A piece of NRL history back in Fiji ahead of Rugby League Las Vegas 2025
For the second consecutive year, Fiji Airways is bringing a historic sporting moment to its guests, with the coveted NRL Provan-Summons Trophy once again on display at the Fiji Airways Premier Lounge at Nadi International Airport, alongside for the first time, the Women’s Pacific Cup. As part of the airline’s continued partnership with the NRL for the highly anticipated Rugby League Las Vegas 2025, the prestigious trophies will be showcased for guests traveling through the Lounge.
Fiji Airways managing director and chief executive officer, Andre Viljoen, said the return of the trophy to Fiji reinforces the airline’s commitment to bringing the NRL closer to its passionate Fijian fans. Viljoen added, “The Provan-Summons Trophy is one of the most iconic symbols in rugby league, and we are thrilled to once again host it in our Premier Lounge. This is a special opportunity for our guests to witness a piece of NRL history up close.”
For the first time this year, the Women’s Pacific Cup, last won by the Jillaroos at the Pacific Championships Final in November 2024, will also be on display alongside the Provan-Summons Trophy until March 6th 2025.
A media release by the airline stated, “Fiji Airways are proudly flying the Australian women’s rugby league team, the Jillaroos, from Brisbane to Los Angeles, in 2025 for their first game in the United States, further supporting the growth of the NRL and its teams.”
“As the official airline partner of Rugby League Las Vegas 2025, Fiji Airways plays a key role in strengthening the sport’s global reach. The airline has been instrumental in transporting teams, officials, and fans between Australia, Fiji, and the United States.
“Fiji Airways’ commitment to rugby league reflects our deep passion for the sport. We take great pride in supporting rugby league and the athletes who showcase their talents on the global stage. As an official partner of Rugby League Las Vegas 2025, we are excited to continue our role in this thrilling event, where top teams will compete at Allegiant Stadium in March 2025.”
That was the title of the quick flyer made on Canva that was circulated to family prior to everyone gathering to celebrate a significant birthday. If you’re a little OCD and are hosting over 21 family members, having everything well organised is a must, which isn’t very difficult considering all the options available for a 10-day visit to Fiji.
And the truth was, that after a long, cold winter overseas everyone needed some Fiji! Whether Fijian by citizenship or Fijian by heart, the warm, fragrant air that envelopes you as soon as you step off the plane, the Bula smiles, fun and chatter as you exit the arrivals terminal, reminds you that you are ‘home’.
Of course, December through to February is the Fiji summer, so I had pre-warned everyone in advance that the weather might be mixed but the unified response was “but it will be warm!” And warm it was. Although, any time of the year is pleasant in Fiji.
All of our family like their food – not just any food, but with a mixed hospitality background and at least one chef amongst us, good food, a respectable wine menu, great ambience and service – all contribute towards our enjoyment.
Pineapples galore. EXPLORE Fiji photo.
Day 1 on the agenda was an evening meal to welcome all the arrivals and provide an opportunity to catch-up. Lulu Bar Restaurant & Cafe at Port Denarau is a five minute walk from our residence and it ticked all the boxes. Our table for 21 pax on the verandah, overlooking the harbour as the sun started to dip, was the perfect setting for the week ahead. As we finished our meal the heavens opened up and unleashed a deluge of rain, which didn’t make any difference to us, considering we were well protected by large awnings and umbrellas. In fact, the younger family members were enticed away from the shelter to finish the evening with a warm rain bath, and catching the end of the nightly cultural performance at the Port.
We were happy that the showers were well passed by the second day of our program, which was aimed at giving everyone a ‘white sand beach and translucent blue sea experience’ at Malamala, a slice of Fijian paradise. It was a stunning day and the sea was as smooth as glass for our comfortable crossing on board South Sea Cruises’ high-speed catamaran to our island day destination.
Malamala Beach Club in the Mamanuca Group. South Sea Cruises photo
Malamala Beach Club is the world’s first beach club located on its very own island in the majestic Mamanuca group of islands, just 30 minutes from Port Denarau.
We had booked the spacious beachside Grand Deluxe Cabana 1 to accommodate our group, along with chilled bu on arrival – the perfect fresh organic coconut water thirst quencher for everyone. All our delicious meals from the island’s Pacific-inspired à-la-carte menuwere ordered well in advance: Kaiviti Kokoda, Pacific Seafood Basket, Tacos, Sliders and Pork Bao (buns) to name a few. With 180-degree views of the white sand beach and beautiful ocean, our cabana came complete with butler service, bean bags and beach chairs.
So our only tasks were to relax, swim in the gloriously clear warm sea, lap up on natural Vitamin D, plus snorkel and kayak (depending on our energy levels), dip in the resort-style infinity-edge pool and laze in hammocks. With so much to enjoy, even the two youngest among us – a nine-month baby girl and her three-year-old sister – did not nap.
Pork bao
Malamala-signature bu
Sliders
Some of the younger ones (and a few older folks) waited for the tide to rise so they could jump off the end of the pier, as per the ritual that has developed over several years since the popular Beach Club opened in 2017.
There were a lot of tired, well sated, and very relaxed people as we made our late afternoon return on South Sea Cruises’ on-time ferry. Sunscreen had been amply applied, so there was some competition about the healthy glow to everyone’s skin as they shucked off the winter pallor.
When I was drawing up our itinerary, I had originally planned to provide everyone with some downtime on Day 3, booking a highly competent masseur to visit our house and provide the group with a traditional Fijian bobo. This deep-tissue massage was another ideal way of working away the tightness of muscles cramped by the cold and enabling everyone to have a further decompress. However, a fishing charter was also arranged, providing another great day out on the water for those keen on angling.
We finished our day at another one of the many dining options on Denarau – Mamacita Mexican Restaurant & Bar; the heart of Mexican gastronomy in Fiji. Situated at Club Wyndham Denarau Island, Mamacita has always been a popular dining experience for the younger ones amongst us (excellent frozen margaritas remaining a definite drawcard for the adults). Again, you can’t fault the experience according to our criteria, and the friendly service team arranged the booking to accommodate our large group under the verandah. The evening cultural performance was a hit and by the end of the day there were a lot of tired and happy people sinking into their beds.
Family members pose with Fijian entertainers at Mamacita Mexican Restaurant & Bar on Denarau. Photo courtesy of Steph Black.
We had always planned an early Christmas celebration whilst everyone was together, and that was scheduled for Day 4 as a late lunch/early dinner; the various activities on the island and the residence swimming pool kept everyone well-occupied during the morning, with everyone gathering together once more before the Christmas meal to share presents.
In order to manage energy levels (and the state of our kitchen) I had pre-arranged a magiti, or feast, of traditional Fijian dishes, including ota miti (bush fern in a coconut milk dressing), ika vakalolo (whole fish baked in coconut milk), roro balls (leaves of the dalo plant made into succulent balls and baked in coconut milk), dalo and cassava chips, smoked eggplant, octopus salad, prawns in coconut curry, a kaiviti (Fijian) stir fry, vegetable curry, roti and rice. This was devoured by all our foodies (little and large alike). Nadina Authentic Fijian Restaurant is one of our favorite restaurants at the Port and their ability to cater for events enabled us to bring the celebration home to be enjoyed.
Day 5 ramped up again with an excursion to the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa at Natadola Beach along the Coral Coast. Considered one of the 10 most beautiful natural beaches in the world, Natadola is a ‘must-see’ and more than manageable by car from Denarau. The resort itself is stunning, and we celebrated another birthday over lunch in the child-friendly Toba restaurant.
As you can imagine, our well-fed and sun-soaked tribe was definitely starting to slow down a little and so I had scheduled two ‘rest days’ into the itinerary, before a final celebration on Day 8, before everyone departed. The celebration consisted of another meal, but this time prepared by those based in Fiji for the visiting family. For the final family gathering, we purchased kalavata (clothing with matching patterns) in advance for everyone to wear for the occasion and celebrate the very special time we spent together.
‘Everyone needs some Fiji’ was more than just a rallying cry to gather and celebrate. It was the perfect tonic after a long year; it was a moment to recognise the value of the relationships we share, and a moment to touch the ground of the unique and special place we call ‘home’.
Fiji, with its crystal-clear waters, and stunning world-class coral reefs, has long been a haven for scuba diving enthusiasts seeking unparalleled biodiversity. What is exciting today is the growing number of young women from the islands who are breaking barriers and leading the charge in the scuba and watersports community. These rising stars are not just pushing the limits of their sport but also inspiring future generations of girls and young women to dive in, make a splash, and take on the ocean.
The team at Volivoli Beach Resort in Rakiraki, Fiji’s most experienced and qualified dive resort, is dedicated to nurturing young Fijian women and showing that the sea is not just for the boys.
Athletes (pictured from left) Asivina (Intern), Suliana (Divemaster), Zara (Master Diver), Adi (Intern) and Kelera (Divemaster) are making waves on the international scene, proving that women in Fiji are just as skilled and daring in the water as anywhere else in the world. These young women are changing gender norms and encouraging more girls to pick up a set of fins and a mask and start their journey into the underwater world. Along with 19 of their colleagues, the five women recently also completed their Restricted Master Engineer Class 6 (RME6) Captains courses as part of a joint venture between Volivoli Beach Resort, Ra Divers Fiji, and Marine Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF).
In addition to their physical prowess, these women are using their platforms to advocate for environmental conservation. As stewards of the ocean, they are at the forefront of promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about the importance of protecting Fiji’s delicate marine ecosystems.
Fiji’s future in watersports looks bright, thanks to the rising influence of these trailblazing young women. As more girls take inspiration from their successes, we can expect to see an even greater surge of female dive professionals under the waves, the ocean is theirs to conquer, and they are doing it with strength, skill, and style.
Simon Doughty is the Sales and Marketing Manager at Volivoli Beach Resort in Rakiraki.
Nestled off the northern coast of Vanua Levu lies a hidden gem of the Pacific, the Great Sea Reef—locally known as Bainivualiku. Stretching over 200 kilometers, it is the world’s third-largest barrier reef, teeming with life and adventure. Despite its size and importance, the Great Sea Reef remains one of the least explored dive destinations globally, making it a must-visit for adventure divers.
The Great Sea Reef. Nukubati Island photo.
For those seeking such a dive experience, travel to Nukubati Island, where you can stay in comfort and spend your days exploring the reef’s untouched beauty. Unlike larger resorts, Nukubati is all about intimate experiences. With only a handful of guests at any given time, you’ll feel like the island is your own personal retreat. This exclusivity makes Nukubati the ideal location for exploring the Great Sea Reef, where diving is the highlight of your stay.
Nukubati Island is a dream destination for those who seek underwater adventure and authentic cultural experiences. Situated off the northern coast of Vanua Levu, Nukubati Island offers direct access to the Great Sea Reef where divers can encounter sharks, turtles, and a dazzling array of marine life in their natural habitats.
An underwater metropolis teeming with astonishing biodiversity including fish. Emilien Frarier photo.
Post-dive indulgence awaits Nukubati’s culinary experience, celebrating the island’s organic gardens and the abundant waters of Fiji. Guests can enjoy freshly caught seafood, tropical fruits, and dishes inspired by traditional Fijian recipes. Fine dining, sandbank picnics, and the famed tatavu beach barbeque – a seafood meal cooked on hot stones – enhance the immersive island experience.
At the heart of this adventure is Great Sea Reef Divers, led by local legend Leone Vokai. Leone is native to Mali Island. He grew up surrounded by the vibrant marine world of Bainivualiku and spent his life exploring and protecting it. His journey began humbly, running a dive operation from his village Ligaulevu and navigating divers from the Labasa River in a simple fiberglass boat. Today, Leone has partnered with Nukubati, combining his deep-rooted knowledge of the reef with sustainable, locally guided dive expeditions.
Leone’s passion extends beyond sharing the reef’s wonders with visitors; it’s about preserving its heritage and passing it on to future generations. He’s training local youth to join his dive team, instilling pride in their culture and stewardship of the reef. For Leone, “it’s more than just showing visitors the reef. I want to share our culture, teach people about the importance of our connection with the reef, and protect it for years to come.”
Diving the Great Sea Reef – locally known as Bainivualiku. Emilien Frarier photo.
The Dive Experience
Diving the Great Sea Reef is like stepping into an underwater world untouched by time. The reef’s thriving food chain means you’ll encounter an abundance of marine life, from majestic sharks to schools of vibrant fish. What makes this experience unique is that everything you see is in its natural state. There’s no baiting, no feeding—just the reef as nature intended it.
One of the most remarkable things about the Great Sea Reef is its resilience. Despite challenges like cyclones and rising sea temperatures, the reef has shown an incredible ability to recover. This vitality is a sign of its health and makes it one of the few remaining marine ecosystems where divers can witness such abundance and diversity.
Sharks are a particular highlight for many divers, and the reef offers plenty of opportunities to see these apex predators. The presence of sharks is a clear indicator of a healthy ecosystem, as it shows the food chain is intact and thriving.
For those who don’t dive, the reef is equally stunning from the surface. Snorkelling trips are available, allowing non-divers to explore the shallow coral gardens and spot marine life in crystal-clear waters. Nukubati also offers other ocean adventures, from stand-up paddleboarding to reef walks, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of Bainivualiku.
Nukubati Island photos.
The Cultural Connection
The Great Sea Reef isn’t just a diving destination; it’s deeply tied to the lives of the people who live around it. For locals, the reef serves as a natural forecaster, providing signs of approaching storms, tidal surges, and even changes in water temperatures. This connection between the reef and the community has been passed down through generations, and it’s something Leone and his team are passionate about preserving.
When you dive or snorkel the reef with Great Sea Reef Divers, you’re not just exploring marine life – you’re learning about the cultural and environmental significance of the reef from those who know it best. Leone’s team shares stories about the reef’s role in their heritage, offering a deeper understanding of why it’s so important to protect it.
Famed tatavu – beach barbeque – a seafood meal cooked on hot stones. Nukubati Island photo.
Beyond Diving
When you’re not exploring the reef, Nukubati offers plenty of ways to relax and unwind. Enjoy a massage, paddle through the calm waters surrounding the island, or take a boat trip to a deserted sandbar for a private picnic. The resort’s commitment to sustainability means you can enjoy these experiences knowing that your stay is having a positive impact on the environment and local communities. As the first solar-powered resort in the South Pacific, Nukubati leads the way in sustainable tourism. The resort runs on solar energy, harvests rainwater, and implements waste-reduction practices to protect its pristine environment. This commitment ensures that both the reef and the surrounding island remain untouched for future generations.
Lara and Leone at the Great Sea Reef map.
Why Dive the Great Sea Reef?
Diving the Great Sea Reef is about more than just seeing beautiful marine life. It’s about connecting with the reef’s story, its people, and its importance to the northern Fiji’s coastal culture and environment.
Staying at Nukubati and diving with Leone and his team offers more than just incredible underwater views – it’s a chance to support sustainable tourism, empower local communities, and experience a side of Fiji that most travellers never see. Lara Meliki, Nukubati resort manager and founder’s daughter says, “we believe there is value in sharing our knowledge and traditional way of life when it comes to existing harmoniously with our surroundings. Whether you’re a diver or just someone who loves the ocean, this is an experience you’ll never forget.”
Ready to dive in? Contact Great Sea Reef Divers to book your Great Sea Reef adventure!
Set against the backdrop of Natadola Bay, this experience highlights the Fijian concept of Vanua – the deep connection between people, land, and community. The Vanua Immersion Dinner is ideal for large groups, incentives, or as part of a conference programme and offers delegates an opportunity to connect with Fijian culture in a memorable way.
What’s included:
Fijian-inspired buffet dinner – A spread of local dishes featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking styles.
Torch-lighting ceremony – The evening begins with the lighting of torches, a gesture of welcome and a symbol of togetherness.
Kava ceremony – Guests take part in this traditional ceremony, where kava – a drink made from yaqona root – is shared as a sign of respect and connection.
Art and craft demonstrations – Watch renown local artisans as they weave mats, and produce tapa cloth using techniques passed down through generations.
Meke dance performance – Dancers in traditional dress perform, sharing Fijian stories through movement and song.
Fire show – Skilled performers showcase an impressive fire display, rounding off the evening with energy and excitement.
Outdoor lighting, setup, and venue hire – A fully prepared outdoor setting provides a relaxed and natural backdrop for the event.
“The Vanua Immersion Dinner offers something totally unique for groups & meeting delegates visiting Fiji. It’s a chance for attendees to be immersed in Fijian culture, and enjoy an evening of connection and storytelling,” commented Lachlan Walker, Portfolio General Manager – IHG Hotels & Resorts, FNPF-Owned Hotels. “Every Vanua Immersion Dinner will be an incredible occasion, memorable experiences that every InterContinental around the world is known for”.
Available year-round for groups of 70 people or more, the experience is inclusive of food, entertainment, arts & crafts demonstrations, setup and lighting.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your love one on Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s Sunset Dinner Cruise with special romance upgrade options.
The Valentine’s Day experience includes a complimentary welcome drink, a delicious buffet dinner, vibrant Fijian cultural entertainment, and stunning views that will make for a perfect night on the water with your special someone.
Guests can enhance their cruise experience with the Bubbles & Bliss package FJ$235 per couple (plus cruise fare) that includes a bottle of Cattier Icone Brut Champagne, accompanied by an indulgent chocolate gift box of chocolate covered strawberries, truffles and brownies. Other pre-purchase upgrades available – full lobster upgrade or choose from a selection of premium bottles of wine.
The experience on board the South Pacific’s largest sailing catamaran SV Fiji One will offer the ultimate Valentine’s experience for guests.
Book today and set the mood for a memorable Valentine’s evening as you cruise into a breathtaking Pacific Island sunset.
Captain Cook’s special Valentine’s Sunset Dinner Cruise departs on February 14 at 5.30pm from Denarau Marina returning at 8.30pm. Prices start from FJ$129 per person.
“What could be better than celebrating Valentine’s Day afloat, enjoying wonderful hospitality and spectacular views of the sunset in Nadi Bay?” said general manager, Robert Wade.
For bookings, contact Captain Cook Cruises Fiji: Phone: 6701823
Fiji Airways has added new ATR aircrafts to its fleet, strengthening its extensive network and providing enhanced connectivity across Fiji and the South Pacific.
This expansion supports Fiji Airways’ ongoing efforts to improve domestic capacity and better serve regional communities, particularly in northern Fiji.
Fiji Link’s ATR 72-600 aircraft.
The two ATR 72-600 aircrafts, each with a seating capacity of 68, will be primarily used on Fiji Airways’ regional routes, including those servicing the northern and western divisions of Fiji. Over time, additional ATR aircraft will be introduced to further enhance capacity and support more frequent and efficient services on key domestic routes such as Nadi-Suva and Labasa. This expansion will significantly improve connectivity and accessibility across Fiji’s regional network. The move aligns with airline’s broader strategy to enhance its Nadi Hub through connectivity and improve travel options for passengers, particularly those connecting between domestic and international services.
In addition to the fleet expansion, Fiji Link, the domestic and regional subsidiary of Fiji Airways, has launched new uniforms for its staff, which now align with the signature Fiji Airways uniform.
The new uniforms reflect the vibrant and modern image of Fiji Airways, while incorporating the Fiji Link’s young cultural heritage. This change is designed to create a cohesive visual identity for all staff members, from the front line to the cabin crew, and is aligned with the airline’s strategy to improve customer experience and enhance the overall brand image.
The new ATR aircraft and uniform changes are part of Fiji Airways’ broader efforts to elevate its service standards and customer experience, as well as to reinforce the strength of its brand as Fiji’s national carrier.
Captain Cook Cruises Fiji is offering a special New Year’s Eve experience. On its Countdown Cruise guests will celebrate the New Year cruising around Nadi Bay, enjoying wonderful on board hospitality and Fiji’s spectacular fireworks display.
The experience on board the South Pacific’s largest sailing catamaran SV Fiji One will offer the ultimate Fiji New Year’s Eve experience.
Fiji’s most unique New Year’s Eve package includes canapés and a welcome drink, with a cash bar available from 10pm until 1am. Prices start from A$67 per person or an upgrade with VIP access to the upper deck Captain’s Lounge is available for A$99 per person. Departing Denarau Marina 31st Dec. 2024 at 10pm and returning 1am on New Years Day.
Ring in 2025 with Captain Cook Cruises Fiji.
“What could be better than seeing the new year in afloat, enjoying wonderful hospitality and spectacular views of the fireworks in Nadi Bay?” said Captain Cook Cruises Fiji general manager, Robert Wade.
BOOK NOW! Call: 6701823 For further information, email: [email protected]
Expanding connectivity between Fiji and Northern Australia
National airline Fiji Airways‘ new direct route between Nadi, Fiji, and Cairns, Australia, commences April 10, 2025.
The three-times-weekly service, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, reflects Fiji Airways’ commitment to expanding travel options and enhancing regional connectivity, providing travelers with convenient access to two incredible destinations.
The new route aligns with the airline’s Nadi-Dallas/Fort Worth schedule, operating on the same days, and allows passengers traveling from Cairns to Dallas a seamless and time-efficient connection. By connecting via Nadi, travelers will benefit from a shorter transfer time due to reduced congestion, making this the quickest option for passengers traveling from Cairns to Dallas and vice versa. The route also opens access for all major cities beyond Dallas, providing a streamlined pathway to Cairns from across North America.
The flights will be operated on Fiji Airways’ state-of-the-art Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, where guests can experience award-winning hospitality. Onboard amenities include complimentary meals, a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, hundreds of hours of entertainment content, and Wi-Fi available to all guests, ensuring comfort and connectivity throughout their journey.
Great Barrier Reef Drive in Northern Australia.
Launching the Nadi-Cairns route is a strategic decision to connect Fiji Airways guests with Northern Australia, a region renowned for its vibrant tourism and economic appeal. Known worldwide for iconic attractions such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, Cairns is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Direct flights from Nadi to Cairns will also create greater accessibility for Fijian travelers looking to explore Australia’s northern marvels, while inviting Australians to experience the natural beauty and legendary hospitality of Fiji.
Cairns Lagoon.
Cairns Airport chief executive officer, Richard Barker, said “This announcement from Fiji Airways, Fiji’s national airline, is a game changer for our region. Not only does it open the South Pacific to locals as a great holiday destination or to visit loved ones, but maximising the growing network of Fiji Airways means fast, one-stop connectivity to North America via its hub in Nadi. Destinations such as Los Angeles and San Francisco are now just 16 hours away, slashing nearly three hours of travel time via an Australian domestic port.
“Likewise for international visitors heading to Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, travel will become so much easier from April 2025. With Fiji Airways Oneworld membership and close alignment to American Airlines, many markets in North America are now within easy reach.”
Cairns Airport is one of Australia’s leading regional airports.
Queensland Tourism Minister, Andrew Powell, said the new flights will provide a significant boost for Far North Queensland tourism operators.
“More visitors from across the South Pacific and the USA will experience the wonders of Tropical North Queensland when these new flights start touching down direct from Fiji.
“They will carry up to 26,593 inbound passengers every year, generating more than $12 million per year in overnight visitor spend and creating 130 direct and indirect peak jobs.
“The flights will provide another avenue into Cairns for Fijian students and their families, and another freight route out for exports like fresh produce and seafood.
“The Queensland Government is proud to support these new services as we formulate a 20-year tourism plan to showcase Queensland’s natural beauty to the world, including the reef, rainforests, beaches and the outback.”
Tourism Tropical North Queensland, chief executive officer, Mark Olsen, said “North America is currently our second largest market which has recovered by more than 74 per cent with 101,000 visitors in the past financial year. A one-hop service from North America to Cairns would create the potential for Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef to be the first port of arrival for more US travelers.
“With the assistance of the Federal Government’s International Tourism Recovery Program we have escalated our marketing activities and invested in seven campaigns in the US and Canadian markets generating more than $15 million in sales to date. A further 10 campaigns have been contracted including one in partnership with Fiji Airways and a trade partner in the US to further grow this market.”
By Filimone Mate Marine Scientist, Vatuvara Foundation
The Lau group of islands has been identified as one of Fiji’s priority marine ecoregions, globally important due to its uniqueness, endemism, and high level of diversity. Our coral reef system embodies all the elements that make our underwater realm so exceptional. However, these vibrant ecosystems face unprecedented threats due to climate change, human-induced activities, disease, and overfishing.
Vatuvara Foundation aims to establish sustainable approaches to marine resource management for Fiji’s Northern Lau group that supports biodiversity conservation, community resilience, and sustainable community livelihoods. We collaborated with the Vatuvara Private Islands Resort in ridge-to-reef management and with the Yacata community to scale up our impact in reviving their natural resources. The Vatuvara Foundation trains and fosters local capacity-building on coral restoration best practices with community youth groups, where selected coral team members have access to knowledge that helps drive the implementation of these innovative techniques.
Through the years, our coral restoration program has been documenting, reviewing, and continuously improving its proactive strategies to fit the natural parameters of our surrounding reefs in Northern Lau, while recognising the impacts of global climate events on coral recovery at the island level. Our coral restoration efforts consist of multiple nurseries deployed at our priority sites that house collected coral fragments from our surrounding lagoon. These corals have shown strong thermal tolerance and are replicated in our nurseries to produce more resilient coral strains that are better adapted to the changing climate conditions. We have observed bleaching events in our surrounding coral reefs during the warm season in Fiji (November to April) that have extended through to May and June and are very confronting. Furthermore, highlighting the importance of creating opportunities for community partnerships and innovative strategies helps to maintain and assist the ecological functions of the reef system.
Our islands are not spared from the devastating impacts of climate change. Northern Lau was severely impacted by one of the biggest cyclones in the Southern Hemisphere, category 5 Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016, which completely shattered livelihoods and natural resources of the local communities. This was followed by Tropical Cyclone Yasa, a category 5 cyclone in 2020, and Tropical Cyclone Ana, a category 3 cyclone in 2021. Vatuvara Foundation recently secured a novel parametric insurance program that provides a holistic strategy, and an exciting opportunity designed to ensure resources are readily available for reef restoration and community support in the event of a cyclone. BHP, Vatuvara Foundation and Willis Towers Watson are working together to pilot this parametric insurance product, a first for Fiji. Our coral team has been trained through this initiative in water safety, first aid response, and coral rehabilitation efforts. It is a 5-year program that will offer an important knowledge base for developing and applying this innovative product of coral reef resilience in other areas.
Vatuvara Foundation in partnership with the Australian Institute of Marine Science, integrated a new digital tool, ReefCloud that associates the power of human collaboration and artificial intelligence into our monitoring regime. Through training and technical support, our team was able to thoroughly utilise the platform and derive a methodology to quantify the findings that are gathered from our coral reef surveys. This was an easy transition and a game changer for our coral monitoring system as it saves time while it analyses quality photo imagery and transfers complex data rapidly to help make informed management decisions with communities and key stakeholders.
In understanding reef resilience, our organisation engages with the Yacata Island community through community-led initiatives that involve awareness, education, and cultural connections. Sharing scientific data and findings on the effect of climate change on the surrounding reefs with the community, helps to inform community sustainable practices and build resilience.
Ascertaining the roles and responsibilities of community members is a vital aspect of the conservation lens in shifting the paradigm to a bottom-up approach. The Yacata community endorsed a 5-year tabu (no-take zone) to boost ecosystem biodiversity and rejuvenate fish populations while weaving in the sanctity of traditional ecological knowledge and protocols. This sphere of influence is crucial for sustainable livelihoods as coastal communities are intricately linked to marine resources for food security and economic benefits. By building resilient reefs we are creating a sustainable pathway with the hope of sharing our underwater conservation efforts with the new generations of tomorrow.
