A Journey of Service and Love: Hon. Michael Whitten KC Reflects on His Time in Tonga
From Melbourne to Tonga: A New Chapter Begins
Before stepping onto Tongan soil, I was a barrister in Melbourne and a member of the Queen’s Counsel. Born in Melbourne and raised in North Queensland, my path led me from Brisbane’s university halls to the courts of Australia, where I spent five years practicing law. After traveling across the country, I returned to Melbourne, where I settled with my wife, Catherine, and our blended family of eight children. Life was good, but as our children grew independent, I yearned for a new challenge, something deeper and more meaningful.
The Call to Tonga
In 2019, an opportunity arose to become the Chief Justice of Tonga. It was a chance to serve in a different capacity, to be part of something greater. Little did I know that this decision would transform my life in ways I couldn’t have anticipated.
Embracing a New Land
When I first arrived in Tonga, I was alone for four months, setting up our new life while Catherine and our youngest daughter, Molly, prepared to join me. They arrived in January 2020, and we settled in the village of Foʻui. Just a few months later, in April, Cyclone Harold struck, leaving our home severely damaged. We lost most of our possessions, but we survived, taking refuge at the Australian High Commission before finding a new place in Veitongo.
Facing Unprecedented Challenges
As we were adjusting to our new life, the world was hit by the Covid-19 pandemic. Tonga swiftly closed its borders, saving countless lives but plunging us into uncertainty. The isolation was challenging, with no clear end in sight. Despite the difficulties, I chose to stay and focus on my work, which quickly became all-consuming, averaging 70 hours a week.
A Deeper Understanding of Service
Looking back, this intense period redefined my understanding of public service. By October 2021, after nearly two years without significant leave, His Majesty granted me permission for an extended break. The plan was to spend three months in Australia, including five weeks in quarantine.
The Eruption and a Test of Resilience
Just days before my planned return to Tonga in January 2022, the Hunga Tonga Hunga Haʻapai volcano erupted, causing a devastating tsunami. The disaster claimed the lives of several people, including our dear friend Angela Glover, who dedicated herself to Tonga’s animal welfare. Being away during this critical time was heart-wrenching. While I was in the peaceful countryside of Victoria, Tongans were suffering. I vividly remember a call from Tevita Fukofuka, the Supreme Court Registrar, during the eruption, with chaos unfolding in the background. It still brings tears to my eyes.
Inspired by the Tongan Spirit
The resilience and determination of the Tongan people during these crises were truly inspiring. Their unity and deep faith played a crucial role in the recovery efforts. With support from international partners, life gradually returned to normal, only to face new challenges with the spread of Covid-19. Yet, Tongans showed their remarkable ability to care for each other and overcome obstacles.
A Close-Knit Community
In Tonga, the relatively small population makes every interaction personal. Unlike larger countries where one can live in a bubble, in Tonga, you are part of everything. This close-knit community faces both calamity and love, hardship and dedication, all magnified by their strong sense of togetherness.
Unwavering Dedication
The people I worked with in Tonga are paid little and often overlooked, yet they serve with incredible devotion. Their resilience is an example to the world and a powerful motivation to persevere. Their unwavering commitment to God, King, country, and family is tested in ways I had never seen before.
A New Family
When people ask about my time in Tonga, I describe it as an ‘adventure of contrasts.’ Catherine and I arrived with a large, loving family and left feeling that our family had grown by about a hundred thousand. Although our tenure ended, our connection to Tonga remains strong. If I can ever be of service again, I will be there. You can take the body out of Tonga, but not the heart.
Looking to the Future
As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and the people of Tonga. The challenges we faced together have left an indelible mark on my heart. Tonga has taught me the true meaning of service, resilience, and love. And for that, I will be forever grateful.
