SEPTEMBER 2013 COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL ISSUE NUMBER 3

Education boost
Corporate sponsor digs deep for needy valley kids
Sigatoka-based education charity
Fiji Kids! Learning for Life has had a
lucky break, with a generous corpo-
rate sponsor making more education
assistance possible for needy kids in
the local area.
Fiji Kids! started just 4 years ago
and now provides education funding
to over 80 students up and down the
Sigatoka Valley.
The charity pays all fees for the
duration of the students education,
provides uniforms, books, even
school bags and sports shoes so stu-
dents can participate fully in school
life and focus on doing the best in
their studies.
Fiji Kids! Chairperson, Julie
Hoskison runs the charity from Syd-
ney.
We focus on assisting the very
neediest in the community to ensure
their children get the education that
every child deserves.
We provide the nancial support
and encouragement to help them
graduate from secondary school, and
to go out into the world with the edu-
cation and condence needed to get
meaningful employment. This is the
fastest way out of poverty.
However, with no infrastructure
in Fiji and relying exclusively on the
support of volunteers the charity has
reached its limit.
We are constantly faced with
situations of family tragedy and des-
perate hardship and we would like
to expand the program to help these
people. However it has been almost
impossible to do from our base in
Australia.
A generous corporate sponsor has
changed all that. Melbourne-based
travel wholesaler Island Escapes,has
been organising Fiji holidays for 10
years and was looking for a way to
give back.
We send 1000s of people on
holiday to Fiji each year, and not
only are they welcomed but they are PRESS RELEASE
embraced by the Fijian people said
Island Escapes Director and Fijian
native, Margie-Lee Fong.
When you ask people on their
return what it was they enjoyed most
about their holiday its the amazing
hospitality that is extended to them
by the locals that captivates them.
We have been seeking a way to give
back to the community that contin-
ues to give so much to our clients
and we couldnt think of a valuable
way than through the education of
the next generation, and certainly not
a more reputable association than
Fiji Kids!
They understand the difference
that education can make in the lives
of young people, and have generous-
ly pledged annual funding to allow
Fiji Kids! to appoint an Education
Program Manager, based in Siga-
toka.
Having this role on the ground
in Sigatoka will be a huge blessing.
It will make it possible for us to do
more to support the students already
in our program and we will now be
able to take on more kids in 2014,
Julie explains.
We are looking for an experi-
enced, management level person
with strong business administration
and coordination skills, excellent
computer literacy and social media
skills and of course a real passion for
supporting young people to achieve.
More information about the role
is available by emailing info@jik-
ids.org
Fiji Kids sponsors the education of more than 80 students in the
Sigatoka Valley. Seen in the picture is Fiji Kids! chairperson Julie
Hoskison sharing time with kids recently. Photo: SUPPLIED.
Email:- [email protected] www.epapergallery.com/thestallion
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 2
ON THE BRIGHT SIDE
SHALENDRA PRASAD
Town
unites to
rebuild
school
PRINTED BY MAX MARKETING AND PUBLISHING LIMITED,
VATUWAQA, SUVA. Phone: (679) 3375041.
LAYOUT BY SHALENDRA PRASAD & MUNAUWAR KHAN
THE STALLION is published monthly by SHAMBU ADVERTISING
on behalf of the SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL.
PUBLISHER : SHALENDRA PRASAD Cell: 5164
ADVERTISING : MARGARET NAQIRI Cell: 9360047
NEWS : ASHTOSH SINGH Cell: 8303032
PHONE OFFICE : (679) 7767574/ 6708188
FAX : (679) 6708188
EMAIL : [email protected]
WEBSITES : www.epapergallery.com/thestallion
: www.scribd.com/thestallionnewspaper
FACEBOOK : www.facebook.com/thestallionnewspaper
ALL COMMUNICATION TO THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL
SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE CEO MR ANAND PILLAY on
Phone: 6500018 Fax: 6520231 Email:- [email protected]
ABOUT SIGATOKA
Sigatoka town is found on the island of Viti Levu and is situated at the mouth of the
Sigatoka River, after which it is named, some 61 kilometers from Nadi.
In Fiji's last census (2007) the population of Sigatoka was at 9622. Sigatoka is the
principal urban centre for the province of Nadroga-Navosa.
An ornate temple, open to public and built by Hare Krishna devotees, dominates the
Sigatoka skyline. Major tourist attractions include the Sigatoka Sand Dunes near Ku-
lukulu village two kilometers north-west of Sigatoka, the Tavuni Fort and the Kula Eco
Park, which houses some 500 birds of 100 species from many tropical countries. The
town is also the principal centre for Fiji's coastal tourism belt the Coral Coast
which hosts many of the country's leading hotels and resorts.
FROM THE DESK
Help comes in for school
By ASHTOSH SINGH
A call of relief came for the
Sigatoka Methodist Primary
School management and stu-
dents when the Tappoo Group
resolved to donate $10,000 to
the school management to as-
sist in the rebuilding of part of
the 13 classrooms damaged in
the recent re by an electrical
fault.
The Tappoo family has
liaised with the School Man-
agement to see how it could
assist further in the aftermath
of this tragedy which has lead
to the destruction of one of
Sigatokas 95-year-old his-
torical landmark.
Most of the children were
in tears when they came to at-
tend the school on the early
morning of Monday, Septem-
ber 16 to nd that their school
had burnt down to the ground.
The school is located close
to the heart of the town and so
caters for children of all races
from the entire Nadroga / Na-
vosa District, including the
rural valleys of Sigatoka.
Tappoo Group chairman
Kanti Tappoo said: Over
the years several generations
of the Tappoo family have
attended the Sigatoka Meth-
odist School; the 95 year old
building that was razed down
in re was perhaps the same
roof under which many of the
Tappoo family members actu-
ally schooled.
The family have always
felt kinship with the school
and the district of Nadroga /
Navosa. The Tappoo Head-
quarters has always remained
in Sigatoka despite many re-
quests to relocate to the big-
ger cities.
Amongst other philan-
thropic activities for mothers
and children in the district,
the Tappoo Group, in re-
cent years, has donated over
$10,000 through the Ministry
of Education to fund schol-
arships for students in the
Nadroga district, $12,000 to
Sigatoka Hospital Maternity
Ward, over $10,000 to Save
the Children Society, $10,000
towards safe drinking wa-
ter project in the Methodist
School.
We will continue to look
for ways to assist the schools,
said Mr Tappoo.
The Tappoo Group ap-
plauded the good work being
done by the Methodist Church
in running the schools until
this period of time and wished
them all the best for future.
Meanwhile, DONATIONS
for the SIGATOKA METH-
ODIST PRIMARY SCHOOL
can be made direct to the
school bank account.
Donors are urged to specify
their deposit is for: SMC FIRE
REBUILDING under the nar-
rations section of the deposit
slip. Money can be directly
deposited into WESTPAC
Account, Account Name: Si-
gatoka Methodist, Account #:
0567584900. Notation: SMC
FIRE REBUILDING.
For anyone in Sigatoka, the
immediate urgency is for pri-
mary school stationery such
as books, pens, pencils, rulers,
etc, could be dropped at the
school to the Head Teachers
Ofce.
Classes have resumed
from Wednesday, September
18, from the Sigatoka District
School and Sigatoka Method-
ist College while management
and government work on re-
building the great institution
from scratch.
The school management
also acknowledged the timely
donation of $1000 from the
Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji.
Charred remains of the Sigatoka Methodist Primary School.
Photo: SIGATOKA TOWN CORAL COAST FACEBOOK PAGE.
People of Sigatoka woke up on Monday, September 16
with a shocking news.
A school which they had close to their heart had been de-
stroyed in a re believed to be caused by an electrical fault.
Over many generations, the Sigatoka Methodist Primary
School which has been around for close to a hundred years
has been the main institution providing children with quality
primary school education and producing many leaders in the
process as well.
As news of the re spread in the town and rest of the
world via various mediums, residents, former residents now
living abroad and former students started making calls and
sending out messages via emails and social networking sites.
Facebook pages dedicated to the township and its people
started getting ooded with messages and pledges for nan-
cial support.
A special bank account has now been set-up to receive
nancial assistance to rebuild the school to its former glory
while management move children around to other areas as
classes have already resumed.
The Sigatoka Town Council has also played an active role
in passing the word around via this newspaper and social
networking sites.
This noble gesture from everyone at large just goes to
show how deeply united this beautiful town of Sigatoka is.
The Stallion salutes everyone who have contributed to the
school in one way or another during these difcult times.
Email:- [email protected] www.scribd.com/thestallionnewspaper
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 3
FROM THE SPECIAL ADMINISTRATORS DESK
Town moves forward in all sectors
By KAVITA NAIDU
Special Administrator Jay Whyte and CEO Anand Pillay discussing strategies. Photos:
ASHTOSH SINGH.
Workers on the old
bridge.
W
ith new development
plans ahead, Siga-
toka Town it is hoped will be a
hive of activity in the months
and years to come. Discussing
new developments the Siga-
toka Town Council Special
Administrator Jay Whyte said:
It is time for the town to em-
brace its future and work with
its natural assets, offer its citi-
zens and visitors to Sigatoka a
uniquely Fijian experience.
The STC is open to ideas
for change and progress of the
township, the council is cur-
rently urging members of the
public to submit their interest
for the formation of a strategic
planning committee.
About Strategic Planning
Committee (SPC)
The Strategic Planning
Committee will consist of ve
members with the vision of
moving the town forward in
the years to come. This con-
cept is to bring together ve
visionary minds, people with
a holistic view of what the
town requires now and well
into its future. The committee
will set strategies for the good
being of the town, Mr Whyte
advised.
It is time for the wonder-
ful people of Sigatoka to work
hand in hand with their Town
Council.
Mr Whyte said a major fo-
cus will be on beautication
of town amenities including
parks, renovations to public
amenities and creation of new
public spaces.
Selection Criteria of SPC
The selection criteria is ba-
sically open to any citizen of
the Sigatoka community who
feels they can positively con-
tribute to the town's future.
Concentrating on the need for
growth Mr Whyte said, The
ve members who will be re-
cruited for the committee will
be selected based on their Ex-
pressions of Interest.
Anyone who believes that
they have the town's best in-
terests at heart is to submit a
letter stating their interest in
being involved in this task and
stating what skills and exper-
tise they bring to the forum,"
added Mr Whyte.
All interested parties can
submit their EOI through
email:- sa@sigatokatown.
com.fj
Applications close 30 Sept
2013.
More Developments
The old Sigatoka Town
Council logo was 50-years-
old and has been in use since
the council's inception. The
STC's old slogan was'Taking
the township to the next level'.
The new Special Admin-
istrator felt that embracing
a new future required a new
face, a new image which
would hopefully encapsu-
late this special town we call
home.
The new STC logo fea-
tures three distinct ribbons of
colour, with the blue repre-
senting the mighty Sigatoka
River, the green representing
the land which connects all of
us and the brown is used as a
way to dene our culture. Of
course, there must be a sun
somewhere in there as we are
blessed with such wonder-
ful for most of the year and
we know Sigatoka to be The
Sunny Place. The town's
new slogan 'Small Town, Big
Heart' (Tauni Hewa, Yalo
Vina/ Chota Shahar, Bada Dil)
is a short but sharp summary
of our beautiful town, Mr
Whyte said.
We would like to enhance
public transportation for our
people. We need a better man-
aged system with ease of ac-
cess and reliability. Plus we
want to create a centralised
area where the public can park
within short walking distance
to the town centre, including
our Mini Bus Operators giv-
ing them a long term base
to hopefully enable them to
prosper.
Meanwhile the STC is re-
questing the people of Siga-
toka to send through any old
images of the town they may
have, as the STC would like to
have an exhibition in the STC
Chambers enabling citizens to
come and see for themselves
how their town has changed
over the past 50-60 years.
As many people with ac-
cess to Facebook will know
already how much joy can be
derived from looking at mo-
ments in time and we want to
give those who are not able to
view online images the same
opportunity.
So it is requested if
anyone would like to send
through these images to be
displayed in the MOMENTS
IN SIGATOKA'S TIME, the
STC will exhibit and all citi-
zens are welcome to come and
view.
Please send these images
to:- [email protected].
Old Bridge
A lot of our residents are
curious to know what is hap-
pening with the Old Bridge,
the council thought it would
be wise to inform every one of
the facts.
The Sigatoka Old Bridge
is actually owned and man-
aged by the Fiji Roads Author-
ity. As such, they have chosen
to close the bridge for public
safety as should anything hap-
pen to an individual on this
site, they would be deemed li-
able, Mr Whyte added.
We the Sigatoka Town
Council have made a request
to the FRA, asking that they
'gift' back the Old Bridge in
this, its 100th year to the peo-
ple of Sigatoka via the Sigato-
ka Town Council with a view
to utilise this asset and make
it a proud feature of a future
tourism development.
There is obviously a lot of
water to pass under the bridge
(excuse the pun) but we felt it
would be best to offer facts to
the many unsubstantiated sto-
ries oating around already.
We are hopeful of a posi-
tive outcome and believe that
the FRA shares the views of
the STC that by working to-
gether we could transform this
Old Bridge into a wonderful
feature of the town.
As more information
comes to hand we will share
this news with the people of
Sigatoka via our newspaper
and Facebook page.
Email:- [email protected] www.epapergallery.com/thestallion
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 4
DOWN THE MEMORY LANE
By MICHELLE BROWN
Taking time to
look back at our
beautiful town
as it was
Many people can recall
strolling across the bridge to
visit the cinema and shops on
the East bank of the Sigatoka
River. Affectionately known
as The Old Town, it was a
buzz of activity and home to
many shopkeepers and their
families. Today, surviving
years of neglect, only ve of
the original wooden buildings
remain - a decaying, but his-
torical tribute to the early days
of colonial settlement in Siga-
toka Town.
Its fair to surmise that
Sigatoka town came about,
largely due to the CSR Com-
pany (Colonial Sugar Ren-
ery) - which expanded sugar
cane elds into the Sigatoka
region in the early 1900s.
However, as far back as 1887,
the Sigatoka Valley was also
identied for potential ag-
ricultural development. In
1908, when CSR was plan-
ning a sugar mill in Sigatoka,
the Colonial government had
already commenced agricul-
tural research into the region,
and was keen to administrate
the area. Once the bridge was
built in 1913, they wasted no
time in establishing Lawaqa
for public service ofces and
residential quarters. Its not
clear why they chose to locate
away from the river, but most
probably they anticipated the
subsequent development of a
riverside town. As it turned
out, a sugar mill was never
built in Sigatoka, but the sugar
expansion forged ahead. The
growing population needed
supplies and services, and the
town quickly evolved.
Some of the rst merchants
of Sigatoka established their
businesses in a row of wooden
shops on the East bank of the
river, where land was leased
by the government for that
purpose. The shopkeepers
were mostly Indians and a few
Chinese, who migrated to Fiji
for new business opportuni-
ties. There were shoemakers,
tailors, goldsmiths, harness
and saddle makers and gen-
eral merchants.
Lets take a walk down
memory lane, starting from
the old bridge. The rst build-
ing was the farmers' club,
known for years as Coral
Club. Prior to that, it was a
general store, owned by Mr.
R.V. Patel who, in 1957,
delighted the locals when he
built Sigatokas rst movie
theatre on the empty block
next door. It opened as Kamla
(Kemla) Theatre and closed
as the Royal Cinema, after
many years of entertainment;
the next shop was, the money-
lender, Mr. Bagia, who also
sold hardware, clothing and
groceries - and the double
story cement building was the
only modern shop there. The
original building on that site
was Mr. Pillay's general store,
which specialised in literature
and stationery. Mr. Pillay
also sold drapery, yaqona and
groceries and is remembered
for his kindness to the local
villagers, who regularly pur-
chased bread and butter - but
rarely had money to pay for it!
At the next shop, Mr. Tappu
(Tappoo) Kanji sold groceries
and ice-blocks before moving
across the river and evolv-
ing into one of the most suc-
cessful retailers in Fiji. The
empty site, once boasted the
largest building. Owned by
Mr. Gyaani Nani, there was an
eight foot wide entrance lead-
ing into two separate shops -
which were many things over
the years, and were both tai-
lors, at one time! Next door,
Tappu Kanjis brother, Mr.
Nanji Kanji ran his goldsmith
and jewellery business. The
last shop standing was occu-
pied by Mr. C.Z. Patel. De-
spite its age and neglect, you
can see it was a pretty shop
which, appropriately, sold
'fancy goods', amongst other
things. There was also a Chi-
nese laundry, later run by Mr.
Abraham Gaman, but it was
demolished in 1997 when the
new bridge was built.
Today the Old Town is out
of business. We could blame
the new bridge for bypassing
it, or the old bridge for break-
ing the link when it collapsed,
but in reality, the leases had
expired and shopkeepers were
all but gone by then. We look
forward to bringing you more
historical tales of Sigatoka
Town in the upcoming issues
of The Stallion.
Above: The old town . Below: Nanji Kanji Store and CZ Patel Shop. Photos: SUPPLIED.
Email:- [email protected] www.scribd.com/thestallionnewspaper
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 5
ADVERTISEMENT
BSP EFTPoS
...the smarter way to pay
Pay with BSP EFTPoS today!
You can now do your shopping for any value
with no minimum purchase requirement if you pay for
your shopping with your BSP EasyCard on BSP EFTPoS.*
You can also get
cash out when paying
with BSP EFTPoS
Did you know . . .
Terms & conditions apply. Normal bank transaction fees apply. *Available at selected merchant outlets.
www.bsp.com.fj Customer Care Centre 132 888
Email:- [email protected] www.epapergallery.com/thestallion
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 6
LOCAL NEWS
The Nadroga / Navosa pro-
vincial ofce in Sigatoka town
has a new leader following
the appointment Peni Koro as
provincial administrator.
He succeeds Josefata Suka
who has been transferred to
the central division.
Mr Koro has been in the
civil service for over 22-years
and has worked at various lev-
els. Before taking up the top
job in the province, Mr Koro
was the District Ofcer of
Nadi.
Hailing from Tailevu, Mr
Koro rst started working for
the government in 1991 at the
Public Service Commission in
Suva as a Computer Program-
mer.
He was transferred to Ba in
1997 as an Assistant District
Koro is new provincial administrator
By ASHTOSH SINGH
By ASHTOSH SINGH
By ASHTOSH SINGH
Ofcer until 2002, when he
was posted to Tavua for a year
and then posted to Nadarivatu
Government Station serving
there for another three-years
as an Assistant DO until being
posted in Nadi in 2007 where
he served as an Assistant DO
till 2009 later being promoted
as a Provincial DO in 2010 for
his outstanding performance.
On September 2, 2013, Mr
Koro received a call from his
department head that he was
to be posted now to serve the
people of Nadroga / Navosa
as a Provincial Administra-
tor and District Ofcer in the
province.
We have been appointed
to serve people in every way
we can, and we will not stand
back in doing that, Mr Peni
Koro said.
Its the people who we are
here for, added Mr Koro.
Mr Peni Koro pictured while taking a tour of the western division recently.
Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.
Cuvu health
centre takes
shape slowly
A new health centre will be
opening up in Cuvu out-
side Sigatoka, to take care
for the needs of the people
living in the nearby com-
munities.
The idea is to provide high
quality medical services
making it accessible also
to those people living in
Kulukulu and Semo areas
as people have to travel to
Lomawai Health Centre,
near Natadola or to Siga-
toka town for their medi-
cal needs.
The new project is part of the
Health Ministrys plan to
decentralize medical ser-
vices from its main sub
divisional hospitals across
the country and take it
closer to the people.
Work on the Cuvu Heath
Centre is in progress, and
the Ministry for Health
is working closely with
the Department of Works
to ensure that things are
falling into place, Min-
ister for Health, Dr Neil
Sharma said during an in-
terview with The Stallion
Newspaper.
It has also been conrmed
that the Cuvu Health Cen-
tre would cater for doctors
and nurses quarters, while
the construction process
has been set up into two
phases, of which the rst
one is for the grading and
leveling of the area billed
at $700,000 and the sec-
ond phase consisting of
the quarters, building
complexes and installa-
tion of water, electricity
and transformers billed at
$600,000.
Drivers urged to take extra precaution on roads
Scene of the accident which claimed the life of a 25-year-old Suva woman
on the Nadi-Sigatoka highway at Semo on Thursday, September 12. Photo:
ASHTOSH SINGH.
Police have urged all drivers to take extra precaution and stop breaking
road rules.
Director Trafc SSP Mahesh Mishra made the call following the death of a
25-year-old Suva woman in Semo, Sigatoka on Thursday, September 12.
Police believe the woman was over-speeding on her way to Suva from Nadi
when she lost control of her vehicle on a bend tumbling to a nearby ditch.
The woman was pronounced dead upon arrival to the Sigatoka Hospital
while her female companion was released after being treated for minor inju-
ries.
The Fiji Police Trafc Division, Annual Fatal Trend Chart shows that a
total of 306 lives have been lost on roads in the Western Division including the
Nadroga-Suva corridor between 2004 to 2013.
This alarming gure also raises a concern as it beats the number of sui-
cide cases in Fiji and tops the list of unnatural deaths and continues to be the
leader, SSP Mishra complained.
Drivers should follow all road rules because the vehicle is just a machine
and once it is out of control it becomes a weapon which may cause damage,
injuries and death , added SSP Mishra.
SSP Mishra has also raised concerns to drivers travelling by the Queens
Highway to take precautions during bends especially around the Coral Coast
areas due to the high number of bends along the way and avoid dangerous
driving as a total of 29 lives have been lost on our roads from the starting of
January this year and ve of which falls in this area.
Email:- [email protected] www.scribd.com/thestallionnewspaper
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 7
LOCAL NEWS
Duavata concept works well in community policing
By ASHTOSH SINGH
DUAVATA an iTaukei
term mostly used in meaning
to bring people together or
uniting as one for a common
purpose to achieve a common
goal.
The Nadroga / Navosa
province together with the Fiji
Police Force have come up
with the concept of engaging
the people of the community
to work together with the Po-
lice in assisting and prevent-
ing daily crimes that occur in
villages and settlements that
are not reported to police ear-
lier then they should be.
A green light for the imple-
mentation of the idea has also
come from the relevant reli-
gious groups together with 22
tikinas in the Nadroga / Na-
vosa province.
This has all been done with
the help of the District Of-
cers in the area and the people
who interact with the commu-
nity at most on a daily basis,
the chiefs, Mata-ni-tikinas
and Turaga-ni-vanuas who
understand the importance for
a safe community.
Cases such as sexual abuse
in homes by elders and close
relatives, assault cases by
husbands and parents, even
smuggling of marijuana in
and around the areas which
come to the sight of police af-
ter weeks or even months after
the crime has been committed
could now be ascertained eas-
ily with the help of commu-
nity.
The paramount chief of
the province has also given
his blessings for the concept
of which has been very fruit-
ful, and with the concept into
practice we are making the
people to take ownership of
their responsibilities of what
is happening within their vi-
cinity to help the police in
preventing crime, Ofcer
in-charge for the Nadroga /
Navosa province ASP Henry
Steele said.
With the concept into ac-
tion, now the villages are ask-
ing the police to come into
their households and help
them sort out matters. Po-
lice is even talking to school
authorities together with the
students to avoid problems
of harassments and abuse and
letting students know of their
rights, added ASP Steele.
ASP Steele said that the
six police posts within the
province play a very proactive
part to get the concept into
full throttle and attending the
areas with getting the people
of Nadroga and Navosa ad-
dressed with crime prevention
aspects.
Around 110 police ofcers
are located in the province
which makes the DUAVATA
initiative successful, while the
Police is trying to get their
grass roots strong by engag-
ing as many people into the
concept.
Sigatoka Police ofcer-in-charge ASP Henry Steele. Photo: ASHTOSH SINGH.
Divisional Police Commander Western SSP Jope Ralulu seen launching the Duavata initia-
tive in Kulukulu recently. Photo: COURTESY OF JOKAPECI ULUILAKEBA.
Email:- [email protected] www.epapergallery.com/thestallion
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 8
29TH CORAL COAST BILIBILI RACE - 10th OCTOBER, 2013
Bula Vinaka!
It is an honour to be lead-
ing a select team responsible
for the 29th Bilibili Race
event that will be held on the
10th October, 2013, since
its inception in 1984. As
the hosting hotel the Naviti
Resort with the support of
its General Manager, Mr.
Dave Woodman, our team is
looking forward to working
closely with the committee
for yet another successful,
bigger and better event.
Since 1984, the Bilibili
Race has evolved from just
a sporting event to a cel-
ebrated, anticipated annual
event in the Tourism Fiji cal-
Message from
Mr Mosese Virivirilau,
president of the 29th
Bilibili race
organising committee
Let the race begin...
endar. We should be proud
to be part of an event of
conscience, few events can
boast of how benecial it has
been to Sigatoka town and
the indirect way it focuses
on the environment and sur-
rounding area of the hotels
with the planned Clean Up
Campaigns in conjunction
with the races. Apart from
this, the races will also com-
memorate the 100th year an-
niversary of the old Sigatoka
Bridge.
A big vinaka vakalevu
to all our sponsors for this
years event, for the loyal
annual sponsors, BSP, Jacks
of Fiji, WESTPAC, to name
a few and for the new com-
ers we thank you for your
continued support and loy-
alty to a worthwhile event.
Our committee should
be proud that we will be of-
cially launching a logo for
the Bilibili Races on the 4th
of October 2013, and again
we thank WESTPAC who
will be the ofcial sponsor
for the launch of the rst
ever Bilibili Race Logo.
I commend all participat-
ing hotels and teams enter-
ing this years event and
our well wishes goes to all
of you on your training and
preparations as you gear up
for the Bilibili Races.
The Bilibili race will al-
ways resonate as one of the
only tourism events that
showcases the way an indus-
try with its employees and
partners can use an event
to its fullest, building team
spirit and strengthening in-
terrelationships within the
industry and its counterparts.
I have great anticipation
and am excited for the prep-
arations that are underway
and am looking forward to
the 2013 Bilibili Races, on
the 10th of October Fiji
Day at Sigatoka.
Vinaka vakalevu
Mosese Virivirilau.
Pictures from last year. Courtesy of Talei Tora of Outrigger on the Lagoon.
Email:- [email protected] www.scribd.com/thestallionnewspaper
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 9
ADVERTISEMENT
Email:- [email protected] www.epapergallery.com/thestallion
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 10
OUTRIGGER NADROGA RUGBY DIGICEL CUP VICTORY
Nadroga rules local rugby
Outrigger Nadroga Team:- Ratu Penijamini Makutu, Apete Salawaqavuka, Setefano Samoca (C), Manoa Tamaya, Rupeni Nasiga, Ulaiasi Lawavou,
Semesa Gonevou, Asaeli Boko, Samu Laqai, Nemani Raiwalui, Maikeli Toga, Samu Cava, Savenaca Rawaqa, Apisai Waqatabu, Ratu Meli Kurisaru.
Reserves: Peni Ravai, Eneri Lotawa, Iliesa Ratuva, Mosese Volavola, Apisai Domolailai, Sakiusa Gavidi, Joeli Lutumailagi, Jonetani Ratu.
By ASHTOSH SINGH
The 100-year-old Sigatoka
bridge came alive on Friday,
August 30 when the victori-
ous Outrigger Nadroga Rugby
squad, champions of the 2013
Digicel Cup accompanied by
hundreds of rugby loving fans
from different parts of Nad-
roga made their way dancing
with joy, marching through
the town to the old bridge,
where more fans and organiz-
ers of the event stood still to
congratulate the boys for their
achievement.
The young and old gath-
ered to celebrate Nadrogas
three in a row win in the Digi-
cel Cup competition.
Nadrogas major sponsor
Outrigger on the Lagoon to-
gether with Digicel Fiji also
acknowledged the teams
achievement for their hard
work. Outrigger General
Manager Peter Hopgood con-
gratulated the side for making
the people of Nadroga proud.
You boys have made us
a very proud town, we may
be small but our heart is very
big, I wish you all the best for
the next season to come, God
bless you all, Mr Hopgood
said.
Digicel Fijis Public Rela-
tions and Sponsorship Man-
ager Satish Narain also took
time to wish the boys for a
very good performance in the
past three years and said Digi-
cel Fiji is proud to be a spon-
sor for the tournament where
the grass roots of rugby begins
setting the stage for an inter-
national level.
Narain also challenged the
team not to rest on their lau-
rels and get ready for the Fare-
brother Cup challenge which
Suva holds.
It was an honour to be
part of the team and there is
more to come, the boys have
worked hard for the great vic-
tory and teamwork is always
a need to be victorious, said
Nadrogas President Tiko
Matawalu who has created
history by being the rst ever
player, captain and president
to claim the Digicel Cup vic-
tory.The Stallions won the
title for the third year in a row
after beating Suva in the nal
21-12 at Lawaqa Park in Siga-
toka.
The victory celebration
was hosted by the Sigatoka
Town Council and Outrigger
on the Lagoon.
Players, ofcials and fans march towards the old Sigatoka bridge during the celebrations. INSET: NRU president Jiko Matawalu, centre,
talks to The Stallion publisher Shalendra Prasad and Fiji Sun journalist Sheik Dean .Photos: ASHTOSH SINGH.
Top: Fans pose for our camera during the victory celebrations. BELOW: Outrigger on the
Lagoon GM Peter Hopgood in a jovial mood with young fans. The resort has also gifted the
team a cash prize of $20,000 following the win.
Email:- [email protected] www.scribd.com/thestallionnewspaper
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 11
OUTRIGGER NADROGA RUGBY DIGICEL CUP VICTORY
Outrigger is the ideal location to host a party with a difference.
This year there is even more reason to celebrate, with a
very special Christmas party package.
Your Christmas party package includes:
. Private venue and set-up
. Christmas buffet
. Dance area, lectern and microphone
. 2-hour drinks package (beer, wine & soft drinks)
. 1 hour Photography
Christmas buffet options are:
. Indian Style
or

. Lovo Night

or

. Asian Style
Get Christmas all wrapped up at Outrigger on the
LagoonFIjI, tne perfect pIace for your party tnIs
festIve season.
Including 2 hour drinks package
Minimum 30 adults required
So call us now and let us wrap up your Christmas party!
: tm0outrigger[i.com.f[ I: {ez9) eso oo44
$99f[d per adult
* Conditions Apply
Email:- [email protected] www.epapergallery.com/thestallion
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 12
WEHAVENEWDEPLOY SAFESEATCOVERS THATARETHELATEST
INNOVATION AND AREDESIGNED TOALLOWTHESEATCOVERS SIDESEAMS
TOSPLITOPEN UPON DEPLOYMENTOFASEATAIRBAG. THIS IS BECAUSE
THEYARECONSTRUCTED USINGAUNIQUECOMPUTER CONTROLLED
STITCHINGPROCESS AND ASPECIALISED THREAD. THEUNIQUEDEPLOY
SAFESTITCHINGIS USED ON BOTHSIDESEAMS OFTHEFRONTBUCKET
SEATCOVERS.

DEPLOY SAFESEATCOVERS WILLALLOWAIRBAGS TODEPLOY
CORRECTLYWHERETHEAIRBAGS ARELOCATED WITHIN ACAR SEAT.

DEPLOY SAFESETS ANEWSTANDARD IN THEQUALITYAND SAFETYOF
AIRBAGSAFESEATCOVERS.

Seat Covers
Sheep Skin
Genuine


In Latest Design

Interior Accessories

Leather Value Pack
Black Bull
Lot 8,Bountyful Sub-Division
Waqadra
Nadi
PH: 6725965
MOB: 9922844 / 9913517
E-mail: [email protected]
F
R
E
E

F
I
T
T
I
N
G
Australian Standard
Seat Covers

For All Models
Seat Covers
ADVERTISEMENT
Email:- [email protected] www.scribd.com/thestallionnewspaper
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 13
BUSINESS NEWS
The local bus industry occupies a vital place in everyday life.
Thanks to Coastline Transport people of Coral Coast now
enjoy bus services in areas where there used to be no service
in the past.
In its three-years of operations, the company which is situated
in Nayawa, Sigatoka passionately carries the spirit of help-
ing the needy with the supply of bus services to the remote
areas.
Coastline Transport Managing Director Mohammed Ilyaz Gul
said, We started this business in support of the people living
in areas where bus services were not provided and people
longed for transport.
Inaugurated with one bus the company operated in the Malevu
route where bus service never existed, reaching to places
where people grieved for transport.
With inclining public demands the company now operates in
four different routes, despite the obstacles that led other bus
companies provision of services, coastline strives for public
demand.
Major deterrent being the bad condition of road, the companys
future prospective is to increase the bus services on the roads
where public has never been reached and secluded areas.
Elaborating on the success Ilyaz said, Things are looking suc-
cessful for the company as we are going in our third year of
operation and will continue our support to people of Siga-
toka in years to come.
Accrediting the council for their continued support and Land
Transport Authority for making the bus operation successful
Mr Ilyas said, We will continue to work together for the
people of Sigatoka.
By KAVITA NAIDU
By KAVITA NAIDU
By KAVITA NAIDU
Bus company makes
a difference
Magical Monisha an inspiration to youngsters
Everything is possible if
one has determination and is
consistent enough to achieve
the desired goal.
These are the sentiments of
a 21-year-old hotel manager.
Meet Monisha Naidu who
manages True Blue Hotel
located in the central busi-
ness district of the salad bowl
town.
Being in the work force at
the hotel since her schooling
days, Ms Naidu has gained
a lot of experience as far as
work commitment is con-
cerned.
Talking about her experi-
ence Ms Naidu said, I was
inspired to work in the tour-
ism sector by my uncle Shanil
Naidu who is the director of
True Blue Hotel, I always
worked during my school
breaks and now I can con-
dentially say, I can manage
the business operations suc-
cessfully.
Located in Sigatoka town,
the hotel is dened by its
friendly staff, exquisite cui-
sine, quality accommodation
and boasts of having the best
view of the Sigatoka River.
Aptly referred to as jewel
of the Sigatoka - True Blue
Hotel is truly amongst the
nest and affordable hotels
in the Coral Coast where Ms
Naidus management skills
contribute to the best.
Originally from the Jet-
Set Town of Nadi, Ms Naidu
prefers to stay in Sigatoka
throughout her life time with
the job she cherishes the most.
Sigatoka is a wonderful
place to stay and I enjoy every
moment living and working
here.
Monisha at her desk. Photo:
ASHTOSH SINGH.
Las promotes Fijian made
Creating awareness about
Fijian made products and
situating Fiji forward is the
mission of 27- year-old, Pisa
Saqasere of Nayawa settle-
ment who indulges himself in
handicraft makings since the
early age of 16.
Being inspired by his mom
Mr Saqasere says, My mom
Lanieta Leba is the lady to
work with if one has deter-
mination and is hardworking
enough to retrieve our itaukei
skills especially in wooden
works.
With the chance to witness
the demonstration of pottery
and sculptor the art has seen a
renaissance of late, and people
will nd Laus talented skills
prevailing in the Las Handi-
craft shop situated in Sigatoka
Town.
Showcasing his talent Mr
Saqasere said, one does not
necessary have to be well edu-
cated to uphold his or her art
and craft skills, it comes from
within a person, how creative
a persons mind can be.
We apply wide range of
creative and designing activi-
ties that are related to making
things with one's hands and
skill, including work with tex-
tiles, moldable and rigid ma-
terials, paper, and plant bers
to make a main product that is
called Fijian made.
Focusing on tourism sector
the shops creativity reects
the familys excellent talent
in hand made products and
continued support for Govern-
ments initiative in promoting
Fijian creation.
Emerging with market de-
mand, Mr Saqaseress future
prospective is to set a Fijian
made cafeteria and a factory
at home which will ease the
business process and a per-
fect place to get Fijian made
inventions.
Artifacts at Las Handicraft. INSET: Pisa and his mum Lanieta. Photos: ASHTOSH
SINGH.
Email:- [email protected] www.epapergallery.com/thestallion
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 14
LOCAL NEWS
By KAVITA NAIDU
Witnessing some of the wonders of the fruits and vegetable
world Raj Wati considers herself fortunate enough to add a
healthy diet to everyone who interacts with her at the Sigatoka
Market.
Working through the vegetable market her friendly face is
hardly missed out by anyone.
A proud mother of four, Wati has been a market vendor sell-
ing fresh vegetables for the past 15-years.
Originally from Bilalevu in Sigatoka Wati strongly believes
all work is same and noble, everyone works to earn a feed as
long as its done with a clean heart.
The seless generosity of this woman working in her fties
is itself an achievement. She is the rst to arrive and last to
leave the stall six days a week.
Content on what she has and feels Ms Wati stated, I indulge
in vegetable selling business after marriage to assist my hus-
band and family. This job has helped raise my four children and
is the major source of income for my family.
I feel good to see people buying my vegetables as it is fresh
and everyone recommends healthy food which makes me proud
to say I am adding healthy diet in peoples life.
Understanding the difculties and nancial constraints the
family works tirelessly day and night for its fresh produce.
It is incredible to see a woman in business having such
thoughts as motivation brings unbelievable achievements in
ones life.
Raj Wati
shines in
the market
Raj Wati at her stall in the Sigatoka Market. Photo: ASHTOSH SINGH.
Minister for Fisheries and Forests Lt. Col Inia Seruiratu
scoops the rst ice from the replacement ice - plant that
was opened in Sigatoka recently.
New ice plant for
Sigatoka
More than 2000 shermen,
farmers and stakeholders will
benet from a replacement
ice plant that was opened in
Sigatoka recently by the Min-
ister for Agriculture, Fisher-
ies and Forests and Rural and
Maritime Development Inia
Seruiratu.
The $230,000 ice plant
which was bought and set
up in Lawaqa was made pos-
sible through the partnership
between the Fijian govern-
ment and the Overseas Fish-
ery Cooperation Foundation
(OFCF) of Japan.
One of the sherman Inia
Tuwere who was present
at the opening commended
Governments initiative in
providing the ice plant to
boost their shing business.
We have always bought
ice from the shops and it is
too costly but I thank Govern-
ment for bringing the plant
here in Nadroga to assist us,
he said.
Ice is very important to
us shermen because it keeps
our catch fresh and we are
able to sell it at a higher price
to the markets.
He added that shermen
like him would now be able
to utilize the provisions of the
ice to improve their shing
business through sales of well
preserved high quality sh for
optimum returns.
Minister Seruiratu said
the opening of the new plant
would also open new sh mar-
keting arrangements for the
shermen to diversify.
The main concern of gov-
ernment is the sustainabil-
ity of our marine resources,
Minister Seruiratu said.
Fijis economy and so-
ciety is undergoing many re-
forms for the betterment of
its peoples sustenance and
sustainable development from
its available resources and
the focus has been mainly to
improve the livelihoods of
all communities in Fiji and to
ensure sustaining these with
established and strengthened
relevant economic and social
activities.
MINFO
Email:- [email protected] www.scribd.com/thestallionnewspaper
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 15

Youll love our resort style spa and massage therapies at

prices the locals can afford including Pure Fiji Spa rituals,
Reiki and Hot Stone Therapy. We also do body waxing and
facials for Men & Women
Ideal for family and friends to chill out together.
Enjoy our de-stress neck and shoulders massage with
complimentary herbal teas & espresso coffee - while your feet
get pampered. We also do pedicure, manicure, nail and face art
Quality hairdressing for men, women and children.
Our hairdressers are fully qualified professionals who care for
your hair. All hairdressing including do-ups for wedding and
special occasion. We also do lash tinting and brow shaping,
PEOPLE
It is not every day that you get to hear of success stories de-
riving from hard work and dedication.
Through our peoples column, we at The Stallion newspaper
endeavor to highlight such stories which will turn out to be an
inspiration for many.
In this edition we look at the working life of Dikula Camai-
vuna who has dedicated her good twenty-years of service to the
Sigatoka Town Council.
Originally from Navukailagi, Gau, Lomaiviti, she is married
with three children (two girls and a boy). Dikula attended pri-
mary education at Navukailagi District School, Secondary Edu-
cation at Ballantine Memorial School and attended Fiji Institute
of Technology, Samabula, Suva.
She moved to Sigatoka after the completion of education and
was employed by Anirudh Kuver Law Firm from 1986 to 1992.
In February, 1993 she secured her job at Council in the ca-
pacity of Secretary in the Parking Meter Section.
Seven months of hard work led me being promoted to the
administration section as Typist / Receptionist. Following a re-
view of stafng positions in 2002, I was appointed as an Opera-
tion Assistant with duties basically around the administration of
the Council, Camaivuna said.
In 2003, I was acting as parking meter supervisor and exec-
utive secretary in 2011. In another review of stafng positions
in 2011, I was appointed as administrative ofcer, a position
which I hold dearly to date.
Striving to continue her education while enhancing her skills
at the same time, she attained a Trade Diploma in Frontline
Management at the Fiji National University in year 2011.
At all times, I always try to maintain a satisfactory level
of performance and my diligent working standard enabled me
to travel overseas on a trip jointly organized by Sigatoka Town
Council and Commonwealth Local Government Forum in 2005
whereby I was introduced to modern standard in operation at
the administration section of three councils in New Zealand.
Since starting at the Council, I have seen two Mayors and
two Administrators progress through the Council and now I am
serving under the third Administrator, Mr. Jay Whyte.
Being in the Council from 1993 to date, I have two shock-
ing experiences. The rst was when we had pay cuts in 1996
and some staff members were sent home and secondly when
the council dissolved in 1999. We feared for our jobs but I
said to myself if I work hard I would be able to stay long in the
Council.
Throughout my career, I have gained a lot of experience and
upgraded my skills in councils ofce management systems,
customer service principles and activities, information manage-
ment and ling systems, correspondence tracking systems, in-
ternal communications and senior management team operation.
This has broadened my knowledge and also served to empower
me in the various aspects of women in local government and
particularly in management positions.
I basically regard myself as a servant of Sigatoka town
working for the changes and improvements of our municipal-
ity, Camaivuna concluded.
Dazzling Dikula a civic pride
By SHALENDRA PRASAD
Dikula Camaivuna with her million dollar smile. Photo: ASHTOSH SINGH.
Email:- [email protected] www.epapergallery.com/thestallion
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 16
BUSINESS NOTICE BOARD
Email:- [email protected] www.scribd.com/thestallionnewspaper
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 17
BUSINESS NOTICE BOARD
Email:- [email protected] www.epapergallery.com/thestallion
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 18
SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL BASE NOTICE
CRITERIA TO RECEIVE A NEW BASE AT SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL
TAXIS
1. Applicant to have a police clearance report.
2. Applicant to have only one Taxi base in town effective from 01/8/13.
3. Applicant to pay the new stand fees within 14 days of APPROVAL or the approval shall be DECLINED.
4. All charges to be cleared within 14 days [council shall not entertain any arrangement of payment at all].
5. All applications to be addressed to CEO in writing including the phone contact, address and the signature of applicant.
6. Automatic revocation of base if applicant is in arrears for a period of 2 months.
7. Applicant to be informed in writing within 3 days of APPROVAL by the Council [payment to be followed with the written approval].
8. Applicants to have nes clearance report from LTA and Council.
9. All applications to go through Finance Department for transparency.
10. Base Fees for Stands shall be :
i) Market 1 $40.75
ii) Market 2 $40.75
iii) Market 3 $40.75
iv) Valley Stand $37.65
v) Lawaqa Stand $37.65
vi) Laselase $37.65
vii) Hospital $37.65
viii) Central Taxi Stand $40.75
11. Business Licence for the year shall be $40.00.
12. Base Letter renewal shall be $23.00.
13. For new base charges, please nance department shall be contacted.
CRITERIA TO RECEIVE A NEW BASE AT SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL
CARRIER
1. Applicant to have a police clearance report.
2. Applicant to have only one Carrier Base in town effective from 01/8/13.
3. Applicant to pay the new stand fees within 14 days of APPROVAL or the approval shall be DECLINED.
4. All charges to be cleared within 14 days [council shall not entertain any arrangement of payment at all].
5. All applications to be addressed to CEO in writing including the phone Contact, address and the signature of applicant.
6. Automatic revocation of base [if base fees in arrears for 2 or more months].
7. All approved applicants shall be advised in writing by the Council within 3 days of APPROVAL.
8. Applicants to have Fines clearance report from LTA and Council.
9. All applications shall be vetted by Finance Department for Transparency purpose.
10. Business Licence for the year shall be $60.00
11. Base Fees for the month shall be $31.05.
12. Base Letter renewal shall be $23.00
13. For new base charges, please contact nance dept.
CRITERIA TO RECEIVE A NEW BASE AT SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL
MINI VAN
1. Applicant to have a police clearance report.
2. Applicants to have only one Mini Van base in town effective from 01/8/13.
3. Applicant to pay the new stand fees within 14 days of APPROVAL or the approval shall be DECLINED.
4. All charges to be cleared within 14 days [council shall not entertain any arrangement of payment at all].
5. All applications to be addressed to CEO in writing including the phone contact, address and the signature of applicant.
6. Automatic revocation of base if the base fees arrears exceeds 2 months or more.
7. All approved applicants shall be advised by the Council in writing within 3 days of APPROVAL.
8. Applicants to have a nes clearance report from LTA and Council.
9. All applications should be vetted by Finance Department for transparency purpose.
10. Business Licence for the year shall be $126.50
11. Monthly base fees shall be - $46.00
12. For new base letter charges, please contact nance dept.
TAXI-CARRIER-MINIVANS
RECORD AND NEW BASE
AVAILABILITY
Carrierstand Operating
Carrier
ApprovedNo.
Stand
VacantStand
1stand 26 12 Nil

Minivanstand Operating
MiniVans
ApprovedNo.
Stand
VacantStand
1stand
DUABALE
30 CANNOTBE
DETERMINED

Nameofstand Operating
Taxis
Approvedno.
Stand

VacantStand
Marketstand
1
30 16 2
Marketstand2 25 11 Nil
Marketstand3 11 7 3
Centralstand 25 15 5
Valleytaxi 17 10 Nil
Hospitaltaxi 14 7 Nil
Lawaqataxi 9 10 5
LaseLasetaxi 3 10 7

Email:- [email protected] www.scribd.com/thestallionnewspaper
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 19
SPORTS
MINFO
The Fiji Sports Council
announced that critical con-
struction work is required at
Lawaqa Park.
This follows a recent report
highlighting a degrading state
of structurally inadequate
main trusses on the grand-
stand roof.
The Council Chairman,
Peter Mazey and Board, met
at Lawaqa Park with senior
sporting ofcials and Siga-
toka community leaders to
discuss the issue and to look
at alternative solutions. Coun-
cil Chairman, Peter Mazey
Lawaqa Park
closed for
works
said that while the park will
be closed, members of the
public can still utilise the ad-
jacent grounds. In discussing
available options, it has been
decided that the roof and sup-
porting structures will be re-
moved at the earliest possible
time.
Fiji Sports Council CEO,
Mrs Litiana Loabuka stressed
that these works need to be
completed to avoid any fu-
ture mishaps and whilst it is
unfortunate that the Ground
1 will not have a covered
grandstand, this needs to
happen to safeguard all pa-
trons to the facility. The op-
erations team will ensure that
scheduled events on Ground
2 will continue without dis-
ruptions. FSC apologises for
the inconvenience and invites
sporting groups to contact the
Fiji Sports Council ofce for
bookings.
It is intended that all the
roof sheeting and structural
steelwork above the tiered
seating level would be re-
moved over a period which
is when Ground 1 may be
inaccessible. Once this rst
phase of the contracted work
is completed, the Ground 1
will be accessible again and
the grandstand may be used
but will be without a roof.
It is proposed that, fund-
ing permitted, the roof will be
replaced over time with new
materials, including hot dip
galvanised steel to achieve a
lifespan of minimum 25 years.
Removal works are expect-
ed to last for ve weeks.
Stallions out to prove in Courts IDC
Lawaqa Park is now under-
going repairs and will be
without a roof for sometime
according to authorities.
Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.
Nadrogas Joseph Elder in a jovial mood after scoring the
second goal against Suva at Bas Govind Park during the
2013 INKK BOG. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.
From left are Fiji FA CEO Bob Kumar, Fiji FA president
Rajesh Patel, Courts senior retail manager Salesh Chand,
Courts CEO P.L Munasinghe, Courts chief operations ofcer
Hamend Prasad and Courts director marketing Anil Senewi-
ratne while handing over the sponsorship cheque of $105K
during the pool draws at Courts Lautoka recently. Photo:
ASHTOSH SINGH.
By ASHTOSH SINGH
After an impressive outing
in the Inkk Mobile Battle of the
Giants this year, nishing third
and successfully kicking capi-
tal side Suva out of contention,
the Coastal Rentals sponsored
Nadroga side is beaming with
condence as they prepare for
the last tournament of the year
Courts Inter District Champi-
onship.
With the Nadroga side last
winning the IDC tournament
in 1993 after beating Nasinu
by one goal to nil at Bas Gov-
ind Park the side hasnt had the
taste of the IDC victory in the
last 20 years. The Stallions last
won a tournament during the
Battle of the Giants tournament
defeating Labasa by two goals
to one at Labasas Subrail Park
in 2002.
Nadroga is regarded as the
underdogs in the Courts IDC
this year as the side hasnt been
in the spotlight much. The side
will face a mammoth task in the
upcoming tournament pooled in
Group B with defending cham-
pions Suva, Navua and Jetset-
ters Nadi.
The Stallions will take on
defending champions Suva in
their rst pool play of matches
at Churchill Park in the rst
match of the Super Premier di-
vision at 2.15pm, followed by
their second match on Friday at
3.30pm against Nadi and their
last pool play on Saturday af-
ternoon at 4.15pm against the
Southerners Navua.
Meanwhile, the 75th Courts
Inter district Championship
will be played from the 9-13 of
October at Lautokas Churchill
Park.
Email:- [email protected] www.epapergallery.com/thestallion
THE STALLION - COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE SIGATOKA TOWN COUNCIL 20
PRESS RELEASE
NEW!
CUSTOMIZED BULA
PRINTS WITH LOGO
OR DESIGN OF
YOUR CHOICE
INCORPORATED.
SUVA OFFICE Tel: 334 0879 NADI OFFICE Tel: (679) 672 5965 Fax: (679) 672 5854 Email: [email protected] P.O. Box 1616, Nadi
For regular updates, click www.facebook.com/thestallionnewspaper
Total support
The TOTAL Trophy Tour is the
feature of a new partnership be-
tween Total (Fiji) Ltd, major inte-
grated oil and gas company, and
the Bayleys Fiji Coral Coast Sev-
ens.
Both the I-wau (mens) and
Crest Na Iri (womens) trophies
will be displayed in TOTAL ser-
vice stations in the countdown to
the tournament from November
14-16.
We are delighted to be a part
of the Bayleys Fiji Coral Coast
Sevens as the Fijian market has an
unrivalled thirst for rugby sevens,
said Managing Director, Sylvain
Quemeneur.
With 24 stations in Fiji, and
outlets in nine other countries in
the Pacic, TOTAL has a strong
presence in the region and we share
the Champion of Champions vi-
sion of the tournament organisers
in this new Olympic sport.
Leading energy company joins sevens campaign
The Bayleys Fiji Coral Coast
Sevens brings together the win-
ners of partner tournaments in
Australia, New Zealand, American
Samoa and the USA and will fea-
ture 24 mens teams and up to 12
womens teams at Lawaqa Park in
Sigatoka.
Red Rock and the Aussie Pearls
(women) are the current holders of
the respective trophies.
Innovation drives our business
in the Pacic and the Bayleys Fiji
Coral Coast Sevens clearly demon-
strates this as well, continued Mr
Quemeneur.
From the Walk of Fame in
Sigatoka town to the TOTAL Tro-
phy Tour the organisers are always
coming up with new concepts and
we look forward to supporting
them this year.
The TOTAL Group has high
standards and is referred to as the
benchmark in the industry and our
partnership with the Bayleys Fiji
Coral Coast Sevens reects those
values. We are excited about the
opportunity to grow together in Fiji
which is both the hub for other ter-
ritories in the Pacic and the spiri-
tual home of rugby sevens.
Details of the TOTAL Trophy
Tour will be released in due course.
TOTAL will also have branding
rights to the ball kids through the
supply of t-shirts and caps.
Bayleys Real Estate (Fiji),
Goodman Fielder Fiji, Fiji Air-
ways, Outrigger on the Lagoon
Fiji, Warwick Fiji Resort & Spa,
The Naviti Resort, Fiji Hideaway
Resort & Spa, Coastal Rental
Cars, Nivea Men, Tappoo Group
of Companies, Fiji Chemicals Di-
versey, Serevi Rugby and Sigatoka
River Safari are the other major
sponsors of the tournament.