(From Left) Fiji Gas Ltd National Sales & Marketing Manager Vanessa Kilner, ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards Committee member Christopher Chand, Trustee Craig Powell, Fiji Gas chief executive officer Hans Reiher and Fiji Gas West Manager David Aitcheson at the Tourism Fiji officer in Namaka. Photo: LUKE NACEI

By Luke Nacei

The ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards has announced Fiji Gas as a Gold sponsor.

Speaking at a media press conference Trustee Craig Powell also announced that the number of entries this year would surpass last year’s.

Mr Powel said this is the first time for the Fiji’s largest and most trusted company in the LPG market in Fiji, Fiji Gas to come on board.

“Fiji Gas has come on board for the first time and we delighted to make this announcement given that Fiji Gas is a leading brand in Fiji,” he said.

“Fiji Gas has been around for a long time, as the first gas company in Fiji. We are thrilled that they have come on board as a sponsor because they generate energy for all our major hotels in Fiji and power us forward as we progress.”

Fiji Gas has contributed $20,000 and it will continue till 2019.

Fiji Gas chief executive officer Hans Reiher said tourism plays a vast role for the economy including their business partners.

“It’s no secret that tourism is one of the biggest players in Fiji and it happens to also be one of the major partners of our business,” he said.

“Fiji Gas is very pleased to be part of the excellence in tourism awards.”

Committee member Christopher Chand said there has been an overwhelming response from the tourism industries.

He also revealed that the closing date for the entries is October 16.

“We still encourage other tourism operators to submit their entries before the closing dates,” Mr Chand said.

The venue for the event is yet to be confirmed however the event has been schedule to happen on February 18, 2018.

FNU Namaka Campus. Photo: SUPPLIED.

The Internal Quality Circle Competition ( IQCC) provides a platform for staff to identify areas of opportunity which they can solve within Quality Circle(QC) context.

Fiji National University’s Vice Chancellor Professor Nigel Healey said QC teams dealt with problems such as poor customer service, low participants numbers in classes, poor marketing strategies, and slow response time to customers, inefficient process and they have to come up with solutions.

“For FNU staff, the IQCC is not new as it is an annual event organised by the department of Quality Standards,” said Professor Healey.

“I would be extremely delighted if we could adopt some solutions that will be showcased here today and standardise university wide.”

The following areas were highlighted to be crucial for efficient and effective operations within organisations:Investing in staff – up skilling, Lean processes and Customer services.

Some of the leading organisations such Fiji Electricity Authority, Rooster Poultry, Fiji Revenues and CustomAuthority, Ports Fiji Limited, itaukei Land Trust Board, Fiji Sugar Cooperation, to name a few would be participating at the National Convention on Quality at FNU, Namaka campus.

FIJI NATIONAL UNIVERSITY

Locally-renowned Contemporary Painter and Writer, Irami Buli with one of his art pieces displayed during the Floating Art Exhibition at Denarau Yacht Club in Nadi today. Photo: ANA SOVA.

By ANA SOVA

Fiji art group, Waisiliva with the Uto Ni Yalo Trust provided an opportunity for local artists both young and old to showcase their talents during the Floating Art Exhibition held at Denarau Yacht Club in Nadi today.

Exhibition Curator, locally-renowned Contemporary Painter and Writer, Irami Buli said the show was planned for 18 months and should be one of the first of its kind in the country this year.

“We started at The Pearl Resort and from there we moved onto the Fijian Resort and now we’re here at Port Denarau in conjunction with the Pre-COP23 Meeting held at the Sheraton Fiji Resort,” Buli said.

He said the art works is from the Waisiliva Collection and most of the collective displayed are works of renowned artists especially from the Suva area.

These include well-known names in the likes of Lambert Ho, Anare Somumu, Reapi Blyde, Craig Marlow, John Mausio and others.

Buli said the exhibition was unique, witnessing a diverse collection from local artists working with the Uto Ni Yalo Trust in the preservation of our environment and the ocean.

“That is why we jumped on board and partnered with the Uto Ni Yalo Trust to get this thing rolling. It is not only about the advocacy of protection of our ocean and the environment but also our voice as an artist on how we can actually depict these things, through art,” he said.

Buli adds they planned the art exhibition not only to be in line with COP23 but also more of an outreach initiative of what they do.                                  .

He said he plans to incorporate art collective around Suva area from representatives of 21K Art Gallery, University of the South Pacific’s Oceania Centre, the Waisiliva Gallery and other freelancers.

“The whole idea too is to get these people together so we can actually do more advocacy for the Uto Ni Yalo Trust,” Buli said.

He said they wanted more exposure for art locally so that people have more appreciation for art.

Buli thanked all the artists that have brought their works to the exhibition.

“Without them we couldn’t have had this show, we loaded up almost 200 pieces of art that is worth almost a $100,000. I thank the Uto Ni Yalo Trust and the President, Mr. Collin Phillip for partnering with Waisiliva and all those people that are involved in the exhibition behind the scenes,” he said.

There will be a private art viewing and cocktail reception held at the Denarau Yacht Club tonight.

Price of art works range from $65 to $6,000.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Prem Misir and Registrar, Mr. Kamlesh Arya, lighting the diya during the Deepawali celebration. Photo: UNI FIJI 

The University of Fiji held the Deepwali celebrations on October 13, 2017 to commemorate the auspicious occasion.

At the event, the Vice- Chancellor, Professor Prem Misir, highlighted that Deepawali is not about lighting diyas, fire-cracker or getting dressed up; Deepawali was about following the righteous path, the path filled with light.

“The imprint of light need not only be for Deepawali but every day. We need to have sustainable inner light so that we can discard darkness from entering our lives and have goodness pervading throughout our lives,” he commented.

He further elaborated that self-realisation was critical and could be achieved if one the has inner light imprint.

“There are various enlightened Gurus that help sustain the inner light from generation to generation so that society can be lead out of darkness and into light. Whatever you do must be of service to humanity. One can study at Universities and get a degree but one must have righteousness, integrity, unrighteousness and honesty and need to go back to the religious values,” he stated.

Further to his point, he advised to strike an equilibrium between the good and evil where the goodness supersedes the vices.

“We all are good people with a lot of positivity with us, but we have allowed our lifestyles and other things we do in life to combine that goodness with a lot of evil, but we need to control it to make society a great place to live in,” he concluded.

Beneath any pathology, there is goodness in man, the V-C added.

UNI FIJI 

WWF-Pacific climate change support officer (center) and Vuaki villagers making a count of the tree plants. Photo: SUPPLIED.

“Two years ago, the beach was 1 to 1.5 metres further out now the sea water has covered that much and is slowly moving in.”

This is the harsh reality, 39 year old Vuaki villager, Vilikesa Nacaucauceva and his community here in the district of Nacula in the Yasawas are facing. Coastal erosion caused by the rising sea levels is slowly affecting the coastline of Vuaki village.

WWF-Pacific through its Pacific American Climate Fund project of Strengthening Governance and Building Resiliency of Communities that is funded by USAID today carried out tree planting exercise with the community along 300 metres of the village’s coastline.

The planting initiative is one of many rehabilitation efforts; WWF-Pacific has been carrying out with communities in the district of Nacula and its seven villages.

Close to 80 trees species of Vesi (Instia bijuga), Sikeci (Aleurites moluccanus), Dilo (Calophyllum vitiensis) and Moli (Citrus) were planted today. The trees were recommended and provided by the Ministry of Forestry and the National Trust of Fiji.

For the Vuaki community, the planting initiative was highly appreciated.

“The planting today is a good move as by the time the trees establish themselves, they should be able to rehabilitate and protect our coastline from the impacts of climate change.”

“We are doing this as in a way to not only protect our environment but the community as well,” said Nacaucauceva.

For 64 year old Vanasio Lasa, the impacts of climate change have severely impacted Vuaki’s nearby landscape as well, something he has seen and experienced over the years.

“More than fifty years I have been staying here, the mangroves where I stay, around 20 metres of it have been taken away by the sea.

“Also, we use to walk across to the nearby island, 20 years ago, now there is a passage of sea that separates the islands and when it is high tide we cannot walk across,” revealed Lasa.

“We plan to have more coconut trees planted. Most of them were destroyed by previous cyclones such as Bebe and Winston.”

“Today’s planting is a good thing, we were looking for something to be planted here, previously there were all coconuts here only, today we are happy of what we have done, maybe we need to plant some trees,” added 60 year old Emosi Ravato of Vuaki village.

WWF-Pacific climate change officer, Dr. Rusila Savou highlighted the planting initiative at Vuaki village was also part of WWF-Pacific’s contribution to the  Fiji National Climate Week Carbon Fasting objective of uniting, educating and mobilizing Fijians to reduce Fiji’s national carbon footprint through one week of carbon fasting.

WWF

Malolo Island Resort. Courtesy Malolo Island – Fiji/©Hamilton Lund.

AHURA RESORTS is delighted to announce that their already multi award-winning resorts – Malolo Island Resort and Likuliku Lagoon Resort, have added to their prestigious awards list by being named in the top 2
positions in the annual USA Conde Nast Readers Choice Awards 2017 for Australia and the South Pacific.

More than 300,000 travelers took part in the 30th annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey–setting yet another new record–submitting millions of ratings and more than 100,000 comments to help create a list of winning
favorites. The breadth of the top-rated experiences was impressive, from elegant castles in the Irish countryside to tented safari camps trailing the Great Migration across the Serengeti. Chosen were tiny private
islands in the tropics, small culture rich cities in Europe, and intimate river cruises. Most notably, readers declared a passion for the authentic, the personalized, the unexpected–finding all three in both newcomers and stalwarts around the world.

Ahura Group General Manager Steve Anstey says, “This is significant recognition from Conde Naste readers and our loyal guests who voted our family resort Malolo Island Resort and luxury adults-only Likuliku  Lagoon Resort into the two top positions this year. The Conde Naste Readers Choice Awards have long been regarded as a leading, worldwide authority as far as travel awards go. It is generally much sought after to be included in this list, so the fact that our two wonderfully diverse products offering two unique experiences, to two totally
different markets, should come in neck and neck, is truly extraordinary.

We continue to be humbled and amazed to be recognised in this way.  It is a wonderful achievement and a testament to the quality of the products we have and the consistent delivery of our promise to our guests.    Thank you to our incredible staff and of course, to all our valued guests for their continued support”.

Ahura Fijian owner and Managing Director, Tony Whitton, said, “This is big news, not only for both of our resort teams, but for Fiji as a destination. That we have Fiji Resort experiences continually being counted amongst some of the best in the world and holding their own with other famous hotel and resort brands – some of who are giants in the industry.

We believe we have firmly established and filled a niche in Fiji on all things Fijian, from traditional Fijian architecture and experiences, to service delivery and unique product offerings – including Fiji’s first and only authentic over-water bures in a natural, ocean lagoon. We thank past guests, Conde Nast readers and the travel industry at large for this incredible accolade.”

Renu Mala and Shainaz Nisha pack red and yellow Jalebi at the Bhikha Bhai Nadi store kitchen today. Photo: ANA SOVA.

By ANA SOVA

Gulab Jamun, Lakari Mithai, Jalebi, Penda, Barfi, Murku, Peanut, Peas. The list is endless. A variety of delicious sweets will be available in many households across the country this Diwali.

Bhikha Bhai Nadi Store Manager, Adeep Sharma said they have been virtually gasping for breath as customers waited in queues to place their orders and at the same time also trying to distribute to those that have pre-ordered.

“During festival season we are very busy especially during Diwali because people come in and buy a lot of sweets and snacks. The demand is so high that we had started selling Diwali sweets 10 days before the festival,” Sharma said.

He adds they had an early bird discount which really attracted a lot of customers.

Sharma said they always run out of sweets a day before the festival due to the demand and often those on last minute rush get disappointed.

“Everyone comes in to buy sweets now during Diwali not just the Indo-Fijians, everyone is enjoying Diwali,” he said.

Some of Tappoo Nadi Store sales consultants dressed in their Diwali attires. Photo: ANA SOVA.

By ANA SOVA

Technology has played a big role in customer demands during Diwali shopping.

Especially when it comes to clothes says Tappoo Nadi Store Manager, Shaiyum Haroon.

Haroon says in contrast to previous years when customers come and try on Diwali attires that are already available in stores, now customers bring in pictures of clothes found online and acquire if they have it available.

“Especially the ladies, they bring in photos of attires they found on the internet and ask if we have the same pieces or something closely similar,” he said.

Haroon adds for their customer’s convenience they’re always trying to meet their customers’ demands.

“Everyone wants to wear something that is unique”.

Meanwhile, the Nadi store has also extended its business hours during its Diwali sale with customers rushing in to do their Diwali shopping.

“We have sales in all our departments, but we are more focused on our Indian wears. We had new ranges that came in before Diwali, new styles and designs that has been selling very well,” Haroon said.

He said they had also extended their specials on their Home & Leisure items.

“We’ve seen an influx in people buying but majority of the sales has been from the Indian wears,” Haroon said.

Lautoka Mill has successfully concluded its crushing for the 2017 season.

Key stats indicate a successful season for the mill. Lautoka crushed a total of 455,781 tonnes of cane; a 15%
increase from 2016. Additionally, sugar produced was 39% higher to 2016 season at 54,174 tonnes.

And the mill made inroads in key vitals in Tons Cane to Tons Sugar (TCTS) achieving 8.4, an improvement of 1.7 from 2016.

This essentially translates to a more efficient crushing season for Lautoka Mill.

GM Lautoka Mill Mika Biukoto who attributes the successful season to his mill employees, also extends his thanks
to all industry stakeholders including growers, harvesting gangs, contractors and lorry drivers for the supply of fresh
cane to the Lautoka Mill. Biukoto further made a plea to the growers to make good use of the Government assistance
to increase the crop for Lautoka Mill.

He encourages growers to contact and visit FSC sector offices should they need
clarification on the details of the assistance.

FSC

The Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama with Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort General Manager Mr Francis Lee with his wife. Photos: MARGARET NAQIRI. 

By LUKE NACEI

The Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort and Spa is a bench mark for setting standards for the service and innovation and an inspiration too many of the properties that emerged in the Tourism Industry in Fiji said the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama.

He made this address while officiating at the Resorts 50^th Anniversary on Yanuca Island in Cuvu, Sigatoka.

“This beautiful property is far more than just a Resort, it is a true piece of Fijian history,” he said.

“I remember as a youngster this resort was simply called “The Fijian” and since those early days, your resort has not only been a proud fixture of our Tourism Industry, it has been a shining example of what a business can achieve.

“Your relationship with the Tikina of Cuvu has set a very high standard for every operator in our Tourism Industry as – for decades – your resort has served as a model partnership between a business and a local community. You’ve shown how to create a win-win situation that benefits developers, ordinary Fijians and all of Fiji.”

“You’ve done more than simply promote Fiji, you’ve played a big part in helping protect our environment today and for future generations,” he said.

“Fiji alongside all of our partners in our Tourism Industry, including your resort, as we keep on our steady journey forward, welcoming investment, driving development, growing our economy and bringing greater opportunity into the lives of every Fijian.

Looking back on the 50-year history of the Shangri-La Fijian Resort and Spa, My Bainimarama said the managements and staffs all have every reason to celebrate.

“You have every reason to be proud of the benchmark you’ve set for our Tourism Industry, and I am certainly proud of your legacy.

Since the Shangri-La has taken up ownership of this Resort, it has grown from 108 rooms to 442, and a home to five restaurants, a spa, three pools and your most recent addition Fiji’s largest inflatable water park.

“All combined, these facilities make your resort the largest single hotel in Fiji, and I’m very glad to be told that you plan to become even larger in the years ahead,” he said.

“Every Fijian appreciates your contribution to building up our Tourism Industry and enhancing our reputation as unique island destination.

Mr Bainiamarama acknowledged the traditional landowners and community representatives from the Tikina of Cuvu.

“Without your vision and your commitment, none of what we celebrate today would be possible, so thank you for being with us this morning,” he said.

“Congratulations on your 50^th Anniversary. As you look to the next 50 years, I assure you that my Government will continue to support the development of your resort and your partnership with the Fijian people,” he added.

WAF staff members showing support for the fight against climate change by joining in the march organised by the Telecom Miss Fiji Pageant 2017.  Photo: NIYAAZ DEAN.

October 26, 2017. A total of fifty WAF staff and family members took part in the march through Suva that was organised by the Telecom Miss Fiji Pageant 2017.

The march, on Saturday 22nd October, was in support of the Telecom Miss Fiji Pageant 2017 pageant theme: ‘Fijian Municipalities Advocate for Environmental Protection against Climate Change’.

WAF Chief Executive Officer, Mr Opetaia Ravai said that the theme is close to the hearts of the Authority and its staff members, and is in line with Fiji’s presidency to the 23rd session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 23) to the UN Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

“I wish the Prime Minister, Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama well for the upcoming COP23 meeting in Bonn, Germany and I congratulate him for his appointment as COP 23 President,” said Mr Ravai.

COP23 will take place from 6-17 November.

Mr Ravai reiterated that all Fijians should take a stand in conserving water – which is a precious and finite resource.

“Climate Change is real and it is happening and we at the Water Authority of Fiji have started to feel its impact.  A recent example would be the Algae Bloom at the Vaturu Dam that affected the treatment of water at the Nagado Water Treatment Plant and had impacted the consistent supply of water to many Fijians in Nadi,” said Mr Ravai.

The CEO stated that WAF is now taking into account the impacts of Climate Change in all of its projects.

“We are now building our infrastructure to not only meet the demand of the people, but also to withstand the impacts of climate change,” said Mr Ravai.

PACIFIC REACH LIMITED

Mrs Tavai carries a bucket of water through the village. Photo: WAF

By LUKE NACEI

Eight years of fetching water from a nearby house to her home will be no more for mother of five Eseta Tavai, thanks to Water Authority of Fiji.

Mrs Tavai is a living testimony of how some people of Duidui settlement face water glitches.

She was on cloud nine when she heard that there will be an upgrade in their water system.

Duidui settlement is an hour’s drive from Savusavu Township and is comprised of subsistence farmers, it is part of the village of Nakobo, but is located three miles away.

Representatives from the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) Water Development Affairs Department visited the residents of Duidui to advise them that the work to upgrade their water system was included in the 2017 to 2018 budget and would begin soon.

“My house is located right on top of the hill and I have to go down with my bucket to fetch water in the morning, at night, and even when it rains,” Mrs Tavai said.

She said she began living that difficult life when her child was in Year One. Her daughter is now in Year 9 (form 3).

“I started carrying water from the nearest tap to our house, a distance of about 200 metres, and I have to climb up a long hill. That’s almost eight years of fetching water up this hill.

“Sometimes I got sick from the stress of carrying water up this hill.  I am fed up of fetching water while others just have to take few steps.”

“Now, when I heard that WAF is coming within a few weeks for the upgrading of our village water supply system, I couldn’t express my joy. I am so overwhelmed by this news, because finally I know that God has seen all the hard times I have gone through in fetching water for my family.”

Mrs Tavai said she had bought her materials for building a flush toilet, but the water problem has stopped her from building one.

“I tell you, I am willing to do anything during the construction period of our water project, whether it be carrying sand or gravel, just to let the water flow and reach my house,” said Mrs Tavai.

WATER AUTHORITY OF FIJI

Peniasi Laweloa left with Taiwan Technical Mission Specialist Godfree Kuo. Photo: LUKE NACEI

By LUKE NACEI

Nadarivatu farmers are superb at producing quality vegetables.

This could be witnessed in Peniasi Laweloa’s life, a hardworking farmer and has been engaged in farming ever since he was little.

For a person like Laweloa, farming has always been part of his life and something he says he will never turn away from.

“I am determined not to lose the hard work of generations of farmers and the businesses I have built up,” he said.

Now at the age of 50, Laweloa says young kids of today are to be encouraged to practice farming since not everyone will have white collar jobs.

Mr Laweloa has a big vegetable farm with produce such as sweet corn, capsicum, spring onions, lettuce and tomatoes.

He says cash crop farming is the best and suitable way the people of Nadarivatu should practice.

He said his produce is synonymous everywhere with the best quality, safety, and healthy vegetables.

“The way we grow, produce, sell and buy food is changing rapidly we need to make sure that our producers are able to meet the challenges they face so that they can capitalise on the growing interest in food provenance, standards and safety to capture more of the market at home,” he said.

He also said that food is a vital part of our national life and food producers can lead the world.

“I would like to encourage the people of Nadarivatu to practice cash cropping. Firstly a lot of this people just practice long term vegetation which takes a lot of time to harvest. They cannot get the fact the cash cropping is the easiest way to plant and at the same time harvest.

“This is can be one of the main sources of income which can assist their family needs.

They plant cassava, Dalo, yaqona and this takes almost a year to harvest.

According to Mr Laweloa he earns $4500per week and with deductions made for his fuel price and other farming needs he is left with $2500.

Meanwhile, Mr Laweloa was able to showcase his produce and as well his farm during a field day organized by the Taiwan group in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture.

 Minister for Industry, Trade, Tourism Land and Mineral Resources Faiyaz Koya at the Sabeto Picnic Races. Photo: DEPTFO

By LUKE NACEI

Like any new development, horse racing in Fiji needs support to help promote and grow the event into a permanent fixture.

And for that the Minister for Industry, Trade, Tourism, Land and Mineral Resources Faiyaz Koya is making a call to communities to show interest and support initiatives such as the Sabeto Picnic Races which was hosted on Aviva Farms in Sabeto last weekend.

Aviva Farms is the very first to host Fiji’s only international size race course.

“I would like to commend Aviva Farm owner Livai Tora and Kim Beddoes, two of our local entrepreneurs and Sabeto residents, on a milestone achievement,” he said.

“You both have raised the profile of horse racing in Fiji and with the popular Melbourne Cup just two days away, today’s races, would be our very own Fijian version of the Melbourne Cup, but with a lot of ‘Fijian Flavor’, making this a uniquely Fijian event.

“I have no doubt that in time, this event would become an important ‘laid back – Fijian style’ fixture expanding our attraction and activity options for our visitors and locals alike.

Mr Koya said developing the ‘Sabeto Picnic Races’ as an annual event, joins the Gardens of the Sleeping Giants, the Sabeto Hot Springs, Sabeto Zip-line and other local activities in the area and would create a hive of activity and attractions.

“This in turn, would definitely draw a lot of attention to the area and the “vanua” of Sabeto and also provide potential investors the opportunity to invest in the area.

“I urge you all to support Sabeto Picnic Races. With your support, we could have this event feature on Fiji’s Events calendar, which would greatly benefit our tourism industry,” he said.

(L-R, Vijay Naidu (Secretary), Vijay Raghwan (President) and Steven Chand (Vice President) discussing concerns facing the association. Photo: SUPPLIED.

The Fiji Master Builders Association (FMBA) has expressed its concern about the growing number of small building contractors who have exploited those wanting to build or upgrade their homes.

President Vijay Raghwan said that the association that is made up of the major building contractors in the country, has received a number of complaints from consumers regarding shoddy workmanship, and “even some cases where money paid for work was not done.”

Mr. Raghwan was supported in the association’s concern by Premila Kumar, Chief Executive Officer of the Consumer Council of Fiji who reported that the council has received 56 complaints this year relating to “poor quality workmanship, absconding builders and delays in job completion,” costing consumers $1,797,797.

“Our members are urging Government to introduce legislation to address this serious problem, for it is not only affecting consumers, but it is casting a negative image on our industry,” said Mr. Raghwan.

He said the FMBA would strongly support Government in introducing legislation that would substantially increase protection from “unscrupulous operators.”

“We are presently putting together recommendations to help towards this end,” said Mr. Raghwan.

Mr. Raghwan said that licensing was only one of the major concerns expressed by members and that he expected in the coming weeks, through meetings and consultations with members to introduce further suggestions to Government “to help make the construction industry even more effective.”

Fiji Master Builders Association has been involved since l961 in addressing concerns that affect the building industry.  It is a major player, with 15,000 employees, in helping to build the economy.

Hon. Laisenia Tuitubou with course participants. Photo: SUPPLIED.

20 Local Fijian Match Officials are participating in a World Rugby 7’s Level 1 and Level 2 Match Officials Course this week ahead of the 2017 Oceania Rugby Sevens Championships.

The course commenced today (Monday 6 November) with a welcome from Hon. Laisenia Tuitubou Minister for Youth and Sports. The Minister thanked Oceania Rugby and Fiji Rugby Officials, facilitators and Match officials for inviting him to the session this morning, noting that a major work for the Fiji Government now is partnerships and sustainability. He further added,

“In regards to partnerships we are lucky to be working with Oceania Rugby. We see the growth of the Government support in Rugby within the Fiji Rugby Union. These results speak for themselves and are a result of the sustainability of the Match Officials and good governance (through administrators and match officials).”

The Minister also noted that the Fiji Government is working with the Fiji Rugby Union towards hosting a HBCS’s Sevens World Series here in Fiji and the Oceania Rugby Sevens Championships is the first step towards this. Courses like this week’s course not only supports this effort but also provides opportunities to further develop Rugby in Fiji.

The course is funded through the support of the Fiji Government and Oceania Rugby in conjunction with the Fiji Rugby Union in the interests of capacity building of local referees. The participants are all current provincial referees, who are to undergo formal training through the World Rugby Level 1 and Level 2 Match Officiating Sevens courses. The course not only includes technical aspects but also works through mental preparations, stress and anxiety that are particular to the Sevens program. On Thursday the course attendees will be joined by the international Match Officials who have come into Suva for the Oceania Rugby Sevens Championships for further preparations ahead of assisting at the tournament on Friday and Saturday.

Talemo Waqa, Regional Training Manager, Oceania Rugby noted to the attendees,

“The same course was delivered ahead of the Oceania Rugby Sevens Championships last year and we are seeing the direct results this year with Mere Ulunaceva (FRU), Avi’I Fa’alupega (Samoa) and Augustine Mafuara (SIRFU) who completed the course in 2016 being appointed as a Match Officials for the 2017 Tournament.”

Mr Waqa further added that this course is the first step to having more International Match Officials coming out of Fiji and following in the steps of Tevita Rokovereni.

In addition to the course local Match Official Managers and Educators will also observe and shadow the Oceania Rugby Match Official Managers Michael Tanzer and Lyndon McKendry for further capacity building.

Match Official Appointments for 2017 Oceania Rugby Sevens Championships.

Match Officials:

• Dru Tonks (Australia)
• Tyler Miller (Australia)
• Tevita Rokovereni (Fiji)
• Mere Ulunaceva (Fiji)
• Sakurako Kawasaki (Japan)
• Matt Rodden (Hong Kong)
• Michael Winter (New Zealand)
• Lauren Jenner (New Zealand)
• Richard Kelly (New Zealand)
• Isamaeli Posi (Samoa)
• Avi’I Fa’alupega (Samoa)
• Augustine Mafuara (Solomon Islands)
• Filimoni Siueni (Tonga)

Assistant Match Officials:

• Kaveni Talemaivalagi (Fiji)
• Usa Bainivalu (Fiji)
• Josaia Caucau (Fiji)
• Tevita Vosalevu (Fiji)
• Simeli Loga (Fiji)
• Epeli Nagase (Fiji)
• Josaia Vatavitavi (Fiji)
• Sireli Matavesi (Fiji)
• Aporosa Bole (Fiji)
• George Fonmoa (Fiji)

The Radisson Blu Resort on Denarau Island. Photo: SUPPLIED.

The Radisson Blu Resort Fiji has been recognised numerous times as the perfect family getaway in Fiji and the South Pacific on TripAdvisor, one of the most popular and reputable online review websites ranking Resorts based on traveller’s feedback. The Radisson family are very proud and excited to add yet another milestone for being the first and only Resort in Fiji to have reached the 5000 mark in review numbers on TripAdvisor.

This monumental achievement was celebrated within the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji by Management and staff with a dedication to attaining a strong positioning on TripAdvisor.

“With 5000 honest reviews from our valued guests, it is the highest number of reviews received by any hotel in Fiji. It
has been an amazing 5 years for the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji family and I would like to thank our incredible team for their passion, achieving such high ratings on TripAdvisor is something we have all worked hard for”, says Gerard Knight, General Manager of the Radisson Blu Fiji Resort.

“I encourage feedback from guests therefore personally responding to many reviews as well as hosting an event for guests ever Wednesday evening providing us with significant insight”.

“During this interactive time I welcome guests to talk of their experiences whether good or bad so that we as a team can work collectively with the ‘Yes I Can’ attitude to improving guest satisfaction,” said Gerard Knight.

Spread across 10 acres of tropical beach, gardens and tranquil architecture, the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji has been rated as the number 1 Family Hotel in the entire South Pacific region, including Fiji, Australia and New Zealand two years ago. The Resort also made it into the Top 10 Fiji Hotels Luxury Category of the 2016 and 2017 TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Awards for Hotels, its most prestigious award.

Radisson Blu Resort Fiji has also won the ‘Hall of Fame Award’ for six years which is only accredited to Resorts that receive the TripAdvisor Excellence Award 5 years in a row.

Currently the resorts Thai Restaurant ‘Chantara’, the only one of its kind in Fiji and sitting as the Number 1 Restaurant on Denarau Island.

The Radisson Blu Resort Fiji has been under Gerard Knight’s leadership for the past 5 years, he has a strong passion for delivering excellent customer service. The company’s wonderful service philosophy of ‘Yes I Can’ shows in his commitment to personally responding to many comments on TripAdvisor, contributing to the outstanding result of 5000 reviews. The high review rating is a benchmark set by Gerard Knight and is a great accomplishment for the Radisson Blu Fiji Resort as they close in on the year with high occupancy and happy guests.

The Resort takes great pride in their family friendly features, which include Fiji’s only white water tunnel slide and four unique lagoon style swimming pools including an adult’s only pool. All pools are climate controlled (heating and cooling) with shades over family, children and toddlers pool providing a wonderful experience for every family combination. Boasting the largest suites on Denarau with kitchenette, washing machine and dryer, the Resorts one bedroom suites are the ideal destination for a great family holiday.

The TripAdvisor reviews reflect the tireless efforts of the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji team and the resort aims to continue providing outstanding services as we look forward to the festive holiday season, says Gerard Knight.

RADISSON BLU

His Excellency the President Jioji Konrote tours the Extension Division of the Ministry of Agriculture. Photo: FACEBOOK/DEPTFO.

By ANA SOVA

Farmers turned up in numbers at the Western Division Agriculture Show that was held at Koroivolu Park in Nadi today.

The show which included the demonstrations of live animals, crops and farming management practices was officially opened by the President, Major-General(retired) Jioji Konrote.

The show focuses on the need for the implementation of the adaptation mechanisms for the sector amidst challenges posed by climate change.

The theme for the 2017 Agriculture show is ‘Climate Smart Agriculture for Fiji’.

President Konrote said we are all familiar with the impacts of natural disasters on our agriculture sector.

“Tropical Cyclone Winston, for instance, caused damages in excess of $200 million to the agriculture sector alone. The sector is yet to fully recover in many parts of the country,”

“The recent dry conditions that the Western Division has been experiencing and the consequential impact on crop and livestock production is testimony to the fact that we must practice Climate Smart Agriculture,” he said.

President Konrote said agriculture will remain an important and significant player in our national development and in Government’s efforts to strengthen our economic growth.

“This will also help ensure that the national wealth is fairly distributed, and employment opportunities made available to a wide cross section of our communities,” he said.

President Konrote adds whilst Government is committed in its efforts to develop the agriculture sector, all farmers and would-be farmers should agree to adopt the Climate Smart Agriculture approach.

“This will enhance the development of sustainable farming systems that provides reliable sources of food and income security for all,” he said.

Meanwhile, Pushpa Naidu who displayed and sold flowers during the show said it was a good opportunity for farmers.

The 60-year-old housewife from Waqadra in Nadi sells flowers near McDonalds Nadi Restaurant along Queens Road every Saturday.

“It’s nice to come out and have this opportunity to have exposure on our business and products. It is also an opportunity to meet other farmers and exchange ideas,” Pushpa said.

Although, Ilivani Draunimakita of Vuda Point, Lautoka said the event could be organised better.

The 37-year-old who operates a honey and virgin oil business called Niu Source company with her husband said the organising and coordination of farmers attending the event could be improved and more farmers should be urged to attend the show.

The show ends on Friday.

Fijiana Captain Ana Roqica and PNG Captain Joanna Lagona_Samoa Captain_Tahiti Captain_preview.Photo: SUPPLIED.

As the record number of eight women’s teams take to the field for the Oceania Sevens, they are playing to win, and to shift gender inequality to the sideline.

“We are currently rated in the top four in the world standings,” said Fijianas Rugby 7s captain Ana Roqica. “Ever since I started playing rugby, the crowd used to tell us that it’s a ‘men’s sport’… now they really love how the women have been playing rugby,” she said.

“Rugby is my passion. Growing up in my village in Tavua, I used to play rugby with the boys and I’ve grown to love rugby,” said Fijiana 7s player Rusila Nagasau adding “It’s that coconut tree on the jersey that makes us proud, as it’s not just about myself but my family and my country.”

Ana, Rusila and other women and men involved in the 2017 Oceania Rugby Sevens Championship, being held at the ANZ Stadium in Fiji from 10-11 November, are excited about the event’s emphasis on the importance of equal participation of women and men in rugby.

Oceania Rugby President Richard Sapias explained that involving women and girls, men and boys, more equally in rugby is central to the strategic goals of Oceania Rugby and also its new working partnership with UN Women, global champion for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.

“For Oceania Rugby and World Rugby to work together with UN Women, through events such as the Oceania Sevens, presents an ideal opportunity to support women and girls in rugby, and to encourage their communities to support them, too,” Mr Sapias said.

“Everyone is committed to opening the door to women and girls in rugby, and we know there is more we can still achieve. Today we are making progress, and it’s great to see record numbers of women players, and an increase in female coaches, managers as well as workforce staff here at the 2017 Oceania Sevens,” he said.

Nicolas Burniat, UN Women’s Deputy Representative for the Fiji Multi-Country Office (MCO) that works across 14 Pacific Island countries, said the Oceania Sevens is great example of how, “through sport, we can equal the playing field between women and men and girls and boys.”

“Promoting equal access in rugby for girls and boys, women and men is a key strategy to demonstrate that women and girls really can do anything, and to ‘equal the playing field’ both on and off the rugby arena,” he said.

“The power of sport to change mentalities should never be underestimated, especially here where sport is a vital part of Pacific communities and Pacific life,” said Mr Burniat.

“We look forward to working more with Oceania Rugby to assist rugby continue to create more opportunities for girls and women to get the same benefits from being players, coaches, officials and managers as everyone else.”

The Oceania Sevens has family-friendly ticket prices to also encourage more women, girls and their families to come enjoy the rugby competition.

JOINT RELEASE: OCEANIA RUGBY, UN WOMEN

Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Viam Pillay and senior officials of the Ministry of Agriculture with awardees of the 2017 Western Agriculture Show at Tokatoka Resort in Nadi. Photo: DEPTFO.

By ANA SOVA

Farmers in the Western Division were recognised for their contributions towards the development of the economy.

The Ministry of Agriculture acknowledged farmers with awards for their commitment and hard work throughout the years at the Tokatoka Resort in Nadi on 10 November as part of the 2017 Western Agriculture Show.

27 farmers from the four provinces within the Western Division were rewarded in the categories ranging from crop, livestock and overall awards.

Officiating at the event, Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Viam Pillay thanked the farmers for their contribution towards the agriculture sector in their respective farming practices.

“Government acknowledges the efforts of all our farmers as your partnership is vital in providing our people food and nutritional security as well as contributing to increased agriculture export and providing the required materials for agro industries to support the employment and livelihood of many communities which is critical for the economic development of our country,” Pillay said.

He said the Farmers Award is an initiative taken by the Ministry of Agriculture to acknowledge the farmers roles and achievements as it also shines the spotlight on them.

The Assistant Minister also reminded farmers of the drastic effects of climate change and called on them to adapt mitigating practices for the benefit of their respective farms.

“With this year’s Agriculture Show theme reflecting “Climate Smart Agriculture for Fiji”, I wish to remind you all at the outset of the need to implement resilient and sustainable agricultural practices for climate adaptation and mitigation. The threat posed by climate change is all encompassing, affecting all sectors and sadly enough, the agriculture sector is not exempt,” Pillay said.

“So in light of this ever increasing danger, all stakeholders must focus attention on the need for the implementation of adaptation mechanisms for the sector amidst the challenges caused by the phenomena, climate change”.

He said farmers played a significant role in terms of economic development in the country.

“Your efforts in partnership with Government in the provision of food security, increasing agriculture exports and providing the raw materials for agro industries to support employment and livelihood of many communities is critical for the economic development of our beloved nation,” Pillay said.

Awards:

Best Dalo Farmer: Keresoni Waqa of Soa Village, Ra

Best Ginger Farmer: Rafaele Raidroni of Dama, Ra

Best Yaqona Farmer: Savenaca Salili

Best Patato Fasrmer: Jaweli Naluaikaba

Best Yam Farmer: Jone Madrai received

Best Banana Farmer: Manueli Vakarilala

Best Papaya Farmer: Ahmad Khan

Best Pineapple Farmer: Imataz Ali

Best Rice Farmer: Suneel Kumar

Best Vegetable Farmer: Robert Sanjay of Burenitu

Best Farm Practice: Pranil Bhai

Best Backyard Farmer:  Ritesh Sharma

Best Value Adding Farmer: Mr and Mrs Nawaitauvou of Navotua in Yasawa

Best Floriculture Farmer: Kelera Kau’ata of Lautoka

Best Sustainable Land Management Farmer: Sakeasi Tikowale of Vadrayawasewa, Ba

Best Pig Farmer: Laisenia Namosimalua

Best Sheep Farmer: Samisoni Manewa

Best Dairy Farmer: Bal Ram

Best Beef Farmer: Mohammed Shahim

Best Goat Farmer: Jiten Kumar

Best Broiler Farmer: Navetakan Aujula

Best Duck Farmer: Rakesh Prasad

Best Apiculture Farmer: Nilesh Kumar

Young Farmer of the Year: Mikaele Tanalewa

Woman Farmer of the Year: Asenaca Salacagi

Western Division Farmer of the Year Award in the crops category: Dharmend Kumar

Western Division Farmer of the Year Award in the livestock category: Navekatan Aujula.