough or dig with the third person resting in between. This system works really well and is effective. We’ve managed to dig four or five holes everyday.

Nick said: ‘When digging I think about the long term consequences of what we are providing for the community, this thought helps me through the work.’

The thought of hacking metre deep holes in the ruthless sunshine was admittedly a daunting one. The first day was the toughest and most challenging due to fresh hands and backs that weren’t used to such labor. The comparison between us and the laborers was bordering on humiliation but as the days go on our pride is increasingly reclaimed.