I was very fortunate to meet with the clan who are the protectors of the ancient story of the young woman and her mother who turned into turtles, and who's turtle descendants today can only be called from the sea by an enchanting song sung only by the women of Namuana. What is incredible about this legend is that this story is more than just a myth - it can be witnessed today. Before the calling begins, the men of Namuana hold a special yagona ceremony in the bure whilst the women stand at the clifftop to perform a meke recalling the ancient story of a mother and daughter who turned into turtles. Legend tells of a young woman who went fishing and was kidnapped by a neighbouring clan, and with her hands and feet tied, was thrown in the bottom of the boat for the trek back to their village. Crying and distressed, the girl magically transformed into water which released her from the bindings. To the shock of the men, the water then turned into a majestic turtle, which they hurriedly threw overboard as some sort of magic was being played out before their eyes. What I did not know from this story was that the mother also became a turtle back on the island. So heartbroken and deeply connected to her only daughter, the mother went to the water's edge and also transformed into water, sliding down the hillside cliff as she transformed into a turtle. I am deeply grateful to Mr Tamani and the elders of Namuana in allowing us to learn the true legend of the vonu, and I have made a promise to return there very soon to assist them in promoting this incredibly unique story so that the legend can be shared with the world.

• published: 10 Apr 2012
• views: 9069