Mago Island, the pri­vately owned prop­erty of a Hollywood A-list actor, makes for the ideal destination to take visi­tors to, says Krishneel Ram.

The Savusavu-born hotel worker says the island, owned by New York-born actor and movie director Mel Gibson’s island, off Vanuabalavu, Lau, is “mindblowing”.

He recommends the island as a destination for visitors to Fiji.

According to Mr Ram, Mago Island was “full of Fijian way of living”.

He worked on the island between 2012-2014 as an ac­counts officer.

About Mago
One of the largest private islands in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, it is still home to some descendants of the original inhabitants.

The island is specific in that it looks like a loaf of bread, it rises almost immediately from the beach, so it is flat in many places.

Mago, according to tropical­island.net, is one of only a few islands in the world to have a runway up the hill, instead of flat down.

The same website says the island even has a school of its own.

The island has a land mass area of 5000 acres.

In the 1860s, a cotton planta­tion established by the Ryder brothers of Australia flour­ished there.

In 1884, there was a well-es­tablished sugar cane planta­tion, and a sugar mill on the island.

The mill closed in 1895 and was dismantled, with equip­ment used to enlarge the Pen­ang Mill in Ra.

The Ryders were succeeded by the Borron family.

In early 2005, Mr Gibson pur­chased the isand from Japan’s Tokyu Corporation.

Satellite images of the island dating from 2008 show a dirt airstrip of 1,110metres.

There is also a lagoon, a graz­ing area for livestock.

A a loosely arranged village has an appearance is more in­dicative of a resort, according to Wikipedia.

Tourism Career
Meanwhile, Mr Ram also worked at:

■ Jean Michel Cousteau Re­sort, Savusavu,

■ Koro Sun Resort and Rain­forest Spa, Savusavu, and

■ Grand Eastern Hotel.

He now works as an opera­tion manager at Airport Ace Hotel, Nadi.

The 32-year-old plans to own a hotel in Fiji.

“I love my job, especially meeting and serving new cus­tomers and pushing myself to be creative in order to retain the best customer service,” he said.

Mr Ram is a Diploma gradu­ate in Accounting and Eco­nomics.

He is also a Business Man­agement graduate, majoring in Industrial Relations and Human Resource Manager.

What is your favourite place for coffee/pie?
Ethan’s Coffee Heaven.

I have visited the Labasa and Savusavu branches.

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Savusavu town, on the island of Vanua Levu in the province of Cakaudrove.

What is your favourite back­yard spot?
Savusavu.

It’s my home town, and reminds me of my younger days.

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Laucala Island Resort is taking the trend one step further and offering a buyout that includes not just exclusive access to your own personal paradise, but also chartered flights aboard Fiji Airways’ new Airbus A350 – so you can satisfy your inner aviation geek while also indulging in one of the world’s most extravagant getaways. Photo: Forbes

What is one place in Fiji on your bucket list, and why?
Laucala Island.

It has one of Fiji’s luxuri­ous resorts.

Feedback: shratikan@fijisun.com.fj

Capital works to the tune of $900,000 are underway in Bua.

The development, at Fiji Pine’s Wairiki factory site, heralds the dawn of brighter prospects for the North’s lumber sector.

Fiji Pine’s extensive forestry op-erations make the company’s con-tribution a key economic driver for Vanua Levu.Chief executive officer Vimlesh Kumar said major upgrades include:

• Revamping the office complex;
• Maintenance of the road net­work site,
• Drainage works, and
• Site formation of the factory.

Contractors at work

Renovations works are expected to be completed in three to four months’ timeframe.

“The development is part of Fiji Pine’s proactive approach towards ensuring factory opera­tions are safe and easily accessi­ble for their workers and contrac­tors,” Mr Kumar said.

The project is internally funded from their budget.

Contractors have commenced with the levelling and excavation works, Mr Kumar said.

“We have resources like culverts and other materials for the up­grade already been delivered to the factory site,” he said.

Advantages of upgrade

The road network development would assist in transporting raw pine materials to the factory, even during the rainy period.

Mr Kumar said the poor condi­tion of the yard and road meant that trucks took silt sediments to the main road, after exiting the yard.

The upgrade will help mitigate that concern, he said.

New state of the art complex

A new state of the art office com­plex is being developed at their previous office site in Lekutu, Bua.

Mr Kumar said the initial con­struction phase began last year, with an investment of $400,000.

The development was carried out to upgrade and improve the office complex after the previous office was built back in the 1970s.

The complex serves as the hub for the Fiji Pine’s Vanua Levu op­erations.

The project is in its final stages, and is expected to be complete by next month, Mr Kumar said.

However, this would depend on weather conditions, he said.

The new and modern office would better equip staff in their respec­tive roles, Mr Kumar said.

Barge causeway

Future development plans will include the construction of a barge causeway at Wairiki wharf.

The proposed barge causeway would be located on the left side of the current wharf.

“We have already submitted our application for the Department of Environment to give us the go-ahead,” he said.

Feedback: sampras.anand@fijisun.com.fj

Meli Tuqota, a graphic designer be­hind the creation of a few locally-made short movies, believes there is a dire lack of creative film content from Fiji and the South Pacific.

He has served the graphic design indus­try for over 15 years.

In 2019, he created the animated short film, You, the Choice of My Parents.

It was screened at the largest indig­enous Film Festival in the world, the IM­AGINEnative Arts and Film Festival in Toronto, Canada.

The movie was accepted into the largest indigenous film festival in the Southern Hemisphere, the MAORILAND Film Festi­val 2020 in Otaki, New Zealand.

It has also won the award for Best Micro-Animation at the Micromania Film Festi­val 2020.

Inspired by international responses, he worked on my 2nd animated short film, Soli Bula.

Soli Bula is based on his take of what Fiji would be like, if it still held to its traditions and cultures.

Mr Tuqota hails from Vanua Levu.  His mother is from Ha’apai, Tonga.

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Meli Tuqota

Some funny facts

• A high school pianist, he admits he can­not play the piano to save himself.
• Mr Tuqota blamed daylight savings for the one time he came close to missing his flight from New Zealand.
• He learnt to drive manual, but drove an automatic car when he took the test. As a result, he is stuck with an automatic driv­ers’ license.
• He is bad at lists.

What is one place in Fiji you would take friends to?

Pacific Harbour is Suva’s holiday-out-of-the city location.

It is where I go to de-stress every now and then.

It is also where I go with my friends, when­ever we get a chance.

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Pacific Harbour offers a wide range of activities that include inland tours.

What is your favourite spot for coffee or pie?

The Handicraft restaurant in Suva is a nice spot to sit by the sea during lunch, to enjoy a hearty meal, once in a while.

I also like to have tea there, when I want to take a break in Suva.

What is your favourite backyard spot?

A makeshift bench at the back of the house, where my cats like to lounge.

I like to sit with them, when I want to get some fresh air.

What is one place in Fiji on your bucket list?

Yasawa group.

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj

Fiji has qualified and experi­enced personnel to take on leadership roles within Fiji’s mining sector, the Mineral Re­sources Department has said.

The comment follows SunBiz que­ries over the likelihood of localis­ing the general manager’s post at Vatukoula Gold Mines.

This as Yi Huang, the former gen­eral manager of the mines, resigned last year, citing personal reasons.

“We have potential in the terms of human resource,” Mineral Re­sources Department director, Ray­mond Mohammed, said.

Vatukoula Gold Mines is Fiji’s largest and longest operating gold mine, with manpower of 1400 em­ployees.

Mining manager, Onisimo Fon­manu, is holding the fort until the board announces the next general manager’s appointment.

Vatukoula Gold Mines said the matter of localising the general manager’s position was a question for the board to consider.

Follow up queries from SunBiz re­mained unanswered when this edi­tion went to print.

It is also unknown when the next general manager will be appointed.

Vatukoula Gold Mines general manager, Yi Huang, resigned last year, after he joined his family in Canada for a much-awaited visit.

He cited personal reasons for his resignation.

Mr Yi worked tirelessly for sev­eral years to ensure the continued running and success of the mine.

“The department encourages the mineral development or mining sector to increase its local content,” Mr Mohammed said.

“VGML is focusing on capital de­velopment this year, apart from on-going production.”

Meanwhile, mineral exploration activities are expected to increase this year, with 31 licences admin­istered by the Mineral Resources Department.

The department is banking on the commencement of production at Lion One’s Tuvatu gold mine in Sabeto, Nadi, to boost the sector’s contribution to national economic development.

Lion One expects production to take place toward the end next year.

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Mineral Resources Department director, Raymond Mohammed.

Mt Kasi

Vatukoula Gold Mine has applied for the special prospecting licence to carry out mineral exploration at Mt Kasi.

The Mineral Resources Depart­ment and VGM carried out consul­tations with relevant landowning units in recent weeks, which con­cluded the first phase of the land­owner consultation as part of the special prospecting licence applica­tion process.

“Consultations were undertaken in 23 villages within the Macuata, Bua and Cakaudrove provinces,” the department said.

The initial tender bid for explo­ration at Mt Kasi was awarded to Vatukoula Gold Mines.

“Being successful in the tender process does not guarantee the out­right award of the special prospect­ing licence,” Mr Mohammed said.

“The successful bidder then has to apply for the prospecting licence and fulfill requirements of the ap­plication process.”

Vatukoula Gold Mine is owned and operated by Chinese interests.

“The department has not issued any exploration licence yet for Mt Kasi,” Mr Mohammed said.

Mining legislation review: Address­ing the gaps

The Mineral Resources Depart­ment is “very encouraged” with feedback it received during the ini­tial round of consultations over the mining legislation review.

The mining policy and legislation review commenced this month, in partnership with a Canadian inter­governmental forum.

The InterGovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development (IGF) has carried out work in developing countries in terms of reviewing leg­islative frameworks for money.

The forum has, in its line of work around the world, proposed sus­tainable or very modern mining laws that capture best practices or modern practices, Mr Mohammed said.

The first stage of consultation deals with stakeholder consulta­tion on the mineral free policy framework analysis, he said.

“We’re consulting with a lot of rel­evant government agencies, before we move into the private sector,” he said.

“We will also touch base with non government organisations and civ­il society organisations.

“There is a lot of willingness on the part of stakeholders to be able to engage, and engage construc­tively, with the department and the ministry.

“Landowners will also be con­sulted.”

An analysis of gaps within the governing legislations and policies, lies at the heart of the extensive consultation, Mr Mohammed said.

A report will be compiled by IGF based on its findings in Fiji, to mark the end of the first round of consultations and review, he said.

“From there on, we will review the legislation itself,” Mr Moham­med said.

As a first measure, the gap analy­sis addresses the fact that the gov­erning legislation was enacted in 1965.

“It’s been amended over the years,” Mr Mohammed said.

“But there is a need to have new modern mining legislation in place, because it is also a catalyst for pro­tecting investment in another gap.”

Namosi

Landowners of Nabukebuke Vil­lage in Namosi are circulating a petition for its kinsmen to sign, in its stride to ban any form of min­eral and mining development on their land.

“This is non-negotiable,” village spokesman, Petero Saunivalu, said.

“We will mandate it for our people that there will be no more mining and mineral exploration develop­ment on our land.”

Part of the village land is being used by Namosi Joint Venture (NJV) – a 72 per cent owned entity of Newcrest, the largest gold pro­ducer listed on the Australian Se­curities Exchange, and one of the world’s largest gold mining com­panies.

Earlier this month, Namosi Joint Venture informed stakeholders of its exit plans for the Wanikatama camp.

Namosi Joint Venture country manager, Netava Bakaniceva, said the close of the fly-camp signified the completion of exploration work in that particular area.

NJV will now focus and operate out of Waisoi base camp, in Namo­si, he said.

The Mineral Resources Depart­ment said it would not get drawn into the matter, as the landowners of Nabukebuke Village had con­tested the matter from the begin­ning.

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj

Mango Bay Resort on the Coral Coast is set to open on April 24.

After 24 months of closure, the family-owned resort, focused on eco-friendly, traditional and rustic styled accommodation is newly-renovated property but still boasts a touch of the old.

When asked what locals can expect when they book a stay, resort owner and manager, Ed Duffy said: “We are a small but intimate resort, without the crowds, the main roads, traffic and noise!

“We are a place where people come to switch off from their busy schedules, rejuvenate, recharge and enjoy the quietness and tranquillity of nature.”

The upgrades were for the beachfront bures, garden lodges and a bar area.

“We are still building in very traditional ways using natural thatching for the roofs and local native timber,” Mr Duffy said.

“The resort sits on 14 acres of land and has its own private bay with amazing access to inshore lagoons for snorkelling and exploring.”

And for those who love to travel with their pets, he added, “We are a pet-friendly resort for behaved and trained companions with our own resident dogs, Mango and Pablo, who are usually an instant hit with guests.”

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The Robinson Crusoe Island tour will take you to Likuri Island Resort.

Likuri Island Resort
For another Coral Coast adventure, hop onboard Robinson Crusoe Island tour that takes you to Likuri Island Resort.

Sales and Marketing manager Seta Raiyawa said the island had a range of fun activities for children and adults alike.

“Children are encouraged to join in our fish dives, weaving, coconut husking, building bonfires and learning how to make lovo – they kids have fun!”

Adults can also enjoy a host of activities like sea kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, ancient pottery site tour, a medicine plant tour as well as great entertainment in the art of fire dancing and cultural performances and delicious sunset dinners – the perfect place to enjoy quality time with friends, family and loved ones.
Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj

Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort and Castaway Island Fiji, Resort have taken first place in their respective categories in the Out and About With Kids – Readers’ Choice Awards 2021.

Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort was voted number one for family travel on Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu, ahead of other brands such as Shangri-La, Radisson, InterContinental and Marriott.

Castaway Island Fiji Resort came first in the “other islands” category within Fiji.

Award Process
Three thousand Australian readers voted in 44 categories for resorts, hotels and destinations around the world over eight months in 2021.

There was no control or pre-selection.

The results, announced in February 2022, were therefore based on a desire to relive previously successful trips, and for some, a desire to try something new.

For both groups, a family-friendly ‘Bula!’ welcome awaits all guests at the two Outrigger properties in Fiji.

Both resorts have previously won multiple awards for family-friendly travel.

To make family holidays memorable, Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort features its acclaimed Meimei nanny service with trained child-care givers.

The property, which recreates elements of an authentic Fijian village, has two children’s clubs: Little Riggers for years 3-7 and Beach Riggers for 8-12.

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Supervised Meimei nanny services at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort

Kids can enjoy supervised activities such as water polo in a spectacular lagoon pool and assorted Fijian games, all of which are designed to be culturally enriching, educational and fun.

While the kids are being entertained, there’s an adults-only pool zone for mum and dad.

Castaway Island in the Mamanuca Islands of Fiji also has a long track record of satisfying family holiday needs, with features such as the Castaway Kids Club and Castaway Teen Programmes.

Snorkelling, beach volleyball, hiking, paddle boarding and viewing corals and marine life from a glass-bottom boat are popular with family guests.

Both resorts feature family-friendly environmental activities that children and parents can join.

These include learning about corals and marine life, joining beach cleaning efforts and learning how to reduce plastic consumption.

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Girls having their hair braided at Castaway Island in Fiji.

These initiatives are part of Outrigger’s ZONE (OZONE) activities and are part of The Outrigger Way of caring for guest, host and place.

Ben Johnson, Outrigger’s Area Director of Sales & Marketing, Fiji, said: “We’re grateful to the readers of Out and About for recognising the warm ‘Bula’ family welcome at Outrigger.”

“More than ever, a wonderful beach getaway among friendly, caring hosts is such a life-affirming experience for mum, dad and the kids.”

Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj

Makita Ross is not only a dedicated mother, grandmother, sister but is also a businesswoman.

Yasawa Group of Islands tops her list of must see places.

She is the widow of the late John Ross.

Mr Ross was a Nadi-based marketing and advertising specialist with a long history in tourism.

Mrs Ross has been around Viti Levu, Malolo Island, Yasawa and Mana Island.

“I am a mother of four and grandmother to one,” Mrs Ross said.

“I’m from Gau, Nawaikama. I own a private consultancy business.”

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Cardo’s Steakhouse and Cocktail Bar in Port Denarau, Nadi.

What Is One Place In Fiji You’d Take Visitors To?
The Yasawa’s because of the friendly people.

It was and still is our families go to vacation spot, ending the vacation with a nice dinner out at Cardo’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar in Denarau.

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The Coffee Hub

What Is Your Favourite Place For Coffee/Pie?
The Coffee Hub along Nadi Back Road has amazing staff.

Personally, I find their coffee and pies are one of the best in Nadi and it is available at an affordable price.

What Is Your Favourite Backyard Spot?
When I’m not at work I’d rather be back home making up for lost time with my grandson and kids.

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Naigani Island in the Lomaiviti Group.

What Is One Place In Fiji That Remains On Your Bucket List?
I would love to go to my very own village in Nawaikama, Gau in the Lomaiviti Group.

I would like to visit the hot springs and be able to just be at home.

Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj

The nature-lovers’ resort nestled in Suva’s forest reserve at Colo-i-Suva today announced its new logo and name – Rainforest Eco Lodge.

The lodge is also under new management.

General Manager, Hiram Whippy, brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise, having spent close to 20 years in management and operations roles across in Fiji’s hospitality industry.

“Rainforest Eco Lodge now offers our guests 22 rooms, catering to all, from budget travelers to families who want self-contained bures or honeymooners wanting privacy in our natural rainforest environment,” Mr Whippy said.

Mr Whippy added that the lodge is Care Fiji Commitment (CFC)-certified, meaning that overseas travelers can spend their first three days in Fiji in the lodge’s COVID-safe environment.

“We have upgraded some of our bures and will work through other rooms overthe coming months,” Mr Whippy explained.

“We are also excited about the new restaurant that has opened on our premises, Batiniwai (Water’s Edge), a Pacific fusion restaurant on the edge of the rainforest overlooking the iconic Colo-i- Suva lake.

“Batiniwai now offers a range of breakfast, lunch and dinner options to our guests and customers, including live music on weekends, BBQ nights and a Jazz Sunday brunch.”

Mr Whippy added that he and his team would work to maintain the original spirit of the lodge as an environmentally-centric and nature-loving business, while continuing to lift standards for local and international guests.

The Rainforest Eco Lodge was originally built in 1999 as the Raintree Lodge by founder, Thomas Davis, as Fiji’s first ecotourism resort.

The lodge is approximately 15kms from the Nausori airport and 9kms from Suva, built around a 100 ft-deep lake that was originally a quarry in the 1950s and 60s.

Colo-i-Suva Forest Park is located about 500 metres from lodge, teeming with tropical plants and bird life, featuring 6.5km of walking trails that navigate clear natural pools and swimming holes.

The Rainforest Eco Lodge is now 100 percent locally owned by a consortium of investors including Donny Yee, the Bentley Fisher Trust and CMHL.
Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj

A man who has worked for the then Air Fiji for 11 years as an aircraft engineer has helped his friend realise his $3.5 million project in Vunika, Labasa.

Senitieli Tawake and Jitendra Chand, both from Vuo, Labasa have been friends for 21 years.

Their rare friendship has captured many people’s attention after the opening of Vuo Supermarket last month.

They are working very hard to help the people living in Vunika and the surrounding villages and settlements to experience town life which they have been deprived of for years.

Even at the age of 45, Mr Tawake who has had no business background was sacrificing a lot to get this project completed.

As a project coordinator he is working along with 37 staff.

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Senitieli Tawake.

The father of five has been working since 2017 getting all the documents and structure done for the Vuo Supermarket while Mr Chand and his partner, Suresh Mani resided in Australia.

Now they are in Labasa working with Mr Tawake on building a service station, two holiday villas and rentals beside the supermarket.

“For me it is about being honest and faithfully working with the people and believing that God will take care of the rest,” Mr Tawake said.

“Integrity is something that is not taught in school and I tell you it supersedes the degree that one holds.”

He said one needs to ask what he or she has done for the company or ministry they work for apart from the job description.

He holds a Trade Certificate in Aircraft Engineering from New

How many places have you visited around Fiji?

I have been to Vanua Levu and Viti Levu. I am left to visit the Lau Group. I heard there is lot of potential there.

What is the one place in Fiji you would take visitors to, and why?

If anyone wants to experience the real Fijian way of living, he or she must visit Vorovoro Island or Mali Island in the Macuata Province.

Many Americans send their children to these islands to learn about the Fijian culture. Even overseas university students spend a few days on these islands.

What is your favourite place for coffee/pie, and why?

I don’t go anywhere for coffee because I love to use Fiji’s local products to make my own coffee.

I am proud to say we get our own Fijian Made sugar, milk and coffee. When I am at work I make coffee

for everyone in the office and they enjoy it. As for pie, I choose to eat homemade pie made by my lovely wife.

What is your favourite backyard spot, and why?

My sugarcane farm at Waiqele, Labasa, which I bought recently. I have lived most of my time in Nadi and I want to experience what it is like to be a farmer.

What is one place in Fiji that remains on your bucket list, and why Levuka?

I really want to know Fiji’s history such as the signing of the Deed of Cession and how the first missionary arrived and worked.

Sharyne Fong is a recognised figurehead in the local formal entrepreneur sector – a role that often puts her at the forefront of developing business activities.

An eloquent public speaker, she displays a quiet aura of self-assured confidence.

But many are not aware that she is an introvert.

“I may come across as a very public extrovert, but I’m really very private,” she said.

“I enjoy my quiet time.”

Every Easter weekend, she takes time out for her annual pilgrimage, where she reflects on how far she has come, and her plans.

“I find it just a very powerful way to set myself up.

“I do a lot of reflections.

“And journaling.”

Insight Business Advisory
Ms Fong runs her own consultancy, where she provides business advisory services.

Insight Business Advisory is now in its third year.

“In 2019, I decided to take the leap from a 30 year career in the financial services industry, to start my own business,” she said.

“I wanted to follow my passion in helpingand supporting businesses, and more so women owned businesses.”

“As a result of that passion, I started this business.”

“I also do facilitation for the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, in partnership with the Women Entrepreneurs Business Council.

“It is a United States of America Embassy sponsored programme.”

Ms Fong’s work involves facilitation through the International Labour Organisation and Greenhouse Co-working for Creative Entrepreneurs.

“I enjoy facilitating and helping businesses or women-owned businesses and entrepreneurs start up and scale up as well,” she said.

“My philosophy is insite your success.”

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Savusavu Bay & Town.

What Is One Place In Fiji You Would Take Friends To, And Why?
Savusavu.

It is a hidden paradise.

Apart from it being my mom’s home, I grew up there.

It has a different feel to it.

It has a metropolitan laid back feel to it that is so relaxing.

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Ginger Kitchen staff Suliasi Turagabeci and Sophie Marseu ready with their customer takeaway packs on April 23, 2021. Photo: Ronald Kumar

What Is Your Favourite Spot For A Coffee Or Pie, And Why?
Ginger Kitchen at Thurston Garden.

They make the best coffee.

I like the outdoor setting.

It is where I can sit to do some reflective work, or write up/finish a report.

It just gives me that feeling of being tucked away in the forest, while being in the city.

And it’s close by.

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A beachfront on Kabara Island in the Lau group. source: www.seabedsfiji.com/cruises/lau-kadavu-discovery-cruise-11-nights/

What Are A Few Places In Fiji On Your Bucket List?
Lau.

I would like to stop at all the islands in the group to experience what they have to offer.

I also want to complete the North, and follow the little islands from Macuata, down to Rainbow Reef.

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj

The South Pacific sprint king, Banuve Tabakaucoro, has seen much of the world but is yet to see the rest of Fiji.

Not that he does not wish to do so.

On the contrary, like countless Fijians, he would jump at the opportunity.

His training schedule and overseas travels are what really take up much of his time.

Added to that, his love for his family and other commitments has kept him from travelling locally.

Mr Tabakaucoro is a father to two boys, aged five and six; and shares the same birthday with his wife and Beyonce, a fact that he proudly shared.

True to the Virgo personality, this Koro man is humble, self-effacing, industrious, practical, is a perfectionist, meticulous and single-minded in his pursuit of improvement.

And if he had to choose a sport, aside from athletics, which he would have excelled in, he would have made it far in volleyball.

Mr Tabakaucoro is the brand ambassador for FMF Foods Limited.

Below is an excerpt interview with Mr Tabakaucoro.
Places you’ve visited in Fiji?
I haven’t travelled much of Fiji but I’ve been to places like Labasa.

I’d love to see more of Fiji.

I think I have travelled the world more than my own country which is a bit shameful.

I just haven’t had the time.

But when I do I’d travel all over Fiji and take detours.

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A local passenger vessel is birthed at a jetty on Koro Island.

What is one place in Fiji you’d take visitors to and why?
Our family estate is on Koro Island.

I love going there because it’s so detached from the world.

Also this is where I get to spend time with my family, go fishing and farming.

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Mana Coffee

Favourite spot for coffee/tea?
Tea Totoka at Kasabia Arcade.

I find myself there sometimes in the mornings when it’s not so busy.

I also go to Gloria Jeans once in a while and Mana Coffee at Selbourne Street.

What are your other favourite sports?
I love playing volleyball and touch rugby with the boys.

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Blue Lagoon Cruises offers trips to the Mamanucas and Yasawas.

What is one place in Fiji that remains on your bucket list and why?
The Yasawas.

I’ve heard a lot about it.

I have a few friends from there.

They’ve been inviting me, but I’ve haven’t gotten the chance to get there.

Most of the postcards that you see overseas of Fiji are from there.

Feedback: ranobab@fijisun.com.fj

The newly-renovated Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort on Denarau Island will offer guests the utmost Fiji experience with its fully renovated restaurants and rooms.

With three new restaurants and over 300 rooms, complex manager Sudhir Yadav said the renovations aimed to provide an improved experience for guests when in Fiji.

Mr Yadav said amongst several areas around the resort that was renovated, the restaurant area was one of the key areas.

Restaurant outlets at Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort represent a true blend of awe- inspiring design combined with the best authentic, sumptuous and flavourful local and international menus, to create unique and lasting memories which enrich the travel of our guests.

He added the three restaurants were re- branded to suite the local atmosphere that guests can enjoy.

The three new dining outlets designed by CHADA are Tatavu Grill & Bar Restaurant, Island 619 and 28 Grams.

“Tatavu, which means grilling in Fijian using the open wood fire grill is the vocal point of the restaurant where the chefs prepare Mediterranean flavours and locally sourced produced. Hotel guests and locals will enjoy world-class cuisine in the hotel’s signature restaurant and bar.

“The grilling station is visible through the open kitchen; it creates a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The bustling culinary activity in the kitchen serve to enhance the guest’s dining experience.

“This restaurant is Mediterranean themed where they also serve cocktails and a Jinn based bar. The restaurant opens from 9am until late in the evening. So, post dinner. All the food is cooked on the wood fire drill with Mediterranean flavours,” Mr Yadav said.

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Derived from the actual location of the Sheraton Fiji Resort, plot 14619, Island 619 restaurant will have themed dinners such as seafood night, Indian night, Mexican night and more.

Mr Yadav said the resort aims to allows guests to discover the fresh fish market fare experience at the Island 619 restaurant.

He said Island 619 will have its menu rich in indigenous local ingredients combined with the assured Sheraton quality food and service.

“The restaurant focuses on the Island 619
is the place where the local community feels welcomed in a relaxed approachable atmosphere,” Mr Yadav said.

Guests planning to have informal meetings and cat up with friends and family can also enjoy themselves at 28 grams.

28 grams is a modern, chic and vibrant coffee shop and lobby area.

Mr Yadav said this restaurant specializes in offering guests a vast coffee culture where various types of coffees will be served.

“This restaurant serves you tea, coffee, wine, beer, takeaways as well as pastries, light snacks and lunches, “he said.

Aside from the restaurants, Sheraton’s side by side programme will be available for families to get together at the resort.

Mr Yadav said the side-by-side programme is a Mediterranean club where families can come together and do family activities.

He said some of the signature activities include cooking classes, sushi making, bak- ing classes and many more.

To make things convenient for the guests, Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort has an addition area where guests can check in and out and collect their boarding passes.

“Same thing that can be done at the Nadi airport can be done here at the resort. This is open to all the resorts in Denarau not just to Sheraton Resort as well as the guests from the around the island. Everything available for the guests in one location,” Mr Yadav said.

Mr Yadav said there are 300 rooms all fully renovated bedroom, bathroom with new quality furniture.

He said of these 300 rooms, there are 28 studio suites, spa area, gym, pools and the three new restaurants.

“So, guests simply have everything available to them while staying here and they can also access 18 golf courses. We are the largest playground in Fiji,” he said.

In total, Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort carried out $77 million worth of renovations.

Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay’s sous chef, Nilesh Sen, is committed to showing guests the variety of cuisines that Fiji has to offer.

Holi celebrations at the resort last weekend offered the perfect platform to showcase his style of Fijian and Indian dishes.

Live station

“Today (Saturday) is an Indian theme because we are celebrat­ing Holi,” he said.

“From the soups to the live sta­tions, we have patties too – also called para.

“We have a station where we have the bhajiya live station, pani puri, chicken biriyani, lamb palau, lamb chops.

“We also have Indian desserts such as barfi and laddu.

“We also have a live station where our chefs will be talking to guests while making gulagu­la, roti and puri.”

Interaction

Mr Sen said he was excited to be able to interact with tourists during the preparation of In­dian meals.

“As an Indian, we celebrate other people, and we are excited to show our culture,” he said.

“We talk to guests to let them know more about the culture.

“It took us two days to prepare the menu for this celebration.”

Home grown

Mr Sen said the majority of ingredients used to prepare the menu were locally-sourced.

“We prefer more of the local infusion to be displayed,” he said.

“I hope guests – particularly international guests – take back with them our Indian culture which was displayed through the menu and live shows.”

“We want to show our guests, us as Indians, our favourite food, for them to prepare and enjoy in the comfort of their homes.”

Feedback: nicolette.chambers@fijisun.com.fj

Investor confidence in the Fijian Government has propelled Fiji-born Australian business Kamlesh Kumar to open his second restaurant in Lautoka City.

And more investors should follow suit, said criminal lawyer and Fiji Football Association vice president, Jiten Reddy, who was chief guest at the opening of the restaurant.

This as Taste of Sydney opened at Vakabale Street.

Attachment

“You have so much faith in our country; you are an Australian citizen, but because of your attachment to our country, you bring back investment,” he said.

“You are bringing in Australian currency, and have created jobs.

“You are putting money in our pockets, and food on our table.”

Mother’s advice

Mr Kumar said he invested around $60,000, and employed seven full-time staff members.

“My mother urged me to continue investing in Fiji, and give more jobs to Fijian people,” he said.

“I thank Fijian Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and his Government for making it easy for us investors to open the business in Fiji.”

Mr Kumar has other investment plans in place.

He said his next business plan was to extend into Nadi, with a supermarket and a Taste of Sydney restaurant.

“That’s another million-dollar investment; we’re just waiting for the contract to come through,” he said.

Another expansion plan

Mr Kumar plans to expand his business operations around the country, through an investment of $7 million.

Taste of Sydney eatery opens daily, from 8am to 10pm.

The new restaurant offers fast food and Asian cuisine.

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj

Sanjay Vadhera loves Fiji.

He enjoys the environment and beautiful ocean view.

The FORCE (Fiji Organic Research Centre for Excellence) Pte Limited founder and chief executive officer said, Savusavu had always appealed to him because it was known as the ‘hidden paradise of Fiji’.

Before setting up base in Savusavu in 2019, he conducted extensive research in Fiji starting from Lautoka to Taveuni, travelled alone, and detoured the forestry area.

Originally from Punjab in India but living in New Delhi, Mr Vadhera said FORCE was an overseas investment company producing charcoal
from biomass.

“Having worked for 22 years at McDonald’s, I have travelled the world including countries in Europe,

Middle East and Africa,” Mr Vadhera said.

“I do not regret investing in Savusavu because it is one of the most beautiful places in Fiji.”

He said although he was brought up in London, because his father worked as the High Commissioner of India to England, he’s always longed for the ocean view at Copra Shed Marina.

“Most of my childhood and teenage years have been revolved around the populated environment, traffic, work, fast food and the fast life,” he said.

“Savusavu, filled with so many greens and beautiful resorts and views, makes me feel more relaxed.”

He recommends people to spend their quality time in Savusavu.

Below is an excerpt interview with Mr Vadhera.

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Guest enjoying Lavena Coastal Walk in Taveuni.

How Many Places Have You Visited Around Fiji?
Savusavu and Taveuni for its untapped beauty and scope for business.

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Savusavu

What Is The One Place In Fiji You Would Take Visitors To, And Why?
Copra Shed in Savusavu.

It is an ideal rendezvous point next to the beautiful ocean view

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Breakfast at the Copra Shed and a beautiful sunset ends another day in Savusavu.

What Is Your Favourite Place For Coffee/Pie, And Why?
Copra Shed in Savusavu.

Wonderfully served and allowed to relax and enjoy coffee.

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The International Dateline runs through Taveuni.

What Is Your Favourite Backyard Spot, And Why?
Taveuni, the meridian line with breathtaking view from 1000 feet high.

What Is One Place In Fiji That Remains On Your Bucket List, And Why?
The State House to visit the current President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and acknowledge him for the good work done on the environment.

Feedback: shratikan@fijisun.com.fj

The tourism sector has wel­comed the 2021-2022 revised national Budget.

Tourism Fiji said it was grateful for the allocation towards their budget, which would allow an im­mediate marketing injection to maintain the strong momentum building.

“All up, the tourism industry has been heard, with results that prom­ise really meaningful changes,” chief executive officer, Brent Hill said.

“We’re really pleased with any initiatives that help make interna­tional travel simply less expensive, and more attractive.

“The elimination of the three-night minimum stay is significant, as it was very often mistaken for a quarantine regulation.

“The move opens up Fiji to fully vaccinated travelers anywhere, rather than just Travel Partner Countries.

“Non-Travel Partner Countries are especially welcomed.

“It is the optional mask-wearing and full capacity for venues that have had a real tough two-plus years.”

Manufacturing sector

A major operator of the Textile Clothing and Footwear Council In­dustry in Fiji will exit its business operations as a result of the new national minimum wage.

“Others will follow, they will have no choice,” the council said.

This as the council expressed shock at what it described was an unaffordable rate of $4 an hour minimum wage rate.

“I fear for the future of our indus­try,” council president, Mike Towl­er, said.

“We are doomed.

“Four dollars an hour as national minimum wage is a 50 per cent in­crease over $2.68.

“The council will simply lose its customer base to Asia.”

Mr Towler owns and operates Per­formance Flotation Development, a textile factory based in Nabua.

“I personally do not know what my future will be, but I expect it will also end with a shutdown,” he said.

“I understand why the Govern­ment has moved to do this, but it is too much too quickly for us.”

The council’s executive commit­tee will meet next week to decide on how it can survive in Fiji under the new rates.

“We have some six to nine months to navigate our future,” Mr Towler said.

“Our really big issue after the 50 per cent increase in the national minimum wage is how to mitigate it, when we have chronic absentee­ism and very poor productivity in Fiji.

“If the Government gave us the employment tools in the Employ­ment Relations Act to deal with these two problems, we just might be able to find a way to man­age with a $4 national minimum wage.”

The council has suggested a pro­ductivity commission as a good first step.

“While it will only help identify some of the causes, we need the Employment Relations Act tools to deal with it,” Mr Towler said.

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Left :Textile, Clothing and Footwear Council
president, Mike Towler, says the industry
is doomed.
Right: Tourism Fiji chief executive officer, Brent
Hill, has a reason to smile.

Mark One Apparel

Mark One Apparel said the budg­et was well-crafted and fit-for-pur­pose under very exceptional cir­cumstances.

Managing director, Mark Halabe, said the 46 per cent increase in the national minimum wage made the the next nine months “an incred­ible challenge” for the industry.

“As exporters, we are price-tak­ers, unlike domestic businesses that can pass-on all increases.

“Our export customers are not bound to Fiji.

“They can and will make alterna­tive supply from other countries as our prices become too expensive.

“Our industry have been now giv­en the most challenging task I have experienced over the last 35 years.

“I am up for the challenge, and I will be very focused on managing it as best as possible.”

The manufacturing sector employs an estimated 8000 people.

The Government has provided a $100,000 marketing grant for the next three years.

The grant would secure market expansion for the council, the Gov­ernment said.

Customs entry fees for the sector will be waivered for commercial consignments below $1500.

Tourism Fiji received an allo­cation of $1.5 million of which $700,000 was expected to be used to bring back workers to five full working week days.

South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) hopes to increase its portfolio in Ovalau by reaching 600 women this year to cater for women in the micro enterprises sector.

This will translate as $900,000 loans disbursed this year.

Elrico Munoz, the general manager for the financial institution made the comment at the opening of the latest branch on Beach Street, Levuka, on Friday.

This is the eighth branch of the SPBD that opened since it began operations in 2010 in the country.

“Before the (COVID-19) pandemic, SPBD was already able to organise seven centres in Ovalau Island, and even organized three more centres in the neighbouring island of Moturiki,” he said.

“The increasing number of SPBD members in the two islands encouraged us to establish a permanent presence in Levuka.

“However, this was put on hold because of the difficulties associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Now that the Fijian economy has opened up again, we are honouring that commitment.”

The success of the SBPD Programme in Fiji, he said, stemmed from the commitment members forged after years of collaboration.

“SPBD Fiji is thankful to the Rotary Club of Suva, Rotary Club of Downtown Auckland and the Rotary International for providing the seed funding for the Ovalau loan portfolio,” he said.

“We are also thankful to Kiva Microfunds of USA and the Good Return of Australia for featuring the stories of these ladies on their websites.”

Chief guest, acting director iTaukei Affairs Board Mosese Nakoroi said: “Several studies reveal that by having access to some form of financial services, women become more confident and more independent.

“They are receiving the recognition that they deserve in their families, their communities and villages.”

Meanwhile, the financial institution in partnership with Islands Business, launched the 2020 magazine on Friday.

The magazine summarizes the journey of SPBD Fiji in the last 10 years.

Dreams do come true when you persevere.

For Om Prakash, his role as a chef has propelled him into the business realm, where he now works as a entrepreneur.

He opened Oms Kitchen in Vatuwaqa industrial area.

It is situated at the roundabout of Ackland Street, Vatuwaqa.

Mr Kumar saw an opportunity to save people’s time from travelling to the city or Nabua to buy food.

The 30-year old had initially wanted to become an information technology expert.

It changed when he was adviced by his former dean Mahendra Reddy to take up catering courses at the Fiji National University.

Career change

Mr Kumar said the advice led him to become successful in his career path, where he is now achieving his dream of becoming a businessman.

“I started at Novotel in 2012 doing my practical as Certificate III in Cookery at FNU, then Certificate IV in Cookery and Trade Diploma, before completing Bachelors in Hospitality and Hotel Management,” Mr Kumar said.

“I then worked at Tappoos FoodCourt, and Tanoa Hotel, with another two years at Sheraton.

“Fiji National University offered me a job as cafeteria supervisor where I spent four-and-a-half years, before moving to Cook Islands to work as a sous chef at a 4.5 star hotel for two years.”

Investing in homeland

After nine years, he decided to return to invest in his home country.

“I wanted to give back to the community by opening a restaurant and provide employment opportunities for youths,” he said.

“With my parent’s financial support and my savings, we were able to open Oms Kitchen worth $40,000 and provide employment to four staff.

“This is the first business that I have opened.

“It is my goal in the next five years to have a chain of restaurants opening around the country.”

The high demand for outsourc­ing and offshoring services prompted newly-launched, Bula Outsourcing, to expand its operations to the West.

Company chairperson, Clive Kirk­patrick, during the official launch of the company at Damodar Event Cinemas on Wednesday night, said their business was growing fast since July, 2021.

He said they had to hold off new customers to get their staff trained and settle them into their new of­fice.

Bula Outsourcing is now operat­ing out of Ganilau House in Suva, and with 70 employees to date. The new office can cater up to 20 more employees.

When the company began, with 10 employees, it was co-sharing space with CentreCom Fiji, another BPO service provider.

Mr Kirkpatrick said they were in talks with Government and stake­holders to set up on the proposed Special Economic Zone in Lautoka.

In 2019, the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism (now the Minis­try of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport), signed an agree­ment with the Fiji National Provi­dent Fund (FNPF).

The agreement secured FNPF’s support as a primary developer and management services provider of the development and construction process of the Zone.

This is part of Government’s five-Year and 20-Year National Develop­ment Plan that would develop Fiji as a manufacturing and services hub of the Pacific for which devel­oping specialised economic zones is essential.

Mr Kirkpatrick said: “So we’ll look to take occupancy on one of those properties, we may need to move more quickly to make demand.”

Economic diversification

The Prime Minister Voreqe Ban­inamarama who officiated the launch of Bula Outsourcing com­mended the company was already playing a part in our efforts to di­versify the Fijian economy.

“To grow it, to make it more resil­ient and competitive and, to create the kinds of jobs that our people want,” he said.

“Bula outsourcing began its oper­ations during the pandemic, which surely demonstrates its confidence in Fiji—in our world-class ICT (In­formation and Communications Technology) infrastructure, our policies, our competitive business costs and our people and of course our attractive tax incentives.

“In fact, you are lucky to have reg­istered the name “Bula” because it is part of our Fijian brand – owned by all Fijians. I am sure the minis­ter responsible for the companies office would like to have a discus­sion on this.”

Company managing director and chief executive officer, Josie Pras­ad, said: “My passion is to grow young individuals and entrepre­neurs and encourage them to pur­sue their dreams to be the best that they can be.

“Our goal is to help our employees grow in the business. And as the company expands, we will develop their skills and enhance it. They will be leaders in the financial mar­kets in investment and trade – the go-to people of the future.”