Fijian Drua boost

RUGBY in Fiji is heading into seas of success with the inclusion of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua in the inaugural season of the Super Rugby Pacific.

Fiji’s affiliation into one of the world’s best annual rugby championships had led to the establishment of a company to govern the administration and business of the Fijian Drua franchise.

The company called Counter Ruck, with 51 per cent shares owned by the Fijian Government with its contribution of $6 million, was signed and given the first installment of $3m yesterday by the Attorney-General, Minister for Economy, Civil Service and Communications, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, in Suva yesterday.

Counter Ruck board directors Humphrey Tawake, the chairman of Fiji Rugby Union, and FRU CEO John

O’Connor and Counter Ruck CEO Brian Thorburn, also the Fijian Drua head, were in attendance during the signing ceremony.

Sayed-Khaiyum said the establishment of the company had a lot of benefits to Fijian rugby, Fijian Drua, and the people of Fiji.

“There has been a lot of negotiations which has resulted in the set up of a private company,” he said.

“We see immense potential in sports, not only in providing entertainment, but also economic benefit.

“This particular opportunity is very unique and it brings about a new level of engagement between Government and the private sector which plays a pivotal role. This Government will not shy away from breaking new paradigms. The private sector has not been genuine in being involved directly and we need a lot more private sector interest as we look at new ways.”

With sports generating millions of dollars through athletes’ playing overseas and other events, the formation of Counter Ruck company has benefits for businesses which are willing to join as sponsors.

“The company will have an independent board with people from New Zealand and Australia with the help from New Zealand Rugby. We are quite happy to make the investment of $6m. Today $3m and the rest in December.

“That will give Fiji Government a share holding of 51 per cent in the company and Government has provided incentives. For anybody who sponsors with Fijian Drua will get 200 per cent tax reduction with the sponsorship of $250,000 or more.”

He said sponsors would get a 13year tax free policy and waiver of duty on imported goods.

Sayed-Khaiyum said the benefits were created to help enhance Fijian rugby.

He was gifted a Fijian Drua jersey by Thorburn during the ceremony.