The Imajica Experience
Information
- Imajica Crew
- Seasons & Climate
- Cultural Festivals
- Fishing in PNG
- Tembin Shark Callers
- Baining Fire Dancers
- Photography
Shark Callers
Tembin Shark Callers
The west coast of New Ireland is home to the ancient custom of shark-calling, the secrets of which are passed down through the men in the village. We are privileged to be friends with a family of shark callers, in Tembin Village. The head of the family is a man named Daniel.
On a visit to Tembin we anchor off the shore in front of Daniel's guesthouse. We spend a night onshore hearing from Daniel's various relatives about their custom and shark-catching stories.
Early the next morning we accompany the men in out-rigger canoes, following the head shark-caller named Blaze.
Following tradition, he will have been preparing for three days. A shark-caller must not eat certain foods, step on any excrement in the village or sleep with his wife during this period.
By the time early morning sunshine is lighting up the coast, we are several miles offshore, each canoe circling Blaze as he begins the ritual.
A rattle made of dried coconut shells is shaken on the surface of the water as Blaze sings, calling the sharks.
The shark-callers can be visited as part of any 12 day expedition.
Go to map of Cruising Grounds
