SI Lautoka International
Women’s Day Oratory
VOLUME 8 NO: 10 SERVING THE COMMUNITY OF FIJI WITH PASSION
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USP program brings delight
Sanjay Goundar
Sentiments of joy and satisfac-
tion filled the conference hall of
the Foundation for Rural Integrat-
ed Enterprise and Development
(FRIEND) in Tuvu as 42 rural
dwellers successfully graduated
with office assistance certificate
from the University of the South
Pacific on March 19.
The eight weeklong Youth Em-
ployment Network (YEN) training
program brought additional delight
for two Lautoka mothers as both
have secured permanent employ-
ment now.
An elated 38-year-old Ana Ma-
ria revealed that the opportunity to
undergo the training provided by
USP Lautoka campus has been the
biggest turning point of her life.
The mother of two from Lololo,
Lautoka who has been a fulltime
housewife until recently is now a
permanent employee at Awesome
Grills in Wailoaloa, Nadi.
Maria informed that she is now
able to fully support her husband
in ensuring that their family has a
much decent livelihood.
“My dream of building a house
of our own will finally become
a reality and I am indebted to
FRIEND organization and USP
for coming up with this initiative
for us unemployed and underprivi-
leged members of the society. “
After being unemployed for
the last three years Muni Kartika
Gounder now has a full time em-
ployment as an office assistant
at Lautoka Ahmadiyya Primary
School.
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Gounder revealed that whilst
being part of the training program
she became an attachment employ-
ee at the school and because of the
extensive knowledge she gained
with USP certification she has now
become a full time office staff of
the institute.
USP Lautoka Campus Director
Dr Pramila Devi informed that this
partnership between and USP Lau-
toka Campus and FRIEND was
earmarked to provide an opportu-
nity to unemployed youths to up-
skill them to enable them to secure
a decent employment.
She revealed that the soft skills
and IT skills training provided to
the youths included Personal man-
agement skills, Communication
skills, Writing reports and propos-
als, Customer service skills (criti-
cal elements), Job seeking skills,
Administrative skills for office
Assistant, Office ethics, Inventory
management, Records manage-
ment, Fundamentals of IT, Word
processing, Internet and email and
Electronic spreadsheets
FRIEND Founding Director
Sashi Kiran stressed that as an
organization they are trying their
best to ensure more youths are able
to secure employment.
Kiran commended USP for com-
ing on board with them to facilitate
the program in a very participatory
manner.
Meanwhile, since the YEN pro-
gram started in 2007 its popular-
ity has grown tremendously and The two jubilant Lautoka mothers Ana Maria and Muni Kartika
FRIEND has also won the Nelson Gounder after successfully graduating from the YEN training program
Mandela Graca Machel interna- conducted by USP Lautoka campus in partnership with FRIEND. Both
tional award for this initiative. ladies have a full time employment now. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
02 NEWS MARCH, 2018

Information fundamental for empowerment

Zareena Bi

There are various ways to celebrate Interna-

tional Women’s Day but the most important
thing is to have information on the topic be-
cause information is power.
According to the University of the South Pa-
cific’s Lautoka Campus Director Dr Pramila
Devi who officiated as chief guest at the IWD
event on the theme ‘Press for progress’ organ-
ized by Mutlah Street Crime prevention com-
mittee Women’s Wing at the Field 40 temple
hall, it is important for all members of the re-
spective organizations to be well informed as
such functions are for sharing information and
experiences as well.
“To achieve anything one needs to not only
have general information but also be briefed
with legislations and important issues and
matters around us.
“While having the policies and legislations
in place at national level it is equally impor-
tant to be aware of information at local level
and see where the gaps are.
“Events and celebrations from different
countries on this day is documented as part of
the literature on this topic.”
The chief guest added that some groups
treat this as a review on how far women have
gone for their struggle for equality, peace and
development while others take this opportu-
nity to network and mobilize for progressive
change.
“In this modern era with the information
amount of time we spend on social and en- and I think it can only change with educa-
and communication technology it is easier to USP Lautoka Campus Director Dr
tertainment purposes. tion and it would be faster if women under-
network, disseminate information, voice out
“If we are able to time our commitment and stand this.” Pramila Devi (2nd from left) with
concerns and to learn more because informa-
our activities I am sure we will be able to save She further added that women are awake for other invited guests and members
tion is available on the internet; if nothing else
a lot of time to access information and em- the longest hours every day so they need to
it has made networking easier. of the Mutlah Street Crime preven-
power ourselves question themselves on how they are utilizing
“We spend hours chatting and texting on nu-
“The general perception regarding women that time as if they are able to have controls tion committee Women’s Wing during
merous issues, I suppose more on the personal their IWD celebration. Photo: Sanjay
is still there which we need to keep changing, on the time and manage it well there will be a
and social matters and I would like to bring
the disparity and inequality is still there also lot achieved. Goundar
this up and get everyone thinking on the

Government Closely Monitoring

Cane Access Road Works
Source: MINFO

The $30million European Union (EU) funded Rural Access Roads and Associated Infrastruc-
ture (RARAI) will be completed before schedule after the Office of the Prime Minister’s inter-
vention.
The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) fast-tracked the implementation of the project
whereby it appointed a Project Steering Committee (PSC) chaired by the OPM in mid-2016.
In addition to the EU funding, the Fijian Government has been committing a $6 million al-
location in its annual budget to improving cane access roads.
The RARAI project is a four-year program which began in January 2015 and the Pacific Com-
munity (SPC) was contracted to implement the project by the EU.
The $30m funding by the EU was to be utilised to upgrade 200 kilometres of cane access
roads in Malolo, Drasa and Koronubu sectors in Western Division.
The PSC was to ensure that the project met its timelines and more importantly that the funds
are utilised for the benefit of the cane farmers.
The RARAI project has used up 86 percent of its budget and although it was scheduled to be
completed in December 2018, with constant monitoring of the project by PSC it is anticipated
to be completed by the third quarter of this year.
The Government also stepped in to ensure that the construction of Irish Crossings in Drasa
and Koronubu sector after savings were realised within the budget.
Infrastructure works related to the repairs and maintenance of the cane access roads is usually
identified and planned in consultation with the Cane Access Roads committees in all sectors
who meet quarterly to discuss on these issues.
They will work closely with the sugar industry stakeholders including the Ministry of Sugar
Industry and Fiji Sugar Corporation to ensure that the Cane Access Roads upgraded in Malolo,
Drasa and Koronubu Sector are maintained once the works are completed under the RARAI
project.
The SPC will soon provide maintenance implements to the Sugar Cane Growers Council
(SCGC) as part of assistance under the RARAI project with the tools distributed to road com-
mittees to carry out minor repairs in their own areas.
The Government was also able to re-align funding from the REFOREST project to upgrade
35 kilometres of cane access roads in Bulivou Sector in Labasa.
The upgrade of roads and Irish crossings will ensure reduction in stand over cane and farmers
are able to efficiently deliver cane to the mills while the mills are still crushing.
The OPM is closely overseeing the implementation of the project with the EU.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

MARCH, 2018 NEWS 03
Consistent support vital for women’s empowerment
Zareena Bi

Well meaning consistent support however mother-in-law treats her daughter-in-law

small for however trivial situations in life if
given to women by people who matter will
truly make an impact on women’s empower-
ment.
Speaking at the International Women’s Day
celebrations organized by the Fiji Trade Un-
ion Congress Lautoka branch Women’s wing
at Lautoka Central Primary school, chief
guest Human Rights Activist Lawyer Sabrina
Iqbal Khan stressed the importance of sup-
porting women and girls by all stakeholders
of the society.
She added that in many societies young
girls who want to study and have a career are
forced to get married at a very young age and
they usually do not have a choice because of
lack of support from their mothers, fathers,
families and the society as a whole.
Khan also questioned why even after so
much awareness and acknowledgement of a
woman’s contribution to society she is still
considered only second to men and treated
like a second class citizen.
“Are men to blame? No, I don’t think so
because as women deep down inside us the
belief has been engrained for generations that
we are not capable of many things.
“Ones mindset and lack of self esteem can
do more harm to oneself more then what oth-
ers can do to us in the world and added to this
is the indisputable fact that most of the times
it is the women who are obstacle to women
themselves.
“This is pretty much the attitude of many
women when they deal with their daughters
when they don’t accord them the same privi-
lege that they accord to their sons. or when a
like she is some foreign species or when
women colleagues turn a blind eye when one
of their kind is a victim to some sort of harass-
ment.”
Meanwhile, according to the Fiji Teachers
Union National President Vidya Prasad Inter-
national Women’s Day is a day to recommit
to working harder for holistic progress for a
better living standard, gender equality, to-
gether as women, men, youth and leaders of
this country, NGO’s, communities, religious
organizations and Universities.
She added the if we act assertively, with the
knowledge that pressing women for progress
and supporting their full participation can help
solve the greatest challenges and we will find
lasting solutions for many of the problems we
face.
She emphasized that IWD is a day to reflect
on the progress made by our women in educa-
tion, for women’s rights, women’s empower-
ment and gender equality. “We also acknowl-
edge that with our pressing for progress, it has
made a lot of difference. The progress may be
slightly slow, uneven and in some cases wom-
en face new and more complex challenges.
“A female is empowered economically and
in every way through education, equal oppor-
tunity, participation and leadership.”
Human rights activist lawyer Sabrina Iqbal
Khan (2nd from right) with Fiji Trade Union
Congress (FTUC) Women’s Wing Treasurer
Sima Kumar (1st left), Vice President Teresa
Ali and Fiji Teachers Union Women’s Wing
President Vidya Singh (right) at the IWD cel-
ebration in Lautoka. Photo: Sanjay Goundar

Major Clean Up Launched For Western Division

Source: MINFO
A major clean-up campaign for the west-
ern division was launched on March 23 by
the Minister for Health and Medical Services
Rosy Akbar in Nawaka, Nadi.
The inter-sectoral initiative “Fight the Bite”
clean-up campaign is to assist in controlling
the current dengue fever situation in Fiji with
MOH stats recording over 1,000 persons be-
ing affected by the disease in the past two
months.
“The need to undertake a whole of Govern-
ment and whole of society approach to reduce
the transmission of dengue by mosquitoes is
essential given the eminent danger that den-
gue imposes on­people’s lives as case numbers
build up,” she said.
Also attended by students from all schools
in Nadi, Minister Akbar urged them to be the
agent of change and lead the fight against den-
gue and unhealthy living.
The fight against dengue fever, she says,
cannot be fought alone and that was why the
ministry was emphasising on a global ap-
proach in fighting off this disease.
Minister Akbar said it is imperative that
everyone took up the challenge in fighting of
this vector-borne disease.
“Fiji has such a magnificent natural envi-
ronment, but rubbish and pollution is clearly
a growing problem,” he added.
“We can have the best of laws to keep Fiji
clean such as the Litter Act. Ultimately it’s up
to the people of Fiji to accept personal respon-
sibility to keep Fiji clean and beautiful. Lit-
tering and illegal dumping of rubbish is one
of the biggest problems in Fiji and it will no
longer be acceptable.”
She urged all Fijians to make a pledge
against littering.
“Let us all pledge that we will not litter, we
will keep Fiji clean and beautiful. We will
need to take action to stop people who are lit-
tering so that we can make the change,” she
said.
“This clean-up campaign starts with each
one of us. I also urge everyone of us to con-
tinue to work within your own communities
to encourage your friends, your neighbours,
your work colleagues to understand the role
the whole community can play in protecting
the environment.”

Equipping Communities With Knowledge Is Vital

Source: MINFO
“Each one of us have the capacity to improve the health outcomes of our communities.”
While addressing the media during the Health Reporting for Improved Health Outcomes
Collaborative Workshop on March 26, Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services
Alex O’Connor said health communications is more than just providing information about
health issues.
“It plays a far greater role in ensuring that communities are equipped with the knowledge
and information about health issues to take action to improve and protect, take responsibilities
of their health,” O’Connor said
Asst. Minister O’Connor reminded the media that they play a critical role in not only chang-
ing health behaviors but also transmitting information across during times of outbreaks or
emergencies.
“These news report can mean life and death for our communities . This is something that
we need to get it right,” he said.
Accuracy and timeliness, Asst. Minister O’Connor said, were just as critical in order to
provide practical and clear information to these communities in order for them to take precau-
tionary measures.
While the media holds the power to ensure that the general public is provided with the lat-
est, most accurate and timely information, he stressed the need for media to avoid causing
confusion and misunderstanding about critical health related issues.
With the recent outbreak of meningococcal disease, Asst. Minister O’Connor emphasized
the need for media to make the public understand the sign and symptoms rather than causing
alarm and anxiety as it is still an uncommon disease in Fiji.
He also touched on non-communicable diseases and the challenges faced in changing the
mind-set and behaviors.
“Changing behaviour is possibly the hardest thing to do as it requires creating a change and
this does not occur overnight.”
Asst. Minister O’Connor added the workshop reflects on the strong partnership and com-
mitment between the Fijian government and the media to work collaboratively, strengthen
their knowledge and partnership to improve health reporting.
The workshop, which was organised in collaboration between the Ministry of Health and
World Health Organisation, also heard from WHO representative in the South Pacific and
Director of Pacific Technical Support, Dr Corrine Capuano.
She told the participants “you are champions for building community awareness of health
issues, changing social norms, inciting emotions and getting people engaged so that they can
change their health behaviours”.
The Ministry’s National Advisor for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Dr. Isimeli Tu-
kana and Acting National Advisor Communicable Diseases Dr. Aalisha Sahukhan also held
interactive sessions with the media.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

04 LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL NEWS
Dengue Outbreak in Lautoka
The citizens are advised that there have been six 66 confirmed
cases of Dengue Fever reported within Lautoka District so far
this year. Lautoka City Council therefore wishes to advice all
stakeholders and the residents to take the following precaution-
ary measures to prevent any outbreak of dengue fever:-
* Clean environment by destroying any articles or con-
tainers likely to retain water and breed
mosquitoes such as tyres, drums, tins, cans, manmade contain-
ers etc.
.* Change water in flower vases and pot plants on regu-
lar basis.
Cover all water storage containers.
* Make optimal use of council’s user pay service for
refuse collection as means to dispose off all mosquito breeding
grounds.
* Keep compounds and vacant lots free from over-
growth of grass and bush weeds that is likely to
harbor mosquitoes.
* Guard against mosquito bites. Sleep under mosquito
net; apply insect repellants and use anti
mosquito coils.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
Lautoka City
Council employ-
ees doing the free
cleanup within
the city boundary
where residents
were urged to re-
move all unwanted
items from their
compound which
leads to mosquito
breeding places.
Photo: Maika
Kasami
Citizens are advised to visit your nearest health facility if you
have signs and symptoms such as fever (sudden onset), intense
headache (especially behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains,
flushed skin and rashes on the arms and legs, and perhaps minor
bleeding of the gums and/or nose.
Remember that dengue fever can be very deadly and fatal. The
last dengue outbreak resulted in more than 20,000 dengue fever
cases and claimed 13 lives in Fiji.
“Residents are advised that breeding mosquitoes is an offence
and in contravention of Section 109 of the Public Health Act Cap
111. Offenders will be liable for legal proceedings without any
further warning.
“Anti-mosquito spraying is only one of the preventative meas-
ures to kill adult mosquitoes but to eradicate the spread of Den-
gue Fever- REDUCTION AT SOURCE by destroying breeding
grounds is the best solution. “
Meanwhile, the council provided free clean-up of all residen-
tial properties within the town boundary from March 12 – 23
where residents were urged to thoroughly clean up their com-
pound removing all items leading to mosquito breeding places
which were collected by council contractors at no cost to the
property owners.
MARCH, 2018
LCC fines litter offenders
Citizens are advised to cooperate with the council in
keeping the city clean and beautiful. Council has been
creating awareness to citizens regarding litter problems
and the need to refrain from littering as it pollutes our
environment and becomes an eye sore to the public espe-
cially tourists.
Council has appointed additional four (4) litter preven-
tion officers in an attempt to reinforce the litter enforce-
ment works with in the city area. Citizens are reminded
to adopt environmental friendly practices and prevent lit-
tering by adhering to following:
•Make use of the public litter bins for discharging rub-
bish whilst in the city;
•Refrain from littering in drains/creeks, roads, parks,
market, bus stand, footpaths etc;
•Put a stop to burning especially in public places;
•Heavy goods vehicle and buses to maintain the vehi-
cles on regular basis to stop oil leakages;
•Provision of litter bins within public service vehicles;
•Use councils garbage collection and bulky refuse col-
lection services for discharge of house hold.
•Refrain from disposing commercial waste in the “Be
Tidy” public bins as it is also an offence.
•Refrain from sweeping wastes from shops and offices
onto councils footpaths and streets.
Councils Litter Prevention Officers have been carrying
out litter prevention awareness and enforcement works
within the city and have so far issued total of 966 fixed
penalty notices since 2009.
Citizens are further advised that anyone found littering
in public places will be issued with “on the spot fixed
penalty notice of $40.00” without any further warning.
Failure to pay fixed penalty will result in legal action
against offenders.
Council therefore seek cooperation of all citizens to
adopt environment friendly initiatives like practice recy-
cling, composting, use of eco bags when shopping, stop
burning of wastes and refrain from littering to pledge our
support for Fiji’s Presidency of COP 23 and mitigate cli-
mate change impacts.
 MARCH, 2018 LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL NEWS 05
Protection and management vital for water resources

Minister for Local Government, Environment and Housing Praveen Bala with the students of Natabua Minister for Waterways Dr Mahendra Reddy with a very creative poster design for
High School at the 25 anniversary of World Water Day in Lautoka World Water Day by a student of Lautoka Primary School. Photos: MINFO

Zareena Bi
According to the United Nations World
Water Development Report 2018, 2.1 billion
people lack access to safely managed drinking
water services and around 1.9 billion people
live in potentially severely water-scarce areas
which could increase to around three billion
by 2050.
Speaking during the United Nations World
Water Day celebrations on March 22 at
Churchill Park in Lautoka, chief guest Minis-
ter for Local Government, Housing, Environ-
ment, Infrastructure & Transport Praveen Ku-
mar Bala stressed on the need for placing high
priority on the protection and management of
our water resources through nature-based so-
lutions.
“Nature-based solutions have the potential
to solve many of our water challenges so we
need to plant new forests, reconnect rivers to
floodplains, restore wetlands to rebalance the
water cycle and improve human health and
livelihoods.
“Given our tropical island topography, in
short, we need to take a clean and conserve
water policy from Ridge to Reef. For what we
put into our waters from source to sea, impacts
heavily on our lives and sustainability for the
future.
“And given Fiji’s lead role in Climate
Change under the Honorable Prime Minister
as Chair of COP 23, Fiji and Fijians also have
a lead role to play in sustainable water man-
agement practices.”
The minister also reminded that although
we are blessed with access to clean water
sources and Fiji is branded internationally for
its natural artesian water we should not take
this for granted and assume that we will have
water for life..
He added that water is what sustains life
on planet earth and it is more than just an es-
sential commodity to quench thirst or protect
health; water is also vital for creating jobs,
supporting economic, social, environmental
and human development.
“In recognition of this, Fiji at the interna-
tional front is signatory to seven (7) water
related United Nations Sustainable Develop-
ment Goals.
“At the national level, Government through
the 2013 Constitution Sections 35 and 36
guarantees the right of every person to acces-
sible and adequate sanitation and also the right
to clean and safe water.
“Government’s commitment is further real-
ized in our National Development Plan 2017
– 2036 where a number of initiatives and con-
cepts are being adopted to ensure that we safe-
guard our environment and scarce resources
such as water.”

LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL

BUSINESS LICENSE FEES FOR YEAR - 2018
All business operators operating business within the boundaries of Lautoka City Council are reminded
that "Business License Fees" for the year 2018 is due for payment from January 1, 2018.

Kindly contact council's Town Ranger Department on Telephone 6660433, Extension 126 & 145, to get
the correct amount payable by your business and ensure that the following documents are submitted
with your fees:

1) Clearance from National Fire Authority (N.F.A)

2) Clearance from Occupational Health & Safety Services (O.H.S)

(JONE NAKAUVADRA)
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
06 NEWS MARCH, 2018

EDITORIAL COMMENT
Countdown to annual Coke Games begins
Multicultural Ram Naumi
The hype surrounding the Fiji Secondary School an-
nual Coca-Cola Games have begun with the ever pop-
ular torch relay making the rounds across the country.
Top schools like Marist Brothers High School, Adi Ca-
kobau School, Suva Grammar, Natabua High School
and Jasper Williams High School will be looking to
further stamp their mark in this year’s competition.
And the underdogs, the minnows will be out to add
charisma, share the spoils and write their own piece of
history come the final day of the meet.
Schools in the western division now have the luxury
of using the synthetic athletic tracks at Churchill Park.
Beginning this year neighbouring schools from Nadi
and Ba have held their zonal meets in Lautoka. But
due to travelling costs, Tavua, Rakiraki and Sigatoka
schools have opted to have their zonal meets in their
own vicinity.
Lautoka City Council had declared that the facilities
at Churchill Park is for the whole of the western divi-
sion to utilise and for them to take advantage of it.
LCC chief executive officer Jone Nakauvadra had
declared that the council will be willing to assist any
school who wishes to use their facilities in their prepa- Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed Khaiyum with members of a Ramayan Mandali in Cunningham Stage 4 in Suva. Photo: MINFO
rations.
Teams like Jasper and followed by Natabua have Zareena Bi
trained on grass tracks and went on to create history
Religious festivals like the Ram Naumi celebrations through it teachings are the greatest ways to promote multiracial values in
in Suva. That was even before the idea of having a
our society.
synthetic track in Lautoka was mooted. This year the nine days of Ram Naumi celebrations was from March 18 to 26 and apart from the daily recitals from the Rama-
It showed the amount of hard work that was put in by yan by the mandali’s at respective locations and temples the festival was also observed at schools and business houses around the
the athletes despite lacking proper facilities. country.
But now with the synthetic tracks at their door step, The impact that these celebrations and teachings create at schools are far greater than what can be imagined in bringing the dif-
there should not be any excuse. ferent cultures and people of the country together.
The two Lautoka schools had been carrying the hopes The reality is that when the younger generation are provided with the opportunity to actively participate through recitals, singing,
of the western division on their shoulders for the past dance items and dramas the experience lingers on creating an ownership of the teachings and good values.
few seasons. It is a common occurrence now to see people of other religion mixing with the Hindu devotees during these celebrations.
It’s now time for others to lay their claim and show- Furthermore, Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Hon. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has stressed that religious festivals like
Ram Naumi are not only about rituals but time for self reflection.
case their hidden talents.
While speaking at the Ram Naumi celebrations in Cunningham Stage four in Suva, the A-G said that by focusing on stories in
Judging by the Nadi and Ba zonal meets, surprises the Hindu religious book Ramayana, one should learn how to lead their lives as an individual and focus on the relationships with
are in store and there is definitely some aces up their others.
sleeves that will be unleashed during the three-day He added that there are lot of lessons and examples in the Ramayan on how to lead our lives.
meet. The Attorney-General also stressed that human beings will be close to living their life as an animal if they do not do things in
Only the best are selected to participate at the Coke the right way.
Games and that shows that the athletes travelling He added that hopefully the getting together of the various races at such festivities creates a sense of community, awareness,
down to the ANZ Stadium are already winners. caring and looking after each other.
So let the athletes enjoy the 2018 Coke Games re-
sponsibly.
May the best two schools walk away with top hon-
ours.

Maika Kasami
Editor.

PUBLISHER : SANJAY GOUNDAR

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A multiracial Bharatnatyam performance by students of Drasa Secondary School’s Vocational Centre in Lautoka led by Merelita
Voreqe (middle back row) during the Ram Naumi celebration at the school on March 23.. Photo: Supplied
Printed by: Universal Print

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 MARCH, 2018 NEWS 07
Nature for water
Zareena Bi

This year’s United Nations theme for World Water Day ‘Na-
ture for Water’ encourages the protection of our natural envi-
ronment.
According to the Minister for Local Government, Housing,
Environment, Infrastructure & Transport Praveen Kumar Bala,
who officiated the celebrations as chief guest for the United
Nations World Water day on March 22 at Lautoka’s Churchill
Park the theme augurs well with Government’s initiatives and
plans towards the safe guarding of our natural environment
“ I am happy to say that in relation to this year’s theme,
Government through Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport
and the Water Authority of Fiji has installed 107 Ecological
Purification Systems throughout Fiji.
“These systems make use of the natural processes to treat
water which is safe for drinking. Twenty eight of these pro-
jects are located here in the Western Division with another 31
sites earmarked in this financial year 2017/18.
“The total funding provided by Government in this financial
year for this program is FJ$2 million.”
The Minister added that another Government initiative is the
distribution of free 5,000L rainwater harvesting tanks through
Water Authority of Fiji to our rural and maritime communities
with a total funding of FJ$1.4 million.
“ Furthermore, new water sources such as groundwater and
water desalination plants will be developed for our remote is-
land communities. Further to the above, an initiative which
Government has partnered with the UNDP, private sector and
NGO Partners towards the protection of our environment is the
Ridge to Reef project.
Minister for Local Government, Housing, Environment, Infrastructure & Transport Praveen Kumar Bala with kindergarten
“This project focuses on the protection of our environment
students of Lautoka during the World Water Day celebrations at Churchill Park. Photo: MINFO
and coastal ecosystems through reducing the transfer of chem-
icals, nutrients and sediments from agriculture, forestry catch-
ments, and untreated wastewater. FJ$73.5 million budget in 2007.” The Minister acknowl- “Environmental damage together with climate change is
“The commitment of the Fiji First Government in the im- edged the presence of the Honorable Minister for Waterways, driving the water-related crises we see around us.
provement of water and sanitation services in Fiji is evident Dr. Mahendra Reddy as a testament of a concerted Govern- “Floods, drought and water pollution are all made worse by
through its increasing budget provisions over the last ten years. ment approach to water and its sustainable management. degraded vegetation, soil and rivers and when we neglect our
For this financial year, a total budget of FJ$306.9 million was “This is one of the main platforms on which the water and ecosystems, we make it harder to provide everyone with the
provided to the Water Authority of Fiji to facilitate mainte- sanitation stakeholders can work together. It is an opportunity water we need.
nance, upgrading and development of new water and wastewa- to network, co-ordinate and recognize the important role we
ter projects which is an increase of FJ$233.4 million from its each play in advocating this important commodity.

Source: MINFO
Forest plays a vital role
Hilton Special
Forests play an important role in making “Trees and forests have a profound impact School Head Girl
our country greener, healthier, happier and a on all of us, but we can sometimes take for Seruwaia Mara-
better place to call home. granted how important our forests are in our
ma hand overs a
President Major General (Ret’d) Jioji Ko- daily lives.”
“Forests have played a critical role to the
potplant to His
nusi Konrote echoed this sentiments during
the International Day of Forests celebration advancement of human civilization for all of Excellency, the
held at the Borron House on March 21. recorded history. That around 1.6 billion peo- President Major
Cabinet ministers, senior government offi- ple depend on forests in their day-to-day live- General (Ret’d)
cials and students were also part of the cel- lihoods, and that forests offer resources that Jioji Konusi
ebrations to commemorate the important role are essential to humanity’s survival and the Konrote before
that forests in our lives. survival of countless other plant and animal the launching of
In his address, President Konrote said it is species.” the 2018 Interna-
encouraging that many of us are able to join President Konrote was joined by invited tional Day of the
others in Fiji and around the world to raise guests in planting trees in the Borron House
Forests.
awareness and celebrate the important role grounds to commemorate International Day of
the Forests.
Photo: MINFO
that forests play in making our countries
greener, healthier, happier and a better place
to live and call home.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

08 ADVERTISEMENT MARCH, 2018

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 MARCH, 2018 NEWS 09
Promising health facilities for the highlands
Zareena Bi

For more than 10,000 Fijians living in the

province of Nadroga, Navosa and the high-
lands of Ba March 21 will go down in the
pages of history as the day of promise for bet-
ter health services for their current and future
generations.
On this day Prime Minister Rear-Admiral
(Ret’d) Voreqe Bainimarama officiated at the
ground breaking ceremony for the new Navo-
sa Sub - Divisional Hospital at Keiyasi which
is expected to be completed in 18 months
time..
During the ground breaking the Prime
Minister highlighted that the hospital would
replace the current Keiyasi Health Centre,
dramatically upgrading the health services of-
fered to the entire Nadroga-Navosa Province,
an expansive area of land with dozens of deep
rural villages and settlements that will utilise
this new facility upon its opening.
“In the past, the nearly 10,000 Fijians resid-
ing throughout this sub-division have needed
to travel to Sigatoka, or Nadi, or even as far as
Ba to seek specialised treatments, x-rays and
ultrasounds, maternity services, pharmacy
services, and laboratory testing.
“I am proud to say that, upon the comple-
tion of this hospital, that will no longer be the
reality for healthcare as all of these services
will be offered right here in Keiyasi.
investment will be made to upgrade and ex- “ This forward-thinking is a continuation of Prime Minister Rear-Admiral (Ret’d)
pand the existing divisional hospitals, making the immense progress that we as a nation have Voreqe Bainimarama and Minister for
“Fiji’s 5-Year and 20-Year National Devel-
room for more beds, providing more services, already achieved together.” Health Rosy Akbar with invited guests in
opment Plans (NDP) which were unveiled at
and creating an overall better experience for Meanwhile, the Prime Minister was accom- front of the artist view of the new sub-
COP23 in Bonn last year, set out my Govern-
those seeking treatment. panied by the Minister for Health & Medical
ment’s framework for expanding and upgrad- divisional hospital in Keiyasi which is
“My Government is committed to this Services Rosy Akbar, Minister for Industry
ing our health facilities all across Fiji, putting
goal, and the Navosa Sub-divisional Hospital Faiyaz Koya and Assistant Minister for Youth
expected to bring a major relief to more
quality medical care closer and more easily than 10,000 people of Navosa. Photo:
ground-breaking here today is proof that these & Sports Iliesa Delana for the ground break-
accessible to more Fijians than ever before.” MINFO
NDPs are more than words on paper or empty ing ceremony.
The Prime Minister also promised in his ad-
promises—they are testament to the fact
dress that in the next five years, even more
that my Government puts plans to action.

Housing project to benefit more than 10k

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Minister for Local Government, Housing & Environment Hon. Parveen Bala with Andrew
Singh, Director WesEng Consulting Ltd after the signing in of new housing projects.

Source: MINFO

The Ministry of Local Government, Housing and Environment has signed agreements with
two consultants to begin works on formalising seven informal settlements in the country.
The signing was done between the Minister for Local Government, Housing, Environment,
Infrastructure and Transport Parveen Kumar Bala and consultants from WesEng Consulting
Limited as well as Wood & Jepsen Consultants in Suva on March 19.
2 Ram Sami Reddy Rd, Junction of S.M. Koya Rd., WesEng Consulting Limited director, Mr Andrew Singh and Wood & Jepsen Consultants’ Mr
Kashmir, Lautoka. Rod Jepsen signed the agreements.
Phone: 6645 826 Fax: 6645 826 While speaking at the event, Minister Bala said three settlements in the Western Division, one
in the Central Division and three in the Northern Division will benefit from this project.
Mobile: 9975 369/ 9926 369/ 8322 211/ 7772 826 He said the consultants will now work on the engineering plan.
Close to 10,000 residents living at Lovu Seaside, Field Four, Tomuka, Sakoca, Vunivau A,
P.O. Box 7350, Lautoka. Vunivau B and Vunika will benefit from the housing project.
Minister Bala said Government has already paid a premium of more than $330,000 to the
iTaukei Land Trust Board.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

10 EASTER RECIPES MARCH, 2018

Perfectly Moist Fijian Banana Cake Fluffy Brownies with Chocolate Frosting
INGREDIENTS

• ⅓ Cup Cocoa Powder

INGREDIENTS • ½ Cup Sugar
• 115g Butter
• ¼ Cup Sugar (1/2 cup if you like it sweet) • 2 Eggs
• ½ Cup Butter • 1 Tsp Vanilla
• 1 Tsp Vanilla • ½ Cup Self- Raising Flour
• 2 Eggs • 3 Tbsp Chopped Almonds
• 1 ¾ Cup Self Raising Flour • Pinch of Salt
• ½ Tsp Salt Frosting
• 1 Tsp Baking Soda INGREDIENTS
• 2 Ripe Bananas • 3 Tbsp Butter
• ½ Cup Yoghurt (Flavoured yoghurt works just as well) • 3 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
• Sultanas or Raisins (Optional) • 1 Tsp Vanilla
• Walnuts – Or Any Nuts (Optional) • ¼ Cup Icing Sugar
• Dates (Optional) • 1 Tbsp Chopped Almonds
• 2 Tbsp Milk
DIRECTIONS
DIRECTIONS
1. Sift flour and add salt and baking soda to the mixture. Keep these dry ingredients 1. First, bring the butter to room temperature and spread it flat with a spatula or
aside spoon. Then add the sugar and combine till creamy
2. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs till light and fluffy, add vanilla and whisk again to 2. Meanwhile, pre-heat the oven to 160 degrees or to medium heat
combine 3. In a bowl whisk the eggs and vanilla then mix with the butter and sugar mix-
3. Cream together butter and sugar till the sugar is dissolved (use butter at room tem- ture
perature) 4. In another bowl, sift the flour and cocoa powder together and sprinkle in the
4. Mash the bananas with a fork in a large glass bowl. Once the bananas are gooey, add pinch of salt
yoghurt, butter, sugar and eggs to the bowl (See Note) 5. Then mix the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder and salt) to the eggs
5. Mix in the dry ingredients (flour, salt, baking soda) by gently folding the mixture mixture. Now add in the chopped almonds (remember to save some for the frosting) and
6. Add in the nuts and sultanas, raisins or dates and fold gently combine
7. Pour the batter into a greased, medium sized cake pan and top with more nuts before 6. Using a spatula, transfer the brownie batter into a bread tin or a small baking
placing into a pre-heated oven tray (lined with baking paper/greased with butter) and bake for 20-30 minutes (or check
8. Bake at 160 degrees or medium heat for 30 minutes or till the skewer comes out with a toothpick and if it comes out clean, it’s done)
clean and the cake is golden in colour. 7. While the brownies are baking, prepare the frosting: Place the butter, cocoa
powder, icing sugar, vanilla and milk into a small bowl and mix till creamy (add more
Note: If you don’t want to use yoghurt, you can also use melted white chocolate (3/4 Pkt) and milk to soften if needed). Set this aside
1/4 cup milk. Ensure that you minimise the use of sugar. 8. Once the brownie is done, carefully transfer to a clean cutting board and while
still hot, spread the frosting and chopped almonds on top
9. Then cut into nice squares and serve with tea or coffee.

Coconut Cookies Tropical Coconut Cream Scones

INGREDIENTS
INGREDIENTS
• 1 Cup Flour
• 1/4 Cup Self Raising Flour • 2 Cups Flour
• 1/2 Cup Desiccated Coconut • 1/4 Cup Carbonated Lemonade (Sprite)
• 1/8 Cup Sugar • 1/2 Cup Heavy Coconut Cream
• 100g Butter [Alternatives: 1/2 Cup Cream Or 1/2 Cup Milk + 1/8 Cup Butter]
• 1 Egg, Beaten • Walnuts (Any Nuts) – To Garnish (Optional)
• 1 Tsp Vanilla
DIRECTIONS
DIRECTIONS
1. In a deep bowl, sift the flour and set aside
1. Pre-heat oven to 160 degrees or medium heat 2. Add the coconut cream or heavy cream to the flour (or melt the butter
2. Meanwhile, bring the butter* to room temperature. Then mix sugar with it and mix into the milk (at room temperature)) in small amounts and combine to
till it becomes semi dissolved make dough
3. Next, whisk the egg with the vanilla and pour into the butter and sugar mix- 3. Now add the lemonade – also in small increments making sure too
ture much is not added
4. Once combined, add flour and desiccated coconut (self raising and normal 4. Make a dough which should be somewhat gooey and sticky to the
flours sifted together) touch – if the dough is too stiff, add more lemonade
5. Make the mixture into dough by using your hands to properly bind all the 5. Dust your hands with some flour and pull the dough apart into about 6
ingredients portions and roll into balls
6. Prepare a cookie sheet or flat tray and measure out a tablespoon of cookie 6. Pre-heat the oven to medium heat – or 160 degrees and place the balls
dough. Then place it on the sheet or tray and press down lightly. Do this till for the rest onto a slightly flour dusted baking pan, about 3cms apart on all sides so that they
of the dough and keep the units at least 3 cm apart as they will double in size have enough space to expand
7. Bake for 15 – 30 minutes, let them cool then remove and store in air tight 7. Bake the scones for 15-20 minutes or till they are slightly brown in
containers. colour. Then cool and enjoy with some whipped cream and raspberry jam. I like
to sprinkle some walnuts on top to give it some texture. You can also have them
*If the mixture is crumbly, add more butter. with a light spread of butter and hot tea.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 MARCH, 2018 EASTER SPECIAL 11
Easter – the resurrection of Jesus Christ
Easter, a Christian holiday, celebrates the resurrection of Je-
sus Christ which occurred on the third day after he was cruci-
fied on the cross. 40 days prior to Easter, Christians follow
Lent, which is supposed to be 40 days of prayer, penance and
fasting. The last week of this 40 day period is called Holy
Week. During Holy Week, Holy Thursday commemorates
when the Last Supper was held. Good Friday commemorates
Jesus’ crucifixion and death. Following Easter is a 50 day pe-
riod called Eastertide which ends on Pentecost Sunday.

Interesting Easter Facts:

Easter is not fixed to a specific day. It usually falls between
March 22nd and April 25th. It is supposed to fall on the first
Sunday after the full moon following March 21st.
The man who betrayed Jesus Christ, which led to his cruci-
fiction was Judas Iscariot.
When Jesus was resurrected it proved he was the Son of God.
Jesus’ death was symbolic in that he was dying for our sins.
The wine during communion symbolizes Jesus’ blood. The
bread during communion symbolizes His body.
Decorating Easter eggs was traditionally a symbol of the
empty tomb. This tradition is called Pysanka. Christians be-
lieve that Easter eggs symbolize new life and resurrection.
The first Easter baskets looked like bird’s nests.
Eggs were a symbol of life to Ancient Egyptians, Persians,
Romans and Greeks. The custom of giving eggs at Easter orig-
inated with them.
During Lent, people did not wear fine angels; instead they
wore Easter bonnets. Members of the Victory Christian Church in Lautoka during the Easter celebration few years ago. Photo: Supplied
The White House holds an annual Easter egg hunt on the
front lawn. This tradition began in 1878 with President Ru-
therford B. Hayes. Over 16 million jelly beans are eaten on Easter in the United (Easter Lilies). The petals face downward, which is in honor
In 1981 the White House began to use wooden Easter eggs States. This is enough jelly beans to circle the earth three times. of Jesus. Wearing new clothing on Easter is said to bring good
so they could be kept as keepsakes. The biggest chocolate bunny was created by an artist in luck for the coming year.
Easter is the oldest Christian holiday. South Africa in 2010. It weighed 3 tons and stood at 12 feet. Some European countries follow a tradition of burning East-
Approximately $14.7 billion is spent every Easter, with an One of the biggest Easter eggs weighed 7,200kg and was er fires, which represent fertility.
average of $130 for each home. 120 million pounds of candy 10.39 meters tall. It was on display in an Italian mall in 2011. Members of the Greek Orthodox faith often paint their Easter
are sold at Easter. Approximately 75% of people will eat the An Easter egg was created called The Real Easter Egg. This eggs red, which symbolizes Jesus’ blood and his victory over
chocolate bunny’s ears first. Easter egg explains the Christian meaning of Easter. In 2012, death. The color red is symbolic of the renewal of life, and as
Approximately 90 million chocolate bunnies are sold at 90,000 Real Easter Eggs were sold to churches. such, Jesus’ resurrection.
Easter. Lilies are a flower often associated with Easter

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

12 SI LAUTOKA IWD ORATORY SUPPLEMENT MARCH, 2018

Urban Category Winning Oratory by Ulamila McGoon of Lautoka Ahmadiyya Primary

Information, Empowerment, Edu-
cation, Transition, Advancement,
Qualification, Achievement
Yet Lack of judgment?
The world has evolved so much
Every year on March 8 we cel-
ebrate women
I am glad to be a young woman
Every year we carry out marches
and rallies
Every year we make promises
Yet what is happening?
Have all the words we have spo-
ken; all the initiatives taken made no
difference at all?
The chief guest, Invited guests,
panel of judges, members of Soro-
ptomist International Lautoka, Re-
spected teachers, fellow orators and
dear friends. A very good morning
to you all.
Today I would like to share my
views on this year’s International
Women’s day theme, “Press for
Progress - Help accelerate Gender
Parity”
Over the last few years gender
parity is a word we have heard again
and again. But why is the cry for
parity still so strong and why should
we take a stand again?
The world has celebrated interna-
tional women with the initial aim to
achieve gender equality for women
for over a century however this has
still not been realized fully.
There are scenarios where there is
gender pay gap, sexual harassment,
crimes against women, lack of rep-
resentation of women in business
still exist.
This is all because we have not
changed our mindset yet.
I once read about the actress,
Gillian(aka scully) from the famous
tv series X files who complained
that she was not paid as much as her
co - star, David (aka Mulder) and
she had to fight to get the pay.
Girls in many countries still are
not educated and stay home when
stricken by poverty or war. There
are also countries such as India
where women fear their safety due
to crimes such as rape, acid attacks
and many more.
Let us look at our own country,
Fiji. Pacific Women Shaping Pacif-
ic Development plan for 2106/2017
has stated and I quote, “Women in
Fiji, as elsewhere are not a homog-
enous group. Fiji is a multi-cultural
society with varying traditions and
values within ethnic groups. Strong
patriarchal practices dominate deci-
sion making structures with little to
no participation of women in deci-
sion making and formal planning.
High rates of violence against wom-
en continue to persist.”unquote
Moreover, due to “this” think-
ing, women/ wives/daughters are
not given much freedom to work
or make decisions. In many cases,
women become the subject of abuse
if they decide to make own deci-
sions. (TSK TSK)
Aleta Miller from UN women Fiji
has said in an article and I quote,
“Only 40 per cent of Fijian women
have formal work, compared to 80
per cent of men, ”Unquote and this
is really sad. If a man can make it, so
a woman can make it too. Why does
it have to be 80 and 40.Why can’t it
be 80:80 or even 80:90
“Despite progress, men still
largely dominate the political arena.
When women do participate in poli-
tics, they tend to do so in small num-
bers” as outlined in Pacific Women
Shaping Pacific Development plan
But when will everything change
and how can we lend a hand? Let me
ask you a question, how can we lend
a hand?
Gloria Steinem once explained,
and I quote, “The story of women’s
struggle for equality belongs to no
single feminist nor any one organi-
zation but to the collective efforts of
all who care about human rights.”
Unquote
We as women must stand together
to fight for our rights and encourage
and celebrate the women who have
made a difference in our country. It
is great that Fiji Women in Business
awards is held every year where
women in business are awarded.
We must have more of this kind of
awards in Fiji.
Moreover, we must educate and
involve the male population. Edu-
cation creates awareness and it can
also enable men to change their
thinking. With men advocating for
women’s rights and with a better un-
derstanding of violence can lessen
gender stereotypes.
In addition to this, we must not
give up. We must try to lift ourselves
up and help other women. Educated
women must try to help those who
are uneducated or less fortunate by
providing advice or support.
Parents and teachers can encour-
age daughters and girls to dream big
and that they can take up any jobs
such as military or even as a prime
minister when they grow up.If a
man can be a Prime Minister, we
as women can be a Prime Minister
too. Who knows we can make the
government even better. If I was the
Prime Minister I would put my foot
down for women’s rights and educa-
tion.
A small step can go a long way.
When we make small changes, we
are lending a hand to make a bet-
ter tomorrow and hopefully we will
have a better tomorrow for our girls
and women.
I leave you with words from Hel-
en Reddy’s song - I Am Woman
“I am woman, hear me roar
In numbers too big to ignore
And I know too much to go back
and pretend
‘Cause I’ve heard it all before
And I’ve been down there on the
floor
No one’s ever gonna keep me
down again” unquote

Rural primary category Winners of the IWD oratory Urban primary category winners of the IWD oratory High school category winners of the IWD oratory

Chief Guest Minister for Health Rosy Akbar being garlanded Rural primary category judges of the SI Ltka organised oratory Urban primary category judges during the oratory

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 MARCH, 2018 SI LAUTOKA IWD ORATORY SUPPLEMENT 13

Women empowerment is a challenge

Zareena Bi

The challenge of women empowerment

should be countered within our own homes by
giving the same priority to both the male and
female child.
These were the sentiments echoed by the
chief guest Minister for Health Rosy Akbar
during the International Women’s Day Ora-
tory competition for the primary and high
schools in Lautoka organized by the Soropti-
mist International Lautoka Club on March 10
at the Sugar Cane Growers Hall.
Speaking to the students, teachers and par-
ents of the 38 schools that took part in the con-
test on the theme ‘Press for Parity’ the Minis-
ter advised that parity is basically about trying
to strike a balance between males and females
and living in harmony.
She added that oratory is a very good and a
very positive platform for advocating women
empowerment and it is everybody’s responsi-
bility to ensure that we push for more gender
equality in our country.
“I note that this is the fifth year for the ora-
tory and the number of male orators has in-
creased from four in the first year to ten this
year which is very encouraging.
“In future we should encourage and target
up to fifty percent male participation so more Minister for Health and Medical Services Rosy Akbar with the three category oratory winners of the SI Lautoka organised IWD oratory
males speak up and say this is how I want competition with their spoils, sponsors and SI Lautoka members. Photos: Sanjay Goundar
my sister to be treated, this is how I want my
mother to be treated, this is how I want all the
women in this country to be treated.
“ Government has enacted laws to ensure
that women are more protected than ever be-
fore with the Crimes Act, Domestic Violence
Act and also gender sensitivity is now in-
cluded in the police force to ensure that when
a women goes to report a domestic violence
case she is treated sensitively.”
Meanwhile the major sponsor for the orato-
ry Oceania Water Group Fiji has promised to
continue sponsoring SI Lautoka’s annual IWD
oratory in future and according to Oceania
Water Manager Abdul Kadar three primary
and three high school students will be assisted
on an annual basis with their total school es-
sentials for the year which will be facilitated
by SI Lautoka.

Oratory winners: High School Category;

winner - Neha Anjli Prasad (Pundit Vishnu
Deo College), 1st runner up – Selai Lewagava
Tadrau (Jasper High), 2nd runner up - Matilda
Simmons (Andhra College).
Urban Primary category Winner- Ulamila
Mcgoon (Lautoka Ahmadiyya), 1st runner up
– Waaizh Azad (Lautoka Muslim), 2nd runner
up – Prabhashni Goundar (Lautoka Method-
ist).
Rural Primary Category- Winner – Shabrina
Aziz (Lovu Sangam), 1st runner up – Tania
Chetty (Lomolomo Public), 2nd runner up –
Nitisha Nandika Prasad (Gurukul Primary).
Health Minister Rosy Akbar with the IWD Oratory Sponsors – Oce- SI Lautoka Immediate Past President Ranjini Mudaliar presenting one
ania Water Group Manager Abdul Kadar and Mrs Jasmine Kadar of the audience quiz prizes to Akashna Sharma of Lovu Sangam

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
14 SPORTS

O-League quarterfinals set

MARCH, 2018

Source: OFC
The knockout stage of the OFC
Champions League 2018 promises
four enticing encounters in April.
OFC Competitions Director Chris
Kemp said following four entertain-
ing groups, the knockout stage of
the OFC Champions League 2018 is
also set to delight fans.
“We experienced excellent en-
gagement from fans who followed
the Group Stage and we’re delight-
ed that so many have expressed their
excitement ahead of the Knockout
Stage,” Kemp said.
“The draw has set up some really
exciting encounters with most of the
quarter final teams set to meet for
the first time in the competition.
“We look forward to the OFC
Champions League getting back
underway, after the international
break, in early April.”
Team Wellington, who topped
Group D in Honiara at the weekend
will welcome Papua New Guinea
club champions and Group A run-
ners-up Lae City Dwellers to Wel-
lington.
Solomon Warriors, runners-up
in Group B, will again find them-
selves on the road as they also travel
to New Zealand to play reigning
champions Auckland City FC at Ki-
witea Street.
AS Dragon, who won their group
on home soil, will once again enjoy
home advantage when they take on
Fiji club Lautoka FC who finished
behind Auckland City in Group C.
Finally, Group A winners and the
only competition debutants still in
action, Nalkutan FC will welcome
Group D runners-up Marist FC who
will be on the road for the first time
after hosting their group at Lawson
Tama.
Adding intrigue to this year’s
competition for fans is the semi-
final and final.
After two years of the same four
semi-finalists and three editions of
Auckland City and Team Wellington
in the final, the draw and the earlier
elimination of AS Magenta of New
Caledonia, ensured this won’t be the
case in 2018.
One of the semi-finals will fea-
ture the winners of quarter finals
one and two – the two which feature
the New Zealand teams. Meaning
should they beat their respective op-
ponents in the one-off quarter final
matches at home, they would then
meet in the semi-finals.
The other semi-final will feature
the winners of the match between
Dragon and Lautoka, and Nalkutan
and Marist.
Finally, the winner of Semi-Final
2 will get the first leg of the final
played at home, before travelling Lautoka and Fiji’s Zibraaz Sahib defends against Philippines during the
to their opponent’s ground for the international friendly in Manila. The midfielder is set to miss Lautoka’s
second leg which will take place in O-League quarterfinal match against AS Dragons in Tahiti. Photo: Philip-
May. pines Football Media.

Ravai
Source: OFC
Often it is the people behind the scenes which
make or break the success of an event or pro-
“This is my second prestigious award I would passionate for every sport and love to play differ-
say, because I won the silver medal in 2017 when ent games.”
I participated at the Fiji Games.” The former Fiji international was grateful to
Ravai said this was the first time she had won Fiji FA for nominating her for her services to the

does Fiji
gramme and in Fiji the hard work of Kinismere
Ravai has been recognised with the 2017 Fiji
Sports Volunteer Award.
Ravai’s outstanding commitment to the Fiji
something at the Fiji Sports Awards, and had OFC Just Play programme where she has been a
previously been nominated by Fiji FA for FASA- volunteer since 2009.
NOCs Voices of the Athletes Champion in 2012. “I have been volunteering for Fiji FA for the
The 36 -year -old passionate sportswoman, who past eight years, I first started in 2009 when the

FA proud
Football Association and the OFC Just Play pro-
gramme was recognised at last month’s awards
ceremony and said it was a proud day for her and
her family.
“I am very happy and proud that I have been
honoured for my hard work,”Ravai said.
hails from Soa, Nakorotubu, has volunteered and
played many different sporting arenas.
“I first started playing football in 1998 and then
I played softball, shooting, hockey and rugby,”
Ravai said.
“I always try different sports because I am very
OFC Just Play programme was first introduced
in Fiji.
“It is challenging as we take our time but it is
my passion for football that I never gave up as a
volunteer and today I have achieved great things
thanks to all the hard work I did.”

LGC tees-off 2018 season

LGC chairman of trustees Raymond Singh (left), junior golfer Steven Leger and Junior Draun-
iniu during the 18-holes 2-men Ambrose Event sponsored by Zee Clean Chemicals Limited on
March 17. Photo: Maika Kasami.
Maika Kasami finished third with a score of 62.5 while Bill
Gardiner and Prem Chand ended in fourth spot
The Lautoka Golf Club has set the ball roll- (63).
ing with the start of its new 2018 competition Singh acknowledged Zee Clean Chemicals for
season. sponsoring the club’s first event of the year.
The club hosted the 18-holes 2-men Ambro- He also commended the hard work done be-
se Event sponsored by Zee Clean Chemicals hind the scene to have the course ready for the
Limited on March 17 which attracted 30-golf- new season.
ers. “I must commend all those members who have
And the pair from Penang Golf Club, Asish gone through tough times to make the course
Kumar and Bhupesh Dass, were the first to in playing condition after the off-season. I
stake their claim at LGC walking away with haven’t seen the course in a better shape espe-
the main prizes. cially our greens,” Singh said.
The duo carded a solid net 58 to grab top hon- He added the two men Ambrose is a very pop-
ours. ular event that will be played over the next few
LGC chairman of trustees Raymond Singh and weeks to fine tune the golfers in readiness for
Junior Drauniniu settled for second spot on 61, the official season opening in April.
Abdul Jalal and Club Captain James Krishna

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 MARCH, 2018
How are FIFA World Cup favourites faring?
Michael Hincks (skys-
ports)
The World Cup is under
three months away, but how
are the favourites faring go-
ing into March’s international
friendlies. Michael Hincks
takes us through the top five
teams.
World Cup Group F: Ger-
many, Mexico, Sweden,
South Korea
ians since demolishing them
7-1 on home soil in the 2014
World Cup semi-final, this
is one friendly fixture with
added spice. Germany’s Twit-
ter account were all too keen
to post a tongue-in-cheek
reminder some two weeks
ago...
Germany wobbled after
World Cup glory four years
ago, losing to Argentina,
USA, France, England and
SPORTS 15
against England and France.
Heading to Russia, Low
will boast a squad of expe-
rienced World Cup winners
with a dash of youthful in-
put. Leading in that regard
is 22-year-old Timo Werner,
who made his debut against
England one year ago, and
went on to score seven goals
in 10 appearances in 2017.
Bayern Munich and Liver-
pool continue to be linked
with the RB Leipzig forward,
but his first focus this sum-
mer will be to fire Germany
to a record-equalling fifth
World Cup.

World Cup Group E: Bra-

Germany
Joachim Low’s side are fa-
vourites to defend their crown
in Russia. Having breezed
through qualification - win-
ning all 10 games - the Ger-
man’s are among a number
of nations who are seeking
sterner tests in the upcoming
international break.
Currently top of the FIFA
world rankings, Germany
hosted Spain (No 6) and
Brazil (No 2) in Dusseldorf
and Berlin respectively, and
having not met the Brazil-
Slovakia in friendlies, also
falling to Poland and the
Republic of Ireland in Euro
2016 qualifying. They went
on to lose 2-0 to France in
the semi-finals of that tour-
nament, leaving doubts over
a successful World Cup de-
fence.
However, since falling to
that Antoine Griezmann dou-
ble in Marseille, Germany
have bounced back to go on a
21-game unbeaten run, most
recently drawing friendlies
zil, Costa Rica, Serbia, Swit- Lionel Messi will play a pivotal role for Argentina during this yea;s FIFA World Cup in
zerland Russia.
Brazil
Questions will continue cern for Lopetegui up front.
Much like Germany, Brazil
13 of 17 games, losing just over what exactly is France’s Alvaro Morata has faded
impressed in qualifying for
once. The upcoming friendly strongest XI. The presence of throughout the season at
the World Cup, losing just
against Germany will be an Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Chelsea, while the goals have
once en route to topping the
indication of how far they Mbappe, Olivier Giroud, Al- dried up for Valencia striker
CONMEBOL table by 10
have come under his stew- exandre Lacazette, Anthony Rodrigo in 2018 - though
points. However, lacklustre
ardship, though it will be the Martial, Ousmane Dembele, four goals in his last three La
displays at the 2015 and 2016
World Cup where the jury is Kingsley Coman, Florian Liga games could be a sign of
Copa Americas - beaten by
truly out. Thauvin and Nabil Fekir (the a timely return to form.
Paraguay on penalties in the
Meanwhile, uncertainty list could go on) highlights Positive performances
quarter-final before exiting
over the fitness of talisman the attacking headache alone against Germany and Argen-
the group stages a year later
Neymar will likely stretch that confronts Deschamps. tina could quell these attack-
- will have their fervid fol-
into June. After the PSG But for many, it’s a pleasant ing fears, while one Diego
lowers fearing similar disap-
striker’s operation on a frac- conundrum, and given that Costa will look to have a say
pointment in Russia.
tured metatarsal was deemed the team have embarked on upon his return to first-team
Under coach Tite, however,
a success in early March, the a seven-game unbeaten run, action with Atletico Madrid.
there is a reason to be cau-
initial forecast of a three- there’s a sense that a cohesive With six goals in 14 games
tiously optimistic. Since the
month spell on the sidelines France side have the ability to date, the ex-Chelsea striker
56-year-old took charge in
would see him return just in to see off every challenge in could well be the answer.
June 2016, they have won
time. Any potential absen- Russia. World Cup Group D:

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. France and Portugal in action in an earlier meeting.

would see the odds somewhat
lengthen.
World Cup Group C:
France, Australia, Denmark,
Peru
France
With a squad the envy
of nations the world over,
France could field two dif-
ferent starting XIs capable of
World Cup success. Howev-
er, this strength in depth has
somewhat muddled Didier
Deschamps’ thoughts in re-
cent years, and it has conse-
quently produced some star-
tling results.
Draws against Belarus and
Luxembourg - plus defeat to
Sweden - meant World Cup
qualification was only con-
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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
World Cup Group B: Spain,
Iran, Morocco, Portugal
Spain
The 2010 world cham-
pions Spain have gone 16
games unbeaten under Julen
Lopetegui since their Euro
2016 exit to Italy. Spain even
took four points from the
Italians in their two heavy-
weight meetings during the
World Cup Qualifiers, and a
friendly victory over France
last year outlined their intent
on reclaiming the crown this
summer.
The familiar faces of
Gerard Pique, Sergio Ramos
and Jordi Alba allow Spain
some consistency in defence,
while Andres Iniesta and
Sergio Busquets remain the
midfield maestros of choice.
However, there will be con-
Argentina, Croatia, Ice-
land, Nigeria
Argentina
After scraping through
qualifying, Argentina have
emerged as fifth-favourites
for the World Cup. There’s
one reason for that - Lionel
Messi.
The little magician secured
Argentina’s spot in Rus-
sia with a hat-trick against
Ecuador, hauling his nation
from the brink of humilia-
tion to a third-placed finish
in the South American stand-
ings. As Chelsea learned to
their peril in the Champions
League, Messi is capable of
single-handedly deciding
games, and it is this lethal
quality which keeps them in
contention.
 16 SPORTS MARCH, 2018

Raiwalui is first recipient of PGA golf scholarship

Maika Kasami
Professional Golf Association (PGA) Aus-
tralia has formed a worthy partnership with
Fiji National University that will greatly as-
sist our students in enhancing knowledge on
events and marketing.
For the past three years students from the
university have been engaged as volunteers
during the annual Fiji International at Nat-
adola Golf Course.
Campus Co-ordinator & Head of School,
School of Hospitality & Tourism Fiji Nation-
al University Nadi Campus Eric Jioje said
they were fortunate to be part of such a big
event like the Fiji International.
“When PGA Australia first came requesting
our students for this big international meet we
took the opportunity with both hands know-
ing it is a big event that is marketed world-
wide.
“So this relates with our programmes or
course component that is called events and
marketing, and I thought this would be an op-
portune time to give our students a firsthand
experience on how international events are
organised,” Jioje said.
He said Tourism is the major contributor to
the Fiji economy and Sports tourism is going
to play a key role in the near future.
“So I ‘m glad that the School of Hospitality
with FNU has joined hands with one of the
renowned sports in the world golf, so on that
note I would like to thank PGA Golf Interna-
tional Australia for recognising our students
and not only acknowledging our students but
giving our students some sort of incentives to
participate in world tournaments.”
PGA Australia executive Gavin Kirkman
congratulated all the students who have con-
tributed as volunteers for the last three years
at the Fiji International.
Kirkman said the Fiji International is now
recognised as a global event.
“The Fiji International, presented by Fiji
Airways, is televised 20 hours globally for
that one week and they are not only televising
what’s happening at Natadola Golf Course
but also televising the experiences that you
can have here in your beautiful country Fiji
and that will come down to the students and
the people working in hospitality and tourism.
“Today I am very proud and I would like to
announce our first scholarship award winner
for 2017, Apisalome Raiwalui. He gets $5000
in scholarship, it is just to encourage the stu-
dents to take up the programme that will take
them to the next level. Several students are
involved as volunteers in team events every
year but this year we wanted to recognise a
particular student. The selection process was
done through the PGA management and the
university so the team that was working on the
ground did some assessment and discussed it
with the University,” Kirkman added.
Meanwhile, Raiwalui who hails from Na-
sauvuki, Moturiki, Lomaiviti said he was
shocked with the news because he had no
knowledge about the game of golf.
“I was shocked at first because I didn’t
know they would give such an award like
this. It was a voluntary act and I didn’t expect
anything afterwards so I’m very excited and
emotional at the same time. It was a great ex-
perience because I didn’t know anything at all
about golf. When I heard birdies and eagles,
I didn’t know what to say because I didn’t
know anything. But I tried to do my part, to
be the best volunteer worker,” said the former
Ratu Kadavulevu School student.

Great exposure for players: Gamel

Maika Kasami
Despite losing both their games on tour, Voda-
fone Fiji soccer coach Christophe Gamel is
pleased how his players responded in Manila.
The national soccer team ended its Philippines
tour with their second loss going down to a pro-
fessional club Kaya FC 2-3.
The side had begun with their first ever friend-
ly international against the Philippines also los-
ing by the same score-line. Down 0-3, the side
was inspired by the introduction of Roy Krishna
after the forty minute mark and this saw the side
score two goals among several missed opportu-
nities to fall short.
ton Phoenix and was not part of the Kaya FC
loss.
Upon arrival with the team, Gamel said the
two matches were played in high intensity.
“I am happy with how the young players per-
formed on tour. Sometimes we are happy even
when we lose,” he said.
“For the second game a lot of my youth players
took the field and the positive sign was that we
still managed to score goals in both the matches.
“This tour was all about playing a quality
team. The youth players in the team need this
sort of experience to prepare them for the future.
I must say that the players responded well. But The Vodafone Fiji soccer team upon arrival back from their Philippines two-match tour at
overall our youth is still below my expectation.” Nadi International Airport. Photo: Anushil Kumar/Fiji FA Media.

Knights in
Krishna had to return to join his club Welling-

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Maika Kasami

South Seas Club based Knights Snooker team have made a strong start in the
Phil’s Autoport sponsored Northwest Snooker League.
The Knights recorded two impressive wins to lead the league after two rounds.
Coach/player Nitesh Chand said they defeated Tavua Club 6-1 in Week 1 and
then beat one of the favourites Ba Central 5-2 in Week 2.
The Knights team members include Roneel Swamy who is the captain, Hum-
ayun Khan, Azlumar Khan, Zaved, Seta, Ali Boy and Ravnil Swamy.
“It’s a good start that we’ve made and we want to maintain it,” said Chand.
“Our first two wins was a good one. A 5-2 win over Tavua and then the 4-0 win
over Ba.
“Against Ba Central we were 4-0 up in the best of 7 and decided to give chance
to our young players. They did well in the process and we came out 5-2 winners.”
Wishing all our Valued Customers & Chand said the year looks promising for them and they want to maintain their
Friends A Blessed and current form.
Joyful Easter Holidays The Knights will be on a bye in Round 3 of matches but will be back in action
in Round 4.
“We are on a bye in the next round so there might be some changes in the stand-
ings. In the meantime the players will be occupied in the regular ladder matches
in which the players will try to prove themselves and it will be a way to blend
a winning team for us. We want to keep the rhythm going when we feature in
Round 4,” Chand added.
Simla Dragons (played one), Lautoka Shooters (played one), Ba Central (2)
and Tavua Club (2) have recorded a win each while Olosara and Nadi Club have
lost both their matches.
Meanwhile, Chand thanked league sponsor Phil’s Autoport for their continued
support towards the Northwest Snooker League as the main sponsor and South
Seas Club vice-president Davendra Prasad for his support.
P. O Box 584 , Lautoka Fiji Mob: 9921219 / 9993731 NWSL standings: South Seas Knights- 6-points, Simla Dragons- 3, Lautoka
Email: karunagp@connect.com.fj / info@nchrentals.com Shooters- 3, Ba Central- 3, Tavua Club- 3, Olosara-0, Nadi Club-0.
Web: www.nchrentals.com
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 MARCH, 2018 SPORTS 17

Fiji falls short in Manila

Vodafone Fiji’s Epeli Leiroti defends against the Philippines national team during their first ever friendly international in Manila. Photo: Philippines Football Media.

Maika Kasami
The Vodafone Fiji soccer team fell short of their target go-
ing down 2-3 to the Philippines national team in the first ever
international friendly between the two nations on March 22 at
Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Manila.
Epeli Loaniceva began the match ahead of the seasonal stop-
per Simione Tamanisau in goal and got his first taste of inter-
national football.
The second choice Rewa goalkeeper could have done bet-
ter in conceding the two goals in the second half as they were
scored from outside the box.
But otherwise, he stood his ground well under the sticks and
took advantage of his lanky frame.
National coach Christophe Gamel had predicted a tough out-
ing for his side beforehand and he was looking forward to test
his side against the fast Philippines.
The French man started with wonder boy Roy Krishna on
the bench and also policeman Tamanisau who are the two most
senior members in the team.
It is understood both players had spent less time with the
team hence not being named in the run on team.
Krishna, the Wellington Phoenix striker, made an entry after
the forty minute mark and immediately made his presence felt
with some enterprising runs inside the box.
The Siberia, Labasa lad reduced the deficit to 2-3 from the
penalty spot after he broke clear and was brought down in the
penalty box.
Earlier on, Nadi defender Ame Votoniu had pulled one back
for the Fijians after receiving a well calculated pass from
Krishna inside the box to side foot home.
The Philippines sustained immense pressure during the lat-
ter stages of the game as Fiji tried all possibilities to find the
equaliser but the Azkals defense stood firm to the final whistle
handing them the victory.
Fiji later played professional club outfit Kaya FC in their
final match on tour before returning home.

RWC 7s match ball launched Canada to defend

Singapore 7s title
Source: worldrugby

Performance and innovation is at the

heart of the official match ball for Rugby
World Cup Sevens 2018 in San Fran-
cisco, launched by Gilbert and World
Rugby.
The world’s top men’s and women’s
sevens teams will benefit from the most
technologically-advanced sevens ball
on the planet, when they compete to
be crowned world champions on 20-22
July.
Developed exclusively for the high-
octane, skills showcase that is sevens,
the Gilbert Synergie XV-6, is the only
sevens-specific match ball on the mar-
ket, featuring the patented Synergie
XV-6 grip that offers an enhanced grip
ideally suited to the fast-paced nature
and handling of rugby sevens.
The match ball and the official replica
ball features the distinctive tournament
look and feel within a striking design
that showcases the iconic Golden Gate
Bridge and a star visual that represents
the gathering of the world’s top players
in the ‘golden city’.
Richard Gray, Sales and Marketing
Director, Gilbert Rugby, said: “For many
years Gilbert have supported the growth
of the game in the US and, as rugby
grows in popularity from the east to west
coast, we are delighted to continue the
The 2018 Rugby World Cup 7s match ball that will be used in San Francisco.
journey with our American friends.
The hosting of Rugby World Cup Sev-
ens 2018 in San Francisco is a major step
forward for the game in the US and we
are proud to have been selected as the
official ball supplier.”
World Rugby Chairman Bill Beau-
mont added: “We are delighted to be
partnering with Gilbert for Rugby World
Cup Sevens 2018 in San Francisco. Their
passion for innovation and performance
as a field leader is perfectly suited to a
tournament that will drive performance
and fan experience innovation. The ball
looks great and will enable the world’s
top sevens players to showcase their tal-
ent on the biggest stage. I am sure it will
also prove popular with fans.”
Maika Kasami
Eleventh placed Canada will defend their Singa-
pore sevens title on 28-29 April.
Canada beat the United States 26-19 last year in
their maiden World Series Sevens title win.
Last year capped off a day of extraordinary up-
sets that culminated in the first ever all-American
final in the history of the HSBC sponsored series.
It all began in the quarterfinal stage where USA
upset Fiji 24-19, Australia edged South Africa 19-
17, and Canada outclassed New Zealand 26-14
while England pipped Kenya 13-12.
In 2016, the Fiji 7s team reached the final of
the Singapore 7s before being thumped by Kenya
30-5 in the final under the reigns of former coach
Benjamin Ryan.
This year’s Singapore sevens will be a one off
tournament before teams will gather for the Paris
and London 7s tournaments in May.
Meanwhile, teams will head to the second leg of
the Asian leg after competing in the Gold Coast
Commonwealth Games.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

18
Prasad, Chandra win Ambrose
Maika Kasami
Nadi Airport Golf Club president Munesh Prasad and
Ritesh Chandra walked away with the main prizes during
the Mahen Gopal and Anita Persaud of Canada-sponsored
18 holes 2 Men Stroke event at Lautoka Golf Club on
March 24.
The pair recorded a score of 12-under par to beat a field
of 30-starters.
Pastor Pritam Singh and Bharat Ram took out third
spot. LGC chairman of trustees Raymond Singh and sev-
en-time Ba Open champion Anuresh Chandra settled for
third spot, HFC bank Officer and LGC club Captain James
Krishna and the ever consistent Abdul Jalal finished on
second spot.
Singh said the course determined the scores on the day.
“Very good scores were recorded and it showed that the
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SPORTS MARCH, 2018
course is playing really well. Despite the slight drizzle we
managed to register 30-starters.
“We would like to thank Mahen Gopal and Anita Per-
saud for their continued assistance and sponsorship to-
wards Lautoka Golf Club,” Singh said.
It was noted that golfers from other clubs were present
during the first two tournaments of the year and also tak-
ing out the main prizes.
Results:
NTP 9th hole: Prem Chand, NTP 2nd hole- Anuresh
Chandra, Longest drive- Amitesh Chandra,
4th: Pastor Pritam Singh and Bharat Ram, 3rd – Raymond
Singh and Anuresh Chandra, 2nd _ James Krishna and
Abdul Jalal, professional category- Roneel Prakash, Am-
itesh Chandra, 1st- Munesh Prasad and Ritesh Chandra. The main winners with their prizes at the completion of the Mahen
Gopal and Anita Persaud of Canada-sponsored 18 holes 2 Men Stroke
event. Photos: Maika Kasami
Fluke
Young and promising talent Steven Leger (left) with Anuresh
Chandra. Photos: Maika Kasami.
Omron Range
MARECHAL
PDL SPRECHER
& SCHUH
ALLEN
BRADLEY
Raymond Singh (left) with New Zealand based golfer Anuresh
Chandra.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 MARCH, 2018 SPORTS 19

VPL to resume after Easter break

Maika Kasami

The Vodafone Premier League which was put on hold for a

month resumes after the Easter break.
Week 6 VPL leaders Jacks Nadi may have to wait a little
longer before it takes on Lautoka in their final first round fix-
ture.
The Jetsetters have been in action since Week 1 having
played on six occasions but only registering 11 points.
They won three, drew against Rewa and Suva while losing
to minnows Tavua in one of the major upsets so far in Week 4.
Lautoka will travel to Papeete, Tahiti to face AS Dragons
in the Oceania Champions League quarterfinal scheduled for
April 8.
The Blues, having played and won their three matches re-
main as the most consistent team in the league to sit with nine
points.
The Sugar City side are expected to resume their league
matches on the April 14-15 weekend which by then they would
have known their O-League fate and their VPL matches set up
accordingly.
Rewa must be feeling the pressure of being relegated to the
bottom of the league. The Marika Rodu coached side have lost
three and drawn one in their four appearances so far.
They will need to get out of the doldrums, and that means to
start winning matches.
It is often tough to be in their situation where even with an
abundance of talent still finding life difficult in office.
But the Reds are more than capable of bouncing back to win- The Labasa soccer team pictured before lifting the Pillay Garments Champion versus Champion series title. Striker Ratu
ning ways soon. Anare (front- 13) is currently the leading goal scorer in the VPL. Photo: Sanjay Goundar.
Tavua and Dreketi feel they have made their presence felt
but would admit they still need to put in a lot of effort against Week 4: Labasa 3-1 Dreketi, Lautoka 2-1 Suva, Tavua 1-0 Goal scorers:
the bigger teams (a possible draw or a win to be a bonus) if Nadi. 5-goals: Ratu Anare (Labasa).
they are to remain in the top flight. Week 5: Labasa 5-2 Tavua, Suva 0-0 Nadi, Dreketi 3-0 Ta- 3-goals: Napolioni Qasevakatini (Nadi), Ame Votoniu
vua, Rewa 0-1 Ba. (Nadi).
Results: Week 6: Labasa 2-1 Ba. 2goals: Christopher Wasasala (Lautoka/Labasa), Benjamin
Week 1: Rewa 2-3 Suva, Nadi 3-1 Ba, Lautoka 5-1 Tavua. Standings after Week 6: Nadi-11points, Lautoka-9, Laba- Totori (Lautoka), Antonio Tuivuna (Labasa), Edwin Sahayam
Week 2: Labasa v Dreketi (postponed), Rewa 0-0 Nadi sa-9, Suva -3, Ba- 3, Tavua-3, Dreketi-3, Rewa-1. (Labasa).
Week 3: Labasa 1-2 Nadi, Dreketi 1-6 Nadi, Rewa 0-2 Lau-
toka, Tavua v Suva (postponed).

Tough start for

Fiji in ‘Mecca’ of 7s
Maika Kasami

The Fiji Airways Fiji 7s team tackles the unpredictable Samoans in their Pool A opener at the
Cathay Pacific Hong Kong 7s this year.
The April 6 fixture will be played at 8-43pm at the So Kon Po Stadium (April 7, 12-43am- Fiji
Time) on Saturday.
The national side who will be gunning for their fourth consecutive Hong Kong title will then
face Russia at 5-54pm (Fiji Time) on the same day before a match up against old nemesis New
Zealand at 9-54pm in their final pool fixture.
Teams have been forced to juggle their squads for the HK meet this year due to the Common-
wealth Games which will be played the following weekend.
South Africa who are yet to taste victory in Hong Kong have revealed that they will be sending
a second string team to the first of the Asian leg.
Gareth Baber, the Fiji 7s team coach is also weighing his options and would certainly want to
send a well balanced team to both events.
The Welsh man is now well versed with the high expectation of the HK leg amongst the Fijian
fans as anything short of a win in Happy Valley is classed as failure.
There is a lot on the plate for the teams including the Rugby World Cup 7s in July in San Fran-
cisco so there is a lot to look forward to in the sevens arena this year.
Fiji heads to HK eight points shy of leaders the Blitzboks.
The Africans are on 109 points while Fiji is in second spot with 101.
NZ is third with 92, Australia- 84, Argentina- 77, USA- 73, England- 70, Kenya- 64, Samoa- 41
and France in tenth spot with 38 points.
Meanwhile, the Fijiana sevens team are lagging behind in tenth spot after two-tournaments
played in Dubai and Sydney.
This is a far cry from last season when they were placed amongst the top four after the two
rounds.
With three more tournaments to play in Kitakyushu, Langford and Paris, the Iliesa Tanivula
coached side sit with only five points after earning two and three points respectively during the
Dubai and Sydney legs.
In their current form, it will be difficult for them to emulate last season’s finish in which they
recorded 66-points after six-tourneys to finish in fourth spot.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

20 MARCH, 2018

The ‘Beast’ makes Commonwealth team

The Vodafone Fiji national soccer team before facing the Philippines national team in their first ever friendly international in Manila. Philippines won 3-2. Photo: Philippines Football Media
Story Page 17.
Maika Kasami by to cover for the rover and wing position. leave no stones unturned in our preparation to to stress that there is a huge expectation from
Coach Baber has indicated that while he has ensure that the boys are physically, mentally everyone. The expectation from the FRU
Stade Toulousain based utility Semi Kuna- named the Team, there are likely to be changes and spiritually ready for whatever challenge is President, the FRU Board of Directors, the
tani is the lone overseas player who has made but only subject to any injuries sustained dur- thrown at us” the Coach highlighted.” FRU Council and the Fiji Rugby supporters
the team for the Gold Coast Commonwealth ing the training preparations for the Common- He highlighted that everyone in the Team is that the team will create history and win the
Games. wealth Games. including the players understood the huge Gold medal at the Commonwealth Games.”
Kunatani who debuted for Fiji in 2013 Fiji will be making a return to the Common- challenge that is before them and has asked all The 2018 Commonwealth Games 7s will
Dubai Sevens tournament was included by wealth Men’s rugby sevens tournament after Fijians to continue to support the Team. “We be held from the 13th to the 15th of April and
Fiji Airways Men’s 7s Coach, Gareth Baber in a twelve year absence and Coach Baber high- thank you for your support and your prayers the Fiji Airways Men’s 7s team will face off
a strong team for the Australia event. lighted that they will go into the tournament in the past which we greatly value and look against Wales, Uganda and Sri Lanka.
The former Yamacia robust forward Ku- with only one aim and that is to win Fiji’s first forward to continued support and prayers as The selected players are:
natani had indicated his availability and was Rugby 7s Gold Medal. we venture for glory at the Commonwealth ” Semi Kunatani, Jasa Veremalua, Josua
released by his Club and has been included in “Competition for places in the team was in- FRU CEO Mr John O’Connor has chal- Vakurinabili, Paula Dranisinukula, Kalione
the Team, while the majority of the Team who tense as the players fought hard to prove their lenged the team to mirror and repeat the feat of Nasoko, Jerry Tuwai, Vatemo Ravouvou,
have been taking part in the HSBC Series and worth for a spot. In order to achieve our goal the 2016 Rio Olympics and be the first team to Amenoni Nasilasila, Sevuloni Mocenacagi,
recently won the Hamilton and Vancouver 7s which is to win the Gold Medal, I have had to bring home the Commonwealth Games Men’s Mesulame Kunavula, Eroni Sau, Alasio Na-
Tournament have been retained by Coach. select the best players to represent Fiji. We 7s Rugby Gold Medal and create history. duva, Samisoni Viriviri.
Baber has also named fellow Olympian expect competition to be tough at the Com- “I would like to congratulate all the play-
Samisoni Viriviri as the 13th player on stand- monwealth Games and will ensure that we ers that have been selected but I would like

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA