My name is Sue Timmins I was in Samarai from 1972 to 1981.
I worked for Steamships Trading Co in the office. During this time I saw a lot of Ex Pats come and go especially before independence in 1975. I was only 16 when I arrived in Samarai with my sister Kay and parents Joan & Pat Sullivan. Sadly Pat passed away on the 26th October 2004.
I have very fond memories of Samarai especially in the early days when Samarai was a hive of activity. The Blue Peter would take us out to near by islands for a day out. Decca Decca and Ebuma were our favourite spots. Ernie Evennette and Col Scown would always welcome us with open arms.

Joey and Beverly Simpson were long time residents of Samarai the family made the best hot bread. Eddie Beljaars was Steamships accountant in 1973. You always new when Eddie and Pauline were having a party you could hear Peter Hills loud voice belting out the Platters tunes, especially smoke get in your eyes.
Jack Tanaka was a colourful character on Samarai he never stopped singing, rest in peace Uncle Jack. Alice and Arthur Tanaka are now living at East Cape, their daughter Marjorie married Don Bremner and they live in Scotland, they have 3 children 2 boys and a girl.
I was lucky to catch up with some of my old friends at the Samarai reunion's. They included Marjorie Bremner (Tanaka) Peter Hills, Ken & Anna Roberts Alan Didlick, Eddie & Pauline Beljaars,Ian & Julie Poole, Roger Cole, Jack Medley and Maggie Charlton (Wroe) just to mention a few.

The next Milne Bay reunion will be on the Sunshine Coast. The details are below contact Jack Medley.

 

You can contact me by email samaraiisland I would love to hear from anyone who passed

through milne Bay.