Peter Wills (left standing)of GTA Consultants with a group of stakeholders conducting group activities at the Fiji Roads Authority’s first stakeholders Review of the Greater Suva Transportation Strategy public consultation process at USP Laucala Marine Campus yesterday. Photo: JUSTINE MANNAN

By RANOBA BAOA

The Greater Suva Transport Strategy will move ahead.
This was the assurance by Fiji Roads Authority at the first public consultation process held a that the University of South Pacific Marine Campus yesterday.
Fiji Roads strategy, planning and performance manager Christine Serreyn assured that this was unlike other consultations.
“The difference is that FRA is a practical organisation. We’ve got funding to build infrastructure. Strategy is not our core business, our core business is building,” Ms Serreyn said.
“And there have been so many studies done on the Greater Suva Transportation (GST) and that last important one was in 2001.
“Now we are 13 years later we want to consolidate all those studies that have been done, get the views, current views and thoughts for the future of the stakeholders. “It’s only a six-month study.
“At the end of the six months, we want to have a robust report to review what was done before then have some clear options for the future,” she said.
She was responding to a number of concerns raised by stakeholders because there were more tendencies to have a lot of consultations without seeing immediate or practical results.

Study span
Over the next six months, a team of transportation experts with views from stakeholders will map out a practical plan and study for the Review of Greater Suva Transportation Strategy.
It was attended by about 70 stakeholders that deal directly/indirectly with roading networks in the peninsular.

Deliver
Predict Consulting has teamed up with GTA Consultants and SCOPE Pacific Limited to help develop the study.
Predict Consulting senior transport consultant/director John Richardson said they hope to set the benchmark for an efficient roading network system for the capital.
“It’s always important so that we don’t just delve in and fix the road, that’s important too, but we want to think at a high level first and encompass strategies….it’s something that needs to be governed.
“At this point in time, is gathering all issues so we can develop some developing options.  So if we see that pedestrians should have a particular focus then we can start using experts that we have to look at and come up with solutions in the Greater Suva Area.”
Peter Wills of GTA Consultants and study Techincal Leader & Transport Planner said things like accidents and pedestrian safety would be a key component of the study.
“We’re basically going to flush out those issues and check if our objectives are correct and really come up with a solution that addresses those issues.
“For instance regarding pedestrian safety, perhaps the lack of lighting at night time and simple things that can potentially save a lot of issues in the road safety area,” Mr Wills said.
“So things like traffic congestion, the busyness of the road is a harder thing to solve which requires careful planning and solving with all the stakeholders.”

Actions to be undertaken:
q An integrated multi-modal strategy for freight, public transport, general traffic, walking and cycling
q Infrastructure and operations for the Suva CBD and inner city areas, including on-street parking
q The public transport network and on-street infrastructure to support it.
q Walking and cycling networks and of and off-stree infrastructure to support it
q A staging plan showing interdependencies between components and time frames

By SHEIK DEAN

The power struggle still continues within the Rarawai/Penang Cane Producers Association despite the unannounced audit conducted last month.
The audit from FLO-CERT ruled out the dismissal of delegates and the appointments made by association president Gyan Singh as illegal, however, delegates are still being kept in the dark.
Rarawai district vice president/ Varavu sector board delegate, Davendra Naidu, said the audit report had ruled out the dismissal and appointments, as illegal.
“The appointment made by Mr Singh of the executive manager was not discussed and was not minuted, which has been highlighted in the audit report,” he said.
“Not only it was illegal but also a clear breach of the association’s constitution by Mr Singh. The association’s licence has also been suspended.”
Mr Naidu said a number of non-conformities were also identified in the audit report conducted by an independent auditor, Shetty Shivaprasad, of FLO-CERT.
“The association’s licence has been cancelled and Mr Singh has been given 30 days to come up with a proposal to solve issues which ends on February 16,” he said.

General Assembly
Mr Naidu said a general assembly has been called on February 12 by Mr Singh.
He said the eight board members have not been invited, however, the newly-elected board/sector delegates have been invited.
“The newly-elected sector/board delegates were elected during the illegal elections campaigned by Mr Singh and has been ruled illegal,” Mr Naidu said.
“Board delegates can only be dismissed during the general assembly and is the only forum whereby issues can be solved.
“The association’s constitution clearly states board delegates can only be terminated during the general assembly with majority members voting but we were dismissed by only four members.”
Mr Naidu said out of the 14 sectors, the eight major sectors members were dismissed by Mr Singh.
The eight major sectors from Ba and Rakiraki are, Nanuku, Malau, Ellington sector II, Mota, Varuku, Rarawai, Koronubu and Varavu.

Fair Trade Funds
Mr Naidu raised the issue of the use and accountability of funds granted by the Fair Trade Organisation, which the farmers and board delegates had urged for since October.
“Farmers under the Rarawai/Penang Cane Producers Association have not benefitted from the $1.4 million fund given by Fair Trade Organisation,’’ Mr Naidu said.
The Fair Trade Organisation had also planned on releasing the sum of $2.1 million to the association, which had now been put on hold.
Mr Naidu said Mr Singh is not being transparent of the association’s transactions.
When contacted, Mr Singh asked for questions to be emailed to him.
Questions were sent to his email address singhgyan@rocketmail.com yesterday and no response had been received when this issue went to press.

Seoul: Samsung looks set to unveil its new Galaxy S5 handset in three weeks as it struggles to compete for the top end of the smartphone market.
In an interview with Bloomberg  the past month, a senior Samsung executive had suggested that the new phone would not come out until March or April.
However, analysts suggested that weak sales forced the company to change its plans.
“The launch has been brought forward by around three weeks after sales of Samsung’s S4 came in weaker than expected,” The Guardian reported.
“The world’s biggest smartphone maker is bracing for its weakest mobile annual profit growth in seven years amid fierce competition from Apple and Chinese vendors, and as growth for high-end smartphones eases due to near saturation in many markets.”
Expectations have ranged from a curved screen – which has also been predicted for the iPhone – to a 16-megapixel camera.
-  The Week

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LICI) general manager Vimlesh Dhar handing over a sponsorship of $15,000 to Minister for Social Welfare, Women & Poverty Alleviation Dr Jiko Luveni at Civic Towers in Suva yesterday. Photo: JUSTINE MANNAN

By MARAIA VULA

The Ministry of Women, Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation received a timely boost from the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LICI) yesterday.
This after the LICI general manager Vimlesh Dhar handed over a cheque of $15,000 to the Minister Dr Jiko Luveni at the ministry’s headquarters in Suva.
This was as sponsorship money for the first National Women Expo and Rural Women Designer Awards Night 2014.
Mr Dhar said: “We are privileged to support it from a position of an obligation because LICI also believes in the upliftment of women especially from rural areas.
He believes the expo would be a great avenue to develop rural women’s talents and their ability to make things and to sell things.
“What we commit today is not the end of it but a beginning; we will certainly support all the activities in the lead up to the expo in August,” he said.
Awards co-ordinator Jojo Whippy said: “The estimated cost of the three day expo was about $150,000.
“We will be looking at $50,000 sponsorship coming from outside and now $15,000 has come in and has brought our target down.”

Rural Women
Dr Luveni said they are expecting 3000 participants for this year’s event scheduled from August 6 to 8 at the Vodafone Arena.
The ministry is expecting different kinds of designs an advanced continuation from last year’s awards night.
Dr Luveni said: “All different kinds of designs by rural designers would be exhibited and it’s been a competition in the different towns in Fiji.”
Mr Whippy said: “Only women who are registered and issued sewing machines by the department of women are allowed to take part.
“Those who wish to participate have to register with the Department of Women but we are trying to motivate the rural women.”
Dr Luveni said: “We will be providing travelling expenses to and from wherever they are for the rural women and also if they need accommodation, we will provide that as well.”

Vibe Fiji Restaurant and Bar director Graham Applin (middle) with guests Teresa Buulivou (left) and Ana Waqavonovono during the official opening of the restaurant and bar in Martintar, Nadi, on Wednesday night. Photo: WAISEA NASOKIA

By SHEIK DEAN

The latest addition of Vibe Fiji restaurant and bar in Martintar, Nadi, now provides locals and tourists with more variety and choice.
The restaurant and bar opened its doors officially on Wednesday after almost seven months of vigorous hard work.
Director Graham Applin said it has been a modest and a substantial investment for Nadi’s new night spot.
Having been an architect, Mr Applin believes in setting the right standards for all.
“I have worked in higher positions in the hotel industry, shopping centres and residential and I believe in doing everything right and raising the standards,” he said.
Mr Applin said therefore everything has been set to achieve the highest standards which include the menu, the beverages list and even the staff members have been trained to the highest standards.
People from all works of life were invited for a new culture of night life inspired from the bars in Europe.
“The restaurant and bar has been inspired from the bars in Europe which is a fashionable destination to a whole range of ages, all based on music and food quality,” he said.
“It’s the most glamorous destination in the world with a culture coming from music, fusion food and night spots in Europe.”
Mr Applin is proud of the fact that everything is locally done.
“The standards of joinery work inside the bar are better than what is found in Westernised countries,” he said.
Tourists and locals can enjoy the one of the best fusion food with British celebrity chef Tim Payne.

By RACHNA LAL

Vatukoula Gold Mines’ full-year underlying losses (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation) have widened.
The mining company has reported this to have widened to £9 million (FJ$27.8 million) in the year ended August 31, 2013 from £1.5 million (FJ$4.6 million) the previous year.
The figures were attributed to lower gold prices and a lack of capital investment hampering production plans whereby gold output fell by 25 per cent.
Non-executive chairman, YB Ian He, said the continued downward pressure on the gold price had made developing and mining at the Vatukoula Gold Mines very difficult.
“Moreover, the delays in securing the capital investment have prevented the mine from embarking on its growth strategy which in turn lowered production below management expectations,” he said.
“The losses have increased compared to the same period the previous year.
“However, this was driven not by an increase in costs, but as a result of lower gold prices and lack of capital investment which hampered production.”

Downward pressure
The chairman in his report said they had seen a downward pressure on gold price during the financial year.
“This is despite evidence that shows a very positive increase in consumer demand and only a moderate increase in supply,” he said.
“However financial and investment demand has fallen which has been the primary driver for the negative price trend.
“As such, I believe in the short term the gold price is going to be dominated by unpredictable economic shocks and political shocks and an element of speculation amongst traders.”
Nevertheless, Mr He is confident of gold prices recovering in the future years as it has reached its bottom now describing gold to be cyclic in nature.

2014 plans and commitment
Mr He said 2014 would be a time of both change and consolidation for the group.
“There have been a number of changes at both Board and Group executive committee level and there will be new challenges involved in implementing the Group’s strategy,” he said.
“Subsequent to the year-end, Vatukoula Gold Mines agreed with Zhongrun to form a strategic review committee, which has been reviewing all aspects of the Vatukoula Gold Mine.
“It is anticipated that these findings will be made available to the Board during the second quarter of this year.
“The Group will however continue to grow and develop.
“We have a clear strategy: to deliver to our shareholders the full potential of the Vatukoula Gold Mine.
“We aim to achieve this by focusing on four key strategic priorities: expand, sustain, optimise and grow.”
The chairman firmly believes Vatukoula Gold Mines is poised for growth and future success.

Activity picked up slightly on the SPSE e-trading platform this week with the overall capitalisation of the market gaining 0.22 per cent concluding at a value of $775,814,669.
In terms of market statistics, an exchange of 14,880 shares in seven transactions was recorded garnering $26,895 in consideration.
Concentrating on the securities witnessing trades and on a further assenting note, the radio conglomerate, Communications Fiji Limited saw its share price rise to another all-time high of $3.50, gaining 19.05 per cent during the week under review.
The share price for the restricted stock, Fijian Holdings Limited dipped $0.03, while the share prices for FMF Foods Limited and the market heavy weight, Amalgamated Telecom Holdings Limited remained invariable at $0.44 and $0.74 respectively.
The market barometer, SPSE Total Return Index (STRI) also gained 0.22 per cent reflecting an increase in share price for Communications Fiji.
At close of trading yesterday, STRI stood at 1885.40.
The new order flow behaviour remained akin to the prior week and saw the market recording a total consideration of $40,156, out of which, 89.74 per cent was represented by an interest to purchase securities on SPSE.
– South Pacific Stock Exchange

President of Women in Business, Dr Nur Bano Ali (second left) with prominent businesswomen and business executives, during a Women in Business networking cocktail hosted by Westpac Fiji general manager, Adrian Hughes.

By MARAIA VULA

There are some women in our commercial sector making big strides in their executive roles and business owners.
But there are still not many women who are part of this changing trend.
These were the sentiments highlighted by the Women in Business president, Dr Nur Bano Ali.
She stressed this was something which needs to be changed.
“Some needs to become many and women’s participation in all spheres of commercial life in Fiji has to become norm and not the exception,” she said.
“Men and women in Fiji have to work together to increase the numbers of women in the commercial sectors of Fiji.”
Dr Ali was speaking during a Women in Business networking cocktail, held on Thursday hosted by Westpac Fiji general manager, Adrian Hughes, at his residence.

Recognising contribution
Dr Ali said the Women in Business is working towards getting men and women in Fiji to work together to increase the numbers of women in the commercial sectors.
“We also want to ensure that these contributions by our women are given equal recognition as any other business participant,” she said.
“We are still visibly low in numbers when it comes to top levels of institutional representation by women in Fiji.”

The awards
The Women in Business Awards will be held on March 8 at the Novotel Convention Centre in Lami.
Dr Ali said by bringing the necessary focus on the need to increase women numbers in commerce, these awards will result in the re-design and re-alignment of some of our Fijian institutions.
“These are organisations that are not in sync with what is needed to create a more enabling and conducive environment for the increased participation and advancement of women’s careers to the most senior and top levels just as their male colleagues,” she said.
Dr Ali although did not have an exact figure as to the number of nominations for the awards, but she established it was quite a big numbers.
“To the women out there: whoever you are working in the commercial sector please put your hands up give us a call and we will help you put your application in,” Dr Ali said.

Westpac comments as sponsors
Westpac Fiji is the major sponsor of the awards.
General manager Adrian Hughes said: “It is very nice to celebrate a very important event coming up that promote awareness and create interest in the awards.
“Westpac is involved because 50 per cent of our customers are women.  Over 50 per cent of our management team are women and in my executive team more than 50 per cent are women,” he said.
“We are doing a lot of things for women, a lot of networking events like this all throughout the country.
“On International Women’s day all the local bank managers most women will be holding events in their branches.

Digicel backs event
Digicel Fiji once again pledged their sponsorship for the Silver Category award in the 2014 Women in Business Awards.
Digicel Fiji head of marketing Sheryl Singh said: “Digicel will be sponsoring $15,000 cash in prize.
“We are delighted to support the initiative of Women in Business of empowering, developing and promoting its members both professionally and personally.”

By RANOBA BAOA

Tourism Fiji’s inaugural Fijian Tourism Exposition is fast gaining momentum with recent sponsorship from various beverage companies announced.
LawHill Wines and Spirits, Casella Wines, Fiji Coffee, Fiji Water, Victoria Wines and Fiji Rum Company have stepped in to support the event scheduled from May 5 to 8.
Tourism Fiji director of events, Sally Cooper, described the sponsorship from the local industry was overwhelming.
Ms Cooper said over 129 international buyers along with over 100 local exhibitors are expected to attend the Fijian Tourism Expo.
“Local beverage suppliers have realised it is the perfect opportunity to get their products in front of this highly influential audience,” she said.

Sponsor pledges
l Fiji Coffee
- Will have espresso coffee available throughout the event.
- Bring world class Barista Antonia (Tony) Vitiello.
l Victoria Wines
- Sponsor both the welcome event at Port Denarau (in conjunction with Port Denarau Marina, the marine operators and Fiji Rum Company)
- Sponsor the gala dinner at the Sofitel Fiji Resort in conjunction with Rosie Holidays.
l LawHill Wines & Spirits
- Supplying beverages for the Sheraton/ATS Pacific Beach Party in partnership with Westpac Fiji and BRED Bank.
l Casella Wines
- Will complement the all-white chill out theme with its sommelier James Wilson.
l Fiji Rum Company
- Will host the ‘Best Cocktail Competition’
- Invites interested bar tenders to submit applications to compete at the Fiji Tourism Expo for the coveted title: Fiji Rum Company Best Bartender.

By RACHNA LAL

Names of finalists for two award categories of the 2013 AON Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards has been announced by the trustees of the organising committee.
These are for the “Frontliner of the Year” and “Back of House – Individual” categories.
Chairman of the organising committee, Matthew Gillespie said the Frontliner of the Year can only be won once by an individual.
“The competition was so well-contended in 2013 and the judges were well-challenged in arriving at the final three,” he said.
“Finalists for both categories will be subjected to personal interviews prior to the winner being selected.”

The gala awards
The prestigious awards will be held on February 21 at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa on Denarau Island in Nadi.
The Trustees have confirmed that given on 400 tickets being released for this 17th annual awards ceremony, the gala dinner even is once again a sell-out.
The ceremony will also include the trophy presentation to Government’s Fijian Host of the year for 2013 to winner Deepak Kumar of Fiji Revenue and Customs Authority in Nadi.

Ambassador of Trade Pasifika 2014 and Chair of the Trade Pasifika Steering Committee, Kaliopate Tavola, (left) and Australian acting Head of Mission to Fiji, Glen Miles seal the deal with a handshake at the Sun Insurance building in Suva yesterday. Photo: PACIFIC ISLANDS PRIVATE SECTOR ORGANISATION (PIPSO)

By RANOBA BAOA

The Trade Pasifika 2014 Steering Committee aims to work within a budget of around $0.5 million to organise the much-awaited event in April this year.
The Trade Pasifika 2014 will be held at the Vodafone Arena in Suva from April 2 to 4.
Trade Pasifika Ambassador, Kaliopate Tavola, made these comments whilst announcing the Australian Government’s Pacific Leadership Programme’s support of AU$25,000 (FJ$41,964) for the event.
A memorandum of understanding was signed by Mr Tavola and Australia’s acting Head of Mission to Fiji, Glen Miles, in Suva yesterday.
Mr Tavola said the commitment was another sign of positive bilateral trades between the Australian Government and the Pacific Islands countries.
Mr Tavola said the support and pledges have also come from stakeholders including Gold sponsor ANZ Pacific, Pacific Islands Private Sector Organisation (PIPSO), United Nations Development Fund and other sponsors.

Private sector
assistance
Mr Tavola said support as such was a direct assistance to private sector development in the region.
“This will a fund a good number of community partners in the region with a particular focus on ‘Women in Business’ and ‘Youth in Business’,” he said.
Mr Miles said: “We envisage that women and youth who participate will benefit from the opportunities to network and exhibit their products and services but also depart with new skills from the workshop and seminars that been tailored for them.”
Meanwhile, the committee has waived the buyer fee registration of about $2000 in a bid to attract the targeted 80 buyers.
The committee expects 100 exhibitors from around the region to participate.

About Trade Pasifika
Trade Pasifika showcases three major sectors of economic development which are agriculture, aquaculture and tourism.
It targets high value niche products from the Pacific which fast making an impact in the global market today.

Fiji Revenue and Customs Authority chief executive, Jitoko Tikolevu.

By SHEIK DEAN

Fiji Revenue and Customs Authority says the implementation of ASYCUDA World this year should improve efficiency and more importantly trade within Fiji and the region.
ASYCUDA World would essentially mean an upgrade of the customs’ information technology system and will replace the current system ASYCUDA++.
Authority chief executive, Jitoko Tikolevu, said the system would reduce operation costs, enhance integration and collaboration between trading partners and reduce clearance time.
He said this new system is used in other Pacific Island countries such as Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands.
“More importantly, ASYCUDA World will improve security and revenue compliance,” Mr Tikolevu said.
“We will eliminate fraudulent practices because whatever is seen in another country will be seen in Fiji.
“For example, an importer would not be able to evade customs duties and tariffs by falsely declaring goods.”

E-payment system

Mr Tikolevu indicated the new system also has a lot of modules and can facilitate e-payments which the current system does not have.
The authority has also embarked for real time payments through e-payments.
“The plan is in the pipeline since the past year, however, there are some delays from the banks as we want payments to be recognised in real time,” he said.

Customs day celebrations

Mr Tikolevu’s comments come as the authority’s offices in the Western Division celebrated International Customs Day yesterday.
The theme of this year’s International Customs Day is “Communication: Sharing information for better cooperation”.
“The theme is not only important for Customs but the whole of FRCA,” Mr Tikolevu said.
“Communication and information sharing is very important as we work towards collecting our $2 billion target this year.
Mr Tikolevu said while border control was the role of the authority, it was necessary and vital that the authority worked with its partner agencies to ensure the safety of our borders and citizens.
“Risk profiling is critical in our work at our border. However, we will continue to engage other border agencies to ensure our border is safe,” he said.
“Information sharing of course is important for better co-operation. Seizures at our borders are possible because of this.”
Fourteen customs officers from the Western Division were awarded with certificates of merit from the World Customs Organisation for their outstanding performances.

The Big Bula Inflatable Water Park on Denarau Island, Nadi. Photo: RAEVENN BREEN

Big Bula Inflatable
Waterpark on Denarau

Compiled by RACHNA LAL and
JYOTI PRATIBHA

The concept of waterparks may have started decades ago around the world, but in Fiji, it hasn’t been until recently that someone has started looking at this prospect seriously.
Although not quite close to what is there in more developed countries, a company which has been in operation in Fiji for quite some time, has come up with a unique concept of waterpark.
Denarau Shuttle Company, which owns and operates the famous Bula Buses on Denarau Island, has started up the Big Bula Inflatable Waterpark on Denarau Island.
This waterpark is not only open to tourists but locals as well.
It is the perfect place for children, families and the young at heart to have fun in the hot Fijian sun and a great alternative to a day by the pool or at the beach.
The person managing this inflatable waterpark is Trevor, general manager for Denarau Shuttle for nearly two years.
He has previously working at the Sheraton Mirage on the Gold Coast, Australia.

Questions for Trevor Fox, general manager for Denarau Shuttle:

1. How much has been invested in the Big Bula Inflatable Waterpark?
We have invested in excess of $1.5 million to date and we are continuing to make improvements to the product as we see the needs arise.

2. Who came up with this idea?
The idea for the waterpark is the brainchild of our company directors from New Zealand.

3. Why this location and why inflatable slides etc?
Inflatable slides are normally temporary. This is normally because of location, climate and client base. We chose Fiji and more specifically Denarau Island for the great all year round weather and the big tourism industry. This provides a suitable climate and steady flow of customers all year.
Our location, adjacent The Westin Resort and Spa and Denarau Gold and Racquet Club, centers our operation on Denarau, between all the resorts and residential precincts. We are also fortunate with Denarau Island being close to Nadi Airport and Port Denarau Marina a hub for the island resort transfers.

4. How has business been progressing since opening in December?
We are pleased with our progress at the moment. With little to no advertising, we have had great support from tourists and locals.

5. Is this inflatable waterpark only for children or adults as well?
It is for everyone. We have a children’s waterpark which is a small fenced off area specifically designed for children under 105cm to have fun and be safe from other children and adults enjoying themselves.
The main park is for everyone else – there are waterslides, a 10 metre high climbing wall, an obstacle course, even a mechanical surfboard.

6. What local market are you targeting?
We are targeting mostly families. We are getting a lot of young people coming with their friends while on school holidays and weekends or on their days off from work.

7. Are there any limitations?
No age limit – as long as your healthy and want to have fun. We have posted a weight limit of 85 kg. This is a rough guide and we do allow others to come and enjoy as well however, they are sometimes limited to the slides they are permitted to use.

8. What is unique about this business?
Big Bula Inflatable Waterpark is the largest permanent inflatable waterpark in the world, other similar operations only operate seasonally. We also have the world’s longest inflatable slide at 55 metres long.

9. Are there any particular specials to target the locals?
We posted a special advertisement with a coupon in Friday’s Fiji Sun which offered 25 per cent normal entry when presented. Normally we give a discount for locals if they have an FNPF card or Fiji driver’s license.

10. What do you think is the next big thing for tourism in Fiji?
I would like to think it is our waterpark! but there are some exciting things happening this year with the PGA event in August and new hotels opening on the islands.

11. What are the fees and charges like?
Normal entry fees start at $28 for the children’s park and $45 for the main park, there is an $8 entry for accompanying spectators. These are for the whole day, you get a wristband which allows you to come and go all day.

q 25 metre horizon pool q 12 fully-refurbished Beachfront Bures q 4 Deluxe Beachfront Bures (with outdoor river-rock showers, air conditioning and hardwood balconies) q 14 new Resort Rooms (all with air conditioning) q Sunset beach bar q Open air restaurant with bar q Activities Bure q Tranquil Spa

By JYOTI PRATIBHA

A massive $10 million investment by an Australian couple has seen to the opening of Fiji’s newest and luxurious 4-Star boutique resort opened in May 2013.
Owned by Rob and Sue Cecconi, Tropica Island Resort is nestled on approximately 20 acre land on Malolo Island in the stunning Mamanuca group of islands.
Tropica Island Resort has been created for adults with a magnificent outlook across the clear blue water.
The resort blends Fijian and contemporary architecture with beautifully landscaped open spaces with water features and a 25 metre infinity pool overlooking the beach with a magical view of the sunset.
Fully-managed by a team of experienced locals, the new resort specialises in celebrations and rejuvenation.
It is an ideal location for couples and honeymooners of all ages as well as those wishing to renew their vows.
It is also great for weddings, corporate incentives and whole island charter for that special event in your life.
Guests to the resort are given the big Fijian Bula welcome as soon as they disembark from the ferry which departs from the Marina at Port Denarau, Nadi.

Popularity growing
General Manager Leba Pareti has been with the resort since it welcomed its first guests ten months ago.
She said within weeks of opening, the resort has enjoyed high occupancy, having opened in the midst of Fiji’s peak period.
The resort currently employs 50 staff- all locals.
During the renovation of the resort approximately, 150 local tradesmen and labourers were employed.

Buying the resort
In 2009 whilst holidaying in Fiji, the current Australian owners decided to paddle over and have a look at a resort that was for sale.
Having been to Fiji many times, Rob and Sue had fallen in love with Fiji and its people and their dream was to own a piece of land there.
With two young children at that time, the timing wasn’t quite right so they let the opportunity go.
Two years later the resort was again for sale and this time, the timing was better and so the journey to Fiji began.

Upgrading the property
Although run down, the potential in the property was clear.
They knew this was a magical place and with an extensive upgrade, this piece of paradise set amongst swaying palms, could be a place for a luxury resort that many could enjoy.
At the beginning of 2012, the resort was closed for a major renovation, re-opening April, 2013 as Tropica Island Resort.
Tropica is a 4 star boutique resort catering especially for adults, designed with a modern feel using local workmanship.
All about water and rock, stunning rock walls and rivers permeate throughout the resort, enhanced by flowing water, waterfalls and fishponds.
The focus is definitely on local. Wherever possible, goods have been purchased in Fiji and jobs have been provided to local tradesmen from the surrounding villages.

Swimsuit video lands Air NZ in hot water

Auckland: Passengers on Air New Zealand flights from later this week will be urged – for their safety’s sake – to watch a video featuring cavorting swimsuit models.
The airline, which has been both praised and attacked for previous risque adverts, told the Weekend Herald the video it had produced with American magazine Sports Illustrated will convey all the important safety messages it is required to provide under aviation regulations.
Asked what choice that would leave travellers who may object to having to watch it, a spokeswoman said that it had been careful to ensure the Safety in Paradise video was produced in a way “that is tasteful and suitable for viewing by passengers of all ages”.
But the video has been described by Sports Illustrated as a “raucous” production and is timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of its swimsuit edition.
Feminist commentator Deborah Russell says she is disappointed the national flag carrier should have bought into the magazine’s business of objectifying women.
“I’m going to be sitting there worrying about the male passengers sitting next to me leering at the beautiful women on the screen,” said Dr Russell, a philosopher and lecturer in taxation at Massey University in Palmerston North.

Sexual reference
“I’m a captive audience for the safety video, but suddenly there are going to be put in front of me a whole lot of references to sex and sexuality.”
Dr Russell, who is Labour’s candidate for Rangitikei, said she was also annoyed Air New Zealand was spoiling a celebration of Pacific culture.
“They seem also [in the video] to have some lovely scenes of fabulous Pacific men and women – why do they need to mess that up with white women in bikinis?”
The airline spokeswoman said Cook Islands Tourism had been involved in the video from the beginning and was extremely supportive of its role in promoting the Pacific nation as a destination to a global audience.
“Safety in Paradise has been tested extensively with a cross-section of customers and staff to ensure we strike the right balance between entertainment and conveying important safety messages,” she said.
“Given this edition of our safety video celebrates 50 years of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, it’s natural that we feature some of the magazine’s best-known models.
“As the video is shot in a beach setting, it’s entirely appropriate they’re wearing beachwear, and we were careful to ensure all talent were in appropriate wardrobe choices.”

Opportunity
Air New Zealand brand development chief Jodi Williams said working with a magazine that reached 70 million people was an opportunity to lift its global profile and to promote a key Pacific destination.
Sports Illustrated franchise director Hillary Drezner is filmed in a preview of the production saying that when the magazine became involved with Air New Zealand “they showed us the ‘Hobbit’ video, and we were like, we need to be there”.
Air New Zealand has been accused in the past by the Stop Demand organisation of indulging in “a pattern of puerile, sexist depictions of women”, such as in adverts featuring a “potty-mouthed” puppet called Rico, a “fares lower than your grandma’s boobs” promotion, and “misogynist” rapper Snoop Dogg.
Stop Demand spokeswoman Denise Ritchie said yesterday she hadn’t seen the latest video.  — NZ Herald

From left: Chief operating officer for Sports World and Courts (Fiji) Limited Hamendra Prasad, Sports World general manager, Vinod Kumar, Courts director of IT and Procurement at the Sports World outlet on Waimanu Road yesterday. Photo: RANOBA BAOA

By RANOBA BAOA

Fitness shop, Sports World Fiji, a subsidiary of Vision Group  Limited, is diversifying its range of products through its sister company Courts (Fiji) Limited.
Hamendra Prasad, chief operating officer for Courts and Sports World, said this is in a bid to make it easier for their customer base.
He made the comments at the Sports World major Christmas Promotions Draw and sale at the stores Waimanu Road outlet.
“We have Sports World corner at all Courts stores around the country so that’s become more diversified now and people can have more access to these branded products in all parts of the country,” Mr Prasad said.
In terms of expansion, the company’s recent investments were in Challenge Plaza in Lautoka and the most recent one was Sports World in Damodar City, Mr Pasad said.
He added they will continue to invest in the best and latest products that are available to meet customer demands.
“Being competitive in the market is one of the strategies going forward and we look forward to giving the best products and services as well.”

Christmas draw
Meanwhile, a crowd gathered at Waimanu outlet to take advantage of specials offered from the range of up to 50 per cent and also to witness the three winners for its major prizes.
The first, second and third prizes were a York Reward Treadmill worth $3000, a York X202 Cross Trainer worth 1500 and a $750 gift Sport World shopping gift voucher respectively.
Sports World general manager Vinod Kumar said: “This year’s promotions and draw are bigger and better.
“It’s important to note as well that we constantly change a bulk of our stock every six months and mind you, so we like to keep things new and quality for our customers.”
Meanwhile Courts Knockout Sale promotion continues.

By SHEIK DEAN

Proud graduates with National Training and Productivity Centre director Kamlesh Prakash and invited guests at FNU Namaka campus in Nadi on Friday night. Photo: WAISEA NASOKIA

The Fiji National University’s National Training and Productivity Centre plans to extend training opportunities in its beauty and skin care programme to the greater part of the Western Division.
This is to cater for the demand of the business in the tourism sector.
Last Friday 63 students graduated at the FNU Namaka Campus in Nadi.
The programme is being offered in partnership with Pivot Point International, an academy which provides one of the best hair and beauty education in the United States.
Centre director Kamlesh Prakash said: “Through this partnership, we intend to extend training opportunities to other parts of the country like Sigatoka, Rakiraki and Labasa,”  Cur rent centres are located in Lautoka and Suva.
“Incidentally, only some years ago, the beauty and spa industry faced great difficulties in providing the needed numbers of trained therapists,” he said.

Spa venture
Mr Prakash says the industry has seen a number of spa businesses venturing into the tourism sector providing more employment and investment opportunities.
“The tourism industry is the largest foreign exchange earner and earnings have surpassed the $1 billion mark,” he said.
“Since the fashion and beauty industry is emerging in Fiji, there is a great need for quality education and training.”

Stakeholders
He says it was also time for stakeholders to take stock of this industry, and consider organising this industry to much higher levels.
“It is evident that there is no industry body, nor accredited standard to comply within Fiji.
“FNU is proud to be associated in this partnership to help raise standards and quality assurance working with bodies like the Fiji Higher Education Commission and the Fiji Hotel Association.”

By RANOBA BAOA

From left: Promotions host, Wame Valentine, Fiji Airways representative, Cathy Mausio and TFL chief executive, Mothilal De Silva varify the major winner for Win Big with TFL promotions draw at MHCC yesterday. Photo: RANOBA BAOA

When Pramoc Basant was called by Wame Valentine yesterday and given news of his win with one of Telecommunications Fiji Limited’s (TFL) biggest promotion, he was ecstatic.
Win Big with TFL’ major promotions winner, Mr Basant, wins two return tickets to Hong Kong and $1000 spending money.
The final promotions, held at the crowded MHCC, Suva, followed a series of other smaller draws in total cost of $100,000.
Overall, the draw saw a hundred plus customers across the nation getting their hands on the latest gadgets, special discounts and flight tickets like Mr Basant and other offers.
TFL chief executive, Mothilal De Silva said: “The continued support and business we have received from our customers over the years need recognition.
“That is the main reason for putting together this promotion. It is our way of thanking them and rewarding their years of loyalty.”
He further said they grateful for the partnership with Fiji Airways and looked forward to having future events with them.
“On the same note, we thank Post Fiji for their contribution and support, without these two companies this promotion would not have been so successful.”
The other major prizes included one ticket of any destination in the Pacific Island Countries and a domestic ticket with Fiji Airways’ Fiji LINK.

Broadband services
Meanwhile, Mr De Silva said they have will continue to use their broadband services more effectively and efficiently through innovation.
“The good thing about our services is they’re innovative ones. We don’t buy the services from outside the country,” Mr De Silva noted.
“We’ve managed to create them internally. TFL is a Fijian company and therefore all services produced by our staff who are in fact very young. They are also venturing to different projects.”
They have also managed to develop applications and will introduce other segmented products, similar to that of Noqu Viti which they will announce soon.
In terms of competition Mr De Silva said: “Yes there is competition but we always try to position ourselves differently.
“We are primarily a fixed-line network but some of our services and also fixed mobile services. We compete in a different platform altogether so we don’t want to get into this bloodbath. We can provide unique services to the customers.”

From left: The Carpenter Group Limited chief executive officer Sir Mogon Lourdenadin daughters, Nirmala and Shanti with Carpenters Finance outstanding credit officer, Preeya Sen holding giant sized new look MoneyLINK in platinum, gold and silver which was launched at the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat Fale on Friday night. Photo: JUSTINE MANNAN

By RANOBA BAOA

Carpenters Finance MoneyLINK customers can now have more access to Carpenters (Fiji) Limited’s services.
Thanks to the launch of the new-look MoneyLINK card last week Friday at the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat Fale.
MoneyLINK is the in-store card which allows customers convenient and affordable shopping at all Carpenter Group outlets Fiji wide.
These are MH Supermarket, Homemaker, Carpenters Hardware, Carpenters Motors, Carpenters Lubes and Daltron stores.
The three distinct categories of Money- LINK come in silver, gold and platinum cards.
Carpenters Finance general manager Alok Mishra said the card has added security features such as a personal identification number (PIN).
“Our aim is to make the card more user friendly.
The card does not have a validity date anymore and can be used for longer periods as per the wish and desire of the customer,” Mr Mishra said.
This will take away the hassle of renewal of card and getting a new one, he said.
Card holders are offered benefits including regular notice of special promotions, special limited hours shopping experiences and reduced pricing offers.
Carpenters Finance offers online credit au thorisation and processing of the Carpenters MoneyLINK card transactions.
Mr Mishar said the card, which is in high demand, now has an active customer base of approximately 28,000.
The card will be made available to customers on renewals and existing customers may get new cards as well.

Thomas Gunkelmann. Photo: JUSTINE MANNAN

By MARAIA VULA

The former food and beverage manager for the exclusive Laucala Island Resort is back in Fiji, at the newly restored and much-awaited Grand Pacific Hotel, Suva.
Thomas Gunkelmann has  been appointed to head the Food and Beverage department as manager. He will lead more than 30 permanent staff as well as casual staff.
Originally from Germany, he has more than 20 years of experience in the field of hospitality in Germany, England,  Switzerland, and Mexico, and on a cruise liner.

Return to Fiji
“I love working in Fiji that’s why I came back after two years, the people are really nice, friendly and honest.
“I have very good friends here as well so it feels like a family and I like working with Fijians especially in the hotel business,” he said.
“My goal is to teach locals to attain a good level of knowledge and take over top positions because there are a lot of overseas experts coming in right now.”
Mr Gunkelmann said Fijians can fill such positions.

Responsibilities
Food presentation is really important if the food and service is not good businesses would lose customers, he said.

Training
He said training was very important as it would benefit the employees, the company and the future of the country as well.
Training of staff would be 1 hour 50 minutes every week.

Innovative ideas
He said hygene and standards will not be compromised.
“We will really make sure to do our best in providing the best service and presentation of the food quality and the style of food.
“Fine dining restaurant\, all day dining,  casual restaurant for this … we need different style of food as well,” he said.
“Pricing will done by me, the head chef and the general manager Eugene Diethelm. We will look into the prices as well as the suppliers what they have to offer us for the prices.

Competition
He is always looking forward to the next step and be the best of the best.
“Competition for me is really important, I want to make the best of it if possible and I never look back.
“I always look forward to facing challenges and make the best out of it because there are never problems only solutions.
“I love what I am doing and that’s my passion in life actually I have never have problems with anything,” he said.

About GPH
The restored iconic hotel on Victoria Parade is expected to open by the beginning of the second quarter.
It is currently being redeveloped and reopened in a joint venture between Papua New Guinea’s National Superannuation Fund, or NASFUND, Fiji National Provident Fund and Lamana Development of Papua New Guinea.
NASFUND has a 50 per cent stake, and FNPF and Lamana 25 per cent each.
Lamana Development is the contractor/developer for the restoration project.
Lamana has extensive experience in hotel and resort development and management in Melanesia.