This archive report was first published on 29 November 2019.
Located in the South Atlantic, the Falkland Islands are a haven for tourists and locals alike, with a unique blend of rugged beauty and warm hospitality.
For many islanders, sheep farming is a way of life that has been passed down through generations. However, with the rise of tourism, some are turning to the industry as a lucrative side hustle.
Heathman, a 70-year-old farmer, has made the switch to tourism, working for his daughter's Estancia Tours. He told AFP, "A lot of people will save up their leave and take days off to just drive down here for a day when the big ships come in."
Driving tourists around the islands' main attractions is Heathman's main job these days. He enjoys the interaction with visitors and the opportunity to share his knowledge of the islands.
Sheep farming remains a traditional way of life for some islanders, but it's a grueling and demanding job. Keith Alazia, manager of Goose Green farm, explained, "There's a learner on the end, he'll shear 160. The two boys in the middle, they'll shear 400 today; it depends on your ability."
The farm employs five sheep shearers and as many "rouseys," who shake out the freshly shorn wool. They work for around eight and a half days straight, shearing 13,500 sheep between them.
Despite the challenges, life on the Falklands can be idyllic. The islands are a safe and welcoming place, where people don't lock their homes or cars. Joanne Baigorri, a credit officer at the islands' only bank, said, "I love living here. I have three children, this is such a safe place to raise your children."
The Falklands are also a surprisingly cosmopolitan place, with 60 nationalities represented among a population of just 3,400. Gabi McRae, a 31-year-old Chilean who works in quality control at the Falkland Islands Meat Company, said, "I fell in love with the Falklands and fell in love with a local person."
