First Impressions

August 29, 2022

Roshan McGuinness, AVC 2023, travelled to Port Hope Simpson as one of the student participants on the Chinook Project. As part of the experience, the students craft various pieces of reflective writing.

Arrival in Goose Bay

This was the first photograph I took on our trip to Labrador. It was taken just as we were descending into the Happy Valley-Goose Bay airport. This was my first taste of the natural beauty that I learned was so prevalent in Labrador, known locally as “The Big Land”.

The sun slowly sets in the distance, highlighting the layered hills in the background, the calm, flowing lakes in the foreground, and the sharp peninsulas jutting into the water. I was speechless. Well not literally – if you ask anyone in our group, they will tell you that I kept saying “look at this picture I just took!”. I knew this was the start of an amazing trip, full of beautiful sights to see, and wonderful experiences to have. And I was right.

As we descended and I took this picture, I think this was when it finally hit me that this trip, the Chinook Project, was actually happening. After being canceled for the past two years due to COVID, I had been so nervous about this initiative suffering the same fate yet again. These fears were amplified by the required testing we were doing in the days and weeks leading up to our flights. What would happen if I tested positive before we left, or even once I was already in Labrador? Where would I find the time to make up the credits lost? And how would my team feel knowing I had let them down? Thankfully I did not have to cross that bridge and I was able to enjoy my time in Labrador.

Labrador is absolutely stunning. And I don’t think I’ve gotten over it yet, even though I have been back home for a few days now. I honestly did not know what to expect before I visited. For some reason, I was expecting a tundra-esque landscape with minimal trees and a cold climate. Instead, I was met with one of the greenest landscapes I’ve ever seen! As embarrassed as I am to admit that my preconceived notions may have played a factor in my viewpoint going into the trip, I am happy that I was able to be surprised and blown away upon arriving.

The natural beauty did not stop in Goose Bay. The drive to Port Hope Simpson, while long (about 5 hours), was filled with green trees, flowing rivers, and even a bear or two. The approach into the community, with the Blow-Me-Down peak on your right, is one I will never forget.

All in all, I was stunned by the Big Land, and feel so lucky to have been able to experience its landscapes.