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Trading is the islanders' modus operandi for doing business for everything from canoes and pigs to crayfish, fish, and a limited selection of fruit and vegetables.  When trading with  dimdims there seems to be no set rules.   Sometimes a cup of tea - always with two sugars - and a chat on board is all that is requested in return.  Useful currency includes sugar, rice, cigarettes, nails and tools, t-shirts, fishing and diving gear, soaps and material.  Children enjoy lollies, balloons and school supplies

The Louisiade Archipelago is a string of ten volcanic islands and coral reefs located south east of Papua New Guinea.  Part of the Province of Milne Bay, the archipelago has a land area of approximately 1600 sq kilometres. Louis Antoine de Bougainville names them in 1768 for Louis XV, King of France.

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The Louisiades

Position of Gigila Island:
 11 degrees  10 minutes  South  152 degrees  55 minutes  East
The majority of the population of 5.8 million people of Papua New Guinea live on the mainland with the outer islands being sparsely populated.  Whereas English is the common language in the islands, there are several native dialects. Life expectancy is 56 years and child mortality is high. Literacy in Papua New Guinea is 57.3%, probably much less in remote islands. 

Malaria is prevalent.  The hospital at Misima has a very limited supply of drugs and it is recommended to take your own, plus enough bandaids and Betadine to treat minor coral cuts before they become septic, both for yourself and for the islanders. Also take plenty of Panadol for the same reasons. You will be required to have current Hepatitis A and B vaccinations. It is suggested that you consult with your a GP for your individual requirements.

Visas and current passports are essential. See your local PNG consulate, although it can be a good idea to check any information given. There are consulates in Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns.

Their addresses are:

Brisbane: Malagan House, 99 Creek St ph3221 8067 fax 3229 6084

Cairns: National Mutual Tower, 15 Lake St ph 4052 1033 fax 4052 1048

Sydney: 100 Clarence St ph 9299 5151 fax 9290 3794

Costs are approximately A$30 per crew/passenger and A$100 for the skipper, plus a Quarantine Certificate of approximately 250Kina.

Customs clearance seems to alter each year. In 2009 there was clearance at Panapompom, in 2008 it was at Misima. Rather than yachties having to beat against the wind coming back from mainland PNG, a customs officer (Eric) was flown out to Misima for a week when 13 yachts gathered in Bwagaoia Harbour in two 'batches'. This was approximately $Kina2000 (~A$1000) and was shared between the yachts. Whether or not this can be done again is anyone's guess. It is advisable to telephone your nearest consulate close to your departure date for the latest update.