Caption: Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, H.E. Margaret Twomey, launches the Storage Facility in Lautoka. Photo: FIJI PROGRAM SUPPORT FACILITY (THE FACILITY).

With the support of the Australian Government, the Fiji Red Cross Society (FRCS) has taken a step forward in “Building Resilient Communities” by constructing branch offices and storage facilities stocked with humanitarian supplies in 15 sites around Fiji, including the maritime island locations of Koro, Kadavu, Rabi, Rotuma, Lakeba and Vanuabalavu.

H.E. Margaret Twomey, Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, joined the FRCS in Lautoka on Monday, August 28, to launch one of the newly constructed storage facilities stocked with 100 emergency shelter kits, 150 family packs, 200 blankets, 200 water collapsible containers and 100 shelter kits.

These supplies contain essential items for the first 24 to 48 hours following a disaster, including clothes, first aid, bed sheets, towels, matches, handsaws, shovels, hoes, shears and ropes – aimed to assist communities and
households to recover in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.

Ms Twomey said, “Australia is committed to supporting Fiji’s efforts to manage and mitigate disaster risks and build resilience to natural disasters. We recognise the important role that national actors, such as the Fiji Red Cross, its staff and volunteers, play in supporting communities to be disaster ready. I also commend the Fiji Red Cross Lautoka Branch Committee and hardworking volunteers who have the responsibility of looking after this new storage facility. Following disasters, they have the critical task of ensuring those affected, including children, women and people with disabilities, have equal access to these supplies.”

The supplies in the new Lautoka storage will be able to readily assist an estimated 1000-1250 people (200 to 250 households).

“With the help of the Australian Government, the Fiji Red Cross is able to extend our reach to help those in the more remote parts of the islands, especially the maritime areas, and to do it now,” said Mr Filipe Nainoca, Director General at the Fiji Red Cross Society.

“It is through our partnership with Australia that we will be stronger and strategic in our response by going out faster and further than we have been able to do come the next disaster season.”

This support from the Australian Government is also assisting the FRCS to realise its preparedness and response mandate under the Fiji National Disaster Management Plan.

FIJI PROGRAM SUPPORT FACILITY (THE FACILITY)

The accused Petero Sarogo at the Nadi Magistrate Court this afternoon. Photo: LUKE NACEI

By LUKE NACEI

The 36-year-old man alleged to be involved in a robbery at Media Partners in Martintar, Nadi appeared at the Nadi Magistrate Court this afternoon.

The accused Petero Sarogo appeared before Magistrate Peni Dalituicama.

He is charged with one count of aggravated burglary and one count of theft case.

The matter has been transferred to the High Court in Lautoka.

The accused asked the Court as to why the matter was referred to the Lautoka High Court.

In response Magistrate Dalituicama told the accused that his first charge which is one count of aggravated burglary can only be heard at the High Court.

It is alleged that on August 21^st the suspect entered the shop and stole assorted items. CCTV footage of the alleged incident was posted up on social media.

The accused is remanded at Natabua prison and will appear at the High Court in Lautoka on the 6th of September.

Meanwhile, a 50 year-old woman alleged to have received the stolen items including a laptop is also in police custody.

The pioneering group of students for the newly-launched Master’s in Renewable Energy Management (MREM) programme, accompanied staff of Department of Science and Programme Coordinator Dr. Anirudh Singh (fifth from right).Photo: Uni Fiji

 The Master’s in Renewable Energy Management (MREM) programme commenced at the University of Fiji on February 13, 2017 with an initial enrolment of 12 students.

Interest in Renewable Energy has come from diverse areas of the economy, including the teaching, research and the industrial sectors. Those registered for the programme include practicing scientists, engineers and power generation project managers in addition to teachers and young University staff.

The programme is now in the second semester.

Students are actively involved in research work as part of their course assessment. In addition to the current research being carried out by students under the Centre of Renewable Energy (CORE) other areas of interest include Butoni wind farm, prospects of biodiesel production in Fiji and prospects of bioethanol production for which talks are currently underway for a possible research collaboration with the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC).

The first two courses offered in Semester 1, 2017 were coordinated by Associate Professor Anirudh Singh and included REM400: Renewable Energy Technology I (Biomass) and REM401: Renewable Energy Technology II (Wind Energy & Solar PV).                                                         

Students in semester 2 are enrolled in REM402: Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development and REM403: Energy Economics and Management (Coordinated by Dr. Ranasinghe Amaradasa).

The REM programme has also welcomed on board the Energy Policy expert – Dr. Evanthie Michalena who has been conducting some lectures on Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development.

UNI FIJI

Major roadwork on Glastone Road. Photo: SUPPLIED.

Motorists and pedestrians are requested to take extra precaution when travelling along Gladstone Road in Suva, due to heavy roadwork machinery operating in this area.

Fulton Hogan Hiways (FHH) Project Manager, Ciaron Kelly, issues the advisory as pavement rehabilitation and reconstruction work get underway.

FHH is working closely with the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) to provide road maintenance and renewals in the Central, Eastern and Northern divisions.

FRA General Manager Network Operations and Maintenance, Aram Goes, says that this road upgrading work forms part of the 2017 – 2018 Road Renewals Programme that is aimed at renewing the lifecycle of roads.

Mr Goes adds that the upgrade also involves major water main construction work to replace the ageing infrastructure under Gladstone Road.

“The joint collaboration between FRA and Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) will see many more inter-agency coordination efforts on road projects going into the future. This ensures that we fix the underlying infrastructure before we seal the road. It also protects the integrity and quality of our road infrastructure and minimises the need to dig up the road once it is done.”

Mr Kelly says that the work on the 280 metre-long road will include replacement of water utilities, pavement reconstruction, newly installed footpaths at two metres wide on both sides of the road, an improved drainage system, and a new parking bay.

Work includes removing the existing failed pavement and replacing it with cement stabilised pavement for strength and durability. The road will then be sealed following stabilisation.

“We urge motorists and pedestrians to please drive slowly and obey all signs and directions given by FHH traffic controllers. We want everyone to reach their destinations safely,” said Mr Kelly.

“We are currently doing all the concrete work during the day while a second crew upgrades the water main at night.”

Peter Hopgood and the Outrigger Fiji team accepting the award on stage. Photo: SUPPLIED

By LUKE NACEI

Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort has been recognised as the Best Fijian Resort.

At the 15th annual awards, Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort  has shared the honours with Vomo Island Resort and Spa in being recognized as the Best Fijian Resorts.

The award for Best Fijian Property was made at a 730-strong black-tie dinner at Sydney’s prestigious Town Hall. 

General Manager, Peter Hopgood said he was overwhelmed to be accepting this award on behalf of the team.

“We are truly blessed with an amazing team at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort and I believe that is why we were the recipient of this award. We are also fortunate to have outstanding restaurants, one of the best spas in Fiji and we also provide our guests with unique experiences such as our Talei Butlers and Meimei nannies. To top it off, my team’s dedication to its local community is renowned all over the world,” he said.

As a brand, Outrigger Resorts is recognised as a strong, values-led, community focused operator at each of the destinations in which it operates.

At last year’s HM Awards event, Mr Hopgood was awarded the prestigious Ashley Spencer Service to the Hospitality Industry Award for his tireless work on behalf of the Fijian hotel industry and in support of local Fijian communities.

The first iTaukei owned hotel. Photo: DEPTFO

Minister for Industry, Trade, Tourism and Lands and Mienral Resources Hon. Faiyaz Sidddiq Koya  opened the Namolevu Beach Bure Accommodation along the Coral Coast.

In Opening the the first iTaukei owned hotel within the Coral Coast vicinity, Minister Koya said this was a milestone acheivement.

“I warmly congratulate the Tokatoka of Hewa – Tagaqe village and the province of Nadroga/Navosa on their achievement,” he said.

Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism FaiyaZ Koya presents an SME Grant to a recipient. Photo:n DEPTFO

Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism Hon. Faiyaz Siddiq Koya officiated at the presentation of SME grants to 805 Fijians in Ra to assist them improve their businesses or start up a business.

In presenting the Fijians the leg-up for economic empowerment Minister Koya said Government would continue to support the SME sector.

Government is committed to inculcating a spirit of entrepreneurship by providing this financial support, however, we will not stop there, we willensure that discipline and accountability is fostered in the businesses that have been assisted,” he said.

DETPFO NEWS

Queen Elizabeth Drive is now open to traffic. Photo: SUPPLIED.

Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) wishes to advise members of the public that the Queen Elizabeth Drive
is now open to traffic.

Confirming this, Acting Chief Executive Officer Robert Sen says whilst the road has been opened
to traffic, it will remain an active site as works are still ongoing.

“Please note this will remain an active site as we continue to build the other roadside amenities
such as bus bays and installing of streetlights.”

Mr Sen said they will reduce the road to a single lane when required, to do the necessary works,
and the traffic controllers will then be directing traffic flow in the area.

“Some delays should be expected over the coming weeks.”

He said they have completed the rehabilitation of the road pavement, new asphalt surface, kerb
and channel and footpaths. The landscaping was completed by the Suva City Council.

“The FRA is advising the motorists that there will be disruptions, please be cautious, drive within
the speed limits and allow extra travel time.”

All works are anticipated to be completed in the coming weeks, subject to weather.

FRA

A local Chinese dance group during the celebrations at Prouds last year. Photo: SUPPLIED.

China’s second largest festival is getting very popular in Fiji with an influx of more Chinese investors into the country.

Held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month in the Chinese calendar, the Mid-Autumn Festival also known as Moon Festival is the second grandest festival after the Spring Festival in China.

Interestingly, this year’s celebrations also coincides with the 162^nd anniversary of the arrival of the first Chinese in Fiji. There is no doubt, Fiji would not have been the same if it was not for the substantial contribution of our Chinese community for the past one hundred and sixty-two-years.

While the important Moon Festival begins to gain greater momentum here in Fiji, retail giants Prouds is indeed proud to be the first outlet in the country to start the celebrations with special offers and a night function for our Chinese community.

“The spirit and the sense of involvement exhibited by the members of our Chinese community from the past years has encouraged us to celebrate this great event every year.  Realistically we were the first ones to come up with an idea of this celebration years ago and have continued annually with the same passion,” said Prouds Suva Central manager Nilesh Chand.

He said many other retailers have now followed suit with similar events and promotions while Prouds continues to be the trendsetter.

To mark the auspicious festival, Prouds Suva Central and Prouds Downtown Nadi outlets will host a special evening function on Thursday, September 28 especially for members of the Chinese community to be part of the celebrations.

“Customers can take advantage of the great specials on watches, jewellery, handbags, sunglasses, fragrances, wines and much more,” Mr Chand added.

“Apart from the discounts, special offers and new products, customers will get to enjoy the entertainment and the refreshments provided.“We all from the Prouds family convey our best wishes to all our Chinese friends during this great Mid-Autumn Festival,” Mr Chand said.

MOTIBHAI 

WAISELE SEREVI. Photo: GOOGLE 

The Fiji Rugby Union has today confirmed that rugby fans in Fiji will have the opportunity to watch Legendary Fiji 7s Wizard, Waisale Serevi play once again on home soil when he leads the Fiji Legends against the Classic Wallabies at ANZ Stadium in Suva, this Saturday.

The exhibition 7s match between the Fiji Legends and Classic Wallabies will be the curtain raiser for the Round 4 NRC match between the Fiji Airways Drua and defending champions Perth Spirit.

The curtain raiser will prove to be an exciting build up towards the NRC match as this will be a rare opportunity for rugby fans to watch famous Fijian Australians, Lote Tuqiri and Radike Samo, as the Classic Wallabies take on a star studded Fiji Legends team that will also feature one of the greatest wingers in world rugby and “Bua Bullet”, Rupeni Caucau.

Serevi said with the Fiji Airways Drua team on their maiden voyage, the Fiji Legends wanted to show their support towards to the team and showcase that even though age had caught up with them they still had it in them to play the game they all loved and what they were well known for.

“During our playing days, we never had a lot of opportunities to represent Fiji.  It was only in the Fiji 7s or Fiji 15s team and if you missed out on selection you had to keep on trying until the coaches spotted you.  But now there is an established pathway, where you have the opportunity to transition from 7s to the Warriors, the Drua and then the Flying Fijians, which gives a lot of our good players the chance to play for their country and showcase their talent to the world.”

“The game has evolved immensely since our playing days and it has become faster, bigger and more professional.  I am proud of the Fiji Airways Drua team and the impact that they have made in this competition, albeit in only their first year.  We promise to put on a good show on Saturday and I urge all the fans to come down and support not only us but the Fiji Airways Drua team.”

FRU CEO, Mr John O’Connor has urged all the rugby fans to come down and support the Fiji Legends and Fiji Airways Drua in what promises to be an exciting, family-fun rugby day.

“Waisale Serevi remains everyone’s choice as the finest 7s rugby player of all time, and was Fiji’s hero every time he took to the field, possessing the ability to create something from nothing at any time.  The same goes for all the players that make up the Fiji Legends team, they help put Fiji on the map.  They have done us proud by agreeing to the match for Saturday and I promise all the spectators, you will get your money’s worth.”

“For some of you, the last time you would have watched the Fiji Legends would have been on television.  So I am urging all the fans not to miss this opportunity to watch them play right here on home soil and come down to ANZ Stadium on Saturday.  The children will finally get to meet their rugby heroes and watch them in action, and this is something you should not miss.”

“The sight of Waisale Serevi, Rupeni Caucau, Lote Tuqiri, Radike Samo and a cast of other former greats charging around the field this Saturday will give the spectators plenty of scope to reminisce.  So come on Fiji.  Come down and support not only the Fiji Airways Drua, but also the Fiji Legends.”

The Fiji Legends v Classic Wallabies match is scheduled to kick off at 4.15pm before the Fiji Airways Drua takes on Perth Spirit at 5pm at ANZ Stadium in Suva.

Fiji Legends Team

Waisale Serevi, Rupeni Caucau, Viliame Satala, Sireli Naqelevuki, Semisi Naevo, Lemeki Duidomo, Isireli Bobo, Aporosa Daunivucu, Vilimoni Delasau, David Batiratu, Manoa Satala, William Ryder, Mosese Luveitasau, Nasoni Roko, Neumi Nanuku, Jone Kuruduadua.

Classic Wallabies Team

Radike Samo, Lote Tuqiri, Mark Chisholm, Matt Hodgson, Morgan Turinui, Stephen Hoiles, Pat Phibbs.

Tickets are currently on sale at $10 for Grandstand and $5 for the Embankment at the Fiji Rugby Union Office and the Fiji Sports Council or online at www.ticketdirect.co.fj.  Children U12 will enter Free of Charge. Students in uniform will also receive Free entry.

FIJI RUGBY 

Prouds Nadi manageress Camari Rusaqoli tries out the fire extinguisher during the practical. Photo: SUPPLIED

Occupational health and safety is a priority topic at Motibhai Group as staff members continue to upgrade their skills to handle emergency situations should it arise at the company premises.

In a recent fire safety training conducted by the National Fire Authority (NFA), 20 fire wardens who represented the various subsidiaries of Motibhai Group united to sharpen their skills on firefighting and safety response tactics.

Conducted by Sub-officer Tanoa Ledua of NFA Nadi, the fire wardens were taken through a theory and practical session for the entire day on Tuesday, September 19.

“The training conducted was just to teach the staff on what to do in case of fire emergencies,” Mr Ledua said.

Mr Ledua said the response from participants was very encouraging.

“Safety at your workplace is of paramount importance and we need the support from everyone concerned as a fire incident can be very fatal if not controlled,” Mr Ledua added.

“We work hand in hand with various stakeholders so we can minimize the number of fires that are happening right now.

“Throughout the country, the number of fires we have been handling is very high and we really need the support of business houses and individuals so that we can work together in trying to make your workplace and homes safe and fire free.”

Motibhai Group chief fire warden Sanjay Kumar thanked the NFA for partnering with the company in raising awareness for the safety of every employee in case of a fire incident.

“The training on the fire safety is very important as we need to maintain fire safety procedures and educate fellow staff on the need to take fire precautions within our workplace,” Mr Kumar said.

He said there seems to be a rise in company fires and other sort of emergency cases in workplaces and therefore the staff need to be trained to know how to manage any evacuation during an emergency.

“This training was a collaborative effort between the NFA and the Motibhai Group to educate staff on basic fire safety procedures and drills.

“We appreciate NFA’s proactive measure for businesses and stakeholders for the early mitigation of property fires and avoidance of workplace injury or loss of life through such trainings,” Mr Kumar added.

He said the training session without doubt enabled the staff to learn firefighting tactics and the relevant types of firefighting equipment to use in the event of a fire.

“I thank the company for taking the initiative and ensuring that our staff were appropriately trained to manage fire safety risks at our workplace and homes as well.”

MOTIBHAI 

The Nadi Aviators Rugby League team together with the staffs at St Mina Children’s Home in Martintar, Nadi. Photo: MILINIA ENE

By LUKE NACEI

The Nadi Aviators rugby league team today visited St. Mina Children’s Home in Martintar, Nadi.

The team with the assistance of Vodafone Fiji Ltd donated kid’s item worth $500 to the home.

Coach Vela Tawake said this is the first for the team to have assisted the kids.

“We have done it for clubs but this is the first time for the zone,” he said.

Tawake also said the visit to the home was emotional yet an eye opener for the players themselves.

“It’s something that we are very gracious about especially being an eye opener for some of the players here today. I really thank Vodafone for such an initiative.”

St. Mina Children’s Home staff Salote Tupou acknowledged the presence of the team together with Vodafone Fiji staffs.

“I thank you all for the kind donation and support towards these kids. You giving your time to come and visit us today is a huge boost for us,” she said.

“We pray that God will bless you all in your games this weekend. I must encourage you all too always love each other and have that team bond amongst yourselves,” she added.

Team manager Sitiveni Vuniyayawa on behalf of the team thanked the staffs for giving them an opportunity to visit the home and the kids.

“The boys you’re looking at today are the ones that will be playing this Saturday We thank you the staffs for allowing us to visit the home and we thank you Vodafone for always supporting us,” he said.

Musket Cove Fiji Regatta. Photo: SUPPLIED.

The opening of the 34th Fiji Regatta went off without a hitch. With more than 100 yachts entered and 300 guests. It’s wonderful seeing so many familiar faces. Especially our unofficial Regatta commodore Jack
Hargreaves. Who’s had quiet a challenging year. Did you know Jack is a founding member of the MCYC Yacht Club plus this event and many other regattas in years gone by. A true and dear friend of Musket. Together with his rock, Joslyn. Sadly, the free-flowing rum punch and other bevvies didn’t improve the quality of singing at anthem time.

Carol, Josephine, Will and Margie are thrilled that we have such a great turnout and would love to be more active with events and celebrations. But there is one little girl making it tricky. Her name is Alexandra,
the newest addition to the Musket family.

Talking about new additions. This year it’s been an exciting year for new additions. Six our our Musket family also welcomed their own bundles of joy into the world. And we can’t wait to meet them. Seini, Buna, Laviinia, Lorani, Adi & Loraini.

Another Successful pirates Day

Vonu Namotu to Musket Cove SUP Challenge_

Fantastic conditions for the event. Twenty participants consisting of a small but dedicated group of paddlers including our local Fiji contigent and world class athletes. Everyone was a winner and ended up back at the
Island Bar for our VONU happy hour and Burger bar…. commonly known as replacing lost energy with a selection of carbs.

Results

MENS 1ST : JAMES – DRAGONFLY
MENS 2ND : ALEX – DRAGONFLY

MENS 3RD : VICTOR – HAWAII
WOMANS 1ST : SACHA – MOONFISH

SATURDAY TRIVIA NIGHT

Saturday Night Joe Mar prepared another challenging Trivia Pub Quiz. Joe thought he had chosen relatively easy questions. But most teams appeared to be challenged. However, judging by the names below I would not discount possible graft and corruption.

First Place Winners: Team Encore
Second Place Winners : Team Seafarer

Sunday Golf Tournament

The Plantation barefoot classic was yet again a test of golfers’ prowess and how well they can whack a small ball around 9 holes.
OVERALL WINNER MENS : GREG – SEAFARER 4
2ND PLACE : MIKE – CARO VITA
3RD PLACE : JAMES – WAITUI, TOST – ENSO, MIKE – KNOCK & DO
OVERALL WINNER WOMENS : LEIGH – SEAFARER 4
LONGEST DRIVE : CHRIS OBRIEN – CHEEKY MONKEY

NEAREST THE PIN : MIKE COOPER KNOCK & DO
Aqua Pacific Rum Run

Great turnout for yesterdays RUM RUN perhaps it was the lure of Rum
refreshment stations.

Results

FIT Category

1ST PLACE : YAHAV – CHEEKY MONKEY
2ND PLACE : TED – CHEEKY MONKEY
3RD PLACE : SARAH – SILVER RAY
YOUNG : GEORGE – SANDY CHEEKS
OLD : HUGH PACKER – ANEMOZ

NOT SO FIT
PLACE : WILLIAME – SILVER RAY
2ND PLACE : ELENORA – SILVER RAY
3RD PLACE : DYLAN – LIL EXPLORER
YOUNG : GEORGE – ALLURE
SPECIAL : WILLIAME – LIL EXPLORER
OLD : PRISCILLA PACKER – ANEMOZ

Bay of Islands Port Opua Hobie Cat Challenge

Perfect conditions with some great sailing and 100+ entrants is making this one of the regattas premier events. Managed to get through 59 heats with 30 going through to the next round.
Musket Cove Fiji

Supervisor Waste Water, Iliesa Masibalavu shows the gas flare meter that monitors the amount of methane burnt. Photo: WAF

An independent external auditor from India based, Earthood Services Private Limited (ESPL) along with an Asian Development Bank technical expert have started their nine (9) week audit at the Water Authority of Fiji. (WAF)

They are auditing WAF’s Kinoya based methane reducing Gas Flare Project to verify all data up until April 2017, from when the project started in 2015.

Once completed, ADB will later hand over Fiji’s first ever carbon credit funding to Government.

The Kinoya project was registered under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), making WAF the first public utility in the region to have its emissions report globally recognized.

The audit also coincides with a Clean Development Mechanism Regional Capacity Building Workshop in Suva attended by Fiji and Papua New Guinea senior water and electricity officials

Workshop participants also visited the Kinoya Gas Flare Project to see how WAF is successfully capturing and burning off methane gas before it can be released into the atmosphere.

Methane gas is a bi-product at WAF’s Kinoya Treatment Plant, burning the gas on a daily basis since 2015.

It has so far reduced WAF’s emissions by 22,000 tonnes a year.

“WAF is pleased to play our part in supporting Government’s historic global leadership role on climate change as we strive to become a more environmentally friendly water utility,” says WAF CEO Opetaia Ravai.

As part of the agreement between ADB and the Fiji Government, ADB will purchase these reduced emissions at a rate of $US8.20 or $FJD16.52 for every one (1) carbon credit reduced.

WAF

Waidradra resident, Mr Ilisoni Tabuyalewa carrying water to his home. Photo: SUPPLIED

Fetching water in buckets and jerry cans from a spring more about a kilometre away will soon become a thing of the past for the residents of Waidradra Settlement, Nadrau District in the Nadroga/Navosa Province, 40 kilometres away from Tavua town.

Representatives of the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) Water Development Affairs Department met with the residents and advised them that the Waidradra Water Project is included in the 2017 to 2018 budget, with construction planned for early next year

On hearing the news, Waidradra resident and father of six, Mr Ilisoni Tabuyalewa (64) said, “This is great news that we are going to get a piped drinking water system here in our settlement. I am 64 years old now and never once have I had the enjoyment of standing in front of a stand pipe that belongs to us.”

Mr Tabuyalewa said that from the time of his forefathers, they have had to carry water from the spring, sometimes on horseback, but mostly on foot.

“During times of drought, we would have to get up early to search for other sources of water, much further away. But hearing the good news from your team today, we know that our problems had been solved and we appreciate this great assistance from the Government.”

The only source of income for the Waidradra residents is by travelling to Tavua to sell their farm produce, a journey that starts at 4am in order to reach the township by 7am.

“We are so happy and we are looking forward to the day when your team will arrive here for the work to begin,” Mr Tabuyalewa told the WAF representatives.

WAF

 AFL Staff with the Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. PhotoL AFL.      

Airports Fiji Ltd (AFL) today announced a record and unprecedented dividend of $45 million to the Government. This surpassed the earlier record dividend of $30 million declared last year.

In 2016 AFL made a net profit before tax of $65.86 million. AFL’s Executive Chairman Faiz Khan said “the $45 million dividend is declared based on the strength of AFL’s cash position and balance sheet. Our balance sheet is strong with a forecasted EBITDA of around $100 million in 2017. The dividends declared are sustainable.”

Mr Khan further stated that “One of the key factors contributing to our strong balance sheet is the revenue restructure undertaken in the last 4 years. We have also successfully built infrastructure that provides us good value and enhances our abilities to service excellence for our customers. We believe that a good spend on infrastructure is an asset whilst poor spending results in liabilities.”

“Only 5 years ago AFL was declaring token dividends of only $1 million a year. The achievement of declaring $45 million this year is commendable. It is attributable to team work and equitable relationships that we have built with our various stakeholders.”

“Our hard working staff are one of our key stakeholders. We build capacity, learn and grow with a view to excellence in service and delivery. We recognize the performance of our people by rewarding them on a continual basis. The relationship is two ways. We are an employer of choice. We thank our staff who have contributed to our meteoric rise and success,” said Khan.

Khan further elaborated that “the Government of Fiji is AFL’s key stakeholder. Whilst the Board and management drive and strive for results, none of this is possible without the support and vision of Government. Our Minister the Honourable Attorney General has been personally involved in the design and theming of the Nadi Airport Terminal. He challenges all of us to strive and improve every time he visits us. Our service standards, the cleanliness of the terminal, the success of infrastructure delivery are driven by such vision that we help implement. I thank the AG on behalf of our Board and staff. Please keep challenging us.”

Khan also “thanked his hard working Board saying that this is not a Board that sits once a month but is actively involved in improving the infrastructure, building capacity of staff through training, rewarding performances, practicing good governance, delivering financial and operational results.”

AFL

  Second Year BA Regional FNU students on site with FHH Construction Engineer Viliame Tuidrola (kneeling) clarifying the distinctive rock size.Photo: SUPPLIED.

The commitment of Fulton Hogan Hiways (FHH) to building capacity within the local road construction industry recently extended to knowledge transfer to benefit the region.

 Having gone through the mandatory safety induction with FHH, 18 Fiji National University (FNU) second year Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) students from Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu are receiving on-the-job experience with the company. The new student intake is a follow up to previous successful attachments of Fijian FNU students with the roading company.

“It’s a wonderful initiative for these students. The work they will see being done and the processes followed should give them some insight into what this industry is all about and what they can expect in their own careers,” said FHH General Manager, Duncan Fraser.

As the students are working on a case study focused on running a construction project, they have been allowed access to worksites as visitors only, to observe and report, with FHH staff assisting them with any queries.

Group team leader and class representative, Francis Chottu from the Solomon Islands said, “FHH has given us a great opportunity to see how lab-based experiments are carried out in real life and actual scenario information based on an existing construction site.

“We get to see the importance of working as a team amongst the FHH staff and between FHH staff with their subcontractors; the need for personal protective equipment to be worn on any construction site; different machine types and their operation on worksites, and the safety rules to follow when operating each machine.”

Miss Fiji Rep to the Miss India World Wide Archana Gounder. Photo: SUPPLIED.

As we Count Down the Days & hours before Fijis Representative to the Miss India World Wide leaves our shores for the Big Apple New York City there has been alot of preparations behind the scenes.

The Miss India Fiji Team has been working around the clock to ensure travel documents and the finer details of the trip are organised before-hand.

“Preparations have been on full force soon after Archana Gounder was names Finance Pacifics Miss India 2017 with the organising of Visa & Logistics of her Travel from Fiji to New York and we are thankful to the Embassy of the United states for Granting us visas for her travel given the short time span we had to work with.

Archana has had to juggle between her work and preparing for New York.

“I have been trying to improve my walk and also some of my steps for the talent round. I have been trying to brush up on current world events in order to be prepared for any questions that may arise during the competition ” says Ms Gounder when asked on how has her preparations been .

Gounder who is a Projects Manager at Facility Services Ltd has been overwhelmed with the support she has received from the Friends , Families and her fellow sash sisters whom she now is close to .

“Since the day of auditions for MIF my family and friends have been really supportive. And now, as I have to represent Fiji they have all joined hands to help me out in every step.It also helps having an understanding employer (Facility Services ltd) who permits me to utilize my free time to practice and prepare for this competition.

“Without their support it would have been really difficult for me to reach to this point” Archana having lived in India for close to 5 years reckons she has is at the advantage having to learn the Culture and ways of Life and living in Fiji she will incorporate the Multi culturalism that Fiji is known for in her talent.

” Fiji is a country that has multiple cultures, Strong cultural appreciation & emphasis of our rich cultural diversity is the theme I will be taking with me.

“I will be doing a traditional fusion. I will be performing a rendition of kuchipudi in conjunction with bharatnatayam. Kuchipudi is one of the eight major Indian classical dances.

My performance has various interpretations and mainly symbolizes the flavor and aesthetics of the rich Indian culture. The steps change pace throughout the routine as a symbol of the dynamic cultural change prevalent in today’s
cultures.”

Pressure from Westernization has forced our youth to live their lives a certain way.

“My advice youths would be for them to follow their dreams and not be bogged down bywhat is expected of them. We must step out of our comfort zones and take a chance to make a difference in the world.

“I would also urge today’s youths to understand the importance of education, and be respectful of everybody’s feelings. With social network at it’s height of popularity in terms of use, it has become easy for people to type and insult people however they want. My message is for youths to understand that behind each computer is a real person with real emotions that deserve to be respected. We must work hand and in hand to
end such forms of bullying.” says Ms Gounder.

We are excited for Finance Pacific’s Miss India Fiji 2017 – Archana Gounder (sponsored by Facility Services Fiji) Journey to Miss India World Wide.

She flies out on Sunday and joins the Miss India Fiji Team who are already in New York.

“We are behind Archana all the way and wish her the Very Best . The Miss India Fiji Team would like to thank to Sponsors and the Individuals who have contributed to the Success of Miss India Fiji 2017 and in preparing Archana
Gounder for Miss India World Wide.

Daily Updates from Ms Gounders journey in New york will be on the Miss India Fiji Facebook Page.

Vodafone Arena interior during the University of the South Pacific Graduation Ceremony in
September. Photo: SUPPLIED.

The Fiji Sports Council’s prized Indoor Stadia, the Vodafone Arena will undergo renovation works in 2018 from January to October.

Since being built in 2003, the Laucala Bay facility which seats up to 3,000 patrons in its grandstand and an additional 2,000 at ground level will be closed during this period to allow for specific major roofing and flooring works to take place.

Fiji Sports Council Chief Executive Officer Litiana Loabuka advises the scheduled works are paramount and a long time coming for the venue that has played home to continuous international sporting and major corporate events.

“It is extremely exciting for us at the Council to make such announcements given the Vodafone Arena in particular will receive specific repair works after a span of 14 years since being built. In saying this, to have had the facility withstand hosting back to back major events each year and braving natural disasters such as Cyclone Winston followed up by several other major events since then, the Council has done quite well to maintain her and continue to deliver annual hosting capability to our seasoned clients,” says Loabuka.

“The Vodafone Arena 2018 works is aligned to our Five-Year Strategic Plan for Capital Work Projects – we are proud to be nearing the renovation completion date of the FMF Gymnasium which will host a revamped FSC office space as well, our Master Plan for the FSC Sports Centre is well underway and there is much to look forward to for all our patrons in the coming months,” she adds.

The Vodafone Arena has hosted many firsts, bringing pride to the Council and the nation as whole in achieving international hosting rights since it was opened in 2003 for the South Pacific Games.

It continues to host the likes of Oceania Championships in Basketball, Futsal, Volleyball, Taekwando, Karate, Weightlifting and Table-Tennis. In netball, World No. 1s the Silver Ferns toured in 2015, while top national events such as the Women’s Expo, Fiji Showcase, the Vodafone Hibiscus Fesitval, Fiji Sports Awards, Fiji Film Awards, Concerts and Tertiary Programs continue to return on an annual basis.

The January-October 2018 scheduled works may result in the postponement or cancellation of certain annual events however, augurs well on the overall scale with a revamped facility that deserves the structural makeover.

A fitting time in welcoming the arrival of more International Sports events Fiji has successfully won hosting rights to.

The Vodafone Arena will be the first venue in Fiji to assist Weightlifting Fiji to host the IWF World Junior Championship in 2019 while Netball Fiji can also boast winning their bid for Fiji to host the World Youth Netball Championship in 2022.

Much to look forward to within the Council and in anticipation for all National Sports Organisations and Event Organisers.

FIJI SPORTS COUNCIL

The staffs of Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort during the celebration. Photo: SUPPLIED.

A three–day celebration marked Housekeeping Week at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort with games and competitions keenly contested by the resort’s housekeepers.

Divided into four teams – Malevu (Green), Korotogo (Blue), Bure (Yellow) and Lagoon(Red) – the housekeepers vied for prizes over three days from September 25-28.

Day One saw a treasure hunt with housekeepers searching for shopping vouchers, tours, wine, chocolates and Fiji rugby jerseys.

On Day Two there was a flower arrangement contest with many of the hosts displaying skills they had not realized they possessed.

Day Three was marked by a hand sewing, tacking and button stitching contest.

A morning tea, certificate presentation and cutting of a specially baked cake followed the three-day contest with Blue and Red teams being named the ultimate winnerS and taking home their prizes of a bag of chicken and a case of beer respectively.

Outrigger Fiji Resort General Manager Peter Hopgood said that housekeepers were the heart and soul of any resort and that he was blessed to have the best housekeeping team possible.

OUTRIGGER FIJI