The Jet Volume 8 Number 7

Inside
TOP STORIES
OCTOBER/ NOVEMBER ISSUE 85
Denarau bridge to open

next month. Pg. 4
34 new recruits for NFA.

Pg. 7
Sweet Tweets.
Pg. 12
Tuelis Pageant Quest.

Pg. 5
Diwali Supplement.
Pg. 10
Inmates boost sugar production.Pg. 16
www.thejetnewspaper.com
50 CENTS
FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Festival of Lights
By LUKE NACEI
Happy Diwali! The joyful Festival of Lights is in full swing as
devotees celebrate the Hindu New
Year.
A riot of bright colours, festive
joy, people dressed as gods and
the faithful offering their prayers - it
can only be the beautiful festival of
Diwali.
The spectacular Festival of
Lights is celebrated around the
globe, as devotees rejoice in the
most well-known of the Hindu celebrations.
From Fiji to other countries in
the globe, devotees dressed up
and set off fireworks, danced, exchanged gifts and lit lamps as part
of the celebrations.
Young dancers entertain the
crowds during the Hindu festival of
Diwali. In some areas Hindus are
dressed as the gods, Lord Ganesha
and Goddess Lakshmi, and parade
through the streets during the Hindu festival.
Fiji has a vibrant multi-cultural
society and this is clearly reflected during Diwali where everyone
joins together in celebration.
The General Manger Westpac
Brett Hooker,believes diwali is the
most important festival in the Hindu calendar and falls on the darkest night of the year.
He said in this festival, light is
a metaphor for knowledge so by
decorating homes with lamps and
lights it symbolizes the destruction,
Families lighting up candles during Diwali. Photo: SAMUEL SHANKAR.

through knowledge, of all negative standing, ignorance can be disforces.
pelled and multi-cultural commuThe
five-day
celebration nities can live together.
earned its name Diwali because
Mr Hooker said: 2016 has been
Hindus light their homes and busi- a challenging year across the
nesses with small earthenware oil world; however we at Westpac
lamps called diyas - and the term have stayed focused on delivering
Diwali means rows of lighted great service and great outcomes
lamps, he said.
for our customers.
Fiji is a true example of how,
through knowledge and underHe wished all the families of
Fiji that will be part of this Years

Diwali celebration well.
Once again, Thank you all for
your valuable support and on behalf of the Management and Staff
of Westpac I wish you and your
families Happy Diwali or as
they say in Hindi Diwali Ki Shubh
Kamna
Nadi Town Council CEO Peter Dinning said: The Nadi Town
Council wishes you and your family good health, wealth and success
on Diwali festival.
On this auspicious Festival of
Lights, may the glow of Joy, Prosperity and Happiness illuminate
your Life and your Home.
Happy Diwali 2016 to the Nadi
Community, he said.
www.epapergallery.com/thejet
Fiji - the way the world should be

FROM THE DESK
Diwali, the Festival

of Lights
The festival spiritually signifies the victory of light over

darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and
hope over despair. Its celebration includes millions of lights
shining on housetops, outside doors and windows, around
temples and other buildings in the communities and countries where it is observed.
The festival preparations and rituals typically extend over
a five-day period, but the main festival night of Diwali coincides with the darkest, new moon night of the Hindu Lunisolar month Kartika in Bikram Sambat calendar.
Before Diwali night, people clean, renovate, and decorate their homes and offices
On Diwali night, Hindus dress up in new clothes or their
best outfit, light up diyas (lamps and candles) inside and
outside their home, participate in family puja (prayers) typically to Lakshmi the goddess of fertility and prosperity.
After puja, fireworks follow, then a family feast including
mithai (sweets), and an exchange of gifts between family
members and close friends. Deepawali also marks a major
shopping period in nations where it is celebrated.
The name of festive days as well as the rituals of Diwali
varies significantly among Hindus, based on the region of
India.
May the light that we celebrate at Diwali show us the way
and lead us together on the path of peace and social harmony
WISH U A VERY HAPPY DIWALI
LUKE NACEI
THE JET is Fijis first community newspaper published weekly by

YOURSPACE LIMITED from Nadi - the tourism capital of Fiji.
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: SAMUEL SHANKAR
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Being the hub of the Pacific, Fiji has everything that a spectacular tropical paradise has to offer - from private island resort accommodations, top class restaurants to white sandy beaches,
inbound tours, jet boat rides, hot air balloon rides, mountain trekking, inland tours, eco tourism,
sky diving, helicopter rides, cruise trips, scuba diving, massage and beauty parlours, vibrant
night life and a lot more than any other destination in the world offers
ON THE BRIGHT Side
UNITED DISCOUNT CHEMISTS

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The Nadi Town Council wishes you and your family good health, wealth and success on Diwali festival.
On this auspicious Festival of Lights, may the glow of Joy, Prosperity and Happiness illuminate your Life and your Home.
Happy Diwali 2016 to the Nadi Community!!
OFFICIALS TRAINED TO HELP

COMBAT CHILD LABOUR
A training course that will help eradicate issues of child
labour and ensure that it creates a future for work and a
future without child labour in Fiji was opened today by the
Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Hon. Jone Usamate.
Hon. Usamate while opening the Northern child labour
training stated that child labour is seen as a basic infringement of the rights of children since employment of young
children at a tender age deprives them of their childhood
and education.
It also has a major impact on the health and safety of our
children. Child labourers are susceptible to all the dangers
faced by adults when they are placed in the same situation,
Minister Usamate said.
The Compliance Unit within the Ministry is currently
conducting labour inspections and creating awareness to
employers and workers on the terms and conditions of employment and on child labour, Minister Usamate said.
From January 2016 to date a total of 3151 Labour Inspections have been conducted in Fiji to ensure greater compliance to the Employment Relations Promulgation 2007 and
the wages regulations.
From January to October this year, we have received
only 5 child labour cases which we have resolved through
the labour inspection process, he said.
The Minister also revealed that a total of 168 million children are engaged in child labour globally and out of these,
85 million are involved in worst forms of child labour from
the age group of 5 to 17 years.
Hazardous child labour is the largest category of child
labour and ILO estimated that worldwide around 22,000
children are killed at workplaces every year, said Usamate.

The Minister reaffirmed the Fijian Governments commitment to ensure that the best care and protection is provided
for our children and this is achieved through provisions of
proper educational and health facilities and a robust caring
parental system.
The inter-agency training on child labour withdrawal process was held in the Northern division for Labour Inspectorates and Officers of the Fiji Police Force.
Participants for the Child Labour training held today in the

Northern Division for Labour Inspectorates and Police Officers.
Photo: DEPTFO.
DEPTFO
supply, sanitation and hygiene facilities and

practices.
The rural electrification through solar initiative will directly benefit around 2400 people from remote households surveyed and
identified within the TC Winston-affected areas in Fijis sugarcane-belt, located between
Sigatoka and Rakiraki.
The EU Ambassador to Fiji and the Pacific, H.E. Andrew Jacobs said: The signing of this supply contract with CBS Power
Solutions, valued at FJ$ 1.9million, is a significant step towards providing TC Winston
affected households in the cane belt areas
with first time access to electricity. The EU is
very proud of this and is committed to helping Fijians fully recover from the devastation
caused by TC Winston.
Category five Winston is the strongest
tropical cyclone on record to make landfall

in the Southern Hemisphere, claiming 44
lives and inflicting devastating damage to
communities on many of Fijis islands, earlier this year.
Power generation across the country
was also greatly affected, with an estimated
loss of up to 80 percent experienced in a
number of provinces.
The solar kits are able to power eight
lights, small radio, flat screen TV and charge
a mobile phone. A small number of the systems being provided will have the capability
to power a water pump and an energy efficient freezer.
This is a positive step for Fijians on their
road to recovery from TC Winston and we
thank the EU for their support and partnership with SPC to enable this to happen, Pa-
cific Community Deputy Director-General,

Dr Audrey Aumua, said.
The installation of the solar systems is expected to be completed by mid to late 2017.
NADI
Town Council Bldg
Main Street Nadi
Phone: 6707504
Fax: 6707371
Bobby: 9926504
Warehouse/Office
Phone: 6283365
Fax6705471
Mobile: 8398023
Krishnil: 9481129
papersupplies@connect.com.fj
2
Nadi Town Councils Diwali Message
Solar initiative contributes to cyclone

The Pacific Community (SPC) and the European Union (EU) have commissioned the
installation of 400 solar photovoltaic home
systems to help affected communities in Fiji
recover from tropical cyclone Winston.
The FJ$10 million EU-funded Fiji Micro
Projects Programme (MPP) was redesigned
in May 2016 to provide medium to long
term response measures following a visit
to cyclone-devastated areas by the EU Ambassador to Fiji and the Pacific, H.E. Andrew
Jacobs, and the Pacific Community DirectorGeneral, Dr Colin Tukuitonga.
Rural electrification, specifically improved access to affordable electricity, and
increased income generating opportunities
is one of two key result areas of the project.
The second focus area involves better
access to safe and disaster-resilient water
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LOCAL NEWS
Denarau bridge to open next month
By LUKE NACEI
The multimillion dollar Denarau Bridge

is reaching its final construction stages and
schedule to open next month.
Fiji Roads Authority CEO John Hutchinson confirmed this to this newspaper.
The construction of Denarau Bridge
is scheduled for completion in November
2016, Mr Hutchinson said.
The company contracted to carry out
the works had now moved into utility service installation phase.
Installations of services conduits and
cables, concrete and excavation works,
Services includes Water Authority of Fiji,
Telecom Fiji Limited and Fiji Electrical Authority, he said.
The construction of the bridge is complete; however outstanding works include
the installation of cables, linking of new water and sewer pipes to the existing network
and asphalt sealing the road approaches to
the bridge.
In a statement issued by the UNISDR on

the International Day of Disaster Reduction
earlier this month, the UNs Secretary Generals Special Representative for Disaster
Risk Reduction, Mr. Robert Glasser, recognized Fiji as a one of five outstanding examples in efforts to reduce disaster mortality.
He said, Fiji is to be commended not
only for its efforts to reduce casualties
from Cyclone Winston but also its honest
appraisal of its own disaster preparedness
and identification of challenges that need
to be addressed to ensure even fewer lives
are lost in future disaster events.
The Sendai Champion receives its name
from the Sendai Framework which was
adopted by UN Member States last year to
reduce disaster losses.
Other Sendai Champions include Peru,
India, Nigeria, and Europe
Assistant Minister Joeli Cawaki with guests at the workshop. Photo: DEPTFO.
DEPTFO
Tuelis Pageant
Miss Nadi Grace Tueli will be advocating
on the topic Tourism in this years Telecom
Miss Fiji Pageant at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
LOCAL NEWS
Tuelis Pageant Quest
By LUKE NACEI
Mr Hutchinson said the 7.5 million contract value for the design, procurement and
construction and associated works of the
new bridge will be of great boost to Denarau Island.
Denarau is a tourist hub and attracts
hundreds even thousands of local and international visitors daily, he said.
The Government of Fiji saw the need
to replace the ageing structure which is
an important link to this Tourist Hub. Denarau has a marina where shipping operators transport tourists and locals from the
Mainland to the Mamanucas and Yasawa
Group of Islands.
Meanwhile, the temporary Bailey bridge
will be removed and areas reclaimed with
soil will be cleared and replaced with mangroves to the areas affected to its original
state.
Pacific Marine and Solutions was awarded the contract to construct the bridge.
Fiji has been declared a

Sendai Target Chanpion in
Disaster Risk Reduction
This was revealed by the Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development
and National Disaster Management, Hon.
Joeli Cawaki, while opening the Pacific
Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in
Suva.
Assistant Minister Cawaki said Because
of a successful effort towards Tropical Cyclone Winston response, Fiji is proud and
honored to have been recognized as one
of the Sendai Champions for reducing disaster risk mortality during its response period.
Speaking to Government Ministers and
senior disaster management officials from
14 Pacific Governments and humanitarian
partners from across the region, he said
proper planning put in place and commitment by a united multi-stakeholder workforce was a testimony during Cyclone Winston and was a cornerstone of success.
Disaster resilience
programme launch
The Government of the Russian Federation in partnership with the United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific
Office in Fiji launched the Regional Disaster Resilience in the Pacific Small Island
Developing States (RESPAC) Project in
Nadi, Fiji.
The new Denarau bridge will be completed next month. Photo: SUPPLIED.
New garbage truck

for Nadi Town
By LUKE NACEI
Miss Nadi Grace Tueli will

be advocating on the topic
Tourism in this years Telecom Miss Fiji Pageant at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
A topic she believes is vital
for the Nadi community and
Fiji as a whole.
I have chosen Tourism as
my advocating topic because Nadi, we are the International Gateway and
tourism in the west is something that has provided employment for the people of
Nadi, Ms Tueli said.
According to Ms Tueli every
revenue earned in the country, $0.90 cents of it comes
directly from the west which
is made up of tourism and
the sugar industry.
Nadi Town Council newly
appointed chief executive
officer Peter Dinning said
her advocacy will be a morale boost to the Nadi family.
The advocacy by Miss Nadi
will assist in terms of economic benefits by providing
employment in relation to
work associated in the hotel industry , tour operators
and tour guides, transportation such as hired vehicles,
rental vehicles and the bus
services, Mr Dinning said.
Mr Dinning said an increased economic stimulus
also contributes towards the
growth in revenue for the

government which flows on
to provide improved infrastructure and facilities for
the benefit of Fijians and the
tourists.
There are also contributory benefits in the sectors
of agriculture, food production and the retail sector, he
said.
Ms Tueli on the other hand
stated her reasons for advocating on such education
topic.
My advocacy will help promote the Nadi community
and I will be an ambassador
during the week where I will
showcase the reason why
tourist wants to come here
in Nadi, she said.
Nadi is going to be declared
a city next year which is an
extra point for tourism and
it will obviously attract more
tourist to visit Nadi and
therefore make Fiji its holiday destination.
With the pageant schedule
to happen in a few weeks
time the Ono I Lau Native
says she is well prepared
ahead of the week long
quest.
My preparation has been
going well, I have been
working well with the Nadi
town council and the Bula
committee trust and I am
looking great to the week of

the pageant, she said.
Ms Tueli also said her biggest motivation is her dad
who passed away in 2012.
I come from a family of six
and I lost my dad four years
ago in October and my mom
is the only one looking after
us. I will also be dedicating
this pageant to my late father who has always been
my mentor even though he
is not here but he has left
back a lot of bench mark
that I have to raise to another level, she said.
God has been something
that has been there for me
and trusting him in all my
doings is the only strength
that I have had and with all
the support from my families and my sponsors I think
I will do my best.
I look forward to meeting
all of the queens that will be
participating in this pageant
and I ask all the supporters
for their support.
Mr Dinning said the council
together with the Miss Bula
Trust has jointly contributed
in terms of her wardrobe
and are also organising other logistics associated with
the pageant.
Nadi Town Council is actively involved so that the
Miss Nadi is well prepared
for the pageant, he said.

Nadi is Fijis tourism destination and the government
of the day is focused on
making Fiji a holiday destination that will bring tourists
to our shores, not once but
as return visitors and make
Fiji their first holiday choice
rather than other destinations in the world.
Fiji is rather fortunate to be
blessed with many natural
beauties, sandy beaches
and clean fresh air, it is also
recognised for the smiles
and the hospitality and these
will be the features that Miss
Nadi will be advocating on.
He is confident that Ms Tueli
will do well and will set a
platform for the younger
generations.
The council and the people
of Nadi are confident that
Grace will perform well and
continue to be a great ambassador for Nadi and the
Miss Fiji Pageant.
The Council together with
the people of Nadi would
like to wish Miss Nadi Grace
Tueli all the best in her current role and in her quest to
be Miss Fiji, he added.
Meanwhile, the Telecom
Miss Fiji Pageant will begin
on November 11-19th at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
CAPTION
New library and

Reddy accolades
computer lab for school Nawaicoba forefathers
By LUKE NACEI
The Minister for Education Mahendra Reddy honored the forefathers of Nawaicoba during
the Nawaicoba Public School Golden Jubilee celebration in Nadi on October 22nd.
The idea of building this school came about in 1965 by a group of cane farmers who believed their childrens education was vital.
Our forefathers who had the vision to construct this school, they were pretty much
convinced and sure that the childrens education must be given number one priority, Mr
Reddy said.
He said many of them forefathers had a basic minimum qualification education going up
to class 1, 2 and 3. But this did not stop their spirit as they looked forward to a better future
for their children in a new school.
They obtain very basic or minimal education like classes 1 and 2 but they had a dream,
they had the dream to send their children to High School and tertiary but to fulfill that
dream they needed to construct the school, he added.
Cane cutters and villagers and members of the settlement which includes Ram Raj, Babu
Ram, Bal Raj, Esiroma Naji and a number of other people who are known as the foundation members of the school worked together to fulfill their need for a school to be constructed.
Mr Reddy was also an ex-scholar of the school.
The struggles they faced propelled the farmers to make their dreams come to fruition.
Minister for Local Government, Housing and Environment Parveen Bala inside the new garbage
compactor truck. -Phototo: SUPPLIED.
The Nadi town council on October 19

received a new garbage compactor truck
worth $179,043 from the government of Japan.
Embassy of Japan Charge d Affaires Tsuguyoshi Hada said project would assist the
government which had already taken a lot
of initiative to improve facilities to transition
Nadi to a city.
Nadi is known as the tourist town of Fiji
and very soon it will become Fijis tourism
city in 2017, he said.
He said this would help to alleviate
transport and other logistical problems associated with the increase number of international travellers.
These improvements will also make
the stay of tourist mo0re enjoyable and attract more tourist in future.
Mr Hada said the rapid increase in the
number of business and housings within
the Nadi town areas has resulted in the
work load for the council to collect garbage
has increased.
This project has been implemented
through Japans Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects Programme
or GGP.
It is encouraging to see that this project

is aligned to Fijis Green Growth Framework. The implementation of our assistance in line with this countrys development aspiration is underlying reason to
Japans Development Cooperation with
Fiji, he said.
Mr Hada also said that Japan will stay
committed to providing continued assistance for the nation building in Fiji.
It is my honour to reiterate that Japan
is committed to providing continued assistance for the national building in Fiji.
I sincerely hope that with proper care
and timely maintenance, this new garbage
compactor truck will continue to serve the
people of Nadi for many years ahead.
Minister for Local Government, Housing
and Environment Parveen Bala acknowledged the Government of Japan for the
timely assistance.
Meanwhile, this is not the first machinery donated by the Government of Japan
to the Nadi Town Council as they have
previously donated a Multi-Purpose Truck,
a shredder Machine, a mini Excavator and
other machinery essential for managing of
waste within the municipality.
Health and wellness New library & computweek to benefit USP er lab for school
community
The University of the South Pacifics
(USP) Campus Life office has organised
the 2016 Health and Wellness Week for
the fourth year at the Universitys Laucala Campus from 11 14 October 2016.
Malamala Public School in Nadroga can

now have access to their new library and
their new computer lab.
By LUKE NACEI
A student at Malamala Public School and her teacher in the new computer lab. Photo: SUPPLIED.
Malamala Public School in Nadroga can now have access to their new library and their
new computer lab.
Minister for Education Mahendra Reddy who officiated at the event reminded the students
the importance of libraries in schools to improve the lives in the future.
The library is the place that gives you unbounded knowledge and allows you to open up
and help in using text books, he said.
The opening of the new library and the computer lab would be a morale boost to the
students in the school.
We need to uplift the bench mark of academic excellence and boost up the infrastructure, Mr Reddy said.
Mr Reddy also reminded parents who were present at the event to take ownership of their
childrens education.
Head teacher Anitesh Singh acknowledged the assistance.
We thank the sponsors and the Ministry for their kind donation that will enhance the
learning of our students, Mr Singh said.
There are a total number of 142 students who live in the nearby villagers attending the
school.
Sofitel Fiji Resort provided the joinery and paint work of the building while Radisson Blu
Resort provided the contingents and the books. The multimedia projector was donated by
an old scholar Mr Iswar Chand while Lautoka Sugar Cane producer association provided
the Air Conditioning unit.
Minister for education Mahendra Reddy. Photo: SUPPLIED.
School of Law wins FALE Inter-school

Student Debate Series
School of Law debaters (from L-R) Jovilisi Liganivai, Ernest Gibson and Hanrieta Yadraea with the
award. Photo: USP.
The University of the South Pacifics man rights ought to be more valued above
(USP) School of Law came out victors dur- its obligation to respect national sovereigning the Faculty of Arts, Law and Education ty, while School of Education opposed the
(FALE) Annual Inter-School Student Debate statement.
Series Grand Final at the Laucala Campus
The School of Law debaters were Eron 13 October, 2016.
nest Gibson, Jovilisi Liganivai and Hanrieta
The School supported the fact that, the Yadraea. According to Hanrieta, the win was
United Nations obligation to protect hu- a rewarding one saying it was a good feel-
ing to know that all their research and efforts

were fruitful.
She said that the grand final preparations
were quite tough given the nature of the
topic.
Researching was quite difficult because
we were not exactly sure ourselves but after
getting into all the readings everything made
more sense, Hanrieta said.
For first year law student, Ernest, participating in the Inter-School Debate Series with
two third year students was an exciting experience as he got to learn a lot from them.
Together with having a good learning experience, Ernest said that the Debate Series
provided an opportunity to meet new people. Taking part in the debate series enabled
him to sharpen his research abilities, a skill
which is one of the key expectations of a law
student.
For Jovilisi, the debate series was all
about proper time management, adding
that, it has taught me how to balance my
work in terms of debate preparation and
getting our assignments done on time, as all
our assignments are almost due and exam is
around the corner.
Jovilisi said that taking part in the debate
will allow students to develop critical thinking and prepare them to speak in front of an
audience.
He has been taking part in the FALE Inter-
School Debate Series for three years.

One of the recommendations made by
the team is for organisers to give topics/issues that have significant value to todays
society and which has concrete arguments.
The team has encouraged USP students
to take part in the debate as it will enhance
their student life at the University.
FALE Dean Dr Akanisi Kedrayate said
that she was impressed with the quality and
standard of the debate, adding that she has
always been proud of the School of Law students.
Today we can say with confidence that
we have very good people here, particularly
the lawyers who can stand in court, argue
and win cases because they have done their
research, Dr Kedrayate said.
She further stated that the debate series
is not restricted to FALE students, and added
that, more students should come on board
and take part because it boosts ones confidence and gives you the authority to speak
on a number of issues and argue confidently.
Dr Kedrayate said that her Faculty will
continue to organise such debate series in
future.
The debate series was sponsored by
FALE, Digicel Fiji and Damodar Event Cinemas.
USP
Disaster resilience project launch
HOTELS
Fiji
International
Participants during the launch of the Regional Disaster Resilience in the Pacific Small Island Developing States (RESPAC) Project in Nadi. Photo: SUPPLIED.
UNDP-Russia partnership
launches disaster resilience
project
The Government of the
Russian Federation in partnership with the United
Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific
Office in Fiji launched the
Regional Disaster Resilience
in the Pacific Small Island
Developing States (RESPAC)
Project in Nadi, Fiji.
Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs Department
of International Organisations Deputy Director, Mr.
Dmitry Maksimychev said,
The Project is an important
part of our effort to implement the Sustainable Development Goals, the SIDS
Agenda and also the Russian Governments agenda
to strengthen our relations
with Asia and Pacific countries.
So far this regional initiative is the single largest
project funded by the Russian Federation as part of
Russia-UNDP Trust Fund and
therefore, we will spare no
effort to make it a success.

We expect, through the RESPAC Project, to be effective
and make a real difference
in the improvement of the
level of resilience of the Pacific Small Islands Developing States.
The project and its activities align with the Global
2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development, the Samoa
Pathway, and the Sendai
Framework for Disaster Risk
Reduction for 2015-2030.
The project will support
14 countries that include
Cook Islands, Federated
States of Micronesia, Fiji,
Kiribati, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue,
Palau, Papua New Guinea,
Samoa, Solomon Islands,
Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and
the territory of Tokelau.
UNDP Pacific Office in
Fiji Country Director and
Head of Regional Policy and
Programme, Mr. Bakhodir
Burkhanov said, The Pacific Small Island Developing
States are among the most
threatened by natural haz-
ards such as cyclones, earthquakes, volcanoes, droughts

and floods, many of which
are climate related.
The US$7.5m project will in the next three
years support countries in
strengthening early warning
systems and climate monitoring capacity, enhance
preparedness and planning
mechanisms and tools to
manage disaster recovery
processes, and increase the
use of financial instruments
to manage and share disaster related risk and fund post
disaster recovery efforts, he
said.
The project also held its
inaugural board meeting at
the launch to discuss collaborative approaches to implementation and way forward
with country representatives
and partners. The project
is expected to complete its
implementation by 2019.
* Rates include light continental breakfast

*68 air- contditioned rooms
*Extra bed $20.00, baby cot free
*No additional charges for 2 children under 12
sharing the same room with parents
* Check in time: 1.30pm, check out time: 10.30am
*Courtesy airport transfers 24 hours
*1DD telephone
*Sky TV & mini fridge & radio
*Tea/ Coffee making facilities
*Private balcony (deluxe rooms)
*24 hours reception
CAPRICORN
www.CapricornFiji.com
USP re-activates
student accounts
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
USP LAUTOKA CAMPUS

FLEXI SCHOOL
The USP Lautoka Campus seeks Expression of Interest from students who wish
to take the following courses through Flexi School in December /January 2017:
Course
Code
Course Name
Start Date
End Date
Course
Campus
Coordinator
Mode
Fees
CS111
Introduction
to Computer
Science
12-Dec-16
13-Jan-17
Dr. Surya
Prakash
Lautoka
Face-toface
635FJD
CS211
Computer
Organisation
5-Dec-16
6-Jan-17
Mr. Kaylash
Chaudhary
Lautoka
Face-toface
685FJD
IS333
Project
Management
2-Jan-17
27-Jan-17
Mr. Dinesh
Kumar
Lautoka
Face-toface
685FJD
IS431
IT Project
Management
24-Nov-16
23-Dec-16
Dr. Mahmood
Rashid
Lautoka
Face-toface
1200FJD
MA112
Calculus II
5-Dec-16
6-Jan-17
Dr. Bibhya
Sharma
Lautoka
Face-toface
455 FJD
MA211
Advanced
Calculus
5-Dec-16
6-Jan-17
Mr. Krishna
Raghuwaiya
Lautoka
Face-toface
600 FJD
SC400
Research
Methods
12 Dec 2016
20 Jan
2017
Dr.Sushil
Kumar
Lautoka
Face-toface
1200FJD
UU114
English for
Academic
Purposes
5-Dec-16
14-Jan-17
TBA
Lautoka
Face-toface
455 FJD
UU204
Pacific Worlds
28-Nov-16
5-Jan-17
Jackie-Anne
I Ete
Lautoka
Face-toface
460FJD
CEI52
Web
Design and
Development
12-Dec-16
20-Jan-17
TBA
Lautoka
Face-toface
500FJD
CEI54
Graphic
Design and
Digital Media
Technologies
12-Dec-16
20-Jan-17
TBA
Lautoka
Face-toface
500FJD
CEA43
Computerised
Accounting
Systems
14-Nov-16
17-Dec-16
TBA
Lautoka
Face-toface
400 FJD
CEB65
People
Management
14-Nov-16
20-Jan-17
TBA
Lautoka
Face-toface
600FJD
CEO55
Human
Resource
Management
Services
14-Nov-16
20-Jan-17
TBA
Lautoka
Face-toface
500FJD
CEE31
Child
Development
& Care
28-Nov-16
23-Dec-16
TBA
Lautoka
Face-toface
300FJD
UU100
Communication
& Information
Literacy
21-Nov-16
21-Dec-16
Mr. Gavin
Khan
Lautoka
Blended
mode
455 FJD
ED284
Physical
Education
and Leisure
Education II
28-Nov-16
23-Dec-16
Dr.Jeremy
Dorovolomo
Lautoka
Face-toface
485 FJD
OUR ROOM RATES

Superior
$130.00
Poolside
$140.00
Deluxe
$150.00
Family Suite
2 b/rooms
$200.00
Please note the above flexi-school will only be offered if there is sufficient number
of students to make this exercise economically feasible.
*rates include TAX
Closing date for sending your EOI to Lautoka Campus is 28 October

2016.
International
HOTEL
Students intending to register are requested to send the following information:

Course, Full Name, Student ID, Phone Contact to the Student Officers: Ms.
Arti Archana via email: arti.archana@usp.ac.fj OR Devika Ram via email:
devika.ram@usp.ac.fj at USP Lautoka campus.
The University of the South Pacific (USP)

has re-activated student accounts, for students who have paid their tuition fees in full
but have other outstanding fees.
USPs Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor
Richard Coll announced that the University will allow students who have fully paid
tuition fees, but have not paid some other
fees such as the general service fee etc., to
sit for their examinations and use University
facilities (e.g., submit assignments online).
However he stated that the University will
only release their examination results upon
clearance of all outstanding fees.
As advised earlier, the University is not
de-registering students whose fees are paid
by government sponsors and scholarship
providers or through Fijis Tertiary Education
Loan Scheme (TELS). De-activation is for
private students who have not paid tuition
fees within the time permissible under the
University policy. Majority of these students
are from outside Fiji.
Over the semester, numerous reminder
emails on fee payment deadline and fee in-
stalment payment plans had been sent out

to all students, said Professor Coll. Despite
this, some students affected have not made
any attempt or arrangements to pay their tuition fee.
Students have always been allowed to
register before the semester begins, and to
help them, the University allows them six
(6) weeks to pay their fees. In cases where
students feel they are not able to meet this
deadline, they can make arrangements with
the University to pay in instalments for a further four (4) weeks. This is as per our protocol stipulated in the regulations in the USP
Handbook & Calendar.
The University also has a substantial bursary and scholarship scheme to help financially disadvantaged students, especially
those from the region.
The University assures that no student
will be unduly disadvantaged due to the action taken and once again requesting the
students to pay their tuition fees for re-activation of their accounts.
USP
Twelve Fijian Youths for

Ship of the World Program
Minister of Youth & Sports Laisenia Tuitubou. Photo: SUPPLIED.
Twelve Fijian youths have been accepted by the Cabinet Office of the Government of Japan as Fijis representatives
on the 29th Ship for World Youth Leaders
Program from January 17 to March 3 next
year.
The Fiji delegation to the Ship of the
World program consists of seven men, including its team leader, and five women.
Minister for Youth and Sports, Hon.
Laisenia Tuitubou said the Government of
Japan through its Cabinet Office and the
Embassy of Japan invited Fiji.
It came through our Ministry of Foreign Affairs and we gladly accepted as
we recognised the benefits for our Fijian
youths. We are also pleased at the balance of men and women in the delegation, Minister Tuitubou said.
The 12-member Fiji youth delegation
will join 240 youths from 10 countries in
Japan from January 17 to 28 for orientation and pre-departure training before
they board the ship at Yokohama port.
The 33-day voyage will take the Ship
for World Youth from Yokohama to Vanuatu for refueling and to Auckland in New
Zealand. From New Zealand, the Ship is
expected to arrive into Fiji on Friday 17
February for port of call activities before it
departs again on 20 February.
We are delighted and appreciate the
Government of Japan for the invitation extended to Fiji and the opportunity to host
youth delegations from Brazil, Canada,
Costa Rica, Egypt, India, Kenya, New Zealand, Tonga, Ukraine, and Japan, he said.
I call on the youth selected to take this
opportunity with both hands and to learn
about other cultures and traditions while
sharing the wealth of the Fijian culture
and tradition.
This program provides motivation for
our young people to immerse themselves
in learning what it takes to be a leader in
our global village and I look forward to
hearing of their exploits on their return as
they share them with their peers.
MINISTRY OF YOUTH & SPORTS
New recruits for NFA

Newly recruited firefighters were reminded of the important role they play as
they deal with peoples lives and their livelihoods.
Minister for Local Government,Housing, Environment, Infrastructure and Transport, Hon. Parveen Kumar Bala made these remarks at the pass out parade for 34
new firefighters at the Navy Training Base in Togalevu, Lami.
Martintar, Nadi
Ph: +679 6720088, Fax: +679 672 6522
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LOCAL NEWS
34 New recruits for NFA
Newly recruited firefighters were reminded

of the important role they
play as they deal with peoples lives and their livelihoods.
Minister
for
Local
Government,Housing,
Environment, Infrastructure and Transport, Hon.
Parveen Kumar Bala made
these remarks at the pass
out parade for 34 new firefighters at the Navy Training Base in Togalevu, Lami.
Over two months ago,
you were selected out
of 381 applicants to undertake firefighter recruit
training and today you will
finally march out as qualified firefighters ready to
serve your country, Minister Bala said.

He said that the National
Fire Authoritys (NFA) core
business had evolved from
the traditional firefighting
role to more complexes
multiple emergency rescue operations and a new
legislation was being tabled to expedite this.
The development of a
new legislation to facilitate
this change is now ready
for submission to Parliament in the not too distant
future and this new legislation will enhance and support the NFAs emergency
management role in our
society.
The Minister also stated
that NFA will soon expand

its services into new areas
such as Korolevu, Korovou, Seaqaqa, Nabouwalu,
Lami and Nakasi.
Meanwhile, three of the
recruits were awarded
certificates and trophies
for their outstanding performance during their 10week training.
Kameli Bainivalu received the award for highest aggregate in theoretical
subjects; Tevita Vakatawa
was named the best recruit in practical drills
while Timoci Seru took
the best all-rounder recruit
award.
DEPTFO
Newly recruited firefighters. Photo: DEPTFO.
Local Councils to look at budgets

through gender responsive lens
Participants during the training. Photo: SUPPLIED.
11 Local Councils received practical training

on to how to ensure their
budgets reflect the unique
needs of women at a UN
Women workshop for municipal councils on genderresponsive budgeting.
The training is part of
UN Womens Markets for
Change project, which
aims to strengthen governance practices among
market management and
local governments, enabling
decision-making
processes to be more
gender responsive, transparent, accountable and
receptive to the needs of
market vendors.
The workshop was attended by local council
representatives from Rakiraki, Lautoka, Labasa, Sigatoka, Tavua, Levuka, Savusavu, Nadi, Nausori and
Suva, and included finance
personnel, budget officers,
accountants, CEOs and
market managers.
Gender
responsive
budgeting is a key policy

tool used by government
institutions which can effectively contribute to advancing gender equality
and womens empowerment through planning for
and allocating portions of
budgets specifically to address the needs of women
and girls.
UN Women Fiji MultiCountry Office Deputy
Representative,
Nicolas
Burniat, opened the workshop on 18 October.
While laws and policies to promote gender

equality and the empowerment of women are essential, these laws are nothing
if budgets are not allocated to their implementation. Similarly, if budgets
allocated to government
programmes do not specifically target the needs
of women and girls, they
will most often fail to meet
their needs. This is true at
the national level but also
at the local government
level, where some of the
most important services to
the population are being
delivered. Local Councils
commitment to incorporating gender-analysis
into budget planning can
have significant impacts
on womens livelihoods,
especially in sectors such
as marketplaces where
the majority of vendors are
women.
Joshua Wycliffe, Fijis
Permanent Secretary for
Local Government, Environment and Housing said;
Women in business
today, despite being underrepresented, are rising
in influence and achieving
transformative
progress
in our societies. The Fiji

government views a gender responsive budget as
one of the key solutions
to the gender gap. It views
gender responsive budgets as a fiscal innovation.
This partnership with UN
Women is a testament to
the direction taken by the
Government.
UN Womens Gender
Responsive
Budgeting
Specialist, Yamini Mishra,
said gender responsive
budgeting offers an opportunity to revolutionize
public policy and financing
to ensure that it reaches
every person in the community - men and women,
boys and girls. Gender responsive budgeting is not
only a way of doing its a
way of thinking about how
expenditure and revenue
raising activities have different impacts on women
compared to men, due to
socially determined roles
which define division of
labour, responsibilities and
capabilities.
Participants engaged in
a gender-analysis exercise
based on a marketplace
case study and presented
back to the plenary. If the
interests of the vendors are

not met, revenue decreases, said one participant.
The exercise and resulting discussions highlighted
that specific attention paid
to reinvesting revenue in
women by providing appropriate
infrastructure
such as safe and clean
toilets,
accommodation
facilities, and child-friendly
spaces, will have positive
impacts on productivity,
and ultimately, womens
economic empowerment.
Workshop participant
Letila Naqasima, Administration and Finance Officer
for Commonwealth Local
Government Forum said,
the training has been
very insightful so far. It is
very valuable to be able
to look at the work we do
with a gender focus. While
we have already begun to
implement gender responsive budgeting in our programmes, the next steps
for us are to take it to the
partner level to ensure that
the funding proposals we
receive include gender responsive budgets. We are
looking forward to partnering with UN Women to
build capacity in this area.
ADVERTISEMENT
Happy
Diwali
to you & your

family from
PRESS RELEASE
Health & Wellness Week to benefit

USP community
The University of the
South Pacifics (USP) Campus Life office has organised the 2016 Health and
Wellness Week for the
fourth year at the Universitys Laucala Campus from
11 14 October 2016.
The week-long event
has been aimed at bringing together staff and students with a major focus
on encouraging, discovering, improving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle
on a budget.
The 2016 USP Health
and Wellness Week is
about making a commitment to Invest in Your
Health and to realise
that, Campus Life has organised a range of talks,
competitions, and physical
activity classes, cooking

demonstrations and health
checkups.
According to the Acting
Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Richard
Coll, the Health & Wellness
week is a key event in the
Universitys calendar.
Professor Coll said that
the 2016 Health and Wellness week is a tangible
commitment by the University to ensure that its
students and staff become
aware of the need to develop and maintain a healthy
lifestyle while studying and
working at USP.
As a responsible organisation, the University
recognises the need to
provide personal development and learning experi-
ences outside the lecture

room and workplace and
the Health and Wellness
week is very much about
providing us with information, knowledge and opportunities in relation to
our health and wellness,
Professor Coll said.
National Advisor for
Non-Communicable Diseases, Dr Isimeli Tukana
said that he was pleased
to partner with USP for the
third time and thanked the
Universitys Campus Life
office for organising such
an event for its staff and
students.
Dr Tukana spoke on the
importance of looking after ones health in terms
of having proper diet and
having regular check-ups.
He informed the staff

and students during the
launch that three common
diseases that affect Pacific
people the most are diabetes, stroke and heart diseases.
Dr Tukana urged everyone to make the most of
the 2016 Health and Wellness Week.
During the week, students and staff got the
opportunity to make use
of a number of services
provided by the Ministry of
Health and Medical Services including, mental health
awareness
talks,
oral
health information, free
medical checks for diabetes and food and nutrition
advice sessions that are
available during the week.
A student gets her pressure checked during USPs Health and

Wellness Week at Laucala Campus. Photo: USP.
The Campus Life office

has also organised a range
of cooking demonstrations
by Australia Pacific Technical College during the
weeklong programme that
focuses on the preparation
of nutritious meals on a
budget. Fiji National Blood
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FOR YOUR BUSINESS.
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SIGNS AND BANNERS
Service together with

Campus Life Office is also
running a week-long USP
Blood Drive at the Laucala
Campus.
USP
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www.media.com.fj
DIWALI SUPPLEMENT
DIWALI, FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
DIWALI SUPPLEMENT
By LUKE NACEI
Deepawali or Diwali is
certainly the biggest and
the brightest of all Hindu
festivals. Its the festival of
lights (deep = light and
avali = a row i.e., a row
of lights) thats marked by
four days of celebration,
which literally illumines
the country with its brilliance, and dazzles all with
its joy.
Each of the four days
in the festival of Diwali is
separated by a different
tradition, but what remains
true and constant is the
celebration of life, its enjoyment and goodness.
The Origin of Diwali
Historically, the origin of
Diwali can be traced back
to ancient India, when it
was probably an important
harvest festival. However,

there are various legends
pointing to the origin of Diwali or Deepawali. Some
believe it to be the celebration of the marriage of
Lakshmi with Lord Vishnu.
Whereas in Bengal the
festival is dedicated to the
worship of Mother Kali, the
dark goddess of strength.
Lord Ganesha, the
elephant-headed
God,
the symbol of auspiciousness and wisdom, is also
worshiped in most Hindu
homes on this day. In Jainism, Deepawali has an
added significance to the
great event of Lord Mahavira attaining the eternal
bliss of nirvana. Diwali
also commemorates the
return of Lord Rama along
with Sita and Lakshman
from his fourteen year long

exile and vanquishing the
demon-king Ravana. In
joyous celebration of the
return of their king, the
people of Ayodhya, the
Capital of Rama, illuminated the kingdom with
earthen diyas (oil lamps)
and burst crackers.
These Four Days
Each day of Diwali has
its own tale, legend and
myth to tell. The first day of
the festival Naraka Chaturdasi marks the vanquishing of the demon Naraka
by Lord Krishna and his
wife Satyabhama. Amavasya, the second day of
Deepawali, marks the worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth in her most
benevolent mood, fulfilling
The Significance
of Lights & Firecrackers
By LUKE NACEI
All the simple rituals of Diwali have a

significance and a story to tell.
The illumination of homes with lights
and the skies with firecrackers is an expression of obeisance to the heavens for
the attainment of health, wealth, knowledge, peace and prosperity.
According to one belief, the sounds of
fire-crackers are an indication of the joy
of the people living on earth, making the
gods aware of their plentiful state.
Still another possible reason has a
more scientific basis: the fumes produced by the crackers kill a lot of insects
and mosquitoes, found in plenty after the
rains.
The Tradition of Gambling
The tradition of gambling on Diwali
also has a legend behind it. It is believed
that on this day, Goddess Parvati played
dice with her husband Lord Shiva, and
she decreed that whosoever gambled
on Diwali night would prosper throughout the ensuing year. Diwali is associated
with wealth and prosperity in many ways,
and the festival of Dhanteras (dhan =
wealth; teras = 13th) is celebrated two

days before the festival of lights.
From Darkness Unto Light.
In each legend, myth and story of Deepawali lies the significance of the victory of
good over evil; and it is with each Deepawali and the lights that illuminate our
homes and hearts, that this simple truth
finds new reason and hope. From darkness unto light the light that empowers us to commit ourselves to good deeds,
that which brings us closer to divinity.
During Diwali, lights illuminate every
corner of India and the scent of incense
sticks hangs in the air, mingled with the
sounds of fire-crackers, joy, togetherness
and hope. Diwali is celebrated around the
globe.
Outside India, it is more than a Hindu
festival, its a celebration of South-Asian
identities. If you are away from the sights
and sounds of Diwali, light a diya, sit quietly, shut your eyes, withdraw the senses,
concentrate on this supreme light and illuminate the soul.
Fiji Airways offers check in

kiosk in Melbourne
Fiji Airways, Fijis National Airline, has introduced new self check-in kiosks at
the Fiji Airways counter in International Departures at Melbournes Tullamarine
Airport.
10 THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
the wishes of her devotees. Amavasya also tells

the story of Lord Vishnu,
who in his dwarf incarnation vanquished the tyrant
Bali, and banished him to
hell. Bali was allowed to
return to earth once a year,
to light millions of lamps
to dispel the darkness and
ignorance, and spread the
radiance of love and wisdom. It is on the third day
of Deepawali Kartika
Shudda Padyami that Bali
steps out of hell and rules
the earth according to the
boon given by Lord Vishnu.
The fourth day is referred
to as Yama Dvitiya (also
called Bhai Dooj) and on
this day sisters invite their
brothers to their homes.
Tips for Kids to Safe Diwali

Celebrations with Fireworks
Diwali the festival of lights brings fun
and togetherness. For children fireworks
new clothes and sweets make this festival
the most eagerly awaited of the year.
Unfortunately injuries from fireworks
spoil the fun for many families and
though Diwali is a holiday for most of us
fire departments and hospitals around the
country are on constant alert to tackle the
various mishaps. Each year brings a fresh
crop of cases involving loss of eyesight
and serious burns and injuries caused
by fireworks. Most of these cases involve
children. Freak accidents invariably occur
when kids are allowed to play with fireworks unattended. The most common
reason is wrong handling of fireworks.
Parents need to take some precautions to
avoid such tragedies. For instance it is extremely important to know the difference
between a legal consumer firework and a
dangerous explosive device.
The latter can cause serious injury or
even death. Both parents and their children need to stay away from anything that
is not clearly labeled and does not display
the manufacturers name and instructions
for proper use.Fundamentally children
must understand that fireworks are not
toys that they burn at approximately the
same temperature as a household match
and that they can ignite clothes and cause
burns and injuries if used improperly.
Parents must never allow young children to handle fireworks without close
adult supervision. Even seemingly harmless sparklers and flower pots can be
dangerous for very young kids especially
to those under age five.Most of these and
similar nonexplosive fireworks can create havoc if lighted in busy areas. Rockets
can shoot off into nonintended directions
to injure people and even enter homes to
set things inside on fire.
Fireworks Safety Tips For Kids
We often do not realise the potential
danger and therefore ignore even the
most rudimentary precautions. Caution
and proper care can ensure a safe and
funfilled Diwali it all boils down to a
few simple dos and donts.
Never allow your kids to play with fireworks unattended
DO
1. Supervise children while they light
fireworks
2. Make them light fireworks outside

the house
3. Have them hold sparklers away from
the body
4. Keep flower pots and chakras
on even flat ground while lighting them
5. Have them light up rockets only on
open ground
6. Ensure proper distance from the fireworks away at a distance while they are
lighting them
7. Make sure they are wearing closed
footwear and closefitting clothes of thick
material instead of loose or flowing garments while lighting fireworks
8. Keep a water bucket and burn ointment or aloe vera gel handy
9. Check the area before igniting fireworks to ensure that no inflammable materials are near
10. Ensure they light only one firework
at a time
11. Discard used fireworks in a bucket
of water
DONT
1. Let them bend over fireworks while
lighting them or approach them if in doubt
about whether they are live or not
2. Let them light fireworks while holding them in hand
3. Let them keep extra fireworks in
pockets
4. Let them wear Nylon clothes cotton is safest while lighting crackers
5. Let them try to light used fireworks
6. Let them light firecrackers with a
matchstick but rather a candle of agarbatti this ensures sufficient distance between
their hands and the cracker
7. Let them use fireworks indoors
8. Let them put fireworks into any container before lighting them up
9. Let them mix anything with the contents of fireworks or make fireworks at
home
10. Let them ignite aerial fireworks
where overhead obstruction trees wires
etc. or even heavy wind exist
11. Let them throw or point fireworks
at other people
Finally Diwali is a family festival it
should be a source of joy for everyone
including kids. But these small but important steps can ensure that the Festival of
Lights does not bring darkness into your
lives.
To Advertise Here:
CALL 9360047
11
DIWALI SUPPLEMENT
10 Reasons to Celebrate Diwali
DIWALI SUPPLEMENT
By LUKE NACEI
Why do we celebrate Diwali?

It is not just the festive mood in the air
that makes you happy, or just that its a
good time to enjoy before the advent of
winter. There are 10 mythical and historical reasons why Diwali is a great time to
celebrate. And there are good reasons not
just for Hindus but also for all others to
celebrate this great Festival of Lights.
1.Goddess Lakshmis Birthday:
The Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi incarnated on the new moon day (amaavasyaa) of the Kartik month during the churning of the ocean (samudra-manthan),
hence the association of Diwali with Lakshmi.
2. Vishnu Rescued Lakshmi:
On this very day (Diwali day), Lord
Vishnu in his fifth incarnation as Vamanavtaara rescued Lakshmi from the prison
of King Bali and this is another reason of
worshipping Ma Larkshmi on Diwali.

3. Krishna Killed Narakaasur:
On the day preceding Diwali, Lord
Krishna killed the demon king Narakaasur and rescued 16,000 women from his
captivity. The celebration of this freedom
went on for two days including the Diwali
day as a victory festival.
4. The Return of the Pandavas:
According to the great epic Mahabharata, it was Kartik Amavashya when the
Pandavas appeared from their 12 years of
banishment as a result of their defeat in
the hands of the Kauravas at the game of
dice (gambling). The subjects who loved
the Pandavas celebrated the day by lighting the earthen lamps.
5. The Victory of Rama:
According to the epic Ramayana, it was
the new moon day of Kartik when Lord
Ram, Ma Sita and Lakshman returned to
Ayodhya after vanquishing Ravana and

conquering Lanka. The citizens of Ayodhya decorated the entire city with the
earthen lamps and illuminated it like never before.
6. Coronation of Vikramaditya:
One of the greatest Hindu King Vikramaditya was coroneted on the Diwali day,
hence Diwali became a historical event as
well.
7. Special Day for the Arya Samaj:
It was the new moon day of Kartik (Diwali day) when Maharshi Dayananda, one
of the greatest reformers of Hinduism and
the founder of Arya Samaj attained his nirvana.
8. Special Day for the Jains:
Mahavir Tirthankar, considered to be
the founder of modern Jainism also attained his nirvana on Diwali day.
9. Special Day for the Sikhs:
The third Sikh Guru Amar Das institutionalized Diwali as a Red-Letter Day
when all Sikhs would gather to receive
the Gurus blessings. In 1577, the foundation stone of the Golden Temple at Amritsar was laid on Diwali. In 1619, the sixth
Sikh Guru Hargobind, who was held by
the Mughal Emperor Jahengir, was released from the Gwalior fort along with 52
kings.
10. The Popes Diwali Speech:
In 1999, Pope John Paul II performed
a special Eucharist in an Indian church
where the altar was decorated with Diwali lamps, the Pope had a tilak marked on
his forehead and his speech was bristled
with references to the festival of light.
Brett Hooker, General Manager

Westpacs Diwali Message
Bula and Namaste
Diwali is the most important festival in the Hindu calendar and falls on the darkest night of the year.
In this festival, light is a metaphor for knowledge so by
decorating homes with lamps and lights it symbolizes the
destruction, through knowledge, of all negative forces.
Fiji has a vibrant multi-cultural society and this is clearly reflected during Diwali where everyone joins together
in celebration.
Fiji is a true example of how, through knowledge and
understanding, ignorance can be dispelled and multicultural communities can live together.
2016 has been a challenging year across the world;
however we at Westpac have stayed focused on delivering great service and great outcomes for our customers.
This would not have been possible without the support of you, our valued customers, stakeholders and our
extremely dedicated and committed staff - so a Big Vinaka Vakalevu to all.
Beyond that, we also have a lot to celebrate this year.
We recently acknowledged 115 of doing business in Fiji,
a milestone we were all very proud of.
Westpac was also declared The most sustainable
bank globally in the 2016 Dow Jones Sustainability Index In fact, this year Westpac achieved the strongest
ever DJSI score of 95%.
Westpacs efforts to strengthen the communities in
PNG and Fiji strongly contributed to this ranking.

This included our sponsorship and community support programs, contributing the financial literacy programs, the policies which protect and empower our customers and staff and the work weve undertaken with
international development agencies and the Department
of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Another milestone I am really excited to be able to tell
you is that a few weeks ago we reached 35,000 customers who signed up to our mobile banking services in Fiji,
bringing us to over 100,000 mobile banking customers
across the Pacific.
With all these amazing achievements, I strongly believe we have the right strategy and the right people to
deliver it allowing us to focus on our core purpose of
helping people, making sure we keep our customers at
the forefront of our decisions.
Once again, Thank you all for your valuable support
and on behalf of the Management and Staff of Westpac I
wish you and your families Happy Diwali or as they say
in Hindi Diwali Ki Shubh Kamna
BRETT HOOKER
Top Ten Diwali Gift Ideas

LUKE NACEI
Diwali is the most important festival for the Hindus.

Dont miss this last-minute Guide to Good Gifting for Diwali! You have various options to choose - from Lakshmi
& Ganesha statues to candle holders and puja thalis;
from saris and tees to Barbie and books.
1. Lakshmi Statues & Figurines
During Diwali, Hindus worship Lakshmi, the goddess
of wealth, prosperity and beauty. Hence, gifting a statue of Lakshmi during Diwali is considered auspicious.
Heres a selection of various Lakshmi statues and figurines sculpted in brass and other materials, which can
not only be a great addition to a Puja / prayer room, but
can also beautiful adorn any drawing room.
2. Ganesha Statues & Figurines
Ganesha is worshipped along with Lakshmi during Diwali. Gifting a Ganesh, the lord of success and remover
of obstacles, is always considered lucky and auspicious,
and especially so before Diwali. This selection of light
metal Ganeshas is perfect for the both your home and
office and also makes a great housewarming or wedding
gift because of its value as a beautiful home dcor.
3. Diwali Books for Kids
Looking for an ideal Diwali gift for children? Heres
a selection of some colorful books for kids on Diwali the greatest festival of the Hindus. No gift is bigger than
the gift of knowledge, they say, and these books, with
its beautiful illustrations, do a great job in putting Indian
culture into perspective, especially for children growing
up in foreign lands.
4. Diwali Candles
The tradition of lighting oil lamps or diyas and candles is central to the celebration of Diwali, wherever you
are. So, these beautiful Diwali candles are most appropriate for the Festival of Lights. These are available in
assorted colors that will add beauty to your decor.
5. Lakshmi Business Card Wallet
Let Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, abundance and
prosperity inspire you everyday in your pursuit of wealth
creation, with this unique business card wallet created
by artist, Yogini and entrepreneur Jamila Tazewell. This
chic alternative to a bulky wallet or purse for your business cards and some cash, measures 2.75 x 3 when
closed and holds up to 20 cards in the clear inside pockets. Made from a durable paper-plastic laminate combination and hand sewn with cotton thread, this card case
is a practical present for Diwali.
6.
South Indian Silk Sari - for Party and Festivals
It is said, when a woman wears a sari, she not only
adorns her body but also her soul. This Diwali, gift a sari
to a woman and let her rediscover the essence of womanhood. From simple georgette to Bollywood-style rich
silks with lavish embellishments, this collection is perfect for casual, formal and party wear. The elegance and
simplicity of a sari never go out of style! Chic and sophisticated, it makes for great evening wear, especially during the festive season of Diwali.
7. Puja Thali or Plaque
A perfect Diwali gift, this Puja Thali or platter, is a useful item for any home temple / Puja or prayer room. It is
a plate, usually made out of copper, steel, gold, silver or

brass that is used to keep all those accessories that are
required during rituals. A must have during the festival of
Diwali, this copper Puja Thali is 10.5 in diameter.
8. Diwali Barbie Doll
Now, even your favorite Barbie can join the celebrations of Diwali wearing a traditional teal sari with golden detailing, a lovely pink dupatta or shawl wrap, and
beautiful jewelry. This vibrant Barbie doll, especially designed for Diwali also wears a Bindi the forehead decoration worn in India and South Asia. If youre looking for a
cute Diwali present for the young girls in your family, this
Barbie is a perfect choice!
9. Aum or Om T-Shirt
Aum or Om is the sacred Hindu symbol. This black
Om Tie-Dye Tee is colorfully cool for both indoor and
outdoor use. This groovy unisex 100% cotton preshrunk
T-shirt will make you stand out from the crowd during
Diwali!
10. Silk Sari Wrap Skirts
Sometimes, wrapping a sari could be a daunting task
for the uninitiated. This Diwali, if you have to settle for a
simpler alternative, look no further than these sari skirts
with reversible patchwork silk panels - approximately 48
inches wide, and 28-30 inches long. Made from vintage
Indian silk sari fabric, every piece is one of a kind, and
available in assorted colors and prints. A great fusion of
the traditional and trendy, the sari skirt is a nice gift idea
for Diwali!
13
DIWALI SUPPLEMENT
Diwali Recipes
LOCAL NEWS / ADVERTISEMENT
Fiji Airways offers

check-in kiosks at
Melbourne Airport
By LUKE NACEI
COCONUT ICE
Ingredients
250g Sweetened Condensed Milk
250g Golden Icing Sugar (sifted)
200g Friends Fiji Style Desiccated Coconut
Method
1. Mix together the condensed milk, icing sugar
and desiccated coconut in a large bowl.
2. Break small pieces of the dough and cut into
square shapes.
3.
Dust with desiccated coconut.
4. These will keep for up to a month at least, if
stored in an airtight container.
SATWA LADDOOS
Ingredients
2 Cups Friends Fiji Style Satwa (Seven Grains) - 250g
1.5 Cup Powdered Sugar - 200g
1 Cup Allowrie 100% Pure NZ Ghee - 200g
Cardamon (Elaichi) 7-8 pods
Method
1.
Heat ghee until melted thoroughly.
2.
In a wide basin add Satwa, cardamom and sugar and mix thoroughly.
3. Mix heated ghee as you progress with binding
the mixture into round balls.
4.
Store in an air tight container. Can keep for two
months.
BESAN KI BARFI
Ingredients:
Besan 1 kg
Sugar 1 kg
Water 1/2 liter
Allowrie 100% Pure NZ Ghee 1 kg
For garnishing: Pistachios and Almonds
Preparation:
1. Fry besan in ghee on low flame for about 30 mins till
it becomes pink and ghee separates.
2. Mix sugar and water into a syrup.
3. Add this syrup to the besan and mix well.
4. Pour this mixture into a greased tray.
5. When it cools cut into cubes and garnish with pistachios and almonds.
MOTIBHAI GROUP
ALMOND SEERA
Ingredients (Serve 4-6)
1 cup of coarse Flour Wheat
1-1/2 cup of Blanched Almonds
1 teaspoon of Cardamon Powder
teaspoon of Crushed Saffron Strands
1 tablespoon of Warm Milk
8-10 blanched Almonds, finely chopped into slivers
1-1/4 cup of Allowrie 100% Pure NZ Ghee
3 cups of Water
1 cup of Sugar
Preparation:
1. Dissolve the crushed Saffron in the warm milk and
keep it aside for some time.
2. Now dry and make a powder of blanched almonds.
Save 10 almonds for the purpose of garnishing.
3. Melt some ghee in a large and heavy pan.
4. Add some flour to the ghee. Stir and fry the mixture
for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add some almond powder to the mixture and again
stir and fry the mixture till it becomes golden and gives a
nice aroma. The mixture should be stirred continuously.
6. Add some water and again stir and cook it.
7. Add some sugar to the mixture.
8. When the ghee starts to exude then add some cardamom and saffron to the mixture.
9. Now stir and place the prepared dish into the serving dish. Garnish it with the chopped almonds.
CHICKPEAS AND POTATOES (Alloo Channa) CURRY

Ingredients (Serve 4-6)
1 can chickpeas
3 lbs potatoes
1large onion
3 cloves of garlic
1 Golden Brand chili pepper
3 tsp Golden Brand curry powder
1 cup of water
2 tsp Golden Soya Bean or Golden Canola oil
3 leaves shadow benny (optional)
1/2 tsp Golden Brand cumin (jeera) powder
Preparation:
1. Peel potatoes and cut in quarters.
2. Peel onions and chop finely.
3. In a medium size pan add vegetable oil and heat
well.
4. Add chopped onions and chili pepper. Cook for
about 2 minutes or until onions sweat.
5. Add curry powder and stir constantly. Now, add
about quarter of a cup water and stir occasionally until
curry powder, onion, pepper and garlic becomes a paste.
6. Cook for about 5 mins.
7. Add potatoes, shadow benny leaves (if available)
and chickpeas. Stir up and let cook for about another 10
mins.
8. Add remaining water and let cook until potatoes
and chick peas is tender.
9. When the sauce consistency is slightly thick add
cumin powder, stir up and remove from heat.
10. This chickpeas and potatoes curry tastes great with
cooked white rice.
Amrita Singhs Jelebi

By LUKE NACEI
Amrita Singh, 28, of Vuda, Lautoka has a passion for
cooking delicious food and sweets for Diwali.
And never a time has she missed making jalebis
for her families Diwali celebration. She is advising her
friends that will be celebrating Diwali this year to try out
her secret jalebi recipe.
Jalebi is fun to make i guess, theres no Diwali without Jalebi at my house, she said.
Jalebi, also known as Zulbia, is a sweet popular in
countries of South Asia, West Asia, North Africa, and East
Africa. It is made by deep-frying maida flour (Plain flour
or All-purpose flour) batter in pretzel or circular shapes,
which are then soaked in sugar syrup.
So be that lucky person and get to learn these today.
These are wonderfully tasty, easy to make and absolutely, TO DIE FOR! You might think that making jalebis is
horribly messy, no! Try this recipe.
Ms Singh says there are quite bunches of jalebi lovers
exist in the world, but she would love to find one who
loves them more than his brother Aman. Aman becomes
the happiest man on the planet when served jalebis.
Hes spent quite a fortune on buying these from outside,
no more now on; his sister will be making these for him
Ingredients:
2 cups flour
11/2 tbsp fine grained semolina or rice flour
1/4th tbsp baking powder
2 tbsp curd (plain yogurt)
11/4th cups warm water
1/2 tbsp saffron threads, slowly dry-roasted and powdered
3 cups sugar
22/3rd cups water
11/2 tbsp rose water
Ghee or vegetable oil for frying
How to make jalebi:
Mix the flour, semolina or rice flour, baking powder,
curd and 3/4th cup of the water in a bowl (preferably a
ceramic bowl). Mix well with a whisk.
Mix well and then add remaining water and 1/8th tsp.
of saffron powder, and whisk until smooth.
Set aside for about 2 hours.
Whisk thoroughly before use.
Prepare one string syrup by dissolving sugar in the water. Just before the syrup is ready add saffron and cardamom powder.
Heat oil in a kadhai. Pour the batter in a steady stream
(or coconut shell with a hole) into the kadhai to form
coils. Make a few at a time.
Deep fry them until they are golden and crisp all over
but not brown.
Remove and drain on kitchen paper and dip in the
syrup.
Leave for at least 4-5 minutes so that they soak the
syrup.
Take the jalebi out of syrup and serve hot.
A passenger checking in at the new kiosk in Melbourne. Photo: SUPPLIED.
Fiji Airways, Fijis National Airline, has

introduced new self check-in kiosks at
the Fiji Airways counter in International
Departures at Melbournes Tullamarine
Airport.
Whilst a personalised approach to
guest service remains a key element of
the airline famous for its Fijian friendliness, the introduction of the kiosks will
offer greater customer convenience and
less queuing at the busy terminal.
The introduction of these new kiosks
mark another step towards product enhancement since the launch of the airline
to Fiji Airways from Air Pacific in 2013. As
well as completely rebranding, the air-
line has since acquired four brand new

A330 aircraft to grow its fleet, enhanced
its onboard product including the inflight
entertainment system and dining options,
enabled online check-in, and launched
several significant international routes including Wellington, Singapore, Vavau and
San Francisco..
To celebrate the very first passengers
using the new kiosks at Melbourne Airport
last Thursday night, a nice surprise of high
end duty free products from its on-board
selection were gifted.
Fiji Airways will next install the kiosks
in Auckland, followed by further trials
across the network, including Nadi.
Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141. The liability of its members is limited.
Happy
Diwali
From
& a prosperous New Year

From Management & Staff of
Pawans Upholstery Works, Navo Nadi
General upholstery on all types of Furniture

NOW LOCATED AT NAVO, NADI
P.O Box 2310, Nadi, Fiji Islands
Phone: 6282946 / 6702946 mobile: 9951950
BAKEMAAN HOTBREAD
31 Drasa Avenue
Opposite Natatbua School ground
Mobile: 9964099
15
TOURISM/ SWEET TWEETS
Ahura Resorts
in Top Ten
Ahura Resorts is delighted to announce

that their multi award-winning resorts - Likuliku Lagoon Resort and Malolo Island
Resort, have added another prestigious
award by being named in the Top 10 in the
Conde Nast Readers Choice Awards 2016
Likuliku at No. 9 and Malolo at No. 10 surrounded by equally amazing company
from throughout Australia, New Zealand
and the South Pacific.
More than 300,000 travellers took
part in the 29th annual Readers Choice
Awards surveya new recordsubmitting millions of ratings and over 75,000
comments to help create a list of winning favourites. The breadth of the toprated experiences was impressive, from
elegant castles in the Irish countryside to
tented safari camps trailing the Great Migration across the Serengeti. Chosen were
tiny private islands in the tropics, small
culture rich cities in Europe, and intimate
river cruises. Most notably, it showed a
passion for the authentic, the personalized, the unexpectedfinding all three
in both newcomers and stalwarts around
the world.
Ahura Group General Manager Steve
Anstey says, The Conde Naste Readers
Choice Awards have long been regarded
as a leading, worldwide authority as far

as travel awards go. It is generally a much
sought after place to receive one of these
accolades, so naturally, we are thrilled
to have had both resorts included. We
continue to be humbled and amazed to
be recognised in this way. It is a wonderful achievement and it is a testament to
the quality of the products we have and
the delivery of our promise to our guests.
Thank you to our incredible staff and of
course, to all our valued guests for their
continued amazing support.
Ahura Fijian owner and Managing Director, Tony Whitton, said, This is big
news for both of our resort teams - that we
have Fiji Resort experiences continually
being counted amongst some of the best
in the world, holding their own with other
famous hotel and resort brands some of
which who are giants in the industry.
We believe we have firmly established
and filled a niche in Fiji on all things Fijian,
from traditional Fijian architecture to service delivery and with a unique product
offering of Fijis first and only over-water
bures. We thank past guests and the travel industry at large for this acknowledgement.
PRESS RELEASE
Sweet Tweets:
Milinia Ene
Nadi
Well there are a lot of friends

that invited me over for Diwali especially those around
my area so I am really looking forward to going to their
houses, not only one but
plenty houses for celebration
ADVERTISEMENT
Deadline Extended for

ANZ FETA Applications
The ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism
Awards Board of Trustees are extending
the deadline for applications to November
07, 2016.
With Cyclone Winston affecting so
many members and giving us a challenging start to 2016, the Trustees wish to encourage more entries to make the 2016
Excellence in Tourism Awards the best
ever and give our industry the recognition it deserves, therefore the closing date
for entries has been extended to Monday
7th November, said the Chairman of the
Board of Trustees James Sowane.
The FETA Trustees also wish to confirm
that for the individual awards, organisations and others may nominate more
than one person for recognition in the 3
Individual Award categories Fiji Pride
Champion, Emerging Tourism Leader and
Tourism Leader.
The extension also offers the opportunity to those that have sent in their applications to update their submissions if they
wish.
Now into its 20th season, the ANZ Fiji
Excellence in Tourism Awards celebrate
the distinct contribution of outstanding
players and properties in local tourism,
the countrys largest industry, employer
and foreign exchange earner.

Applications were opened on August
1, 2016 and originally due to close on October 14. They will now close on Monday
7th November and judging to commence
soon after.
There has been much interest received from industry operators to participate in the Awards, and we are pleased
that the Trustees have agreed to offer an
extension given the disruptive start to the
year, said FETA Trustee & Organizing
Committee Member, Ms Olivia Mavoa.
There are 13 award categories to apply for, covering individual achievements,
operations, industry support, accommodation, marketing, activities and sustainability.
Award finalists will enjoy invaluable
publicity, post-award PR exposure and
award-winning badges of excellence to
use across company marketing materials.
The Tourism Industry can look forward
to an exciting night on February 17, 2017
when Winners of the 2016 season will be
announced at the ANZ FETA Gala Dinner.
Application forms for the 2016 Awards
Season can be downloaded at the FETA
Website, www.feta.com.fj.
WINNING LOGO CAPTURES

CASTAWAY ISLANDS BEAUTY
A stylised image of Castaway Island Fiji
framed by the sun and highlighted by hibiscus, palms trees and a starfish has won
a competition to design a sulu or sarong
logo to mark the resorts 50th birthday.
The winning entry was designed by
Irimai aDrua Toga, a Certificate IV Screen
printing and Signage student at the School
of Creative Arts Graphic Arts and Design
program offered by Fiji National University.
Irimaia (pictured) said his inspiration
for the design came from a desire to show
people the beauty of Fiji.
It was very challenging as it was a
competition held among all us Graphic
Design students and we all wanted to
win, he said.
The 22 year old student, who was born
at Nausori began his tertiary studies doing a Bachelor of Education majoring in
History and Geography.
But after my first year I found it a bit
boring and I switched to doing the Graphic Arts and Design programme this year
which Ive found to be much more interesting, he said.
Irimaias design which also features a
Fijian tapa design as a boarder, wins him
a prize of FJ$750 and two nights on Castaway Island as well as giving him recognition for his achievement.
His design will decorate sarongs or
sulus which will be given to all guests
staying at Castaway Island throughout
November as part of the 50th birthday
celebrations and be worn at a formal VIP
cocktail event on November 18.
OUTRIGGER FIJI BEACH
How will you celebrate this Years Diwali festival?
Aseri Drugu
Nadi
I will be going to my friends
to celebrate Diwali.
Merewairita Staples
Sigatoka
I love it when it comes to Diwali because there is always
fun, laughter and sweets
shared by our Fijian friends.
This years Diwali should be
the best for me as I have been
invited by my friends.
Marika Nasegai
Sigatoka
Vinita Singh
Nadi
Natasha Datt
Nadi
I will be at my friends place to

celebrate Diwali this year.
I will celebrate this years Diwali with workmates during

the day and families during
the main function at night
with all friends n families.
My first Diwali after wedding

so small gathering with work
mates on Friday and then
Diwali with hubby n fambam.
17
Inmates Boost Sugar Production
Inmates harvesting sugar cane. Photo: FIJI CORRECTIONS SERVICE.
PS Employment farewells
returning workers for
seasonal work programme
ABOUT 230 inmates of

the Fiji Corrections Services are dispatched daily to
harvest sugar cane in different sectors of two major
divisions.
A total of 12,171.34
tonnes of sugar cane have
so far been harvested in
Ba, Lautoka, Rakiraki and
Labasa since the 2016 Operation Musudovu began
in mid-July. The highest
amount of harvested cane
of 6536.07 tonnes has been
recorded in Labasa.
With the sugar industry
perceived as the backbone
of the Fijian economy,
Deputy Commissioner of
Corrections Jo Kulinidilo
said the FCS is glad that its
community engagement
program is able to assist
the industry in boosting
the economy.
He said FCS would continue to work with Government, the Ministry of Sugar
and the Fiji Sugar Corporation to assist farmers and
ensure that the lack of
manpower in sugar cane
harvesting is addressed.
The FCS hopes members of the public will appreciate and be inspired by
the efforts of inmates who,
despite their incarceration,
are capable of making a
difference in society, DCP
Kulinidilo said.
Manager of the Sugar
Cane Growers Council,
Nemani Veikoso has applauded this initiative by
FCS saying the inmates are
doing a great job in assisting farmers. He said works
carried out by the inmates
have been productive
and efficient compared to
those of the ordinary labourers.
A normal days production is around 11 tonnes
but the inmates are producing more than that on
a daily basis with a record
harvest of 20.68 tonnes.
65 year-old cane farmer
Nokaiya Raju of Nanuku in
Ra said the ten inmates deployed to work in his farm
are producing two to three
times more than the ordi-
ADVERTISEMENT
nary labourers.
I have been a farmer
all my life. My father was
a sugar cane farm too and
we established our farm in
1980. This is the first time
for me to see more of our
canes harvested within a
short period of time. Work
carried out by the inmates
is so efficient, he said.
I used to have two labourers and their production in 3-4 months is now
produced in less than a
month by the inmates.
Of the total payment
received for the work carried out by the inmates, expenses required to facilitate harvesting is deducted
first. The balance is divided into a 60:40 ratio where
the inmates receive 60 per
cent as payment for their
labour and 40 per cent is
returned to Government.
Meanwhile, members
of the public have been
reminded to refrain from
communicating with inmates working on sugarcane farms.
FIJI CORRECTIONS SERVICE
Bau Landing and road

maintained
By LUKE NACEI
Fulton Hogan Hiways crew strengthen Bau Landing. Photo: PACIFIC REACH LIMITED.
Seasonal workers bound for Australia. Photo: SUPPLIED.
The permanent secretary for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Salaseini Daunabuna, recently
farewelled 16 seasonal workers bound
for Australia to be re-employed under the
Australian Seasonal Work Programme
(SWP).
The group was engaged last year by
the same Australian employer and due to
their high productivity rate and excellent
work performance, they have been recruited for another seven months.
I wish to reiterate the Fijian Governments expectations that anyone selected
for employment overseas under the SWP
must do their best as their performance
will open up doors for other potential
workers in Fiji, Mrs Daunabuna said.
Mrs Daunabuna also reminded the
workers to uphold their values, code of

conduct and to be good Ambassadors for
Fiji.
You also need to increase your work
performance to another level so your
chances of being recruited again are
high, she said.
The workers expressed their appreciation towards the Fijian Government
through the Ministry of Employment,
Productivity and Industrial Relations for
allowing them another opportunity to return to Australia.
The permanent secretary also wished
the workers all the best and encouraged
them to take advantage of the opportunity
to once again to fulfil their goals by adding value to their individual lives, families,
community and the country.
PM impressed with
Maori business
Prime Minister Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama is impressed with how an indigenous
business operates in New Zealand and wants to have a similar venture in Fiji.
Work has been completed to strengthen Bau Landing as well as associated road
maintenance leading to and around the jetty area as part of the Fiji Roads Authority
(FRA) plan to strengthen the road network in the area.
Working under FRAs maintenance programme, Fulton Hogan Hiways Rewa Depot
Supervisor, Suliasi Lesianavanua, who is in charge of the road work, said that 280
metres of the Bau Landing Road beginning from where the old jetty begins has been
resheeted, graded and compacted; two culverts installed; and water channels on both
sides of the road have been cleared.
Meanwhile, FHH Project Engineer responsible for the maintenance of the Landing,
Wian Cadle, said that a crane was used to install three 25-metre long beams beneath
the jetty to reinforce the structure and five steel plates were laid on the jettys surface.
Recent work in the area by FHH has included raised roads to prevent flooding at
Tubalevu, Raralevu, Wainibuku and Vuci villages as well as culvert installations at the
farm roads at Naduru and Korociriciri.
PACIFIC REACH LIMITED
Indian Naval Ship to visit

our shores
An Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sumitra will be visiting our shores on a goodwill visit this
week.
The ship is expected to bring in five tonnes of vegetable seeds that will be handed
over to the Fijian Government to assist with the Tropical Cyclone Winston rehabilitation
programme.
As part of the visit, a joint programme by the Ministry of Defence and the Indian High
Commission has been organized for the general public for a medical camp to conduct
free medical check-ups and counselling together with a band display.
The program will be held at Ratu Sukuna Park in Suva from 9am to 4pm from October 27 to 28.
The INS Sumitra will also be open for visitors on 28 October 2016 and the public is
encouraged to make use of the opportunity and programmes offered by the team.
DEPTFO
19
USD$1.05 Million Donation

from the Chinese Government
The strong relationship

between China and the
Pacific Islands Forum was
highlighted today as Chinese Ambassador to Fiji
Mr. ZHANG Ping signed
over USD $1.05 million to
Dame Meg Taylor, Secretary General of the Pacific
Islands Forum.
During the ceremony
Ambassador ZHANG Ping
reiterated the importance
of the relationship saying
This donation from the
Chinese Government to
the China-PIF Cooperative
Fund for the year 2016 is
another demonstration of
Chinas sincerity and willingness in seeking common development prosperity with Pacific Islands
Countries.
Secretary General Taylor added, During the past
year weve had a number
of high level visits from

China and that, I think,
sends a very strong signal
to the region that China is
very interested in our development and what we
are trying to do. On behalf of the Pacific Islands
Forum I wish to express a
deep appreciation for the
ongoing support from China as a partner to the region, both as a Post-Forum
Dialogue Partner as well as
a bilateral partner to many
Forum countries. This contribution will be used to
help improve the lives of
Pacific islanders.
The China-PIF Cooperative Fund was established
in 2000 to support trade, investment, tourism and personal exchange between
China and Forum countries. The first initiative to
appear through the Fund
was the establishment of

the Beijing Office of Pacific
Trade and Invest. The Beijing Office works closely
with Forum country Embassies in China to build
and strengthen business
networks between the Pacific and Chinese markets.
In recent years the Fund
has also enabled the China-PIFS Regional Scholarship Scheme which has
seen 65 students study
a wide range of subjects
including engineering, international law, medicine,
information & communications technology, agriculture, and commerce
in Chinese institutions.
Earlier this year China announced their intention to
increase the number of annual scholarships on offer
from 10 to 20.
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21
PM Impressed with Fijian President pays

courtesy call on
Maori business
Belgian Acting PM
Prime Minister Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama. Photo: DEPTFO.
Prime Minister Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama is impressed with how an indigenous

business operates in New Zealand and
wants to have a similar venture in Fiji.
Moana New Zealand is a major exporter of seafood out of New Zealand and is
owned by the 57 iwis (tribes) of the Aotearoa.
Hon. Bainimarama recently visited the
facility to gain insight into Maori business
methods in the fisheries sector with the
goal of developing Fijis economy.
The Prime Minister said Moana New
Zealand was a perfect example of how indigenous businesses could use their natu-
ral resources to improve their livelihoods.

New Zealands Pacific Economic Ambassador Shane Jones said the visit by the
Fijian Head of Government was a new
path for closer cooperation between the
iwis and the iTaukeis.
There may be opportunities for some
of our businesses to go there because he
has opened that door for us. Prime Minister Bainimarama wants to build Mori
business networks, foster relationships
and create more seasonal work opportu- The President H.E Major-General (Retd) Jioji Konrote with the Acting Prime Minister of Belgium H.E
nities for his people, Mr Jones said.
Mr Didier Reynders in Brussels, Belgium. Photo: DEPTFO.
PM Bainimarama is currently in New
The courtesy call also saw the PresiThe President H.E Major General
Zealand for his first official visit.
(Retd) Jioji Konrote paid a courtesy call dent thank the Belgian Government for
DEPTFO
on the Acting Prime Minister of Belgium working closely with the Fijian Mission in
H.E Mr Didier Reynders at the Egmont Pal- Brussels.
Minister Reynders is Belgiums Minisace in Brussels, Belgium.
The courtesy call was an opportunity ter for Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime
for the President to personally express his Minister. He is acting Prime Minister in the
sympathies for those that lost their lives absence of the Prime Minister who is out
following the three terrorist attacks in Bel- of the country with the King of Belgium.
The President is in Brussels visiting
gium this year.
We share the sorrow and grief of the Fijis mission in Brussels before he travels
Belgian people in the wake of these de- onto the Middle East to visit Fijian peacespicable attacks. Fiji pledges its support keeping troops stationed there. Early on in
for Belgium and the ongoing effort by the the day he paid a courtesy call on the Afriglobal community to combat terrorism, can Caribbean and Pacific group of states
secretary general H.E Dr Patrick Gomes.
the President told Minister Reynders.
OnceUpon
a Time
Here is the list of silly jokes, puns,
and riddles for children and kids:
Q: What goes up and down but does
not move?
A: Stairs
Q: Where should a 500 pound alien go?
A: On a diet
Q: What did one toilet say to the other?
A: You look a bit flushed.
Q: Why did the picture go to jail?
A: Because it was framed.
Q: What did one wall say to the other
wall?
A: Ill meet you at the corner.
Q: What did the paper say to the pencil?
A: Write on!
Q: What do you call a boy named Lee
that no one talks to?
A: Lonely
Q: What gets wetter the more it dries?
A: A towel.
Q: Why do bicycles fall over?
A: Because they are two-tired!
Q: Why do dragons sleep during the
day?
A: So they can fight knights!
Q: What did Cinderella say when her
photos did not show up?
A: Someday my prints will come!
Q: Why was the broom late?
A: It over swept!
Q: What part of the car is the laziest?
A: The wheels, because they are always tired!
Q: What did the stamp say to the envelope?
A: Stick with me and we will go places!
Q: What is blue and goes ding dong?
A: An Avon lady at the North Pole!
Q: Were you long in the hospital?
A: No, I was the same size I am now!
Q: Why couldnt the pirate play cards?
A: Because he was sitting on the deck!
Q: What did the laundryman say to the
impatient customer?
A: Keep your shirt on!
Q: Whats the difference between a TV
and a newspaper?
A: Ever tried swatting a fly with a TV?
Q: What did one elevator say to the
other elevator?
A: I think Im coming down with something!
Q: Why was the belt arrested?

A: Because it held up some pants!
Q: Why was everyone so tired on April
1st?
A: They had just finished a March of 31
days.
Q: Which hand is it better to write with?
A: Neither, its best to write with a pen!
Q: Why cant your nose be 12 inches
long?
A: Because then it would be a foot!
Q: What makes the calendar seem so
popular?
A: Because it has a lot of dates!
Q: Why did Mickey Mouse take a trip
into space?
A: He wanted to find Pluto!
Q: What is green and has yellow
wheels?
A: Grass...I lied about the wheels!
Q: What is it that even the most careful
person overlooks?
A: Her nose!
Q: Did you hear about the robbery last
night?
A: Two clothes pins held up a pair of
pants!
Q: Why do you go to bed every night?
A: Because the bed wont come to you!
Q: Why did Billy go out with a prune?
A: Because he couldnt find a date!
Q: Why do eskimos do their laundry in
Tide?
A: Because its too cold out-tide!
Q: How do you cure a headache?
A: Put your head through a window
and the pane will just disappear!
Q: What has four wheels and flies?
A: A garbage truck!
Q: What kind of car does Mickey
Mouses wife drive?
A: A minnie van!
Q: Why dont traffic lights ever go
swimming?
A: Because they take too long to
change!
Q: Why did the man run around his
bed?
A: To catch up on his sleep!
Q: Why did the robber take a bath before he stole from the bank?
A: He wanted to make a clean get
away!
Sports Reunites People
By LUKE NACEI
The Minister for Youth
and Sports Laisenia Tuitubou has reminded those
participating at the Digicel
sponsored FANCA tournament that Fiji will always
be there home in regardless of anything.
Mr Tuitubou made this
statement while officiating
at the opening of the 2016
Digicel sponsored FANCA
tournament in Nadi.
The FANCA federation
includes Fijians living in
Australia, New Zealand,
Canada and the United
States of America, the
main countries to which
most of our Fijian brothers
and sisters have migrated.
So as you compete
during this FANCA tournament remember that you
are part of the bigger picture because even though
you live and work abroad
now your contributions
are still important to us. No
matter where you live Fiji
will always be your home,

he said.
He said the event brings
together followers of Islam
in Fiji.
We are friends and we
are family and all friends
and families, our ties and
affection are not diminished by time or distance
but are reinforced and
strengthened
whenever
we meet.
It is only through our
longstanding commitment
to making Fiji a better nation, one that is united in
our diversity but bound by
the central theme of being
Fijians together, that we
can work to bring everyone into our country, he
said.
Mr Tuitubou extended
his acknowledgement to
the committee members
of FANCA.
I extend my appreciation to the organising committee of this FANCA ICC
tournament for your ongoing commitment to organising this event, he said.

Meanwhile, Digicel Fiji
CEO Darren McLean was
overwhelmed to be part of
the event.
This
gathering
is
unique in nature and I
have great admiration of
the emphasis the FANCA
values places on our Muslim brotherhood, lifelong
learning and development,
positive engagement with
the country, he said.
Mr McLean said Digicel Fiji will be supporting
the carnival with cash and
prizes sponsorship.
We are proud to partner with the Fiji Muslim
League and the carnival
committee for this religious event.
The 2016 FANCA tournament ended at a high note.
The Minister of Youth & Sports second from right at the opening of the 2016 Digicel sponsored
FANCA tournament at Prince Charles Park. Photo: DEPTFO.
Vodafone Flying Fijians

named for November Tour
The Fiji Rugby Union
has today released the
names of a strong Vodafone Flying Fijians team
for the 2016 Europe Tour in
November.
The team consists of
both local and overseas
based players and sees
the inclusion of Olympic
Gold Medallists, Josua Tuisova, Leone Nakarawa
and Vatemo Ravouvou.
Also included in the side
are players that missed out
on selection for the 2016
Pacific Nations Cup due to
their rugby commitments
but are now available for
the November tour.
Coach, John McKee says
that they are very pleased
with the selection for a
very challenging Test Series.
I am very pleased that
we have been able to announce a very strong team
to represent Fiji for the

November Test Series especially with the inclusion
of local players who have
put their hands for national selection. This Test
series will be a challenging one and will provide
the Vodafone Flying Fijians
an opportunity for Fiji to
build on their RWC performances against the No.
2 team in the world, England, and against Japan
who performed so well in
the RWC. Japan will be
very motivated under new
coach Jamie Joseph.
He added that their first
match against the Barbarians will be ideal match for
their build up.
Playing the Barbarians
in the opening match gives
us an ideal build up to the
Test match challenges
against England and Japan.
We know the areas we
need to improve on in our
game and with the training

camp in France followed
by the preparation for the
Barbarians Game we will
have time to really focus in
on the key areas vitally important for Test Match success along with tweaking
our own unique Vodafone
Flying Fijians game plan.
FRU
CEO,
John
OConnor congratulated
the team on their selection
and reminded the team
and the officials that the
tour will be a challenge
and ultimately the aim
is to try and win all their
matches.
It is important to perform well on this tour as
we build up to next years
test matches against Australia, Scotland, Italy and
also the qualification for
the 2019 RWC.
The Southern Hemisphere based players will
depart Fiji with team Man-
agement on October 28th

and will be joined by the
Euro based players for a
Camp in Blagnac, France
in preparation for the Tour
matches.
The team will travel
to Belfast on weekend
Nov 5-6 to prepare for the
opening match.
November Tour Matches:

Barbarians @ Belfast Nov 11th

England @ Twickenham Nov 19

Japan @ Vannes
FR Nov 26
The Vodafone Flying Fijians selected are:
Campese Maafu, Peni
Ravai, Joeli Veitayaki,
Tuapati Talemaitoga, Jale
Sassen, Sunia Koto, Manasa Saulo, Leeroy Atalifo,
Mesake Doge, Leone Nakarawa, Api Ratuniyarawa,
Nemia Soqeta, Dominiko
Waqaniburotu,
Naulia
Maria Tutaia & Israel Folau

announce engagement
Vodafone Flying Fijians Coach John Mckee. Photo: SUPPLIED.
Dawai,
Mosese
Voka,
Akapusi Qera , Eremasi
Radrodro, Nikola Matawalu, Serupepeli Vularika,
Nemia Kenatale, Ben
Volavola, Vatemo Ravouvou, Albert Vulivuli, Waisea
Nayacalevu, Vereniki Goneva, Asaeli Tikoirotuma,
Nemani Nadolo, Josua Tuisova, Kini Murimurivalu
Players on Standby:
Savenaca
Tabakanalagi,
Malakai Ravulo, Henry Seniloli, Seremaia Burotu,
Benito Masilevu, Metuisela
Talebula, Peceli Yato.
Players not considered
Due to Injury: Tevita Cavubati, Levani Botia, Patrick
Osborne, Alifereti Raka.
FIJI RUGBY UNION
Silver Fern Maria Tutaia has announced her engagement to Wallabies rugby star Israel Folau on social media.
Tutaia, 29, tweeted a photo of herself holding a ring
alongside Folau, captioned My Fianc AAARRRRGGGGHHH.
Folau, 27, then tweeted a photo of the pair captioned
She said YES.
The pair made their romance public in February this
year, after posting matching photos on Instagram as they
spent time in Queenstown.
Its happy news for the pair who respectively suffered
loses as part of their national teams over the past few
days.
Australian-born Folau (whose parents are Tongan),
was part of the losing Wallabies side when they took on
the All Blacks last night, in a game which spurred a war
of words between the teams two coaches.
Many Twitter users wished the happy couple well on
Twitter.
Radio Sport broadcaster Tony Veitch wrote: Hearts
breaking all over the world !! Congrats Maria!!!
THE NEW ZEALAND HERALD
Silver Fern Maria Tutaia and Wallabies Rugby Star Tsrael Folau.
Photo: SUPPLIED.
23
Page 23
Vodafone Flying
Fijians named for
November tour
Page 23
Maria Tutaia & Israel

Folau announce
engagement
Snedeker dominates
Fiji International
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016. ISSUE 85
World Number 23 and Ryder Cup winning team member Brandt Snedeker has
continued his celebrations claiming the
2016 Fiji International.
Starting the final round three shots
clear of the field, Snedeker showed his
dominance firing rounds of 69, 65, 70, 68
to win the title by nine shots.
I couldnt have asked for a better start
to the day. I birdied the first hole out of the
gate, said Snedeker.
Being 3-under after the first six it all
kind of went my way and I hit quality golf
shots. I just never really let up.
I did not expect to win by nine shots,
this golf course is funny, its brutal. I knew
if I let up for a second, there could be a big
number waiting for me.
It was about to happen on 10, I was
able to survive there. I kept my head
down and kept going all day long.
Never under threat, Snedeker cruised
to an easy victory at the Natadola Bay
Championship Golf Course, however the
nerves were still present.
Theres always going to be nerves
but I did a great job calming down on the
first tee, hitting two quality shots and then
making the putt, added Snedeker.
Im very happy with the comfort level
I felt in that situation and never really gave
anything back. I didnt do anything that
would cause myself to lose the tournament.
I am just building on a lot of positive
stuff right now so its a lot of fun.
Following a successful fortnight Snedeker is eyeing a Major Championship,
believing his Fiji experience will help him
achieve his next career goal.
Its been a pretty good two weeks; it
would be good if I had a tournament next
week. But the week off will be good, it
will give me some time to rest and get my
mind right, added Snedeker.
Ive done a lot of other stuff in my career and last week propelled that for my
career, handling the pressure like it did.
Todays going to help me too, handling a big lead the way I did. To know
that I can handle whatever golf courses
will throw at me against the best players
in the world and come out on top.
Now its just time to get ready and go
and be excited about it.
While Snedeker will celebrate by returning to his honeymoon destination in
50 CENTS
Prime Minister Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama handing over the trophy to World number 23 and Ryder Cup winning team member Brandt Snedeker who
claimed the 2016 Fiji International at Natadola. Photo: FIJI INTERNATIONAL.
Fiji, he still plans on finding time to text

his mate and 2015 Fiji International champion Matt Kuchar.
I will definitely send Matt a text when I
get off the golf course to let him know that
I won, added Snedeker.
I dont think he won by nine like I did
this year so; I will make sure he knows
that.
While Snedeker was well out in front,
the rest of the field were battling for second place.
New Zealander Michael Hendry re-
corded an even par round to finish the Fiji

International outright second on 7-under
the card.
With this runner-up finish Michael Hendry has overtaken Matthew Griffin on the
ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia Order of Merit. He leads by just AU$1,200.74.
A further shot back were Brad Shilton
(NZ), Andrew Evans (NSW), Matthew
Giles (NSW), and Anthony Houston (Vic).
Rounding out the top-10 on 5-under
the card were Jake Higginbottom (NSW),
Daniel Fox (WA), Matthew Griffin (VIC),
Inhoi Hur (KOR) and Ben Eccles (VIC).

Local hero Vijay Singh finished on
2-under the card and tied 21st.
FIJI INTERNATIONAL

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Inside

Denarau bridge to open

34 new recruits for NFA.

Tuelis Pageant Quest.

Inmates boost sugar production.Pg. 16

FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Families lighting up candles during Diwali. Photo: SAMUEL SHANKAR.

Fiji that will be part of this Years

Fiji - the way the world should be

Diwali, the Festival

The festival spiritually signifies the victory of light over

THE JET is Fijis first community newspaper published weekly by

ON THE BRIGHT Side

UNITED DISCOUNT CHEMISTS

OFFICIALS TRAINED TO HELP

children are killed at workplaces every year, said Usamate.

Participants for the Child Labour training held today in the

supply, sanitation and hygiene facilities and

tropical cyclone on record to make landfall

cific Community Deputy Director-General,

Nadi Town Councils Diwali Message

Solar initiative contributes to cyclone

THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

WE CAN ALSO PROVIDE YOU WITH PRINTED

*A completely different store with a much larger range

PHONE: 6700064/6701857/6702756 FAX: 6702285 MOBILE: 7070000

THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Denarau bridge to open next month

The multimillion dollar Denarau Bridge

In a statement issued by the UNISDR on

Tuelis Pageant Quest

Fiji has been declared a

THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

New garbage truck

Miss Nadi Grace Tueli will

growth in revenue for the

looking great to the week of

for the pageant, he said.

New library and

The Nadi town council on October 19

It is encouraging to see that this project

Malamala Public School in Nadroga can

Minister for education Mahendra Reddy. Photo: SUPPLIED.

THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

School of Law wins FALE Inter-school

ing to know that all their research and efforts

School Debate Series for three years.

Disaster resilience project launch

effort to make it a success.

ards such as cyclones, earthquakes, volcanoes, droughts

THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

* Rates include light continental breakfast

USP LAUTOKA CAMPUS

OUR ROOM RATES

*rates include TAX

Closing date for sending your EOI to Lautoka Campus is 28 October

Students intending to register are requested to send the following information:

The University of the South Pacific (USP)

stalment payment plans had been sent out

Twelve Fijian Youths for

Minister of Youth & Sports Laisenia Tuitubou. Photo: SUPPLIED.

MINISTRY OF YOUTH & SPORTS

New recruits for NFA

Ph: +679 6720088, Fax: +679 672 6522