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VOLUNTEER PROFILE: Mozambique Dolphin research programme Newsletters » May/Jun 2006 » Volunteer profile: Tim Kirkpatrick VOLUNTEER NAME Tim Kirkpatrick AGE 30 – until the 9th of June! OCCUPATION Noise Pollution Officer COUNTRY Ireland PROJECT Mozambique Dolphin Research Programme DATES AT PROJECT November 2005 Why Volunteer in Africa? There are many reasons to volunteer in Africa but the main reason for me was to actually be doing the stuff I had watched in a million documentaries over the years! It is amazing to actually be there seeing it with your own eyes, good as Mr Attenborough is!!!! Why volunteer at the dolphin project in Mozambique? I think that swimming with Dolphins is something everyone dreams of. We wonder at their intelligence, admire their grace and wonder if behind their knowing smiles they actually know the secret to true happiness! Project - Dolphins. Location - Paradise! Set right on the beautiful beach, living in reed huts, this projects location is nothing short of breath taking. On arrival you will meet Angie - project co-ordinator and Harry - Skipper. Both of whom I now count as friends! Angie has a passion for dolphins and their protection which rarely manifest’s itself in such positive action. Harry is a knowledgeable boat skipper and all round nice guy. The project, still in its infancy as one of African Impacts newest volunteer projects, Dolphin encounter is one for those who wish a flexible itinerary where you can make a direct impact! Bring your sun tan lotion and fresh ideas as to how this voluntary programme will work as your views will have a direct impact on future volunteers. Being the first ever volunteer on this project it was both with trepidation and excitement I signed up! Everyday (sea conditions permitting) you get to swim with dolphins!! How cool is that! Not only that but regular sightings of Whale shark and sea turtles. I must also mention all the staff at Dolphin encounter who went above and beyond the call of duty to be friendly and make my stay more enjoyable! Funniest moment at the Mozambique Dolphin Research Programme My funniest moment was getting laughed at but the rest of the crew as I turned green with seasickness. Not funny at the time but reliving the moment later brought a genuine smile! The friendly nature of all the staff at the project is not something i will soon forget and I now call these people friends! Scariest moment while volunteering in Africa? Not sure there was any scary moments! Dolphins ain't scary they are beautiful. I suppose the first time we beached the boat was a bit scary as I wasn't sure what would happen. Basically the skipper drives the rubber duck boat at high speed towards the shore. One minute you are racing across the waves, the next the boat is dead stop beached! Fun once you got the hang of it!!! Best place travelled to while in Africa? This is a very difficult question! Mozambique where the dolphin project was located was definitely the most beautiful. Vic Falls was great fun, bungee jumping etc!!! However if pushed I would have to say that Antelope Park is the place I miss the most. After 3 months there I became very attached to the lions and the people! I miss the lions!!! I guess everywhere I travelled in Africa I saw wondrous new things and met new friends both human and feline!!! My time in Africa is something I will never forget and I would like to thank African Impact for facilitating the best holiday of my life (We promise he wasn’t paid to say that!). If you are are interested in volunteering at this project, we encourage you to read more or make an enquiry for the Mozambique Dolphin Research Volunteer Programme. Other news this month... Micro-chipping & DNA testing of lions at Antelope Park, Africa VOLUNTEER PROFILE: Paddy’s experience at the Mozambique Dolphin research programme FEATURED PROJECT: Zimbabwe Wildlife Conservation Big 5 Experience Farewell to Bobbie and Milena Pathfinders Bush Awareness and Survival Courses News Snippets Subscribe to our free newsletter Africa volunteer opportunities       print this page | bookmark this page (CTRL-D) | send to a friend back to top