Labasa hosts big Fiji Day celebration

Fijians in Vanua Levu have so much to look forward to at this year’s Fiji Day celebration to be held at Labasa’s Subrail Park on October 10.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Progressing Together, Leaving No Fijian Behind”. Ministry of Defence and National Security Permanent Secretary Osea Cawaru said: “Central to this year’s theme is the enduring and resounding aspect of our collective aspirations as Fijians, clearly outlined in the National Development Plan that is Transforming Fiji towards a more progressive, vibrant and exclusive society. “Government therefore, in its unwavering commitment in ensuring that ‘No Fijian is left behind’ and prosperity is spread as widely as possible, has decided to stage the main celebration in Labasa on Wednesday, October 10, 2018. “This again reinforces Government’s support in building confidence within the private sector in the Northern Division and boosting the socio-economic status of ordinary Fijians.

“We will stage a roadshow organised especially for Fijians living in the North. This event is to showcase the different government services that are available and can be accessed by members of the communities living in the rural and maritime areas in Vanua Levu.

“For Fijians in other centres there will be unique events planned where you will celebrate and enjoy a fun-filled day to remember. A special programme has also been earmarked to include visitation to children’s hospitals at these centres. “We encourage all Fijians wherever you are in the country and around the globe to be part of this year’s event and we invite friends who have called Fiji home and visitors to our shores to make this Fiji Day special by celebrating with us in the different divisions.

“At the main celebration in Labasa, the day programme begins with a march through town to Subrail Park by school children, members of the private sector and members of the community.

“This will be followed by a stunning spectacle, a military parade, and culminating with a Military Tattoo in the evening where Subrail Park will erupt in stunning lights, harmonious co-ordination and display of the military and Police marching bands with children from selected schools and the QEB serenaders,” he said.

RFMF Chief Staff Officer Operations Major Saula Koro said the Republic of Fiji Military Forces band would be performing.

“This is the first time on a Fiji Day that we will perform a Military Tattoo. In this Military Tattoo there will be choreographed items, musical dance and a surveillance component,” Major Koro said. “There will be multicultural items and display of lights that people should look forward to.” Ministry of Defence and National Security Deputy Secretary Ilai Moceica Ilai said there was a reason Fiji Day was celebrated in the North this year.

“Last year was in Nadi and this year it is in Labasa. This is the Government’s commitment to the people of Fiji,” Mr Moceica said.