Nadroga Robust number eight Eremasi Radrodro and speedster Joeli Lutumailagi are being fare-welled by families and friends at the Nadi International Airport. Photo: MILINIA ENE.

By LUKE NACEI

Two former officers from the Fiji Police Force have left our shores to play professional rugby in France.

Special Constables Eremasi Radrodro and Joeli Lutumailagi who have both served the force for two and six years respectively in the field of community policing Fiji through the rugby concept were fare-welled by relatives at the Nadi International Airport this morning.

The two players were earlier fare-welled by the Commissioner of Police Brigadier General Sitiveni Qilho who stated the support of the entire institution was behind them.

The two were grateful for this opportunity and will both feature for the Rugby Club Vannes a French rugby union club currently competing in the French league system.

Minister for Defence and National Security, Hon. Ratu Inoke Kubuabola at the 42nd Anniversary for Fiji Naval Day celebrations at the Stanley Brown Naval Base, Walu Bay. Photo: DEPTFO 

The Minister for Defence and National Security, Hon. Ratu Inoke Kubuabola called for an increase in the capability of the Fiji Naval Division while officiating at the Fiji Navy Day which commemorated the 42^nd anniversary of the Fiji Naval Division.

“Fiji is a maritime nation. An island state which demands its waters and seas protected. I envisage the Fiji Naval Division positioned in Savusavu, Labasa, Rakiraki and other strategic entry points,” Ratu Inoke said.

“Unlike ports of entry, access to Fiji through our maritime islands in the Lau, Lomaiviti, and Vanua Levu are open, and exposes our country and our people to risks and emerging threats.”

Minister Kubuabola added that the importance of ensuring the safety, security and the management of our seas and how it requires the extensive commitment of all state actors to tackle issues that concern our seas.

“Our maritime domain faces many threats and challenges. Adverse impacts on the security and safety of Fiji and the entire Pacific region are real. Illegal immigration, terrorism, piracy and drug trafficking, human trafficking are a few issues the Fiji Naval Division now confronts” Ratu Inoke said.

The commemoration also saw the launching of the Fiji Naval Divisions Maritime Surveillance Centre.

DEPTFO NEWS

Mou-between-FHEC-and-APTC. Photo: SUPPLIED

Twenty participants from our Technical Vocational Education Training Sector will be given an opportunity to study the Australian Certificate Level 4 in Leadership and Training at the Australia Pacific Technical College [APTC].

This follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly undertake this project by the APTC and the Fiji Higher Education Commission.

The programme will allow the participants to gain specific skills and expertise as they transition into leadership and supervisory roles.

The FHEC has been receiving nominees for the programme and will finalise the listing of the twenty participants with the APTC.

The programme will be delivered part time between August and December this year.

FHEC Director Mrs Linda Aumua stated that this partnership has been long overdue of the two parties in their capabilities to come together in supporting and developing the TVET sector of the nation.

APTC Chief Executive Officer, Ms Denise O Brien expressed that it was a great pleasure to sign the first MoU with the FHEC especially in developing the TVET sector which is the passion of the APTC.

Ms O Brien stressed that TVET is a needed, growing and vibrant sector that is providing the skills for economic prosperity throughout Fiji.

New Rewa Bridge fence work in progress. Photo: FRA 

The fence installation on the new Rewa Bridge is running behind schedule as some of the materials had to be ordered from an overseas supplier to meet the demand  of fitting a pedestrian fence across one side of the 680 meter long Rewa Bridge.

Fiji Roads Authority Acting Chief Executive Officer, Robert Sen says that despite FRA’s best efforts to hurry along the procurement and production, the fencing work has only just commenced.

“A total of 340 fence panels will be installed on the bridge and the work will take at least 4 weeks to complete.”

Mr Sen says that the supplier has been working behind the scenes to fabricate these fences and had to order more steel for the vertical support frames from an overseas supplier.

“The Fiji Roads Authority has been under immense pressure to get the fences installed and is asking members of the public’s understanding as they work to complete the installation.”

Mr Sen also said that the contractor can carry out his work without interruption during the two week school holiday period.

Whilst the fencing work is commencing on the new bridge, the old bridge has also undergone transformation to prevent the public from using it.

Hazardous concrete slabs on the footpaths of the old Rewa Bridge are being dismantled following the permanent closure of the bridge to pedestrians.

FHH Project Engineer, Arsheel Mohammed, said that the old bridge, which continued to be used by pedestrians since its closure to traffic, had showed signs of severe deterioration due to lack of maintenance.

“While the closure has eliminated the risks of using the old bridge, we identified that weak concrete slabs on the structure were likely to endanger members of the public if they broke and fell, particularly on the Nausori-end of the bridge where a park is situated,” Mr Mohammed said.

To remedy this risk, approximately 100 metres of the concrete panels have so far been removed from both ends of the bridge.

FRA

New Zealand Open champion Michael Hendry (pictured) is heading to the Fiji International looking to achieve some lofty career goals.

The tournament, which is just a short plane trip from his New Zealand home, provides Hendry a family holiday away from the course where he is aiming to secure a European Tour card and advance his prospects of winning the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia Order of Merit.

Since winning the ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open in March, Michael Hendry is placed second on his home tour Order of Merit. A good week at the AUS$1.5 million Fiji International could see him take the top spot and be a genuine contender come the end of year tournaments.

It’s an achievement he has come close to in the past; finishing runner-up in 2016 and 2012 as well as third place finish in 2013. While he would enjoy all the career benefits attached with winning the Order of Merit, like a start in The Open and World Golf Championship events, for Hendry it is also about maintaining a strong connection with his home tour.

“I love playing the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia and I want to maintain my card and a strong presence on the Tour,” said Hendry.

“I have come so close to winning the Order of Merit in the past that it is a goal that I want to achieve one day.

“I have put myself in a good position, there is still a lot of golf to be played but a good showing in Fiji with the prizemoney on offer gives me a really good chance to have a good crack at Rummy (current leader, Brett Rumford) at the end of the year and try and get over the top of him,” added Hendry, who currently trails Rumford by just over AU$100,000.

“So many people can still come into the mix, but I am obviously in a good position and just need to consolidate on my good start. It’s definitely on my radar.”

Also on Hendry’s radar is a European Tour card. A win at the tri-sanctioned Fiji International would guarantee him status on the lucrative tour until the end of the 2018 season.

“European Tour is a goal; I would like to play there if possible,” added Hendry.

“I became a conditional member of the European Tour at the end of last year knowing I would likely get one World Golf Championship to count towards the Race to Dubai, in the end I managed to get two which is nice.

“After Fiji I’m hoping to get an invite to potentially play Dunhill; I will hopefully have enough tournaments to get myself a European tour card.”

Fiji is a good place to start towards these goals; it has been a happy hunting ground for Hendry throughout his career.

When he first turned Pro, Hendry was a regular on the pro-am circuit visiting Fiji with great success; he won the Fiji Open in 2010.

As a result, the course knowledge he has acquired over the past 10 years makes Hendry one of the most experienced players teeing it up at the Fiji International.

However when Hendry arrives in Fiji this year, Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course will, like him, have received a make-over.

“I have played Natadola a lot so I know it’s good parts and its bad parts and it sounds to me like they have made subtle changes that will be for the better,” said Hendry, who earlier this month underwent surgery to correct a sinus issue.

“I had surgery on my sinuses, I had an issue that was effecting the bone structure around my right eye socket, they needed to equalize the pressure by clearing it out and drilling a hole at the back to ensure my eye sight would stay as it should. There was potential for me to get double vision. At the same time they gave my nose a bit of a whack and straightened it up.”

Already a world-class course, Vijay Singh has finessed the layout making Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course friendlier for all level of golfers.

For Hendry though, he doesn’t believe the new look layout will throw him off his game.

“I think they are doing the right thing. They are taking what was already an amazing golf course and hopefully the changes make it just that much better again,” added Hendry.

“I have heard of the changes Vijay has been making and tee shots don’t sound like they are that different. But obviously different approach shots will also dictate what you do off the tee.

“I imagine that it will have a similar feel, the wind direction can be pretty predictable and if the holes generally look quite similar off the tees it will have a similar feel to it.

“It’s a funny thing but you really get a sense of a golf hole, and the way it looks, from the tee box. I’ve played Natadola so many times over the years that I have become pretty comfortable with the way the tee shots looks.

“If they haven’t made too many changes to the tee shots and bunkering, where the ball lands off the tee, hopefully it will lend itself to being pretty familiar.”

While Hendry has lofty goals for his time at the Fiji International he also looks forward to combining some family time away from the course.

“With the amount of travel that I do, I spend a lot of time away from home and my family,” added Hendry.

“The fact that Fiji is so close and family friendly means Fiji is always a must play tournament for us as a family.”

The Fiji International will be played at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course from 17-20 August and is tri-sanctioned by the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia, European Tour and Asian Tour.

For an image of Michael Hendry at the 2016 Fiji International please click here. Please credit Fiji International.

PGA

Port Denarau Marina General Manager, Cynthia Rasch and New Zealand Marine Industry Association Executive Director, Peter Busfield pictured during the Fiji/New Zealand Marine Trade Day at the Denarau Yacht Club last Friday. Photo: ANA SOVA.

By ANA SOVA

The Fiji/New Zealand Marine Trade Day was held at the Denarau Yacht Club in Nadi last week Friday.

The event which has been held in Fiji for the second time now was hailed a success by organizers.

New Zealand Marine Industry Association Executive Director, Peter Busfield said marine exhibitors from New Zealand loved coming to Port Denarau Marina for the event.

“It’s an opportunity for Fiji and businesses involved in the marine industry and businesses from New Zealand to engage and to share experiences and best business practices and to make new contacts,”

“Today has been very successful. We are delighted that it was so full with around 15 superyachts in the marina and about 70 cruising yachts out in the bay,” Mr. Busfield said.

He said a lot of the companies brought new products and have been able to release and show their exhibits to the cruising yachts.

“Anything from electronics to inflatable fenders to new sales design,” Mr. Busfield added.

He said they also had the opportunity to display information about the Bay of Islands Marina in Opua, New Zealand.

“We’ve got a brand new marina there, so we’re letting people know that when you approach New Zealand its one of the first port of call. The marina has also increased its capacity,” Mr. Busfield said.

He said it was great to see the marine industry supporting the event.

“It’s pretty much what we call a soft sell situation and we’re just letting people know what’s available in New Zealand and we’re encouraging people to sail to New Zealand and maybe have a holiday there,” he added.

Meanwhile, Port Denarau Marina General Manager, Cynthia Rasch said it was a great opportunity for industry partners, marine businesses, yachts and agents to network and discuss one on one the latest marine products and services with leading marine operators under one roof.

“The turnout has been fantastic, people are excited. We look forward to doing this every year,” Ms. Rasch.

Hon. Mereseini Vuniwaqa at the launch of the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Week celebration in Nabitu District School, Tokatoka, Tailevu yesterday. Photo: DEPTFO

The Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Hon. Mereseini Vuniwaqa officiated at the launch of the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Week celebration in Nabitu District School, Tokatoka, Tailevu this week.

Minister Vuniwaqa said the week-long event shows the importance of Early Childhood Education for every child that will develop a strong foundation for future educational excellence and good role models in the future.

“Children’s education is a priority for our Government and parents should take advantage of the benefits offered,” Minister Vuniwaqa said.

Minister Vuniwaqa encouraged the parents, students and teachers and said that investing in our children at a very young age will maximize the future well-being of our nation and therefore, the Fijian Government is investing more in Education with the aim of building a stronger future for our country and ensuring a strong and prosperous Fiji.

She emphasised the role that parents had to play to ensure the holistic development of our children at home and also in school.

With the ECE theme for 2017 being “Enhancing Quality Early Childhood Education and Care Through Sustainable Approaches”, Minister Vuniwaqa congratulated the management and the villagers for successfully running the early childhood education programmes in the school as it’s a great investment for the community.

She also handed over some books for the school library . A ‘talanoa’ session was held with the women of the six villages in the Tikina of Tiokatoka after the official opening of the ECE week, whereby Government assistance programs towards families and communities were discussed.

Minister Vuniwaqa also took the opportunity to inform the Women’s Group about the social protection programmes and women’s economic empowerment programmes that could better their economic participation and income generating opportunities.

Minister Vuniwaqa congratulated the women of the district for having the foresight and the commitment to pool their resources together and cook nutritious school lunches for their children at the school on a daily basis.

She stated that such investments would go a long way in complementing Government’s efforts towards raising a generation of enlightened Fijians who can take our country forward in the next few decades.

DEPTFO NEWS

The Sabeto Roosters team in their village today. Photo: LUKE NACEI

By LUKE NACEI

The Sabeto Roosters Rugby League team have all eyes set on the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup competition schedule this weekend.

The former champions will face fellow brothers the Ravoravo Rabbitohs after thumping USP Islanders 23-4 in one of the semi-finals. The Rabbitohs on the other hand edged Makoi Bulldogs 16-14 in another torrid semi-final encounter.

Speaking to the media today, assistant coach Waisake Tavotavo said the boys are ready to take on stage come game day.

He said they will be playing as under dogs as they respect their fellow brothers.

Tavotavo also said everything else will be determined after the last whistle blow.

“The boys are really looking forward to it. We will be going in as under dogs,” he said.

“We know each other as we are staying in the same village and we will look up to them and we are ready for the game this Saturday.

He added the competition will only be won by the fittest team.

“For our brothers the Ravoravo Rabbitohs there are a lot of experience players playing for them, we know each other very well and I want to say only the game on Saturday can be regarded as the survival of the fittest,” he said.

Meanwhile, boths teams are Sabeto based teams.

The much anticipated game is schedule to kick off at 3pm at the Prince Charles Park in Nadi this Saturday.

Mike Weir. Photo: PGA 

Another Masters Champion will tee it up at the Fiji International from 17-20 August when Canadian Mike Weir joins Fijian Vijay Singh at the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course.

Weir and Singh share a strong history, Weir was defeated by none other than Vijay Singh in a playoff on his home turf during the 2004 Bell Canadian Open.

At the Fiji International, Weir will be motivated to perform well on the layout designed by the Fijian hero, Singh.

“I can’t wait to tee it up against Vijay on his home course; it’d be amazing to return the favour from 2004,” Weir joked.

“He’s a great player and any course he’s had a hand in re-designing is sure to be a great challenge, I’m looking forward to seeing what he’s put together.”

Weir was a dominant force on the PGA TOUR throughout the early 2000’s winning eight times on the Tour.

He also took out the World Golf Championship – American Express Championship in 2000 and was the Masters Champion in 2003.

The 47-year-old has spent most of his career on the PGA TOUR but spent time on the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia in the early 90’s. He has recently been plying his trade on the European Tour and given the Fiji International is a tri-sanctioned event, he’ll be able to rub shoulders with Asian Tour stars for the first time since 2014.

“I think it’s great the Fiji International is a tri-sanctioned event, it presents a fantastic opportunity to the winner and will open a lot of doors, particularly for young players looking to establish their careers,” added Weir.

“I haven’t spent a lot of time on the Asian Tour so I’m looking forward to seeing some of those guys in action, there’s a lot of talented guys coming out of there so it’ll be really exciting.”

“Weir’s presence at the Fiji International is a major boost to the tournament’s fourth year,” said the Honorable Faiyaz Siddiq Koya, Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism.

“We wait in anticipation to welcome Mike Weir’s arrival and trust that he will enjoy our tropical weather and the warm hospitality of our Fijian people,” Siddiq Koya said.

“We now have two former Masters Champions competing in the field, it’s going to be a great spectacle of golf for the fans visiting Natadola Bay.”

Gavin Kirkman, CEO of the PGA of Australia which oversees the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia, said he couldn’t wait to see Weir in action.

“We’re very pleased to have Mike Weir competing, he’s arguably the best golfer Canada has ever produced and I look forward to watching two former Masters Champions in himself and Vijay Singh go head to head,” Kirkman said.

Mike Weir joins a stellar field which includes Vijay Singh, Phachara Khongwatmai, Jeev Milkha Singh, Ryan Fox and Brett Rumford.

PGA

Director of the Pacific Eye Institute, Dr Biu Sikivou, receives the $50,000. Photo: SUPPLIED

The FIJI Water Foundation has donated $50,000 to the Fred Hollows Foundation’s Pacific Eye Institute.

The money will go towards the purchase of a retinal camera for the Institute’s Mobile Eye Clinic, said FIJI Water CEO, Mr Rokoseru Nabalarua.

Mr. Nabalarua added that this is part of the FIJI Water Foundation’s policy of “seeking meaningful opportunities to make a difference in health care for the general public.”

Receiving the $50,000 grant for the Fred Hollows Foundation was Dr Biu Sikivou, who said that the retina camera would assist in the early detection of various sight-related conditions such as eye diseases related to diabetes.

She added that the retina camera would allow trained nurses and technicians to identify and grade diabetic retinopathy. Those that need further assessment will be referred to an ophthalmologist (eye doctor).

Andrew Bell, Executive Director of the Fred Hollows Foundation said that the Fred Hollows Foundation is honoured to be partnering with the FIJI Water Foundation and the Ministry of Health to provide eye care to rural communities.

WAF

New Zealand’s favourite chocolate now available in Fiji .

New Zealand‐made Whittaker’s Chocolate, the country’s “most trusted brand” and a favourite among chocolate lovers, will now be widely available in Fiji. Distributed by the Motibhai Group, Whittaker’s Chocolate will be sold throughout their chain of Prouds stores, major supermarkets and selected fuel stations around the country.

Whittaker’s full range of chocolate will be available for discerning chocolate lovers in Fiji to enjoy. This includes Whittaker’s Fairtrade‐certified 5‐Roll Refined Creamy Milk Block and 72% Dark Ghana Block, and a wide range of other unique flavours and sizes.

Whittaker’s head of international markets Matt Whittaker said, “We’ve had a limited range of our chocolate in a small number of outlets in Fiji for a number of years, and we source Fijian Ginger for one of our Artisan Collection Blocks from Fijian farms. We’re delighted to now have this opportunity to build our relationship with chocolate lovers in Fiji.”

Established in New Zealand over 120‐years‐ago, Whittaker’s is a family‐owned company that has been voted New Zealand’s most trusted brand for the past six‐years‐in‐a‐row. It is run by brothers, Andrew and Brian Whittaker, and the next generation of Whittaker’s, brother and sister, Matt and Holly, also work in the business.

As a family and as a company, they are steadfastly committed to producing only chocolate of the highest quality. Whittaker’s ensures quality by controlling the whole manufacturing process – from bean to bar – from its one factory in Wellington, New Zealand.

“As well as our absolute commitment to quality, we are also constantly innovating to create new products for our loyal Whittaker’s Chocolate lovers to enjoy. In the past couple of years this has included the development of our Artisan Collection, which is something extra‐ special for people seeking a little bit of luxury,” said Mr Whittaker.

Whittaker’s is also known for its high level of engagement with Whittaker’s Chocolate lovers on social media, which enables Whittaker’s to share its passion for chocolate and stay connected with what consumers think.

“We’re proud to be an exporter of premium New Zealand produce, and to be expanding our community of Whittaker’s Chocolate lovers around the world.

“In New Zealand, our Fairtrade 5‐Roll Refined Creamy Milk is Whittaker’s top‐selling block, but we look forward to finding out which of our products is the favourite of Whittaker’s Chocolate lovers in Fiji,” said Mr Whittaker.

Sharing similar sentiments, Motibhai Group marketing manager Abraham Gomes believes the Whittaker’s brand will be well received by Fijians from all walks of life.

“We have already started receiving good feedback from customers and the exciting part is that the Whittaker’s range has chocolates to suit every taste bud,” Mr Gomes said.

Available at Prouds and selected outlets Fiji‐wide, Whittaker’s is distributed in Fiji by Motibhai Group – touching your lives with quality products.

About Whittaker’s / Company Overview

James Henry Whittaker got his taste for chocolate when he was just 14 year’s old, working in the British confectionery industry. He arrived in New Zealand in 1890 and began manufacturing confectionery from his home in Christchurch just six years later, selling his chocolate direct to his customers by horse and van. In 1913, Whittaker established a partnership with his two sons, Ronald and James. Thus, J.H. Whittaker & Sons was created, with a base in Wellington and a mission to bring the Whittaker’s’ fine confectionery to the rest of New Zealand. The business took off, prospering at a steady rate during the war years. In 1931, Woolworths Australia opened stores in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin and we were selected to supply them with a wide range of confectionery. J.H. Whittaker & Sons became a limited liability company in 1937, and the Whittaker’s still own the business: third‐generation Whittaker’s Andrew and Brian are the sole shareholders.

The Prime Minister Vorerqe Bainimarama with the Faiz Khan the Executive Chair at the opening of the new water treatment plant. Photo: LUKE NACEI

By LUKE NACEI

The Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama opened a brand new 3.6 million dollar water treatment plant at Fiji Pine.

Mr Bainimarama highlighted that they now have successfully upgraded 85 per cent of Fiji Pine’s infrastructure assets that were in dire need of repair.

“As part of that effort, I’m delighted to be here this morning to also officially open a brand new 3.6 Million Dollar water treatment plant,” he said.

Speaking to about 3000 people, the Prime Minister said not a single cent was borrowed for the completion of the project.

“As was the case for the entire upgrade of the Drasa factory, including the new sawmill, kiln, and planner mill and power generation plant – not one cent was borrowed to complete this project.

“It was entirely funded through the Company’s reserve cash flow saved over the past few years. So it’s safe to say, the days of verging on bankruptcy are well behind us,” he added.

“Thank you again to Faiz Khan, the Executive Chair and the Board Members of the Fiji Pine Group for your energy, dedication and commitment to turning this Industry around. Keep up the great work, and keep showing us what is possible when effective management, sound planning and worthwhile investment come together to work for the Fijian people.”

Aide to the Minister of Education, Dr K. Kotra, Honourable Jean Pierre Niura, Minister of Education and Mr Ruben B. Markward, USP Campus Manager. Photo: USP

The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Emalus Campus Open Day in Vanuatu on 4 August 2017 was a worthwhile event with hundreds of students and members of the public in attendance.

Those who attended included Honourable Ham Lini Vanuaroroa, Minister for Climate Change, USP Campus Manager Reuben Makward, staff and students, visiting students and teachers, and parents and guardians.

In his keynote address, Hon. Jean Pierre Nirua, Minister for Education and Training acknowledged his invitation saying he was pleased to be present at the occasion.

He thanked the students of Emalus Campus for their efforts particularly in preparing for and staging the parade saying their shone out for the University.

“The theme for this year’s Open Day is USP – Shaping your Future. What it means is that we equip students with the knowledge, competencies, skills and attributes for life-long success.

“It also means instilling in our students all the best values of our Pacific societies. This is so that they can emulate as great ambassadors and citizens of the Pacific region to the global village we all live in,” he remarked.

This event he said, would showcase what USP can offer to all those considering joining its dynamic and multicultural intellectual community.

“The day has been designed to give you a sense of belonging to USP and also inform of the many opportunities that are available at USP. USP Open Day 2017 is open to everyone who is considering university education,’ he stated.

The Minister encouraged students and members of the public to explore all the programmes and courses offered by USP and to consult academic and administrative staff for their queries.

“Open Day is about making that very important choice for intending students.  Your choice of University will shape the rest of your life. It is often said that the university years are the best years of one’s life, and, in many ways, that is very true. USP will shape your future,” he added.

Hon. Nirua advised that when at university, it is important to have friends who are as ambitious as they are, to have lecturers and professors with high expectations of their performance, and to have supportive academic mentors and administrative staff who want to see them succeed and achieve.

“Students will consider whether or not their choice of programme and of University will help them secure a good job.  Like many of you I was also a student at USP.

“You can be confident that USP is a recognised university that is a major player in the region and is becoming well-known also internationally,” he added.

“We consider USP to be well-placed to provide the solid academic foundation needed for your lifelong success. With multitude of academic programmes in diverse areas, there is something for everyone at USP,” he noted.

Hon. Nirua also spoke of his intention to strengthen a closer working relationship with the Emalus Campus Advisory Committee and Campus management, adding that the Government of Vanuatu will continue to support and advocate for USP’s expanded operations in Vanuatu.

“One priority development that the Government is encouraging is the expansion of face-to-face delivery of non-law programmes here at Emalus that has received the endorsement of the USP Council in November 2016.

“I wish to urge the Campus Management and the officials of the Ministry of Education and Training with the Scholarships Office to expedite the process to have this scheme implemented fully in 2018, following Government decision to enrol more first year Degree students to non-Law programmes and courses at USP,” he noted.

This, he said, was even emphasised by Hon. Prime Minister during his Independence Speech on 30^th July.

Hon Nirua also reassured Government’s commitment to enhance increased internet connectivity at Emalus Campus.

He further mentioned that Government had approved transitional funding support towards the Pacific Islands Legal Information Institute (PACLII).

Food Safety and Quality Assurance staff. Photo: SUPPLIED.

By LUKE NACEI

With only two years and six months of operation, Punjas Biscuits has attained yet another mile stone achievement.

Adding on to their huge success since its establishment in December 2014, the company is amongst the few biscuits manufacturers in the Asia Pacific to be awarded the prestigious British Retail Consortium (BRC) A+ accreditation.

BRC is the leading trade association for UK retailing which develops its Global Standard for Food Safety in order to help the food industry meet legislative requirements of the EU General Product Safety Directive and the UK Food Safety Act.

The BRC’s ability to react to changing food safety concerns, meet consumers requirements and yet provide a simple, easy to flow process for manufacturers, has resulted in the standard becoming one of the most popular GFSI Standards.

(L-R) Jeremaia (Quality Control Officer) Ariff Mohammed (Operations Manager) Alini (Quality Control Supervisor). Photo: SUPPLIED.

If a supplier gains the BRC Global Standard for Food Safety certification, it assures the customers that they are dealing with a company that reaches high levels of competence in all critical areas.

They will know that their supplier is monitoring and continually improving their product quality, safety and legality and that they have taken every possible precaution to prevent problems should there ever be a challenge against a product.

Managing Director, Punjas Biscuit Mr Nitin Punja said the achievement is an auspicious milestone achievement for the company reaching that level of growth in the Southern Hemisphere.

“We are very proud of this achievement,” Mr Punja said.

“Like any other building process however, you must do the hard yards to place the building blocks properly along the way.

Punjas Biscuits Ltd has also passed a full Fonterra New Zealand Food Safety and Quality Audit and has been appointed as one of their approved packing sites for export markets.

On the same note Punjas Diary too has certified by Fonterra, as a result the company has been contracted to pack Anchor Milk Powder in sachets for their export customers.

Mr Punja thanked all his hardworking staffs for their commitment towards the company.

“I’d like to use this platform to publicly acknowledge the contribution our staffs have made to both these achievements. Without their attention to detail and pride in what they do we would not be aware we are today,” he said.

About Fonterra:

Fonterra has grown to be a major player in the global dairy nutrition market and active in 140 countries worldwide. A cooperative owned by 10,500 farming families in New Zealand and processing more than 22 billion litres of milk, 95 percent of which is exported.

The newly installed streetlights in the Western. Photo: SUPPLIED.

The Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) currently has tenders out for the installation of new streetlights
along the Kings and Queens Road.

FRA Acting CEO Robert Sen says that currently, the FRA has an asset base of approximately
9000 lights, poles and associated infrastructure. He adds that the aim of the Fijian Government
is to extend street lighting to areas beyond the urban boundaries.

“Government has allocated funding for these projects in the 2017-18 Streetlight Improvement
Programme that will see many street light projects rolled out across the country. Three of these
tenders are the Kings Road, Queens Road and Navua Street Lighting Project.”

“The Kings Road street lighting project has 1527 new installations and this will be placed along
selected locations including schools, villages, communities and junctions between Ba and
Nausori.”

“The Queens Road street lighting project has 448 new installations and will also be placed in
selected locations similar to the Kings Road set up between Lami and Sigatoka.”

“The Navua street lighting project includes approximately 120 new installations along sections of
Naitonitoni Road including Navua Town up to the Queens Road intersection.”

Mr Sen says that the Fiji Roads Authority outsources all construction work and encourages
interested companies to contact the FRA procurement team to seek information on the many
tenders currently out to market.

A similar project for the Western Division was carried out in the 2016-17 financial year. The
Western Village Streetlight Programme extends from the Korotogo bypass to Nailaga Village in
Ba. The Cuvu Section was commissioned by the Prime Minister Honourable Voreqe Bainimarama
in February this year.

The Tenders for the Kings Road, Queens Road and Navua street lighting projects were released
to the market in June and July. The Tender for all three projects closes at 2:00pm on Thursday
10 August 2017.

Students benefit from New Zealand based company. Photo: SUPPLIED.

By LUKE NACEI

Packaworld International, a New Zealand based company,  has assisted Fulton Primary School with portable football goals to help bring the joy of sport to children at a school being rebuilt after Cyclone Winston.

Fulton Primary School has more than 100 students, and is located two hours’ drive from the town of Rakiraki in Fiji’s Ra province.

Following the destruction of the school’s classrooms by the powerful February 2016 cyclone, tents were deployed as temporary classrooms, and the school sports field was affected by the need to store materials for construction.

The Football Packagoals were transported to the school recently by the Gracegate Centre’s ‘Move to Fiji’ school rebuild initiative.

The initiative involved a 14-day visit to the school from 12 New Zealand volunteers to support reconstruction, teaching and other school activities.

Gracegate Centre Directions coach Urzalia Rea said the contribution of the goals by New Zealand sports equipment provider Packaworld had been received with great enthusiasm by teachers and students alike.

“They love the goals. It was great to see how the kids reacted. Usually they just put their shoes down to make goals, so they were really excited. When we inflated the goals, all the kids ran down and took turns carrying them. It was really cute,” he said.

The school also has a crèche for children under five. The crèche is housed in a large tent while the school is being rebuilt, and this was temporarily turned into an impromptu football pitch using the goals during the visit, much to the delight of the children.

Ms Rea said sport is really important to the children of the region, many of whom live off the central power grid and do not have access to electronic entertainment such as television and gaming systems.

“There’s no power at the village, although there is a generator that’s used for power tools. So these kids don’t have power to play Xbox or anything, they just stay out and play sport until it gets dark.”

She said the children had loved the football coaching sessions during her visit, and the teachers had loved the fact the goals could be easily deflated and packed away.

“Being able to pack them away and keep them in a corner of a classroom tent was perfect. The teachers thought we had just brought the goals along to run some activities, so when we said the goals were sent over by Packaworld for them to keep they got quite emotional.”

This was Gracegate’s second visit to Fulton Primary School as part of the rebuild initiative. This visit resulted in the completion of three constructed classrooms that the team started last year.

Receiving the donation from FIJI Water CEO, Mr. Rokoseru Nabalarua (l) is Dr. Sainimere Boladuadua, Public Health Advisor, Fiji Rheumatic Heart Disease Programme. Photo: SUPPLIED

The FIJI Water Foundation donated $100,000 this week to Cure Kids in support of the Rheumatic Heart Disease Programme’s ongoing work in raising awareness, diagnosing and treating rheumatic heart disease in children in Fiji.

For the past eight years, the FIJI Water Foundation has been supporting Cure Kid’s work with the Ministry of Health’s Rheumatic Heart Disease Programme.

Accepting the donation on behalf of Cure Kids was Dr. Sainimere Boladuadua, who expressed her gratitude for “this generous donation.”  Dr. Sainimere is involved in Cure Kids efforts to support the Ministry of Health’s Rheumatic

Heart Disease Programme and oxygen delivery projects.

Funds provided by the FIJI Water Foundation have helped towards providing a national online database for information relating to the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic heart disease. It has also helped fund a customized remote access mobile clinic.

“We acknowledge the excellent contribution Cure Kids is providing, working closely with the Ministry of Health, to diagnose and treat this serious disease.

We are pleased to do our part,” FIJI Water CEO, Mr. Rokoseru Nabalarua concluded.

Ambassador Ravineet Sami, the technical and students of Koroinasolo Village School during the official launch of the solar project. Photo: SUPPLIED.

The University of Fiji officially launched the solar power project for Koroinasolo Village School launched on Tuesday, August 8, 2017. The project benefits approximately 65 people that includes students and staff of the school.

The University has carried out four projects of supplying solar power in Bua, Vanualevu. The first being for Coboi Primary School, Koroinasolo Village School, staff quarters at Koroinasolo Village School and staff quarters at Coboi Primary School.

Speaking at the launch ceremony at Koroinasolo School, Solar Energy Ambassador, Mr. Ravineet Sami, and Executive Director Finance of the University of Fiji, said that there were various advantages of using solar power.

“Solar is proven technology for sustainable development across the tropics and is cost effective. Also it heavily supports Fiji’s Presidency to COP23 and the Fijian Economy,” he said.

Ambassador Sami further stated that solar supports the green growth framework of Fiji’s Energy Policy and preserves oceans and mitigates climate change impacts.

Apart from solar power, the School was also provided with stationery, computers, printers and sports gear. The project amounted to approximately $40,000.

The University of Fiji partnered with MV Solar Company, Office Supplies and Rentals, GEM IT, Ranjeet’s Construction and Joinery Works Limited, Valentines Air Fresh and Sugar Taxis for the solar project.

Opeti Chambers centre with his school mates today. Photo: SUPPLIED.

Opeti Chambers has won the 207 11^th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest. He is the East Asia & Oceania Regional winner.

The nine year old is on cloud nine with his life trip to Japan to attend the global award ceremony.

“I thank the Lord for this opportunity and I thank him for giving me this talent,” he said.

Chambers’ winning entry was titled ‘Red Mojo Automobile’ and his theme behind the concept was a vehicle that had everything in it to rehabilitate communities after a natural disaster.

Opeti’s winning entry. Photo: SUPPLIED.

He drew his inspiration for his concept from the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Winston. So he dreamed up the  ‘Red Mojo Automobile’ which has a hospital, an evacuation centre, shops to name a few; that would cater to the needs of people who may be affected by a natural disaster.

Asco Motors CEO Craig Sims said: “We are excited about Opeti’s win and showcases the imagination and creative potential of the future leaders of Fiji. Opeti’s win should serve as an encouragement for children from all over Fiji that they can also participate and win,” he said.

The Toyota Dream Car Art Contest is a global art competition hosted by Toyota Motor Corporation and organized by its global network of automotive distributors and dealers.

In Fiji, Asco Motors as the official distributor in Fiji has managed the contest. The contest invites children from all over the country to submit their creative drawing or artwork, in a chance to win awards and attend an awards ceremony in Japan in 2017.

The contest harnesses artistic interests in young children through imagining a car of their future. In part, it is intended to create opportunities for children throughout the world to develop their interest in cars and to inspire creativity for the future leaders of tomorrow.

The Toyota Dream Car Art Contest was first introduced in 2004 and this year was the 11^th year of its running.  Some of the goals of the contest are to: To strengthen Toyota’s relationship with national communities and customers; to promote creativity, imagination and innovation through art and; to increase Toyota brand awareness in Fiji.

The contest was held in the following age categories: Category 1- Under 8 years old, Category 2- 8 – 11 years old, Category 3-12 – 15 years old.

In Fiji, the contest ran from 1^st September 2016 to mid-February 2017.

Winners selected will now attend the World Contest Award Ceremony, which will take place at the end of August in Japan. This is a fully paid trip for Opeti and his dad Oswald Chambers. 

Opeti will be travelling with his dad at the end of this month.

East Asia & Oceania Regional Winner 

Opeti Chambers was announced the Winner for the Category 2 – 8 to 11 years for the East Asia and Oceania Region.

This is a milestone achievement for the country, as it is the first time a participant from Fiji has entered the global award ceremony as a winner in the region. 

Fiji Art Camp

Asco Motors hosted its first Art Camp in January this year at it’s Regional Training Centre. The camp was attended by 50 children, with ages from 3 to 15years and was conducted by well-known cartoonist Tui.

Minister for Trade and Tourism Faiyaz Koya (left), South Sea Cruises CEO Brad Rutherford with Fijian Holdings Limited Group Chief Executive Officer, Nouzab Fareed. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.

By LUKE NACEI

Malamala Beach Club in the Mamanuca’s would add more hotness to Fiji being named as the Hottest Destination for 2017 at the 29th Annual Virtuoso Travel Week conference says Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism Faiyaz Koya.

Mr Koya echoed these sentiments while officially opening the $6.5 million beach club.

He said it would be the hottest beach club in the world and it was great partnership that existed with the land owning unit.

The beach club would be South Seas Cruisers six brand amongst other famous brands such as, Awesome Adventures Fiji, Blue Lagoon Cruises, Yasawa Island Holidays to name a few.

South Sea Cruises Chief Executive Officer, Brad Rutherford said the newly opened beach club consisted of a local membership scheme with close to one thousand members.

A staff at the Malamala Beach Club Fiji showcases a variety of delicacies. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI

Mr Rutherford added it would be easily accessed for the important domestic market as a great place to spend time.

The island beach club menu inspired from local ingredients was designed by executive chef, Lance Seeto.

Mr Seeto said he wanted to offer something different for tourists from around the world who would come to spend their leisure time at the island beach club.

Mr Rutherford said the cocktail list and beverage menu couldn’t be found anywhere else in Fiji with recipes specifically designed, tested and implemented by award winning United States of America mixologist, Tommy Quimby.

Fijian Holdings Limited Group Chief Executive Officer, Nouzab Fareed said the five years of hard work was paid off.

Mr Fareed said the island beach club was $7.5 million of Fiji Holdings Limited hard earned money which would also benefit 1,400 of its shareholders.

Surrounded by Fiji’s famous crystal clear waters, Malamala Beach Club is just 25 minutes from Port Denarau.