…exploring the wonders of Region Eight

Referred to as the hub of ‘gold mining’, Potaro-Siparuni (Region Eight) is more than just the home of natural wealth. Her true beauty lies within the stained brown/redish soils and tall, glorious tress.
Recently, I had the pleasure of seeing her in her prime, both under the cool morning mist and scorching hot midday sun. While my trip was work-related, I was sure to capitalized on every leisure minute I had; to observe her beauty, and to bask in the glory of all that she was.
My journey began with me leaving my Belfield, East Coast Demerara home to head to the Eugene F. Correia International Airport at Ogle, and although I was an hour early to the airport, I still somehow ended up checking-in late but thankfully, I made it just in time.
The flight was no hassle, just a little turbulence here and there due to the slight rain; however, I cannot recall how long the flight was since I dozed off.
I woke up just as the plane flew over a few mining camps, which was a refreshing site to see. As far as the eyes could see, it was all green trees – thick and lush. The swamps and effervescent blue lakes in mined out areas was also quick to capture my attention.

Finally, the plane landed at the Mahdia Airport and myself and the others disembarked; we were greeted by the iconic mountains and the warm smiles from staffers of both the airport and Regional Democratic Council (RDC).
The rest of my day was spent working on my story for the next day’s publication. Outside of that, I was also able to interact with the residents of Mahdia, which is the central hub and township of the region; it the area where you would undoubtedly find some of the most extraordinary Guyanese.
But the real adventure began the following day, when we journeyed to the Denham Suspension Bridge, located deeper in the forested areas of the region. The Bridge, a piece architecture left behind by the Dutch, is just about 88 years-old and is to this day, standing firm with concrete pillars holding its weight.
It sits over the Potaro River and links Region Seven, Cuyuni-Mazaruni to Region Eight.
Fascinated by its structure, I had to do some research. I read as much as I can and found out that it is suspended mid-air by cables. The bridge is approximately three hundred and thirty-three (333) feet long and made to accommodate twenty tonnes.

The bridge, which is considered to be the gateway to “Golden City of Eldorado,” (I’m sure many of you heard this tale before) was constructed by John Aldi, contractor and civil engineer of Scottish origins. There wasn’t much information in the archives about Aldi.
However, it must be noted that this bridge is perhaps the oldest bridge in Guyana, much older than the Demerara Harbour Bridge which was constructed in the year of 1976. I was privileged to walk and drive over this bridge; standing in the absolute centre, I captured every single second of that moment, with my phone in my pocket, which is odd for a Gen Z. I didn’t opt to take as many pictures and videos as I possibly could; through the lens of my naked eye, I chose to revel in the beauty that was before me, and to be very honest, I was wrapped in a blanket of indescribably joy; my Guyana was so beautiful, and I had never seen much of it before. It was the most euphoric breath of fresh air I ever had ever taken, and one of the best few minutes away from my cellphone. Of course, in keeping with the habits of my generation, I did eventually take pictures for my social media accounts. I wanted to document my visit.
The real voyage of the day was completed with a short walk along a passage of leaves that had fallen from trees leading to the TumaTumari Falls. After traversing in pick-up trucks for most of our tour, it felt good to walk and stretch my hamstrings.

As I trekked closer to the falls, I began to feel an incomparable gush of warmth. Although comforting, the rustling between the bushes and trees ignited my scepticism and fear of the unknown – largely because of my fear of snakes, but rest assured, no wild animals were in sight, at least not on this trip.
Anyhow, as I got closer to the falls, I could hear the waters fall of the edge. My curiosity took me up a small slope, and then there she was, in all her might – the TumaTumari Falls. It was magnificent. To get a closer look, I walked along the narrow passageway of an old concrete structure which, I was told, housed a hydro station many years ago; fascinating, right? While I did not find out as much information as I would like about the waterfall and the abandoned hydro station, it was truly an honour to experience the essence of my country’s beauty.
It was bittersweet to leave but I had to return to Georgetown and get on with my daily routine and all that I’d left behind on the coastland.
But, Region Nine has certainly not seen the last of me; until next time Potaro-Siparuni, thank you for having me.