The Jet Volume 5 Number 5

MAY 31 - JUNE 30, 2013. Volume 5, Number 5 www.thejetnewspaper.com PRICE: 50 CENTS VIPMAY 31 - JUNE 30, 2013. Volume 5, Number 5 www.thejetnewspaper.com PRICE: 50 CENTS VIP

By JOSEPHINE NAVULA

Peoples PMPrime Minister Bainimarama referred to as a true friend of the people

Residents affected by last years Tropical Cyclone Evan were all smiles after they were handed over their new homes by the head of government, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama on Friday, May 24.

PM Bainimarama handed over two houses in Votualevu and an-other one in Bila, Nadi back road.

Emotional Nadi farmer, Abdul Intikhab Ahmed said he is very thankful to the government for tak-ing out their time to help out the people of the community.

I feel very happy today and I want to thank the Prime Minister for being here to open my new home, he said.

A friend in need is a friend in-deed and our PM is a true friend of the people.

District Offi cer Nadi Peni Koro said the opening of the new homes is always a proud moment for both the government and the people who have suffered full wrath of natural disasters.

Today we once again witness the handing over of another new home for the people who were af-fected by TC Evan last December and it is indeed a proud moment for the people and also the govern-ment, he said.

Mr Koro informed that the to-tal cost of each house donated is $15,800 which includes labour and material costs.

These houses are fully funded by government and are donated to

residents whose homes were com-pletely damaged by Tropical Cy-clone Evan. And for those homes

that were partially damaged, the government only provides them with materials needed, he said.

The new homes are part of Governments commitment to as-sist those individuals and families

whose homes were fully destroyed during Tropical Cyclone Evan late last year.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama is surrounded by members and friends of the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama is surrounded by members and friends of the Singh family of Votualevu. INSET: PM with Bila residents Abdul Intikhab Ahmed and Singh family of Votualevu. INSET: PM with Bila residents Abdul Intikhab Ahmed and his niece. Photos: JOSEPHINE NAVULA.his niece. Photos: JOSEPHINE NAVULA.

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THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER2

FROM THE DESK

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

Fiji - the way the world should be Being the hub of the Pacifi c, 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

COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARDEMPOWER PACIFIC (Formerly PCSS) provides private, confi dential counsel-ling on depression, family/marital, stress, grief, abuse, suicidal thoughts, STIs, drugs, alcohol & be-havior lifestyle changes. Opens 8am 3pm, Monday Friday. Call us on 6708169 Located at Nadi old hospital road.

ROTARY CLUB OF NADI is on a membership drive to increase members who repre-sent all sections of the com-munity. Nadi Rotarians meet every Wednesday at Sitar Restaurant in Martintar at 6.30pm. Interested people can call club president Krupesh Patel on 6700478

SOROPTIMIST INTER-NATIONAL is a vibrant, dynamic organisation for to-days professional and busi-nesswomen, working through projects to promote equality, development and peace. We are seeking members to join our club. Interested ladies can call SI Nadi president Zeaba Rahiman on 9977058

FIJIAN WRITERS ASSO-CIATION which has been established to form the fi rst ever formal body represent-ing writers, poets, journal-ists and everyone who has a passion for writing is seek-ing new members. Interested people can contact Professor Subramani via email:- [email protected]

THE JET is Fijis fi rst community newspaper published monthly by SHAMBU ADVERTISING from Nadi - the tourism capital of Fiji.

PUBLISHER : SHALENDRA PRASAD Cell: 9232073PHONE OFFICE : (679) 7767574/ 6708188 FAX : (679) 6708188EMAIL : [email protected]

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LAYOUT BY SHALENDRA PRASAD & MUNAUWAR KHAN

SHALENDRA PRASAD

Bollywood BonanzaBy SHALENDRA PRASAD

By MARGARET NAQIRI

Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum offi ciates the shooting of Santa Banta at Port Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum offi ciates the shooting of Santa Banta at Port Denarau while actors Lisa Ray Haydon, Veer Das, Neha Dhupia and Boman Irani look on. Denarau while actors Lisa Ray Haydon, Veer Das, Neha Dhupia and Boman Irani look on. Photo: MUNAUWAR KHAN.Photo: MUNAUWAR KHAN.

Yet another Bollywood team is in the country to shoot a comedy fl ick titled Santa Banta.

The movie shooting was offi cially launched by Attor-ney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at Port Denarau on Monday, May 6 in the pres-ence of top Bollywood stars and local stakeholders and fans.

Fiji has recently seen a surge in movie production not only from Bollywood but from other industries as well due to very attractive govern-ment policies.

Directed by Akashdeep Sabir, Santa Banta is featur-ing some of the very common names in Bollywood such as Boman Irani, Neha Dhupia, Veer Das, Lisa Ray Haydon, Johnny Lever, Ram Kapoor and Sanjay Mishra (well known as Papa locally).

Film Fiji CEO Florence Swamy says while there have been numerous Bollywood

The Rotary Club of Nadi continues to assist students with educational needs.

The club donated four car-tons of text and story books each to Nadi Sangam Primary School and Sangam SKM Col-lege respectively.

The books were given to the club by Sydney based Ranfurly Book Aid.

We receive such books on a quarterly basis and it is distrbut-ed to various schools within our boundaries, offered Krupesh Patel, president of the Rotary Club of Nadi.

shootings in the country, Di-rector Akashdeep Sabir has brought in the biggest number of crew and cast from India.

Close to eighty people are

here from India to carry on the shooting for 28-days.

The fi lm which has a bud-get of $1.4 million is based on two main characters San-

ta (Boman Irani) and Banta (Veer Das) who originate from Ludhiana in Punjab, India and fi nd themselves in Fiji under mysterious circumstances.

Nadi Rotary donates books to Sangam schools

A new home owner in the Western Division praised the de-termination of the Bainimarama Government to improve lives of ordinary Fijians by providing new homes.

For Nadi farmer, Arvind Singh, a new home will mean better life for his family.

This after the head of government, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama opened the familys new home at Votualevu in Nadi after requesting government for housing assis-tance.

The Singh family thanked the head of government for think-ing of them in time of need.

The family will have a better life because of the new home especially for the children who had to endure hardship after their home was devastated during cyclone Evan last December.

Mr Singh said Prime Minister Bainimarama is the best lead-er Fiji has ever had and he wants this government to con-tinue for many more years to come.

PM Bainimarama opened the new home at the farming set-tlement and urged the community to work closely with each other.

The head of government also opened several other homes on the same day that have been fully funded by government.

The new homes are part of governments commitment to as-sist those individuals and families whose homes were ful-ly destroyed during Tropical Cyclone Evan late last year.

The best Prime

Minister Fiji ever had

Sangam Primary School librarian Heena Kalavadia, left, and assistant head teacher Sa-Sangam Primary School librarian Heena Kalavadia, left, and assistant head teacher Sa-tyendra Kumar, right, receive books from members of the Rotary Club of Nadi. Photo: tyendra Kumar, right, receive books from members of the Rotary Club of Nadi. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.MARGARET NAQIRI.


THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER 3

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PRESS RELEASE



LOCAL NEWS

New activities planned for Bula Festival

New and hyped up activi-ties have been organized as preparations for the upcoming 2013 Vodafone Bula Festival is well underway.

Nadi Bula Festival Associ-ation President Titilia Vuataki said they are organizing a lot of programmes and activities to make this years carnival a memorable one.

We have arranged shows like agricultural, womens handicrafts from the women of the interiors of Nadi to come and showcase their tal-ents, not forgetting the new show this year is the Coro Walidi organized by the Bula FM crew and other activities that will make the carnival lively.

We have also organized

By JOSEPHINE NAVULA

oratory competition for pri-mary school students of Nadi, she said.

Ms Vuataki said the money raised from this years car-nival will be donated to the unfortunate ones of the com-munity.

We have confi rmed that money raised from this years carnival will go towards the underprivileged children at the Loloma Home including the single mothers that have been shut down by their fami-lies, she said.

Bula Festival Commit-tee Secretary Winnie Silikula confi rmed that they are aim-ing to have twelve contestants this year.

This years Vodafone Bula Festival will take place from the 13th - 20th of July at the Koroivolu Park and Prince Charles Park respectively.

Reigning Miss Vodafone Bula Festival Shahin Shahista with Bula Reigning Miss Vodafone Bula Festival Shahin Shahista with Bula Festival Association president Titilia Vuataki and Vodafone Fijis Festival Association president Titilia Vuataki and Vodafone Fijis chief marketing offi cer Sanjeewa Perera during the crowning night chief marketing offi cer Sanjeewa Perera during the crowning night last year. Photo: SHALENDRA PRASADlast year. Photo: SHALENDRA PRASAD

CyclePower Creating change in Fiji and AustraliaThis June eighteen Aus-

tralian cyclists, both able bodied and people with dis-ability, will complete Cycle-Power, a demanding 550km ride around Fiji.

CyclePower Fiji aims to support those living with a disability in Fiji, by raising awareness of people with disability and demonstrating their sporting ability.

Chief Executive Offi cer of Disability Sport and Rec-reation, Rob Anderson, said sport is a wonderful vehicle to provide understanding and social inclusion.

We are bringing people with disability into Fiji to send a message to locals that incredible feats can be achieved, challenging their

perception of disability.The event also provides a

rare sporting opportunity for Australians with disability, and raises funds for Victorians with disability to participate in sport.

This year sees the events biggest contingency of hand-cyclists, with seven complet-ing the gruelling 550km on a handcycle in just seven days.

A handcycle is an impres-sive three-wheeled vehicle, powered by the arms, rather than the legs.

Along their journey, Cycle-Power participants will donate sporting equipment such as basketballs and footballs to various Special Development Schools and disability organi-sations.

CyclePower is in its third year of action, with previous rides held in Vietnam in 2011 and Cambodia in 2012.

CyclePower participants with disability range from 20 to 66 years of age, showcasing a range of disabilities and life challenges.

Disability Sport and Rec-reation (DSR) is an Australian charity with many initiatives supporting people with a dis-ability in Victoria.

For over 50 years, DSR has worked to ensure people with a disability have equal opportunities to participate in activities of their choice, lead-ing to both physical and men-tal health benefi ts.

CyclePower Riders from last years ride in Cambodia. Photo: SUPPLIED. PRESS RELEASE



LOCAL NEWS

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has announced a bum-per year for Fiji's sugar cane industry.

According to fi gures released by the Fiji Sugar Corporation, after a 4th payment to sugar cane farmers of $20.40 per tonne of raw sugar, the total paid out so far for the 2012 season will be a record-breaking $78.74 per tonne.

The Prime Minister added that there was one fi nal clean-up payment yet to be made that would bring the year's total to at least $80.74 per tonne, if not more.

The Prime Minister said that this was a huge achievement for Fiji, and was a sign that his Governments reforms of the sugar cane industry were paying off.

"This is what you can achieve when you depoliticise the sug-ar cane industry," he said. "With politics out, we will be able to focus all of our energy and resources at achieving better results for farmers and other stakeholders."

The Prime Minister also announced that the forecast price for raw sugar in 2013 was $62.58 per tonne, but that FSC of-fi cials were confi dent the likely payment would be more than $73 per tonne.

Considering the signifi cant reduction in the world wide price of raw sugar, this is a major achievement. At this level, the sugar cane industry becomes extremely viable and able to healthily support industry stakeholders as well as attract more Fijians to the industry, he said.

Two-and-a-half years ago, the payout was $49.16 per tonne of raw sugar.

In 2011, this increased to $65.67 and the price is now sitting around $80 per tonne.

Although the price of raw sugar on the international market is volatile, with a record payment this year and a high price se-cured for next year, we are beginning to see stability and growth re-enter the Fijian sugar cane industry, he said.

We will continue to carry out our reforms to increase ef-fi ciency and productivity in the industry, and we will remain committed to ensuring that all stakeholders, especially our farmers, benefi t from these reforms, he added. As we con-tinue to modernise and adapt the industry and reduce unneces-sary costs, we will be able to pass on more and more savings to industry stakeholders.

Record cane payment for last season

MINFO

MINFO

PM opens international sugar meetPrime Minister Voreqe

Bainimarama opened an international workshop de-signed to provide a source of fuel, fi bre and food through the nobilisation of erianthus - a sugar hybrid on Thursday, May 23.

As a hybrid, erianthus is gaining interest in cross-ing with other sugar hybrids. While this has seen consider-able success across institu-tions in China, India and Aus-tralia, this workshop brings international sugar research experts to present techniques in making crosses in erian-thus. While the workshop will discuss the necessary processes needed for this hybrid crossing, it will also present recommendations to improve existing breeding programs.

Acknowledging the chal-lenges for the sugar industry on the international stage including challenges faced by smaller sugar producing countries, the Prime Minis-ter highlighted the need to strengthen sugar reforms in Fiji.

"As the current chair of the International Sugar Council

(ISC), we are fi rmly commit-ted to advancing the cause of this global industry and the millions of ordinary people the world over who depend on it for their livelihoods".

Naturally, it is the small players such as Fiji that are most vulnerable to these un-certainties and fl uctuations of the marketplace, PM Baini-marama said.

I mention all this, ladies and gentlemen, because al-though there are certain forces that are out of our control, we must act on the reforms that are within our control.

It means being smarter. It means adopting new prac-tices. It means taking advan-tage of new technologies and techniques.

Highlighting the condi-tions that Fijis sugar industry faced in the past, the head of government who also heads the sugar ministry, said that ensuring the sustainability of the industry will improve the lives of ordinary Fijians, in particular those that depend on it.

For all the uncertainties that existed in the interna-tional market, there was cer-

tainty in Fiji that the industry was in serious trouble. So we set ourselves to carrying out a comprehensive series of re-forms. It has been a demand-ing process to change the old mindsets. However, with vi-sion and planning it will pay dividends.

In this respect, I am pleased to say that only last week I was able to announce to the Fijian people a record payment to cane farmers for last years harvest, as well as a high price secured for next year.

The Prime Minister said that the workshop presents an opportunity for participants from eight nations to impart knowledge and experiences for Fiji.

"For the sugar industry,

these opportunities often come in the form of new sug-arcane varieties. In fact, the development of new cane varieties forms an absolutely critical part of the industry."

"Like many of the coun-tries represented here, Fiji has

a sugarcane research centre. We have produced many com-mercial varieties of sugarcane, and we have achieved great successes in developing cane varieties low in impurities, adaptable to poor soils, requir-ing less water and resistant to

hurricanes and droughts."The workshop also saw

a presentation on recent im-provements in cane breeding in the country and an over-view of sugar research in the country.

PM Bainimarama, right, with Jai Shree Gawander, CEO of the Fiji PM Bainimarama, right, with Jai Shree Gawander, CEO of the Fiji Sugar Research Institute. Photo: MINFO.Sugar Research Institute. Photo: MINFO.



LOCAL NEWS

By JOSEPHINE NAVULA

By JOSEPHINE NAVULA By JOSEPHINE

NAVULA

Guide for farmers and nurserymen launched

Stakeholders in the agri-cultural sector gathered in large numbers to witness the launch of a book titled Grow-ing Vegetable seedlings in Fiji - A practical guide for farmers & Nurserymen in Votualevu, Nadi on Wednesday, May 8.

Speaking at the ceremo-ny, Secretariat of the Pacifi c Community (SPC), Land Re-source Development director Josua Wainiqolo highlighted on how farmers have recov-ered from natural disasters and experiences on how reha-bilitation efforts have been so

diffi cult to sustain prior to the establishment of initiatives as such.

The readiness of the re-habilitation programme to meet the urgency of these cir-cumstances has always been a huge set back, Mr Wainoqolo said.

He said the decision to venture into a nursery seed-ling enterprise will hopefully alleviate such setbacks.

The addition of disaster mitigation containers to store seedlings in the event of cy-clones or fl oods has added another dimension to the proj-ect.

SPC and AusAid have ami-cably engaged in many devel-

oping projects as such.The manual was launched

by Acting Australian High Commissioner His Excellen-cy Glenn Miles.

Veteran agricultural sec-tor leader and owner of Bula Agro Enterprises Sant Ku-mar has also played a major role in the successful launch of the manual and played a key role in the installation of around twenty disaster miti-gation containers which can save seedlings during natural disasters around the country.

The containers will en-sure a quick turnaround in the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables following natural disasters.

Kamlesh Prasad (Farmboy) shows the new fl ood mitiga-Kamlesh Prasad (Farmboy) shows the new fl ood mitiga-tion containers during the launch at Bula Agro Enterpris-tion containers during the launch at Bula Agro Enterpris-

es in Votualevu. Photo: SHALENDRA PRASAD.es in Votualevu. Photo: SHALENDRA PRASAD.

Ice Bar to host upcoming Global Party for charity

Nadis famous night spot Ice Bar has shown their sup-port to raise funds for Trea-sure Childrens Home fol-lowing their announcement to host the Global Party- linking the world for a worthy cause.

Ice Bar Managing Director Roneel Sami (pictured) con-fi rmed that the money raised will be given to the Treasure Childrens Home Orphanage.

Hundred percent of what-ever is raised will go directly to the Treasure Home, he said in a press conference on Wednesday, May 15.

Sami said the party will ac-knowledge Fiji in 120 coun-tries, and they are expecting about fi ve hundred people at the venue.

This Global Party is cele-

brated in 120 countries around the world, and apparently this might boost our tourism sec-tor, he said.

Sami confi rmed all invita-tion will be done online and it is going to be a strictly VIP party.

Global Party is a charitable event which supports many organizations such as Nelson Mandela Children Funds, Saint Johns Ambulance and Bible Society.

The party will take place at Ice Bar on Friday, June 28.

Women living with cancer were uplifted with encourage-ment after an original artwork was auctioned and sold for $550 at the Fiji Cancer Society - Western Branchs fi rst fund-raiser gathering of the year at the First Landing Resort in Vuda.

Fijis well known Artist, Lambert Ho (pictured) said his painting is a refl ection and tes-tament of a womans struggles through cancer.

The painting that I donated to the Western Cancer Society depicts a womans face. She represents all women. Women who have a story to tell regard-ing this dreaded disease we call

Western Cancer society continues good work

cancer. She is all beautiful, she is all powerful, she is all love, she is all gentle and pure, she is the bones and the blood and the sweat and the tears that make all things possible.

The artwork is a refl ection, a testament of her struggles through cancer that sometimes woman is devoid and robbed of her woman-ness, Ho said.

Ho said the colours he used in the paintings all have a mean-ing to it.

And the choice of colour that I used in the artwork is mainly pink, a gentle colour that is all woman. There is a hint of yellow in the blossom she wears on her ear, this is the confi dence and poise, the hope that all who suffer are strong enough to overcome the barri-ers and the stigma that relate to our women, wherever in society

they come from, Ho added.Fiji Cancer Society - West-

ern Branch Vice-President, Mi-lika Marshall said the gathering was about raising awareness and membership drive within the community.



LOCAL NEWS

North American volunteers help hospital

Group leader Laura Thomas of Stampin! Up, centre, is fl anked by Nadi Hospital Board sec-retary Israr Khan and board member Sunila Karan during the clean up works at the hospital

by a group of 200 volunteers from America and Canada. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.

By SHALENDRA PRASAD

A group of two hundred North Americans who were recently in Nadi for a week long holiday decided to give something back to the com-munity during their short visit to our shores.

Affi liates of Stampin! Up a US based craft and rubber company were busy giving the

Nadi Hospital a much needed boost with various initiatives such as grass cutting, painting and light handy work.

Group leader Laura Thom-as said it was exciting to visit Fiji which is a real tropical paradise with the added plea-sure of doing something for the community.

Out of our week-long holiday plan, we wanted to do something good here. We teamed up with our travel

agents Pacifi c Destinationz and the hospital board to carry out the works, Ms Thomas said.

Nadi Hospital board sec-retary Israr Khan said it was so encouraging to see visitors taking part in such community initiatives.

Running a hospital comes with so much hard work and dedication and such gestures from visitors are highly ap-preciated, Mr Khan said.



NADI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Airports Fiji Limited (AFL) is receiving over-whelming interests from con-tractors around the globe for the redesign of the Nadi Inter-national Airport.

AFL acting chief executive offi cer, Naushad Ali said they have received expressions of interest from companies as far as South Africa for works ex-pected to begin in July.

We have received over-whelming responses from China, Korea, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and other local companies that have shown

Overwhelming response for airport upgradeinterest in these major works at Fijis main gateway, Mr Ali said.

This shows the level of interest from renowned inter-national and local companies who want to be part of the unique designing of the new look Nadi Airport terminal.

Initial plans are now be-ing developed on a multi-million dollar upgrade with special emphasis on new and improved passenger facilities such as retail shopping and dining.

We are currently in the designing stages and Fiji will

soon boast a modern interna-tional airport with local archi-tecture to portray the unique Fijian culture, Mr Ali said.

We are not rushing into things but we hope to start by July and we want to do it right.

Mr Ali said the urgency of the upgrade aligned well with the recent Government decree that has cancelled all present concessionaires contracts for a twelve month period, while new contracts are either en-tered into or tendered out, based on the upgraded facili-ties.

Many of the changes would be integrated into a new, larg-er departure lounge extending out to the edge of passenger walkways that provide access to and from departing or arriv-ing aircraft.

Mr Ali said the changes would also improve passenger facilitation by creating more space for passengers to be comfortably processed when arriving or departing from Nadi.

The proposed changes are believed to create a better en-vironment for all stakehold-ers.

Ultimately it will be our visitors to Fiji who will ben-efi t, enjoying an international shopping and food experience

in surroundings that would be world-class, and a fi tting fi rst and last impression of the country at Nadi International Airport, Mr Ali said.

The airport serves close to a million international passengers every year at its single terminal.

The last major upgrade to the Nadi airport had been done in 2003, with an in-vestment of FJ$72m while 26,000m apron area was re-placed in 2006 at a total cost of about FJ$11m.

MINFO

Naushad Ali. Photo: JOSEPHINE NAVULA.

Newly recruited fi refi ghters of Airports Fiji Limited pose for a photo with senior management and staff Newly recruited fi refi ghters of Airports Fiji Limited pose for a photo with senior management and staff during their graduation ceremony on Friday, May 3. Photo: JOSEPHINE NAVULA.during their graduation ceremony on Friday, May 3. Photo: JOSEPHINE NAVULA.



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Four lane work to start soon

Council im-pressed with ratepayers

The proposed four lane proj-ect will be undertaken this June according to Nadi Town Council CEO Nemia Tagi.

The four lane road will come from the airport all the way down to Wailoaloa junc-tion, and then it will split from there. A two lane road will run through the empty lands following up the rail-way lines to Narewa.

Nadi Town Council is im-pressed with their rate payers.

The council is pleased with the progress from our rates collection. So far we have received eighty percent of the amount that is being owed to us, Nadi Town Council CEO Nemia Tagi said.

Tagi said they have been having regular meetings with the stake holders re-garding the rates.

For the last two months, the council has initiated awareness meetings with our stakeholders and rate payers and we wish to work closely with every-one for a better Nadi.

Council briefs by JOSEPHINE NAVULA

Public advised to stay away from river project areaBy JOSEPHINE NAVULA

Nadi Town Council is urg-ing members of the public not to carry out any development around the proposed river di-version canal area.

We are also informing those who are buying proper-ties by the area that the pro-posed river canal will be run-ning along that direction upon

approval so they need to hold all development plans until further notice, NTC CEO Nemia Tagi said.

Tagi said it is a very big project that will involve a lot of things that will take time before it takes shape.

There will be a lot of re-search carried out for the pre-liminary surveys, before the fi nal design can be put into

place, he said.Tagi also said the reports

of the related projects on the river canal has been collected and is now being analyzed thoroughly in Japan.

The reports that were done by the engineers that came in from Japan in 1996 to 1998, have been collected last year and they are looking at it carefully and thoroughly right

now, he said. There are many factors to

be considered while the proj-ect is commencing, such as high tides and fl ooding, he said.

Tagi thanked the Japanese Government and its aid agen-cy JICA for all the support given to the township so far.

We look forward to work-ing with the Japanese Govern-

ment to make Nadi and Fiji at large a better place for all.

Nadi Town Council special administrator Aisea Tuidraki, right, Nadi Town Council special administrator Aisea Tuidraki, right, hands over a token of appreciation to the Japanese ambas-hands over a token of appreciation to the Japanese ambas-sador His Excellency Eiichi Oshima for their timely donation of sador His Excellency Eiichi Oshima for their timely donation of a Komatsu excavator recently. Photos: JOSEPHINE NAVULA.a Komatsu excavator recently. Photos: JOSEPHINE NAVULA.

NTC CEO Nemia Tagi



BUSINESS MENTORING

A new series of articles with challenging perspectives for your businesses

By CLAIRE-DIANE GIRALDEAU

Are you treating your women equally?

In this article I will review various ways to look at eth-ics and gender equality in the context of work, at home with the family and also in the com-munity in general. With our Virtuous Business Women Network regular meetings, it has become more than ob-vious that in many occasions women are not treated fairly. Even though there are many attempts by womens orga-nizations, ministries, human rights or the new constitution the fact remains that women do not get the same opportuni-ties as men do. It may be more obvious here in Fiji but hey, it is the same all over the world.

I do not intend to get into a complicated thesis here, so dont worry I simply would like the readers to do a quick check of their own ways, whether you have a small business, shop in town, res-taurant, hotel or manage some of our bigger businesses in Nadi would you pass the equality quiz and do you have basic ethic practices? Lets go through some general questions and issues faced by women:

1. Do women in your

company get paid the same salary as men and do they get the same opportunity for pro-motion and job selection?

I realize that we can get trapped in qualifi cations and requirements here, yet I have faced this kind of difference in pay for tenders or while nego-tiating a contract applying for consultancy work. It seems like women have to be 3 times better to get paid the same and even that will not give us busi-ness contract.

In the consultancy market, ethics is at times missing-it is more a question of the boys network as we see the prac-tice and in various advertise-ment for tender, too often the so good overseas consultant has already been selected be-cause of a connection in the department so why bother.

Its amazing to see what women share in our group, whether there is a true rec-ognition of the experience or the quality of service, whether there are policies in place in bigger organization the actual practice is very different from the human resources guide-lines.

2. How many women do you have in management position and I mean true de-cision making posts?

One of the most common positions in management for women seems to be human resources manager. It prob-ably is because men do not know how to look after peo-ple.just a joke guys dont get offended. Yet it is often a post where there are various

challenges and confl icts to be handled and women have the experience and practice in their many family duties when it comes to sorting things out.

I personally think that term human resource should not exist, I remember reading the history of that term when I did my MBA, and you may not know that it comes from the industrialization period. In fact a resource cannot be hu-man, as the word resource refers to things, objects, and machineries not people. So these 2 words should never have been put together in the fi rst place. From the time em-ployees were considered ma-chines, their status changed to be resources.

As far as I am concerned it should be changed to human asset and we should get the fi nance manager to see people, employees as asset not just in words and beautiful speeches for corporate social responsi-bility, but in practice and even more so with women.

Now it is not because you would have a policy to have 30% women on boards or in your management team that it creates a more equitable state for women. While working with a NGO in Papua New Guinea, I have seen that in many cases, women will not speak up during these meet-ings; they have not been given the appropriate confi dence training to do so or they will get in trouble with their hus-band if they dare oppose what a man says.

The general attitude of the

men on the boards is discred-iting instead of being encour-aging. I recall being the only women with 12 men on our Life Insurance Association Board, I had to learn the hard way believe me. First they assigned me the committees that did not function well, be it the magazine, I took it with 6 pages and brought it to 14 with enough advertising to totally fi nance its publication. Then monthly lunch meet-ings which had less than 25 participants with a member-ship of 6000, has declined so badly, I formed a committee of 16 members from different companies who had to sell a table of 10 each that brought back the participation to 150 minimum every month. Lastly the annual congress had gone havoc as well, I managed to get some famous guests speaker in the fi eld, motiva-tors and we broke our atten-dance record with over 2000 participants that year. I had to revamp these and make them succeed. After three years of being pushed around, the President and board awarded me with the Best Volunteer of Year Trophies as they fi nally saw that I had much more to offer than they had planned.

3. What can your management team do to im-prove on equality; do you have women on your board and executive team?

I would say to fi rst look at your women as having been created to be partners, equally with different qualities that

complement mens work. We are meant to be respected and given the same opportunities as men. If only you would realize what you are miss-ing when you choose to dis-criminate. We have natural ways of being more practical, multi-tasked we can handle much more at once than men can with their compartmental thinking. There is not one bet-ter than the other but rather two different sex with differ-ent strengths & weaknesses, which once put together cre-ate the best of both world.

Look at your own ways of treating the women in your life, your mother to start with, your wife, your sisters, your daughters. I have been watch-ing the great FBC show of Aamir Khan on Wednesdays and I tell you this guy is bring-ing so much awareness about many issues that it makes me jump when I think of it. I won-der when it will change, yet it could start with simple steps around you.

4. How do you really treat women in your work-place?

Are you polite and courte-ous, do you make inappropri-ate comments or jokes that re-fer to their physique. Do you respect the fact that a married women should not be talked to in the same manner as a man. I sometimes see behaviors that are so offending, these bad habits that certain men have to just fl irt without respect even when they themselves are married. Where are the values of families, what about your

wife, when people start hav-ing affairs within the work en-vironment, how much trouble will that cause? Where is the ethic and professional behav-iors? Of course in many cases only the women gets blamed, it reminds me of the story of the woman in the bible ac-cused of committing adultery, when she was brought up by men to Jesus to be judged they wanted to stone her and Jesus said to the men, that the one who has never sinned throw the fi rst stone, they all walked away. It does take two to tan-go as one would say.

When we look at all the internet rubbish, emails that are being sent around with stupid jokes with women I re-ally think its time to grow up guys, you should spend more time on your own work and be productive instead of losing time to pass these around.

Lately I spend time with various women groups do-ing workshops and training. I am so amazed at what so many women tolerate, how strong they are, the amount of time they work in a day and yet when the husband comes home there is very little at-tention and respect shown to these virtuous women. Wom-en you are wonderful and may we all remember that we are loved by our God anyway and we shall be blessed by Him who created us!Contact: [email protected] Mobile 925 8050 or 707 8050



ANIMALS FIJI MONTHLY FEATURE

Animal Care and Health from the veterinarians at Animals Fiji Nadi Clinic

By DOCTOR JO OLVER

Heartworm disease

Heartworm disease is a serious and potential-ly fatal condition caused by parasitic worms living in the major arteries of the lungs and often in the right side of the heart of dogs, cats and other species of mammals, includ-ing wolves, foxes, ferrets, sea lions and (in rare instances) humans. We do not see many of these other animal species in Fiji but we do see LOTS of heartworm disease in our dogs.

Most of the information in this article is obtained from the American Heartworm So-ciety. Their website is listed at the end of the report. For videos, pictures and further information this is our best resource for information on this disease. As is usual with the internet all kinds of infor-mation and misinformation abound use good sources to become informed.

Mosquitoes are necessary for transmission of this dis-ease from dog to dog. Heart-worm disease does not spread directly from animal to ani-mal. When found in the heart adult heartworms resemble a tangled pile of white cord some have even described them as looking like spaghetti. Of these worms the adult fe-males release their young (lar-vae) into a dogs bloodstream. These larvas resemble a mi-croscopic maggot and must undergo several molts before it arrives in another heart to fi nish growth into an adult and start the cycle all over.

The larvae are called mi-crofi lariae and they are picked up by a mosquito when it takes a blood meal from a dog. In the mosquito they go through a couple of molts to become infective to a dog. Once the microfi lariae reaches the infective stage in its life it is deposited on the skin of a dog when the mosquito takes

another blood meal. This lar-va enters into the skin of the dog and has now started the process of heartworm disease in that particular dog. If you have ever seen what the mos-quito sticks in your skin to suck blood you will have an idea how tiny these microfi -lariae are.

Over the course of the next 6 9 months this larva will eventually take up residence in the blood vessel or heart of this dog and mature into an adult worm.

For both cats and dogs, signs of heartworm disease are not recognized in the early stages of disease as the number of heartworms in an animal tends to accumulate gradually over a period of time and with repeated mos-quito bites. Signs in a chroni-cally or heavily infected dog may include mild, persistent cough, reluctance to move or exercise, exercise fatigue, re-duced appetite or weight loss. Heartworm disease in cats often shows signs similar to asthma.

The two most common ways of detecting this disease involves simple blood tests which either looks for the mi-crofi lariae or tests for proteins (antigen) which come from the adult worms. Neither test is consistently positive until about 7 months after infection

has occurred. This is one of the reasons for an annual test.

Usually, all but the most advanced cases of heartworm disease can be successfully treated in dogs. If you can imagine this pile of worms in the heart once killed there are worms and bits of worms which now can end up causing severe blockages. Treatment drugs and protocols have been established to help prevent

serious consequences from these dead worms in your dog.

HOWEVER, by far the best protection is to prevent heartworm disease and not wait until your dog has these parasites. There is an injec-tion which can be adminis-tered once a year or you can chose from several different types of monthly medications to prevent heartworm disease in your dog. Furthermore

most of these preventives function as a good general de-wormer for other internal par-asites an ever present threat to both dogs and people.

Start your puppies on pre-ventives at 6 months of age, and continue for life and you will not need to worry about this disease.

You may fi nd further in-formation by going to www.heartwormsociety.org

A little girl plays with her best friend. INSET: Adult heartworms inside the heart and large blood vessels of a dog. These take 6 9 months from the time of being bitten by an infected

mosquito. Photos: SUPPLIED.



TRAVEL AND TOURISM

Fiji celebrity chef Lance Seeto was a special guest of the Hawaii Visitors and Con-vention Bureau, the equiva-lent of Tourism Fiji, when he visited the American island as a member of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association earlier this month.

The award winning media personality has attracted the interest of Hawaiis tourism body, who along with other international journalists, had organised a seven day tour of

Celebrity chef visits Hawaii

PRESS RELEASE

PRESS RELEASE

the Polynesian island to dis-cover ancient Hawaii through history, arts, culture, and food.

The Hawaiian Polynesians are distant cousins of the Fi-jian iTaukei and were an ex-tension of the great seafaring adventures more than 3,500 years ago across Asia, Aus-tralasia, the South Pacifi c, Ha-waii and the United States.

Seeto was in Hawaii as a journalist to experience the differences between the two island nations and how histo-

ry set Fiji and Hawaii on two very different paths.

Unlike Fiji, Hawaiians of mixed Chinese and Japanese ancestry make up nearly half of the population. Seeto took advantage of Air Pacifi cs di-rect fl ights from Nadi to Ho-nolulu to meet and sample food from Hawaiis top chefs across its islands, and to learn how the American tourism body markets itself to the world.

The Sofi tel Fiji Resort & Spa has taken the next step in its gourmet tour de force on fi ne food in Fiji, consolidating its elegant approach to Pacifi c dining with the appointment of ex-perienced French Executive Chef, Jean-Marc Ruzzene.

Chef Ruzzenes arrival follows the depar-ture of the resorts award-winning former Ex-ecutive Chef and local culinary identity Bren-don Coffey who departed in February after more than seven years with the resort.

Chef Ruzzene says he is looking forward to further building the resorts deep apprecia-tion for local fl avours and a respect for inter-national cuisine, cultivated by his predecessor Chef Coffey.

As a result of Brendons passion for Fijian food and ingredients Ive inherited not only a seasoned team of talented local chefs but an amazing onsite garden and hotel farm with fresh ingredients for inspiration, he says. I hope to add my own unique European ap-proach and Michelin star background to what is already a well-regarded and established rep-utation at this resort for serving up innovative and sophisticated dining options for guests.

Jean Marc started his career in France at the renowned three-star Michelin establish-ment, Yves Thuries before heading to Ger-many to join the Queens Hotel Bermen. He later returned to France working fi rst at two-star Michelin restaurant Le puit St Jacques and then at one-star Michelin restaurant Le Hittau. This was followed by a three year stint at the Sheraton Skyline in London before moving to the Philippines to assist the Westin Manila Plaza with its year-long Beaujolais Nouveau Celebrations.

Jean-Marc decided to emigrate and settle in Australia, taking on the role of Sous Chef at Brisbanes Royal on the Park almost a de-cade ago. A career highlight in Australia was his role at Queenslands Government House and the Offi ce of the Governor. Here, Jean-Marc was Head Chef, personally looking after visiting Heads of States and Political Offi cials who visited Quentin Bryce, current Governor General of Australia and then Governor for Queensland. Immediately prior to Fiji, Jean-Marc was Executive Sous Chef at the Sofi tel Brisbane Central.

Sofi tel Fiji Resort & Spa General Manager Simon Jinks says Jean-Marcs French pedi-gree ties in perfectly with the Sofi tels brands proud Parisian origins and distinct European approach to hospitality and cuisine.

Its a timely appointment as Jean-Marc joins the resorts new Director of Food & Beverage Jean-Francois Delahaye who is also French, says Mr Jinks. Together I think they represent the start of a fresh and exciting new era for Sofi tel Fiji which will only strengthen our credentials as the regions best foodie des-tination.

Sofi tel Fiji Resort & Spas offers Fijis best

New head chef for Sofi tel

choice of casual and elegant dining experiences. Sofi tel boasts Denarau Islands most sophisti-cated signature restaurant, plus relaxed bars and caf-style eateries for amazing variety, indoors and out. Creative menus showcase the best local produce and selected imported delicacies, mak-ing this resort the place to be on the Fiji food trail. Restaurants include previous winner of Fi-jis restaurant of the Year Award, Salt for down to earth and delicious meals; Lagoon Restaurant for themed buffet options and open aired terrace dining, and V Restaurant - a contemporary and comfortably cool Fijian dining encounter seat-ing for up to 70 guests who truly enjoy the art of fi ne food and wine. Other outlets include Lati-tude 17 Cocktail Bar, Breeze Bar and French sidewalk cafe, La Parisienne.

Sofi tel Fiji Resort & Spa executive chef Jean-Marc Ruzzene. Photo: SUPPLIED.

Chef Seeto's visit was about culture and the direction of food. He met with key group of chefs who are responsible for transforming Hawaii from a place renowned for terrible local food, to one of the best places to eat on the planet. On his fi rst day, he caught up with Chef George Mavrothalassitis (pictured on left above), chef/proprietor of Chef Mavro, Honolulus fi ne dining, top-rated restaurant and holds the prestigious James Beard award, considered the Oscars of the culinary world. Seeto spent nearly 2 hours talking about food, especially local fresh foods, and Chef Mavro's pioneering infl uence on Hawaiian cuisine that has pro-pelled the island nation into one of the hottest culinary hot spots in USA. Photo: SUPPLIED.



TRAVEL AND TOURISM

Fiji Chefs cook up a storm in world meet

By SHALENDRA PRASAD

Fiji Chefs Association president Shailesh Naidu, centre, is fl anked by his members Fiji Chefs Association president Shailesh Naidu, centre, is fl anked by his members during their AGM at Tanoa International Hotel. Photo: SHALENDRA PRASAD.during their AGM at Tanoa International Hotel. Photo: SHALENDRA PRASAD.

Fiji Chefs Association members have been cooking up a storm in world circles following a successful out-ing at the recent Global Chefs Challenge in Australia.

Led by FCA president Shailesh Naidu, the head chef of award winning Outrigger on the Lagoon Fiji, the team consisted of 2012 Pastry Chef of the Year Kelera Nalewabau of Fiji Beach Resort & Spa (managed by Hilton); 2012 Junior Chef of the Year Ab-hinesh Sharma of Sheraton Fiji Resort and 2012 Fiji Chef of the Year Priya Darshani of Outrigger on the Lagoon.

Abhinesh Sharma scooped the fi rst prize in the Global Young Chef of the Year cat-egory relegating New Zealand to the second spot while Priya Darshani took on the third spot in the overall Global Chefs Challenge behind Aus-tralia (1st) and New Zealand (2nd) respectively.

Under the Global Pastry Chefs challenge, Kelera Na-lewabau also registered the third spot under her name with New Zealand scooping the fi rst and Australia the second spot respectively.

Pacifi c Oz-tralasia was the main sponsor of the team which was also funded by Fiji Chefs Association. The team also had strong backing from the Outrigger on the Lagoon Fiji; Fiji Beach Resort & Spa (managed by Hilton), Shera-ton Fiji Resort and APTC.

The team is also grateful to chef Jason Carroll and chef Clinton Webber from Hilton

and Sheraton respectively for the sound training sessions. FCA also makes a special mention to the world class patisserie tutor of APTC, chef Amanda Young for her highly specialized pastry training for pastry chef Kelera Nalew-abau.

FCA president Shailesh Naidu is all excited about the recent achievements and many other positive things happening within the Associa-tion.

Please note that all the winners will be representing the Pacifi c Rim continent in the World Finals against win-ners of six other continents in Stavanger, Norway in 2014. This will be held during the WACS Chefs Congress rep-resented over by 93 countries from around the globe, Mr Naidu informed.

Once again I extend a big thanks to everyone involved. We couldnt have done this without your support. We are now stepping into the world

stage to compete and it is proud to say that our Fiji fl ag will be fl ying high amongst the top countries in the world cuisine.

As for now we start to plan and prepare for the big one; I will again need your help and support to see chef Abhinesh Sharma off to Eu-rope, Mr Naidu said.

Another good news is that we have fi nally launched our website, please log on to www.fi jichefs.org for more info.

Meanwhile Mr Naidu has been re-appointed the presi-dent of the Fiji Chefs Asso-ciation following their annual general meeting at the Tanoa International Hotel on Sun-day, May 11.

Chef Adrian Brett, Group Chef of Tanoa Hotels has been appointed the business man-ager of the association as well.

The association is now planning a golf fundraising drive with the help of Mat-thew Allan of Bakels Fiji.

Global young chef of the year Abhinesh Sharma, right, Global young chef of the year Abhinesh Sharma, right, with FCA president Shailesh Naidu. Photo: SHALENDRA with FCA president Shailesh Naidu. Photo: SHALENDRA PRASAD.PRASAD.



TRAVEL AND TOURISM

New look website for Tourism Fiji

Fijis effort to attract more international visitors has been given a signifi cant boost with the launch of a new Tourism Fiji website to showcase the country and its attractions.

The search engine-friendly address, www.fi ji.travel, is a state of the art, interactive site that allows holidaymakers to organize most aspects of their visit themselves before they leave home, including obtain-ing quotes and making book-ings.

The websites unique built-in Travel Planner can tailor individual preferences for the full range of Fijis offerings - family holidays, romance, backpackers, diving and ad-venture. Prospective visitors can also share their holiday plans with friends and family via social media outlets such as Facebook.

Designed by a New Zea-land-based specialist compa-ny, Sparks Interactive, the new website is part of the recently announced global rebranding of the countrys tourism effort under the slogan Fiji Where Happiness Finds You.

Launching the site in Nadi recently, the Attorney General and Minister for Tourism, Ai-yaz Sayed-Khaiyum, said the initiative puts Fiji on the cut-ting edge of website market-ing and had important benefi ts for the Fijian tourism industry.

We expect that the ability of holidaymakers to get quotes and book their holidays direct will lead to an overall increase in the number of bookings. Those direct bookings mean more money in the pockets

of local operators, rather than their overseas agents, and more of the returns from tour-ism being kept in Fiji. Local operators are also empowered by giving them easy access to the website to showcase their various attractions. It acts as a kind of living travel brochure about Fiji that can be altered and updated at any time, he said.

The Minister said the web-site exemplifi ed the efforts of the Bainimarama Government to harness the most innovative means, where possible, to ad-vance the national interest.

The international tourism market is highly competitive and there are many other des-tinations vying for the same trade. This website puts us in a great position because of its interactive capability and the imaginative way in which it showcases the unique Fijian travel experience, he said.

The Acting Chair of Tour-ism Fiji, Elizabeth Powell, said prospective holidaymak-ers now had a much higher de-gree of control over what they wanted to see and do in Fiji.

Visitors used to be de-pendent on travel agents for advice or the word of mouth of family and friends. Now they can examine all of the available options on one inter-active website from the com-fort of their homes anywhere in the world. With all the in-formation they need at their fi ngertips in a user friendly online environment, theyre in the best possible position to get the most out of their holi-days and Fiji has more oppor-

tunities to get repeat business , she said.

The new website is a vital component of the major over-haul and brand transformation announced by Tourism Fiji last year. This includes the appointment of a new global advertising agency, the selec-tion of new public relations and media partners in Aus-tralia, New Zealand and the US, the appointment of a new social media partner and the appointment of a new CEO, Rick Hamilton.

The Minister said Fiji had embarked on an exciting transformation in its efforts to market the country, grow the tourism industry and provide ordinary Fijians with more opportunities for employ-ment.

This is all about taking a holistic approach to the whole tourism effort and bringing to-gether the various stakehold-ers to work for the common cause of growing our industry and the national economy. Tourism currently provides over a third of Fijis Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and we are laying the foundation for more growth. Our goal is more visitors, bigger-spend-ing visitors, more return on our collective investment in marketing, more investment in the local industry and above all, more jobs and prosperity for ordinary Fijians, the Min-ister added.

MINFO

www.thejetnewspaper.com THE JET COMMERCIAL FEATURES


J. KEVI GROUP

Reddy is ready to serveBy SHALENDRA PRASAD

They say work is for people who dont play golf but one of Nadis leading businessman Narendra Reddy likes to mix work and golf together to ultimately give customers the best service and products on the course.

Reddy who owns J. Kevi Group has been a pioneer in distributing quality golf carts to golf courses and resorts all over Fiji for the past twenty one years now.

E-Z-GO is the best product of its type and is made in USA and we are proud to be the exclusive local distributors of E-Z-GO - A Textron Company and also Jacobsen turf equipment, Mr Reddy offered.

Mr. Reddy added his company is now also distributing other lines of golf carts from Augusta Golf Cars such as Cushman and Bad Boy.

Each model has its own uniqueness and is built to sat-isfy the individual needs of customers, Mr Reddy adds.

While addressing guests at the offi cial handing-over of the new E-Z-GO carts for Mana Island Resort, Mr. Reddy said his company provides the greatest products and ser-vices for golf carts and utility carts around golf courses, resorts and island properties.

We are very confi dent that there will be no room for complaints from valued customers and we will be fully geared for all back up service.

A lot of you already know about Cushman products and it is a pleasure to inform that the Cushman line is back in the country.

Mr. Reddy also acknowledged the support of Mr Shiri Singh, Director Finance of Mana Island Resort and their General Manager Mr Masao Tanaka together with the entire management of the resort.

While offi cially receiving the carts, Mr Shiri Singh com-mended the management and staff of J. Kevi Group for their great products and exceptional customer service.

Its a deal... J. Kevi Group chairman Narendra Reddy, left, hands over the E-Z-GO Golf Carts to Its a deal... J. Kevi Group chairman Narendra Reddy, left, hands over the E-Z-GO Golf Carts to Mr Shiri Singh, director fi nance of Mana Island Resort. INSET: Mr Shiri Singh tries out one of the Mr Shiri Singh, director fi nance of Mana Island Resort. INSET: Mr Shiri Singh tries out one of the new carts. Photos: JOSEPHINE NAVULA.new carts. Photos: JOSEPHINE NAVULA.



NISSAN URVAN NEW MODEL LAUNCH

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NISSAN URVAN NEW MODEL LAUNCH

2013 Nissan NV350 Urvan, when beauty meets safety

PRESS RELEASE

PRESS RELEASE

The car has a history dating back to 1973 when it was fi rst made. Its new E26 model is the fi fth generation and it boasts of cutting-edge tech-nology, class and unrivalled comfort and safety that make it outstanding.

The Nissan NV350 Urvan is the ultimate meeting point of beauty and comfort. Its sleek body and comfortable seats complete a classy ambi-ence. It also has state-of-the-art shiny silver headlamps, in-dicators and brake lights with their smooth curved edges, making for a smooth driving experience with a complete peace of mind.

The 2013 Nissan NV350

Urvan is available in 4 vari-ants, namely Panel Van, 12 seater window Van, 15 Seater Hi-roof window van and 16 seater Hi-roof, wide body, window van. The 15 and 16 Seater 2013 Nissan NV350 Urvans are longer than the previous model E25 Nissan Urvan.

The 15 and 16 seater van comes with a spacious inte-rior that allows more com-fort, giving the passengers more legroom and a chance to enjoy a long journey with a large cargo area.

Built for driverOne has a choice of ei-

ther the narrow or wide body model. Its powerful stylish exterior offers a fresh design

and is complemented by a driver-friendly cockpit that allows free movement of the drivers limbs with ample leg-room.

The car is generally de-signed around the driver for maximum effi ciency. This ensures that the vans most important occupant, the driv-er, is in control no matter the traffi c.

Powerful, fuel-effi cient engine

The versatile and respon-sive fi ve-speed transmission hosts an impressive array of advanced computerised tech-nologies that maximise ef-fi ciency, ensuring a smooth, dynamic ride at all times. The 16-valve engine is fuel

effi cient with 2.5-litre direct injection.

Room for safetyThe safety of both the

driver and the passengers is well taken care of with fea-tures like the anti-lock brak-ing system that helps prevent skidding during emergency braking; brake assist which enhances full braking during emergency; and the collaps-ible impact zones and front air bags that all combine to make every journey as safe as it is comfortable.

It also has a raised roof that reduces the risk of head injuries in case of an accident.

Carpenters Motors corporate business unit manager James Carpenters Motors corporate business unit manager James Speight addresses invited guests during the launching of Speight addresses invited guests during the launching of the new Nissan Urvan at their Namaka showroom in Nadi the new Nissan Urvan at their Namaka showroom in Nadi on Wednesday, May 15. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.on Wednesday, May 15. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.

Its the new Nissan Urvan for Red Bull

Red Bull Racing, which is based in Milton Keynes in the UK, is making use of Nissan light commercial vehicles supporting its race operations at this years Japanese Grand Prix.

To assist with Red Bulls transportation needs, Nissans Light Commercial Vehicle Business Unit is supplying a fl eet of more than 30 vehicles and related services to the team.

Jonathan Wheatley, Red Bull Racing team manager, said: Within such a high-pressure and challenging environment as Formula One, we need reliable partners taking care of all our versatile transportation needs all over the world.

Extensive travel is part and parcel of Formula One, and the transportation of our material and staff are an essential part of our successful operations.

An invited guest tries the comfort of the new Nissan An invited guest tries the comfort of the new Nissan Urvan. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.Urvan. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.

Invited guests and a sales staff of Carpenters Motors in front Invited guests and a sales staff of Carpenters Motors in front of the new Nissan Urvan. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.of the new Nissan Urvan. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.

Staff of Carpenters Motors in front of the new Nissan Urvan. Below: The new Nissan Urvan which was on display

during the launching. Photos: MARGARET NAQIRI.

Nadi customers impressedBy JOSEPHINE NAVULA

Customers and invited guests were deeply impressed with the features of the new Nissan Urvan which was offi -cially launched at the Carpen-ters Motors Namaka branch on Wednesday, May 15.

Unveiling the brand new model in Nadi, Carpenters Motors National Operations Manager Alvin Sharma (pic-tured) said the new Nissan Urvan is the best choice for customers in Fiji.

We need new models of vehicles in Fiji as they come with better and more user- friendly features, are safer, more fuel effi cient and keep us on par with the rest of the world. The 2013 Nissan Ur-van is a quantum leap from any other Nissan Urvan sold previously in Fiji for all these reasons, Mr Sharma said.

The new model NV350 Caravan was premiered at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. It went on sale in Japan in 2012 with diesel engine and super long body variants and is now available for sale in Fiji.

The new NV350 Caravan comes with the new YD25D-DTi engine with clean diesel technology that achieves the

class-leading fuel economy of 12.2km per liter based on Ja-pans JC08 mode test cycle, Mr Sharma added.

He said the tough and rigid body construction, and advanced safety devices are important for commercial ve-hicle drivers who work long hours with their vans.

Nissan Urvans extremely rigid body, with other- top-in-class safety features, ensures years of trouble free opera-tion.

Sharma added that Carpen-ters Motors is the clear leader in automotive sales, in terms of number of vehicles sold.

We have always believed and succeeded in providing a variety of options to our val-ued clients, especially for a small developing market like Fiji, he said.



INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NADI

Due to a growing need for well structured and meaning-ful Early Childhood education in Nadi, International School Nadi has expanded its Pre-school. The school now offers classes for children starting as young as two years old. There are four different programmes depending on the age of your child.

International School Nadi believes that the basic skills that children learn during their early childhood years are the foundation for all future learn-ing and that children learn best when activities and materials are authentic, concrete and relevant to their lives. The Pri-mary Years Progamme offered in the primary school at ISN is an excellent framework that gives support to active learn-ers and inquirers, enabling them to construct meaning in what they do.

In the Early Childhood classes children are given op-

Extension of early childhood

education

By DIANNE KORAREPrincipal - ISN

portunities to learn and de-velop through exploration, play and a variety of struc-tured activities. Children are continually and consistently encouraged to grow and de-velop individually, honoring each childs uniqueness. ISN believes that self esteem is central to a childs growth. In a guided way, children are encouraged to make their own play choices and take control of their own learning.

In Playgroup (Friday mornings) and Headstart (three afternoons) activities include Music/movement and singing; imaginative play outdoor and free play; art and craft activities, language de-velopment and constructive/manipulative play. Children participate in new experienc-es, develop and increase their social/emotional skills, learn sharing, cooperation and simple routines, interact with adults and children in a safe environment and enjoy learn-ing more about their world.

In Early Childhood 1 (four mornings) the children do real work that allows them to demonstrate what they know. ISN takes great pride in offer-ing young children a day full of delight in learning and be-ing together at school. Chil-dren are encouraged to ex-plore and problem solve with materials and diverse experi-ences; they are given opportu-nities to express their imagi-nation and creativity within a structured environment. They are provided with opportuni-ties to develop mathemati-

cal skills and are introduced to mathematical concepts such as quantity, time, order and shape and encouraged to use mathematical language as they talk about their fi nd-ings. Through a range of math based activities, students will develop the ability to sort and classify shapes, size and colour, arrange things in order and tell the difference between different shapes and begin to understand numbers. They will become problem solvers. The reading readiness and language programme will provide opportunities for stu-dents to discuss pictures they

see in story books and encour-age them to begin to take an interest in reading and writ-ing. Art, Music and Physical Education are also a central part of the programme.

In Early Childhood 2 (Four full days and one morn-ing) there is a strong empha-sis on preparing the child for formal schooling and at ISN, language is central to all learning. Students experi-ence a variety of contextual and meaningful opportunities for reading, writing, speak-ing, viewing and presenting; for a range of purposes, situa-tions and audiences. They are

encouraged to ask and answer questions, recall stories and events, concentrate and listen, recognize and identify letters. Through science-based activ-ities within the inquiry topics, students explore ways objects and living things function. They explore and discuss the ways the world works and show care and respect for themselves and other living things and the environment. Students watch things grow, are inquisitive, curious and investigate and make connec-tions between existing knowl-edge and new learning. They extend their knowledge of

mathematics and take part in Music, drama, Art and Physi-cal Education with specialist teachers.

A lovely new playground has been built as a PTA (Par-ents, Teachers and Friends Association) initiative and another classroom has been specially set up for the new programme. The Principal, Dianne Korare ([email protected]) and the Early Child-hood Coordinator, Babra Nar-ian are available during the week to personally meet with interested parents to discuss these exciting programmes for children.

Children enjoying the horse ride during the family fun day last Children enjoying the horse ride during the family fun day last year. Photo: SHALENDRA PRASAD.year. Photo: SHALENDRA PRASAD.



INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NADI

Family fun day is back!International School Nadi (ISN) is busy preparing for its

fantastic Fun Day. This is the highlight of the year for the school and all the many people who attend. The Fun Day is be-ing held on Saturday, 8th June from 10am until 3pm.

Each class at ISN is preparing their stall; some examples are: Arts and Crafts, Face Painting, Water Balloon Bucket Toss, Disco and the famous Haunted House. The students from Inter-national School Nadi come from twelve different nationalities and there will be food stalls selling food from Korea, Fiji, Aus-tralia, New Zealand and India! There will be activities such as the Bouncy Castle (courtesy of MacDonalds), the Bungy tram-poline and Buggys, Quad Bikes (Westside Motorbike Rentals).

Other stalls include Nail Art, Braiding, Massages, Henna, Pot Plants, Flower arrangements and the popular White Ele-phant Stall which promises great bargain such as second-hand clothes, toys etc.

Another great community service on the day is the Breast Cancer Caravan which will offer free blood pressure checks and other health checks. The West Trust Animal Welfare will be there also and they will be putting on a 30 minute pet show.

The great thing about the Fun Day is that the entry is free and there is also a free return shuttle bus outside Jacks in Nadi town every 30 minutes with the fi rst bus departing at 10am.

International School Nadi (ISN) is a private co-educational school located in Nadi. It is a fully accredited International Baccalaureate World school that offers the Primary Years (PYP), Middle Years (MYP) and Diploma (DP) Programmes from Early Childhood to Year 13 (Form 7). It has an enthusi-astic and hardworking staff and a happy and motivated student body. ISN has a current roll of 222 students, from 12 different nations, 30% of whom are Fiji Nationals.

Fun Day is an excellent initiative by ISN parents. Interna-tional School Nadi is very fortunate to have such an interested group of parents who willingly organize activities for the stu-dents to celebrate the different cultures in our school. Our PTA (Parent, Teachers Association) have done an excellent job this year under the leadership of Jules Samuels and the hardwork-ing Fun Day committee, parents, staff, students and friends of ISN. There is always such a great feeling of community on the day and the money raised assists with important developments within the school.

International School Nadi also offers full and half scholar-ships to outstanding students in Fiji to do the prestigious In-ternational Baccalaureate Diploma. This qualifi cation gives the students access to any university throughout the world. Funds raised at the Fun Day will also support this excellent programme.

The Principal of ISN, Dianne Korare and the whole ISN community encourage everyone in Nadi to come along to Fun Day on Saturday 8th June, as we can promise you all a really great time! PRESS RELEASE

TOP: Kavita Raniga serves food during last years family fun day. BELOW: More pictures from last year. Photos: SHALENDRA PRASAD.



TISI SANGAM MICRO INSURANCE

Sangam teams with LICI for Micro Insurance By MARGARET NAQIRI

Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam has embarked on a visionary initiative to provide micro insurance cover to eli-gible people who are affi liated with them by way of member-ship in order to provide social protection and a self supporting mechanism.

The aim is to offer the benefi ts of life insurance through a group micro insurance scheme at affordable costs to TISI San-gam members.

TISI Sangam CEO Jagannath Sami said the launching was basically the signing and hand over of Master Policy from Life Insurance Corporation of India (LICI) to TISI Sangam.

Those people who have already signed and became mem-bers of this micro insurance group also received certifi cates from LICI acting general manager Sanjeev Jain.

This scheme is to target the disadvantaged, the very poor in our community and we are very hopeful that this would be a great service to our members who are in the lower rank of the economic table. It provides fi nancial support to the families for funeral expenses, Mr Sami said.

We have done enough in culture, religion and education, what we have not done is reaching out to our poor members. Our biggest challenge is we have to help the members and no scheme can be successful without the members so we need to have a target set, Mr Sami added.

For the fi rst time in the Pacifi c there is an insurance scheme that is typically targeting the most vulnerable in the community and the country, says Reuben Summerlin, Regional Financial Inclusion Advisor and Project Manager (Pacifi c Financial In-clusion Programme - PFIP).

Over 71 people have bought the Micro insurance Policy and are covered for the life insurance for as low as $14.00 a year.

TISI Sangam Gives Members Economic Hope

Saturday, 13th April, marked the signing of the LICI -TISI Sangam Microin-surance policy document for-malizing the process of reg-istering Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam (TISI Sangam) members in the Nadi district to one of the lowest premi-ums on the insurance market in Fiji. The event was held at the Sangam school complex in Nadi.

For the past two years, AusAID together with de-velopment partners Asian Development Bank (ADB), International Labor Organiza-tion (ILO) and the Pacifi c Fi-nancial Inclusion Programme (PFIP) have collaborated to offer an insurance product that will offer protection to low-income Fijian communities.

The LICI -TISI Sangam Microinsurance Scheme of-fers TISI Sangams members the ability to cope with un-expected shocks by paying a minimum premium of FJ$14/year for FJ$1,000 annual fu-neral coverage. LICI con-gratulates TISI Sangam for bringing this scheme to the masses and LICI is happy to be partnering with TISI San-gam to help contribute to the community at large and pro-vide much needed insurance to the vulnerable communities who need it most, expressed Mr. Sanjeev Jain, Acting Gen-

eral Manager, LICI.Mr. Jagannath Sami, CEO,

TISI Sangam, Fiji was all smiles as months of planning and negotiations was fi nally being formalized. Mr. Sami expressed. For the past two years we have been working with LICI, PFIP and other donors to bring this funeral insurance benefi t to our door-step, offering our members from the ages of 18-65 a low premium cover that will give them security and support during unpredictable events like death or accidents.

We are fi nally reaching out to our poor Sangam com-munities. For years, Sangam members have been going to Sangam conventions, send-ing their children to Sangam schools-this is an initiative we know that will meet the needs of our members.

PFIP facilitated this part-nership and offered extensive technical assistance to both partners with fi nancial assis-tance from AusAID. Mr. Reu-ben Summerlin, PFIP Project Manager and Regional Finan-cial Inclusion Advisor com-mented, Through this part-nership with LICI and TISI Sangam, we think we can clearly demonstrate that there is great potential for insurance among low income people that they can understand in-surance and they are willing

to pay for insurance coverage. The death of an individual not only often removes a familys source of income; it also can force them into debt. Prod-ucts like this will enable poor people to better cope with risks rather than sinking deep-er into poverty.

During the event, Ms. Muni Ratnam Mestry, a TISI Sangam community facilitator was awarded best salesperson award, managing to sign up 51 TISI Sangam members for this funeral insurance scheme. Asked whether she would stop here, she answered fervently, Oh no! I think I will sign up some more of our members because this is something good and will greatly benefi t not just the poor but everyone, so I am encouraging all our women members to sign up for themselves and their hus-bands!

PFIP is a Pacifi c-wide pro-gramme helping to provide sustainable fi nancial services to low income households. It is a joint project of the UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the United Nations Development Pro-gramme (UNDP) and has received additional support from AusAID and the Euro-pean Union. The programme operates from UNDP Pacifi c Centre in Suva, Fiji.

PRESS RELEASE

Community facilitators and stakeholders pose for a group photo Community facilitators and stakeholders pose for a group photo during the function on Saturday, April 13 at Sangam SKM College. during the function on Saturday, April 13 at Sangam SKM College. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.

LICI acting general manager Sanjeev LICI acting general manager Sanjeev Jain, right, seals the deal while TISI San-Jain, right, seals the deal while TISI San-gam CEO Jagannath Sami and PFIPs re-gam CEO Jagannath Sami and PFIPs re-gional fi nancial inclusion advisor Reuben gional fi nancial inclusion advisor Reuben Summerlin look on. Photo: MARGARET Summerlin look on. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.NAQIRI.

PFIPs regional fi nancial inclusion advisor Reuben Summerlin hands over a token of ap-PFIPs regional fi nancial inclusion advisor Reuben Summerlin hands over a token of ap-preciation to Ms Muni Ratnam Mestry for signing up the highest number of policies so far. preciation to Ms Muni Ratnam Mestry for signing up the highest number of policies so far. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.



TISI SANGAM MICRO INSURANCE



AIR PACIFIC ARRIVAL OF SECOND A330 AIRBUS

Air Pacifi c (soon to be Fiji Airways in June) has wel-comed their second Airbus A330 as it made its maiden voyage to Nadi, Fiji from Toulouse via Los Angeles on Thursday, May 23.

To highlight its role as Fijis fl ying ambassador and continue a proud tradition of naming its aircraft after Fijis islands, the new A330 has been named Island of Namu-ka-i-Lau. This island plays an important role with the soon to be adopted Fiji Airways identity. Namuka-i-Lau native and renowned Fijian Masi artist Makereta Matemosi de-signed the distinctive Teteva symbol at the heart of the new brandmark and various Masi motifs used in various design elements of the new brand. Namuka-i-Lau is located in Fiji's Lau archipelago and lies northeast of Kabara and south of Moce.

The second of three Airbus A330s ordered in October 2011 and designed exclusive-ly for Fijis national carrier - the new aircraft carries the new Fiji Airways branding that is authentic, distinctive, and true to the airlines Fijian roots. The aircraft represents state-of-the-art comfort, best-in-class amenities, and the strong future of Air Pacifi c, which is being renamed Fiji Airways in June of 2013.

On board the aircraft for its inaugural fl ight were Act-ing CEO Aubrey Swift, and Permanent Secretary for Fi-jis Ministry of Tourism and Public Enterprise, Elizabeth Powell. On the ground in Fiji, the fl ying ambassador was welcomed with applause as it arrived at the Air Pacifi c han-gar after a low fl y over across the Lau Island group. Fijian Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama and At-torney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum were on hand to welcome the aircraft home.

Were delighted to re-ceive delivery of our second brand new A330 on schedule and to have introduced the aircraft and th new Fiji Air-ways livery and design to the United States. Our new A330 fl eet will give Fiji a chance to expand services to new and emerging markets and to continue to encourage visitors from the United States to visit Fiji, said Aubrey Swift, Air Pacifi c Acting CEO.

He continues, As the fl ag carrier and national airline of Fiji, were committed to bringing attention to the na-tions beautiful outer islands, many of which have distinct and unique attractions and attributes. We are extremely proud to name our second Airbus A330 Island of Namu-ka-i-Lau after our Makereta Matemosis home.

The new aircraft will go into service on June 3rd with a fl ight to Sydney, one of the airlines most important mar-kets.

Air Pacifi cs fi rst A330-200 aircraft, Island of Taveuni, ar-rived in March this year.

These state-of-the-art air-craft feature industry leading capabilities and an enhanced customer experience. These include:

* State-of-the-art in-fl ight entertainment from Panasonics eX2 industry-leading in-fl ight entertain-ment system, with on-demand audio/video, games, com-munications and applications that will be available in both Economy and Business Class.

* 24 business and 249 economy class seats are

National Carrier Names Second Airbus A330 Island of Namuka-i-Lau, paying homage to Fiji Airways brandmark designer Makereta Matemosis home island

Second A330 arrives home

provided by Weber/Zodiac, ensuring optimal comfort for passengers in terms of space, ease of movement, and cush-ioning.

* Incorporating the Panasonic in-fl ight entertain-ment system, each seat will also have a USB and power outlet for computers, iPads, iPods, tablets and similar de-vices.

The new A330s allow us to dial up our product offering like never before and once the aircraft are inducted in our fl eet and our Fiji Airways brand coming online soon, we are well on our way to of-fering our customers the best fl ying experience in the south Pacifi c.

This aircraft will deliver improved frequencies across our network, which will cre-ate more connectivity options between Fiji and the South Pacifi c to Australian, Hong Kong, New Zealand, USA and beyond.

Tomorrow, Air Pacifi c will

also see the delivery of their fi rst B737 rebranded in the new Fiji Airways livery and design. Another refreshed B737 will return to the airline in two weeks time.

In June, Air Pacifi c will be offi cially re-launched as Fiji Airways. The new brand will include a roll-out across the international marketplace, ticket offi ces, check-in coun-ters, airport lounge facilities, uniforms and the airlines offi cial website; and a new in-fl ight experience with en-hanced on-board meal offer-ings across all fl i

The Jet Volume 5 Number 5

Documents

new homes

true friend

head of government

years tropical cyclone

emotional nadi farmer

rotary club of nadi

singh family of votualevu

nadi old hospital road