Vast health and

education benefis
of Yoga
Page 2

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Parental engagement most vital

Sanjay Goundar

Government is urging parents to

fully engage in the proper upbring-
ing of their children in our school
system.
Minister for Education, Herit-
age and Arts Dr Mahendra Reddy
stressed that it is time now for par-
ents to embrace Pillar 4 of Fijis
Education System which high-
lights about parental involvement
in enhancing childrens education.
He pointed out that education
begins at home and the kind of
citizens we want to build for fu-
ture Fiji requires lot of support and
mentoring by parents.
Reddy emphasized that the kinds
of problems our children are facing
now in contemporary Fiji requires
strong parental engagement with
our school system.
Now more than ever we need lot
of support and engagement from Motibhai Group contestants for the 2017 Vodafone Hibiscus Festival Miss Dove Alisi Vucago (left) and Miss
parents because parents spend lot Fiji Times Charlene Lanyon with Motibhai Group Chairman Kirit Patel. Photo: Supplied
of time with children.
While we want to inculcate the should know how the child is ing extremely hard work to en- ment has banned corporal pun-
modern scientific education for our performing. sure that the dreams of children ishment in the school system par-
children, parents and members of Parents should always check and parents are fulfilled but doing ents need to ensure that their child
the public play a very important their childs work and find out all alone will be difficult for them. behaves appropriately in schools
role of ensuring that we holistically whether their child is performing This is because the kinds of is- so that they dont disturb the learn-
develop our children. well academically and morally in sues and challenges our children ing environment in school.
Therefore we want parents to school. face in school now were not faced We also dont want any child
take active participation in our Parents should take time out to when we were in school some four to become a threat to our teach-
childrens education, growth and go to the school and meet the class to five decades ago. ers and from this year we have
development. teacher and head of the school and It is time now for greater pa- taken a stand that any child who
Parents should know who are find out whether their child is be- rental engagement and ownership is repeatedly becoming a threat to
their childs friends and should having well in school. of your childs future and we can- their fellow students and teachers
also know what time their children Dr Reddy emphasized that it is not leave everything on the school will have to vacate their position
leave the school and what time important that parents take full system. in the school. We dont want any
they reach home. ownership of the childs education, We need parents to prepare how hindrance for our children in the
Parents should know what is growth and development. their children will behave in the school system, Dr Reddy pointed
being taught in school, parents He stressed that teachers are do school system. While our govern out.
02
Yoga enhances education
Sanjay Goundar
Daily Yoga practices can play a vital role in
enhancing the learning capability of school
students in Fiji.
Speaking at the third International Yoga Day
celebration at Lautokas Girmit Centre Indian
High Commissioner to Fiji Vishvas Sapkal
pointed out that yoga has a very positive out-
come on the education of school children.
Amidst hundreds of students who turned up at
Girmit Centre Mr Sapkal informed that prac-
ticing yoga early every morning significantly
increases the attention and focus of children.
With better focus and attention children will
definitely do much better in their studies and
the local knowledge based society will receive
much needed boost, he emphasized.
He revealed that last year the Fijian Ministry
of Education introduced Yoga in the school
curriculum and around 30,000 students from
all around the country participated in the cel-
ebration.
He informed that this year at Albert Park
alone on June 21, 3000 students took part in
the celebration and throughout Fiji the num-
ber has gone much higher than last year.
A multi-racial gathering at the Yoga International Day in Lautoka on June 25
NEWS
JUNE 25, 2017
We are getting very encouraging response
from the people from all works of life and
various nationalities also.
Yoga is not just a physical exercise but com-
bination of physical and mental both. Yoga
makes a union of body, mind and intellect.
Yoga helps us to keep away from non-
communicable diseases especially with the
modern life style we lead chances of getting
NCDs is very high. Yoga helps us improve
this life style.
Yoga connects us with our mind and helps in
removing the stresses and tensions we get into
on regular basis.
Along with keeping the NCDs away Yoga
helps in spreading peace and happiness all
over the world.
Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra
Modi moved a motion in the United Nations
General Assembly in 2014 and with enormous
support it was declared by the UN that June
21 will be the International Day of Yoga every
year.
This year from June 17 June 25 Yoga week
is also celebrated where millions of people
from around the world in 192 countries have
participated in Yoga sessions.
Dharmendra Yogi Madhav from Indore India showing a classic Yoga pose at Girmit Centre in
Lautoka. Photos: Sanjay Goundar
$2million Indian climate grant
Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama after receiving the cheque for Indian envoy to Fiji
Vishvas Sapkal. Photo: DINFO
Prime Minister and Incoming COP23 President Frank Bainimarama received a cheque dona-
tion of FJD$2.02 million from the Indian Government in support of Fijis Presidency of the
United Nations ongoing climate negotiations, COP 23.
The Prime Minister received the cheque from the Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Mr Vish-
vas Sapkal, at a ceremony in Suva on June 18.
The Prime Minister thanked the Indian Government for the assistance, which he said would
go directly towards Fijis extensive preparations for COP23, to be held in Bonn, Germany in
November.
We are deeply grateful for this support from the Indian Government as Fiji looks to defend
the multilateral consensus achieved under the Paris Agreement on Climate Change to reduce
carbon emissions. COP23 is shaping up to be one of the most important COPs yet, given the US
decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. And we are very glad to see the global com-
munity be galvanised into action in support of the Fijian Presidency, he said.
High Commissioner Sapkal said India stood in solidarity with Fiji and other Pacific Island
Countries to highlight the effects of climate change on vulnerable island countries.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 NEWS 03

Cultural centre for Sigatoka

JUNE 25, 2017

Zareena Bi

The much awaited Sigatoka Cultural centre

finally opened its doors earlier this month and
it has brought with it a breath of fresh air for
the residents of this picturesque town.
According to Cultural centre President Nat-
war Singh the Sigatoka residents have waited
for this for many years and it has been made
possible due to the huge help by the Indian
High Commission.
We have been corresponding with the High
Commission for a few months and I am glad
to inform you all that the Indian High Com-
mission has decided to help us with a grant to
established this centre.
The Centre has been established in con-
junction with the Sigatoka Sai Centre and the
Gujrat Samaj Sai Hall.
The Sigatoka cultural centre will teach the
following streams tabla and drums, harmo-
nium, vocals, dance and teaching how to read
and write Hindi language.
The President also informed that the Centre
has acquired the services of Gurus (teachers)
for all the streams and the fees charged will be
very reasonable.
We are thankful to the Indian high Com-
mission, Mr Kanti Tappoo, our Secretary Su-
man Lal, our Treasurer Keshni Tappoo, Mr
Satwik Dass, Mr Albert Parmesh and the rest
of the committee members for their assistance Members of the newly established Sigatoka Cultural Centre with Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Vishvas Sapkal (2nd left sitting).
and hard work in establishing the Cultural Photos: Sanjay Goundar
Centre.
During the official opening of the Centre at Meanwhile, the cultural centre also has the
the Sigatoka Sai Hall chief guest High Com- blessing and support business tycoon Tappoo
missioner of India Mr Vishvas Sapkal gave Group of companies Chairman Mr Kanti Tap-
the assurance that the Indian Government ful- poo and he mentioned that there is so much
ly supports such cultural centers to promote about the Indian culture and tradition to be
and enhance the culture and language through proud of and this centre will be of tremendous
music, vocal trainings, dance, and musical in- benefit to all the residents of Sigatoka.
struments

Indian High Commissioner Vishvas Sapkal with business tycoon Kanti Tappoo
(left) and Sigatoka Cultural Centre President Natwar Singh

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

04 LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL NEWS

Connecting People to Nature

JUNE 25, 2017

School children from various schools in Lautoka take part in the World Environment Day cel-
ebration at Churchill Park. Photos: Supplied
Sanjay Goundar
Schools students and various stakeholders have been motivated to play a pivotal role in pro-
tecting our environment.
Speaking at the World Environment Day celebration at Lautokas Churchill Park recently
Minister for Local Government, Housing and Environment Praveen Bala stressed that the
theme of this years World Environment Day Connecting People to Nature is a call to inspire
you and me to better connect ourselves with Mother Nature and appreciate the many blessings
nature provides to us.
Mr Bala emphasized that protecting our environment takes us all to the forefront of confront-
ing the global challenges in safeguarding our fragile surrounding.
He highlighted that if we do not protect our ocean we face the great danger of reducing some
of our most valuable resources the oceans have to offer.
The World Environment Day celebration also saw the launch of the free national environment
cleanup campaign with the theme Team up, clean Fiji starts with you.
The environment activities kick starts now and it is an important opportunity to protect and
save our environment with assistance from communities, business houses, stakeholders, youth
Lautoka City Council promoting about their recycling centre to students of Lautoka.
groups and schools.
Secondly there will field visits by communities and schools so we can reconnect with envi-
ronment.
There will be community awareness programs that will enlighten communities of our na-
tional obligation including the legal obligations and panel discussions over environmental ac-
tions to be as communities. We will also appoint community awareness environment commit-
tees in all the districts.
Moreover there will be schools awareness programs where our officials will visit schools
and run program activities such as quiz competitions and other related sessions.
He added that In partnership with the Department of Local Government and Department of
Environment every municipal councils will also strengthen technical and management capac-
ity and implement various other measures to protect our natural resources and environment as
a whole.
Meanwhile, 42 years ago the United Nations General Assembly declared a day for the world
to celebrate the joy of living in our natural environment, celebrate national achievements, raise
awareness on environmental issues and call for an action. The first World Environment Day was
celebrated on June 5 in 1973.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 JUNE 25, 2017 LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL NEWS
Handover Recyclables At IYC Childrens Park
The Lautoka City Councils Recycling Centre at the Punjas IYC Childrens Park
Fiji like other Pacific Island countries is heavily dependent on imported goods and materials from in-
dustrial nations and considering the small size, environmental issues, land rights and isloated location,
sound waste management and disposal is becoming a significant CHALLENGE !!!. Increasing waste
generation amounts if not managed properly will result in negative impacts on our fragile environment,
tourism, trade, economy, living conditions, food supplies, public health, water and air quality, climate
change, severely constraint existing limited resources etc
The key facts remains that 48.1 tons of waste per day is generated in Lautoka City which tantamount
to about 0.830kg per person/day. Council spends about 20% (more than $1.06 million) of its annual
budget on cleansing services, garbage collection, maintenance of disposal site etc.
Lautoka City Council after implementation and evaluation of Separate Collection of Recycables in
Veitari Ward decided to extend the RECYCLING INITIATIVE to all residents and visitors .
In light of above issues, council has constructed a COMMUNAL RECYCLING CENTRE at IYC
Park located along Thompson Crescent so all the citizens of Lautoka get opportunity to practice recy-
cling. The council therefore request cooperation of all citizens of Lautoka City to practice recycling by
discharging the recyclable materials at the centre.
Just follow the simple procedures and bring all Recycables to the RECYCLING CENTRE!
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
05
Lautoka City Council
Monitors Food
Business Operators
All the Food Business Operations within the jurisdiction of Lautoka City Council
have been subject to routine inspections, restaurant grading including instituting of ap-
plicable enforcement mechanisms and legal proceedings. Routine work is conducted
as required by the relevant food safety legislations to ensure that food is prepared,
handled, stored and sold under safe, hygienic and sanitary conditions to ensure that
the health and quality of life of members of the public is safeguarded and promoted.
The Council has so far achieved 95 % of grading exercise for the eateries within the
city area. The grading exercise has been carried out after series of awareness on Good
Hygiene Practices and Food Establishment (Grading) Regulation 2012 for all owners
of catering premises.
Members of the public are advised that grade cards are usually displayed either
on the frontage of the eateries or on the menu boards. Grade cards are issued upon
audit carried out of the eateries using official grading checklist. The audit reveals the
compliance level in terms of good hygiene practices and food safety. Grade card A
indicates highest level of compliance being 90% or more followed by B grade which
denotes compliance level of 80 % to 90 %. C grade denotes lower compliance rating
of 70% to 80 %. D grade indicates lowest level of compliance being less than 70%
and these eateries are issued with abatement notices to rectify the non-compliances.
The purpose of the grading exercise is to ensure the safety of food and quality of
conditions and services in all eateries. More so, creating awareness to consumers about
the hygiene status of eateries and assist them in making an informed decision in terms
of their choice of eatery to buy food.
Citizens are informed that the council also instituted legal proceedings against six-
teen (16) Food Business Operators for contravention of Food Safety Act 2004 and
Food Safety Regulation 2009. Restaurants and even other Food Business Operators
found operating under insanitary and unhygienic conditions are issued Abatement No-
tice under Section 51 of the Food Safety Act 2003. The Council has even issued five
(5) Order of Closures to restaurants failing to comply with the Abatement Notices.
Council looks forward to cooperation of all stakeholders in ensuring good health and
safety of the members of the public.
06 NEWS JUNE 25, 2017

EDITORIAL Our oceans, our future

COMMENT
Festivals bring unity
Festivals or Carnivals as they are called are being organized
throughout the country at this time of the year.
Its first aim is to bring together people from all walks of life
and races to take advantage of special bargains and enter-
tainments.
It creates that multiracial atmosphere where the citizens of
this country come under one roof as one big family to enjoy
and be part of the act towards charity.
But its main objective remains to raise funds for the needy
and unfortunate children in our society.
Festivals are held in their own scale with some growing big-
ger and better every year.
Definitely, the bigger towns and cities have their own ca-
pacity and hold such gatherings in a bigger way.
The Bula Festival in Nadi and Lautokas Sugar Festival are
one of the two-major carnivals in the western division while
Hibiscus in Suva being the mother of all festivals.
The Hibiscus has gained so much popularity that it is now
broadcasted live to households in Fiji and throughout the
region.
Lautoka, which has been declared as the administrative
capital of the western division, is one of the few centres Year 13 students of Lautoka Central College with Dr Ajantha Perera (middle) and SI Lautoka members during the World Ocean
which hold two carnivals in a year. Day awareness program at the school. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
The Farmers Carnival which has been held since early 2000
has grown to become one of the much anticipated carnival Zareena Bi lems is due to polythene and littering.
not only for the people of the Sugar City but the western Not every person is going to the sea but every person is lit-
division as a whole. People from as far as Sigatoka and Ra- Power is not really in the person but it is in the environment tering every person is producing waste which we still have not
kiraki travel to be part of the week-long festival. and most of us makes mistakes because we do not realize this understood how to handle this.
And so as for National Farmers Union general secretary and live with the misconception that human beings are more The ocean is sustaining us but it is also takes in whatever
Mahendra Pal Chaudhary who has been following this tra- powerful. you are giving and when the ocean is angry it reacts. Tsunami
dition. These sentiments were echoed by Dr Ajantha Perera during is a very good example and in 2004 there was a Tsunami in Sri
It has become more or less a tradition for the carnival com- the World Ocean day awareness program organized on June 22 Lanka which killed 35,000 people within 2 minutes.
mittee and me and I like doing this because Ive seen the by Soroptimist International Lautoka Club at Lautoka Central Dr Perera added that the biggest problems which are current-
carnival grow from very humble beginning in 2001 to be- College attended by year 13 students. ly faced regarding the damage to the ecosystem of the ocean is
come one of the most liked and most loved festival, all this Dr Perera, an environmental advocate originally from Sri over fishing, cutting of mangroves, toxic waste, garbage and oil
through the support of the people, Mr Chaudhary said. Lanka is based at the University of Fiji and her strong message discharge from sea vessels.
He said the Farmers Carnival was started to raise fund to to the students was that the people with wisdom are the ones She advised the students to create an awareness to save the
assist in the education of poor children which remains as its that have understood and respect the environment. ocean at their institute and in their communities with unique
main objective to-date. She also informed the students that this years United Nations ways like paintings to catch the attention.
Initially it was intended to assist the children of displaced theme is encouraging solutions to plastic pollution and pre- Meanwhile, SI Lautoka has a follow on of this advocacy
cane farmers but over the years others have been included venting marine litter for a healthier ocean and a better future. through an essay competition for the year 13 students with at-
and now the carnival assists people of all classes and cat- One of the things that I have understood from Sri Lanka to tractive prizes for the top three essays.
egories who need help to put their children to school. Fiji to South Asia to any country in the world most of the prob-

China bound young Diana

The organizing committees of such festivals around the
country should be applauded for this kind gesture in trying
to lessen poverty in the country.
They need to be given the recognition in assisting the gov-
ernment of the day by way showing their act of charity di-
Sanjay Goundar
rectly to the people.
Maika Kasami University of the South Pacific Lauto-
Editor. ka campus student Diana Botei is aiming
to showcase the Fijian culture and tradi-
tion to the people of China in her own
PUBLISHER : SANJAY GOUNDAR unique fashion next month.
PH: 9960 129 The 20-year-old lass from Lautoka
won the Chinese Bridge Competition
preliminary round at the USP Laucala
EDITOR : MAIKA KASAMI
Campus recently and will represent Fiji
PH: 9189 779
in the final round of the competition to
be held in Changsha, Hunan Province in
MARKETING MANAGER: ZAREENA Bi PH: China from July 10.
9322 621 The full time Bachelor in Commerce
student is also enrolled in the credit lev-
T/A : WESTERN MEDIA ENTERPRISES el Chinese course provided through the
Confucius Institute at the USP Lautoka China bound Diana Botei (left) and Archanna Mala with their Chinese teacher
EMAILS: citystarnews15@gmail.com / Campus.
An elated Botei revealed that she is At the same time I am also very nerv- Chinese Bridge Competition will go
sanjayg@connect.com.fj ous about the competition as I will be to Hunan University for Chinese bridge
very proud to have been given the oppor-
tunity to visit the worlds fastest grow- competing with students from different Summer Camp from August 2 14 this
Follow us on facebook with daily updates : CityS- countries from around the world. year.
ing economy of China and represent her
TAR-Newspaper country. I know the competition will be tough This is Malas second visit to China as
She informed that when she started but with all the current preparations I am in December last year she was awarded a
OFFICE : 15 TUKANI STREET, learning the Chinese language at the be- hoping to give my best shot in China. five weeks scholarship to learn the Chi-
LAUTOKA ginning of the first semester last year she Botei added that whilst learning the nese language and culture in China.
never even imaged about a life time op- Chinese language and culture in China The accounts executive revealed that
POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 4230, portunity coming her way. she will also utilize her two weeks stay there is so much to learn from China and
We always hear about so much de- to promote more about the Fijian culture such opportunities to visit the country be-
Lautoka
velopments taking place in China but to and tradition to her new Chinese friends. comes a lifetime learning experience.
be in this marvelous country and witness Meanwhile, another B Com student She revealed that the true essence of
its development itself is definitely some- from USP Lautoka campus Archanna hard work and dedication can be right-
Priti Mala who finished second in the fully learned after one visits China.
thing else.
Printed by: Universal Print
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JUNE 25, 2017 ADVERTISEMENT 07

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08 ADVERTISEMENT JUNE 25, 2017

LAUTOKA CAMPUS LAUTOKA CAMPUS

ENROLMENT
SCHEDULE
LEARN CHINESE AT
USP LAUTOKA CAMPUS SEMESTER II 2017
The Confucius Institute at USP, is offering various levels of Chinese (Standard
Chinese) courses at Lautoka Campus USP in 2017, and will meet different Enrolment Drive at Exam Centres Time
demands from individuals, businesses, schools, government departments and
NGOs. Different levels of credit courses (LL181/281) and social courses are
here for your selection. The social courses for beginners focus on basic daily Penang Sangam
24 June Rakiraki 10.30am to 2pm
social communication skills of Chinese - listening and speaking. It includes High School
pronunciation and the most practical communication tasks needed in daily life.
The intermediate courses are a continuation of the beginners level, which cover 10.30am to
a more extensive range of topics and concentrate on developing the language 26 June Ba DAV College Ba
4.30pm
competence. The advanced courses are a continuation of the intermediate level
which enables students to communicate in greater depth and demonstrate
10.30am to
an awareness and understanding of the perspectives of people from other 27 June Tavua Tavua College
4.30pm
cultures. The credit courses will focus not only on the conversational skills of
Chinese, but on its structure and usage. We also provide distinctive cultural
workshops for students, such as Tea Ceremony, Chinese Calligraphy, Chinese Sigatoka
10.30am to
dancing, and Cooking during the semester. 28 June Sigatoka Methodist
5.30pm
Primary School
Chinese Course for Social Students
- Two hours per week, Rate: FJD200 29 June Nadi SSKM College 10am to 5pm
Chinese Course Beginner I : 8 July to 4 November
( 17 weeks )
Class 1 Tuesday 6pm-8pm
Class 2 Saturday 12pm-2pm Enrolment at Campus
Class 3 Saturday 5pm-7pm
26 June - 8.30am to
Chinese Course Beginner II : 8 July to 4 November ITS Lab 1 & 2
29 June 4.30pm
( 17 weeks )
Class 1 Saturday 9am-11am
3 July - 8 8.30am to
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Class 1 Thursday 6pm-8pm
Please note:
Chinese Course Intermediate I : 8 July to 4 November
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Class 1 Wednesday 6pm-8pm General Service fee of $33.50 to be paid before an invoice for fee payment
Chinese Course Intermediate IV : 8 July to 4 November is issued.
( 17 weeks ) Learn more about course fees, due dates and course materials.
Class 1 Saturday 2pm-4pm Meet Academic Counsellors and discuss your study Programme.
Online students must print their registration and bring to the Cashier to
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collect their invoice.
Chinese Language I/II/III/IV (LL181, LL281, LL381 and LL382)
Deadline for registration at all campuses is on 7 July 2017
Refer to the USP Calendar 2017 for the course details and fee schedule.
Late Registration of $60 will apply for late registration after 8 July to 21
Applicants are required to successfully complete former levels, or otherwise
approved by the teachers. A certificate indicating language levels of Chinese July 2017.
will be issued upon your successful completion of the social class course. NEW APPLICATIONS CLOSE ON 3 July 2017
Excellent students will be nominated for the Chinese Bridge Competition in RESUMING APPLICATIONS CLOSE ON 30 June 2017
China.
SEMESTER II 2017 BEGINS ON 10 July 2017
Application forms can be downloaded from the website: www.usp.ac.fj/ci or
LATE APPLICATION CLOSES ON 5 July 2017
obtain from the Confucius Institute at USP Lautoka Campus front desk.
PACIFIC TAFE APPLICATION CLOSING DATE 19 July 2017
Due date: 25 July 2017
PACIFIC TAFE LAST DAY OF REGISTRATION 21 July 2017
For further information contact: Ms. Teresa Ali,
tel: 6666800; email: ali_t@usp.ac.fj or PACIFIC TAFE LAST DAY OF WITHDRAWAL FROM COURSES WITHOUT
usplautoka@usp.ac.fj; Ms. Guishuang Yang, INCURRING ANY TUITION FEES 28 July 2017
tel: 6666800-1221; email: yang.guishuang@usp.ac.fj For any further clarification please contact USP Lautoka Campus;
or Mr. Jie Huang; tel: 6666800-1221; email: jie.huang@usp.ac.fj
tel: 6666800 or email: usplautoka@usp.ac.fj or visit the Campus
Website: www.usp.ac.fj/ci. Facebook:
located at Vidilo Street, Lautoka.
Confucius Institute at The University of the South Pacific

TOWARDS EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND KNOWLEDGE CREATION TOWARDS EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND KNOWLEDGE CREATION

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 JUNE 25, 2017 NEWS 09

Zareena Bi
Advocating against violence
Twenty five Primary schools in
Lautoka inclusive of two special
schools under that Lautoka District
Girl Guides banner came together
for their district rally on June 17 to
advocate and promote their voices
against violence program.
Speaking at the program at the
Saint Thomas Primary school
grounds chief guest, Director of
Education Primary Hem Chand
thanked the executives and leaders
of Girl Guides for organizing the
rally.
He informed that Ministry of
education will continue to support
Guides and Scouts in Fiji as events
of this nature will help the students
to learn about each others culture
and will give them exposure.
The theme for Ministry of Edu-
cation is Quality education for
change, peace and progress and
since Guides is a part of education
we are encouraging all the districts
to organize activities of this nature.
In future if we receive a request Girl Guides from 25 different schools around Lautoka during the Voices Against Violence rally at St Thomas Primary School in Lautoka.
of this nature we will not hesi- Photos: Sanjay Goundar
tate in giving our consent to allow
these programs to be organized on a
school day.
I wish to encourage the girls
to share what you learn today with
your parents and we have seen that
those who are actively involved in
Scouts and Guides have good dis-
cipline and their character is very
good.
Meanwhile, according to Fiji Girl
Guides Association Project Officer
Ditai Bolabasaga the rally will en-
able the girls to take part in the ac-
tivities of the last two curriculum in
the program of voices against vio-
lence.
For the curriculum there are six
activities that the girls need to com-
plete and today we will be complet-
ing the last two activities which is
on speaking out and taking action.
So girls your banners, postcards
and oratory speeches is the modem
of speaking out and taking action.
Our program is also inclusive of
the special schools as we also look
after the needs for the special stu-
dent and after completing the activi-
Director Primary Hem Chand (4th from left) with Girl Guides officials and students at the rally in Lautoka where combating violence against
ties today each and every guide will
women was main highlight.
receive a completion certificate.

Ministry to Raise awareness on elderly abuse

Source: DINFO
There needs to be more awareness on elderly
abuse in our communities and particularly at
our homes.
This was highlighted recently by the Minister
for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation
Mereseini Vuniwaqa at press conference on
World Elder Abuse Awareness day..
Minister Vuniwaqa said this is an initiative
by the United Nations, which began in 2006,
to address the rising challenge of elderly citi-
zens abuse.
This year we have partnered with the Aus-
tralia Pacific Technical College( APTC) and
their role is to empower those that look after
out elderly citizens in our aged-care homes.
We will have a workshop on Wednesday for
the aged care facilitators run by APTC,
Minister Vuniwaqa said.
Minister Vuniwaqa added that the ministry
as part of raising awareness was looking at
reaching out to families and aged-caregivers
in our state homes. There needs to be more re-
spect towards our elderly population.
A lot of our elder persons are now at state
homes and in this case a lot of them have been
verbally and emotionally abused, and neglect-
ed.
Minister Vuniwaqa also highlighted that there
has been an increase in the numbers of elderly
persons from 150 to 160 living in our state-
homes.
The theme for World Elder Abuse Aware-
ness day is Lets Break the Silence and Pro-
tect our Leaders. Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Mereseini Vuniwaqa is concerned
about elderly abuse cases in the country

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

10 NEWS JUNE 25, 2017

57 year dream becomes reality

Sanjay Goundar
After 57 years students of a rural
primary school are finally able to
access library and internet services
from the school premises.
This dream by successive heads of
the school became a reality on June
9 when Minister for Education, Her-
itage and Arts Dr Mahendra Reddy
officially opened the new library
and computer block at Lomolomo
Primary School in Lautoka.
Head Teacher of the School Ritesh
Prasad revealed that his 11 other
predecessors since 1960 dreamt of
having a proper library service at
the school but due to financial con-
straint this project never eventuated.
Mr Prasad informed that through
the kind generosity of the govern-
ment and financial assistance from
the Education Ministers initiative
award the project finally started last
year.
The Lomolomo family is really
blessed with this gift of education
from the government.
After 57 years our students from
Year one will get a chance to open
the new library books and press the
enter key in our computers.
In line with the Ministry of Edu-
cations quest to have 100 percent
pass rate in all the schools around
the country, the Lomolomo Public
School team is working tirelessly to
achieve the goal, he emphasized.
Dr Reddy highlighted that it is the
dream of the government to ensure
that every child in the country is
given the opportunity to excel.
Every child has an inbuilt talent
that needs to be supported and men-
tored which will grow up overtime
and this is the reason our govern-
ment has made education free in the
country.
We dont want any child to be
deprived of education just because
of the childs household, social and
economic status.
Before early childhood educa-
tion used to be the domain of the
children of the rich and of the elite
members of the society while the
children of the poor did not have ac-
cess to proper education.
Our government has changed
this scenario completely with every
child now being given full access to
proper and quality education. Minister for Education Dr Mahendra Reddy with Director Primary Hem Chand (right) and Lomolomo Public
The Minister added that govern- School head teacher Ritesh Prasad during the opening of the new computer lab and library at the school.. Photos:
ment has also increased per capita Sanjay Goundar
grant for schools in the rural areas
as these schools are more in need
of infrastructure development than
schools in urban centres.

Farmers
carnival
grows bigger The Sari Brigade. Female Head of schools from Lautoka with Minister for Education Dr Mahendra Reddy at
Lomolomo Public School
Zareena Bi

Lautokas popular Farmers carnival has grown bigger since its 17 years of
establishment in 2001.
Speaking at the crowning night of the festival on June 17 chief guest Na-
tional Farmers Union general secretary Mahendra Chaudhry acknowledged
the support of the community in enabling the carnival to grow.
The Farmers carnival has grown from humble beginnings to become the
most liked festival in Lautoka.
Initially the carnival was started to raise funds for the education of needy
children and specially towards the education of the children of displaced
farmers.
Over the years our focus has changed and now the carnival helps peo-
ple of all classes and categories who face difficulties towards educating their
children.
Chaudhry informed that although there is advantages given by the current
government towards education there are still cost that parents have to bear.
He added that things like school uniform, bags, shoes and stationery does
have considerable costs which parents have to fulfill.
According to the Farmers Carnival Director, late Mr. Udit Narayan the or-
ganizers took up the challenge to organize the carnival despite the lack of a
major sponsor this year.
He added that the tremendous support of the Chinese community in hiring
33 flea market stalls had given the organizing committee the much needed
motivation to carry on.
Meanwhile, the Lautoka sector contestant, Sina Lelei Paul walked away
with the Farmers Carnival Crown this year.
Paul has won herself a return trip to New Zealand and she thanked her fam-
ily for their tremendous support towards her achievement. Miss Farmers 2017 Sina Lelei Paul (middle) with National Farmers Union general secretary Mahendra
Chaudhry after her crowning

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 JUNE 25, 2017 NEWS 11

Maika Kasami
Eye check-up for Punjas staff
A healthy lifestyle leads to a happy and disease free life.
Total negligence on your part in looking after your health can
have a long term effect. Once such part of your body depends
on what you consume and see.
The eye can be referred to as one of the most important part
of your body and one which you use daily to carry out your
daily chores and see the world clearly.
Punjas has taken the initiative to provide eye screening clin-
ics to its staff over two days on June 23 and 24 at their prem-
ises.
New Zealands leading provider of eye surgery, Eye Insti-
tute, conducted the clinic.
Eye Institutes leading surgeon Dr. Peter Hadden, who has
been working closely with local Ophthalmologists and con-
ducting volunteer work in Fiji said many Fijians requiring
sight saving surgery regularly fly over to see him in Auckland.
Dr Hadden said we are delighted to be able to assist the
employees of Punjas with their eye health
Over 100 Punjas employees aged 40plus were seen by Dr
Martin Van Der Most, Karen Gardener and Dr. Raj with chief
executive officer Dr. David Fitzpatrick-Cockram leading the
five team tour party.
Punjas Group Marketing Manager Gopal Jadhav said they
sought the services of the number one Eye specialists company
in New Zealand for their staff for this one of its kind initiative.
The Eye Institute team will be working closely with local
Ophthalmologists to create a seamless service for employees
of any other companies, including people with private health New Zealands leading provider of eye surgery, Eye Institute surgeon Dr. Peter Hadden inspecting one of the staff of Punjas.
insurance who want to access some of the best eye care in the Photo: Maika Kasami
world.

Karagam Pooja
Zareena Bi the devotees like taking out gulgula (fried dough) from boil-
ing oil with bare hands, bearing the pain of sharp needles on
The months from May to July are devoted to Karagam pooja the forehead, face and chest and walking around the temple
by south Indian devotees around the country and during these with a lighted fire pot (agni karagam).
months three day prayers (thirunaal )are hosted at the temples.
The three main deities to whom prayers are offered are god-
desses Ganga, Kaali and Mariamma and devotees prepare spe-
cial chariots for the deities to be honored and prayed upon.
Temples are decorated with much enthusiasm and attention to
detail and each day has a different program which the devotees
take part in.
There is no lack of donors and sponsors for these events as
there is a lot of reverence given for these prayers which has
multiple positive effects for the believers.
This is the only time of the year when the deities are taken out
of the temples to the homes in the nearby areas so blessings
can be sought.
The devotees who request for the deities to be escorted to their
homes on the chariots prepare in advance to receive them with
prayers and sweet offerings.
The Goddesses are escorted with chants, traditional daphla
drum beating and playing of other musical instruments ac-
companied by the poojaris (priests) and other devotees who
ensure their nem (purity) for the three days at the temple.
There is remarkable support from the donors for these prayers
which ensures that all devotees who visit the temple have
lunch and dinner before leaving the temple.
At some of the prominent temples the prayers end on early Young children taking part in the popular South Indian A South Indian devotee pulling a chariot with its chain
Sunday morning with the fire walking ceremony. dance Trikuttu at Rifle Range Mariamman Temple in pierced through his body at the annual Thirunaal of Rifle
Apart from the fire walking there is various other activities to Lautoka. Photos: Sanjay Goundar Range Temple.
be seen during the prayers which displays the test of faith by

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

12 NEWS JUNE 25, 2017

New facilities for Andhra family

Zareena Bi
We are now looking at en-
suring that there is a level
playing field with respect to
schools no matter where they
originate from.
While officiating new fa-
cilities at Lautoka Andhra
Primary and Andhra Col-
lege on June 19 chief Guest
Minister for Education Dr
Mahendra Reddy echoed
these sentiments regarding
infrastructure development at
schools.
Over the last two years
we have spent additional 14
million dollars to give small
grants to schools in interior
rural areas and maritime divi-
sion.
We have also changed the
pre-education grant formula
so that we give more per-
capita grant to those smaller
schools in the interior mari-
time division so that they can
catch up and improve their
infrastructure to ensure that
children out there can get the
same learning environment as
children in the urban area.
It is important that every
child in the country are able
to get the same learning en-
vironment. We have the same
teachers from the same Uni-
versity, same curriculum,
same exam papers but differ-
ence is the quality of infra-
structure.
The Minister informed that
it is the governments strong
believe that they can deliver
a prosperous, stable and pro-
gressive future Fiji by ensur-
ing that our children are edu-
cated.
It is in this regard that
we have decided that there
should not be obstacle for
children in gaining excess to
education.
Our education model
is unique as apart from
12 schools that rest of the
schools are either owned by
communities or faith based
organizations.
Because the schools are
not owned by the government
past governments neglected
its upkeep and maintenance
but we have now decided
that we will look after all the
school we will provide the
grants to enhance the learning
environment of the schools.
According to Lautoka An-
dra Primary Head Teacher Mr
Vinay Kumar Singh the open- Minister for Education Dr Mahendra Reddy with the Principal and staff members of Lautoka Andhra College.
ing of a new classroom block Photos: Sanjay Goundar
and renovated library at the
school from the Ministers
education fund and TC Win-
ston fund will greatly benefit
the students.
However, Singh has re-
quested for more assistance
for new classrooms as the
student numbers are growing
in the vacinity.
Meanwhile, Andhra Col-
lege students now have a
newly constructed Industrial
Arts block through the edu- Lautoka Andhra Primary Head Teacher Vinay Singh with Traditional welcome accorded to Dr Mahendra Reddy by
cation grant from the govern- Dr Mahendra Reddy at the schools renovated library students of the Andhra family

Eid ul-Fitr
ment.

Eid ul-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan or Ramzan, the

holy month of fasting was celebrated by the Muslim devotees
in the country on June 26.
Prophet Muhammad is believed to have received the first
revelation of the Holy Quran during this month. The exact date
of Eid depends on a combination of the sighting of the new
moon and astronomical calculations. The time when Eid starts
also depends on where you are in the world, and when the new
moon is seen.
Also known as Eid ul-Fitr or Ramadan-Id, it is celebrated
by Muslims all over the world, towards the end of the month
of Ramadan. It implies the breaking of the fasting time frame,
with the locating of new moon at night, on the most recent day
of Ramadan. The festival is celebrated over a holiday of three
days and is additionally called Choti Eid, beginning on the day
of Shawwal (tenth month of the Islamic date-book).
Eid festivities begin only after the sighting of the crescent
moon. Abiding by the Sunnah the record of teachings of
Prophet Mohammad, people wake up early in the morning,
chant the Salat ul-Fajr (daily prayers), take a bath and wear
ittar (perfume). They also eat a hearty breakfast before heading
off to perform special congregational prayers known as Salat
al-Eid (Eid prayers). Many Muslims also recite the takbir (dec-
laration of faith) on the way to the prayer ground and take part
in Zakat al-Fitr (charitable contributions).
Muslims look forward to Eid ul-Fitr as an occasion of peace,
happiness, joy, and festivity. Its a day for special prayers and
an extension of forgiveness and generosity. The day brings
people together as the festival celebrates togetherness and en-
courages fellowship. Companions, relatives, friends, and fam- Decorating palms with mehendi (Hena) designs is one of the favorite traditions for females on the auspicious occasion of Eid.
ily are welcomed and offered desserts. Endowments are given
to Traditionally, it is celebrated for three days and is an official Muslims gather together at the mosque to ask for blessings,
Some Muslims visit the burial ground, a custom which is holiday in all Muslim-majority countries. The end of Ramadan before spending the day with family or friends and wishing one
known as ziyarat-al-qubur, to pay respect to the left souls. usually depends on when the moon is sighted. On this day, another with the customary Eid Mubarak, or Blessed Eid.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

JUNE 25, 2017 ADVERTISEMENT 13

GRADUATE SCHOOL
OF BUSINESS

2017
INTAKE

The Graduate School of

Business is now inviting
applications for Post
Graduate Certificate
in Human Resource
Management.

With our Programmes you will USP LAUTOKA CAMPUS

be able to: Ms. Devika Ram, Student Officer
Become a Visionary Leader Tel: (679) 666 6800; Fax: (679) 666 7133;
Email: ram_d@usp.ac.fj
Acquire Critical Business www.usp.ac.fj/mba
Skills to compete in the Application closes on 31 July 2017
Global Economy Students are encouraged to apply online via
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TOWARDS EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND KNOWLEDGE CREATION

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

14 NEWS

7th Chinese graduation

JUNE 25, 2017

Sanjay Goundar

Chinese language courses provided through

the Confucius Institute at University of the
South Pacific Lautoka campus is gaining ma-
jor momentum in the country.
Since the inception of the Chinese classes at
the USP Lautoka campus in 2015 more than
200 students have successfully graduated.
At the 7th Confucius Institute graduation
ceremony at the USP Lautoka campus on June
12, 34 local students were awarded their cer-
tificates.
A total of 23 students graduated with the
Beginner 1 level certificate, seven with Begin-
ner 3 and four students received Intermediate
level certificates.
USP Lautoka Campus Director Dr Pramila
Devi informed that the Chinese language class
is becoming very popular among the local stu-
dents.
Devi revealed that there are numerous ben-
efits for the Fijian students undertaking the
course both locally and in China.
Already local students undertaking the
course have been rewarded with short term
scholarships to learn the Chinese language
and culture in China.
Students who participated in the Chinese
Bridge Competitions have also secured op-
portunities to represent Fiji in the competition
finals in China. Graduates at the 7th Confucius Institute Chinese language graduation ceremony at USP Lautoka campus with invited guests and USP staff
With lots of Chinese companies investing (front row). Photo: Sanjay Goundar
in Fiji knowledge about the Chinese language CCC Tianjin Dredging Company Limiteds their dynamic company. Liwei informed tion management, facilities manufacturing,
and culture is becoming vital for our local la- Fiji Project Manager Sun Liwei revealed that that China communication construction Co. real estate and city development.
bour market. Fijians learning the Chinese language through Ltd is a worlds leading large infrastructure The company is currently conducting the
Guest speaker at the 7th graduation ceremo- the Confucius Institute at USP Lautoka Cam- integrated service provider, mainly engaging major renovation and extension work of the
ny China Communications Construction pus have great chances of becoming a part of with infrastructure investment and construc Lautoka Wharf.

Burger Kings third outlet opens

Sanjay Goundar
One of the fastest growing food
chain in the country recently opened
their third outlet in the country.
Burger Kings opened its landside
restaurant at the Nadi International
Airport on June 21. The company
initially started its operation in Fiji
in November 2015 with its airside
restaurant at the departure lounge of
the airport followed up the second
outlet in Martintar, Nadi.
According to Burger Kings Fiji
Operations General Manager Akash
Narsey the new landside restaurant
will be accessible to all customers
who visit the airport.
One of the most unique features of
the new outlet is that customers will
be able to enjoy draught beer.
With this new restaurant we will
be servicing customers who will be
fare welling passengers at the air-
port.
We already have one outlet in the
departure lounge which is limited
to passengers only and not the fam-
ily members who come to farewell
them.
Looking at the local market you
often see that when one person flies
off , quite a number of other family
members come to drop them off.
This restaurant provides an op-
portunity for families to have one fi-
nal meal together before their loved
ones fly out of the country.
Narsey revealed that majority of
their staff are locals who have been
part of the Motibhai Group and are
given an opportunity to grow their
talent in the food chain business.
Thirty more jobs have been created
with the new outlet.
He informed that the response
from the public since the opening
of their new outlet at the airport has
been very positive.
He added that with this growing
popularity Burger Kings two more
outlets will be in operation in the
near future one at Ganilau House in
Suva and the fifth one at Nakasi.
Echoing similar sentiments, Burg-
er King director Tejash Patel said
they are proud to be associated with
Airports Fiji Limited as part of its
Nadi Airport Terminal Moderniza-
tion Project.
The new landside outlet is part
of the many restaurants planned for
opening around the country with Burger King Chairman Kirit Patel (centre) flanked by director Tejash Patel (left) and general manager Akash
our first Suva outlet scheduled to be Narsey at the new airport outlet
opened in the later part of this year,
Mr Patel said.
Meanwhile, just in 18 months,
Burger King has invested close to
$12 million in the Fijian economy
and has provided employment op-
portunities for 90 people with the
number expected to grow as the
international franchise opens more
outlets across the country in coming
months and years.
Finally beer on the tap at
the latest Burger King out-
let at the Nadi International
Airport. Photos: Sanjay
Goundar

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 JUNE 25, 2017 SPORTS 15
ICC champ invites India to play in Pakistan

Pakistan cricket team captain Sarfaraz Ahmed leads his side in the victory celebration over India in the ICC Champions Trophy in London . Photo: Supplied.

Soumitra Bose (Hindustan Times,
London).
Pakistan used their ICC Champions Trophy
win to invite worlds top teams to come play
cricket in their homeland.
Pakistan used their maiden ICC Champions
Trophy win to make a politically sensitive
statement after the final.
Skipper Sarfraz Ahmed, in his opening ad-
dress to the media, said the win will boost Pa-
kistan cricket and hopefully all nations will
now come to Pakistan. He added: It is sad
that we have not been playing at home for
eight years.
All top nations refuse to play in Pakistan
where security is at a premium. Pakistan play
their home matches in UAE and Sundays
180-run win against defending champions
India was a perfect platform to send a strong
message to the government in New Delhi.
Successive Indian governments have re-
fused to play bilateral cricket with Pakistan
and it is unlikely that the result of the 2017
Champions Trophy will change the views of
the Narendra Modi government.
Pakistan, however, were on top of the world
after their victory. They came into the tourna-
ment as the lowest ranked team and after suf-
fering a 124-run loss in a group match against
India at Edgbaston on June 4, seemed to have
lost steam.
Not really, I told the boys that there was lot
of cricket remaining to be played. Thanks to
the coaching staff, it was possible to stage this
turnaround and win the trophy.
Hopefully everyone will remember this
win, not today, not tomorrow, (but for a ) very
long, long time, said Sarfraz.
Losing the toss was good for us, said Sar-
fraz. We would have loved to bowl first but
I also thought that if we can score 280, it will
put pressure on the opposition, he said.
The skipper was all praise for Fakhar Za-
man, who timed his maiden ODI century to
perfection.
I told him to play his natural game, just the
way he would in domestic cricket. He hit the
ball really well and turned the tables on the
Indian bowlers. At the end of it, it was a com-
plete team effort, said Sarfraz.
For Pakistans head coach Mickey Arthur,
the win came as big relief. One of the top
coaches in the world, Arthur has never won an
IC C trophy and Sunday ended that jinx.
Its not about me and my career; its about
15 unbelievable players in that dressing room
who have been absolutely fantastic for the last
year. So thats what it should be about.
I was telling somebody the other day that
Ive had five semi-finals with South Africa
and never got to a final. I got to one final with
Pakistan and eventually got a medal. So thats
fantastic. But the credit goes to the players.
Theyve been brilliant, and my fellow coach-
ing staff and management team have been fan-
tastic, as well, said Arthur.

Mayweather, McGregor to earn more than $100million

Luke Brown (inde-
pendent.co.uk)
The undefeated boxer Floyd
Mayweather and two-weight
UFC world champion Conor
McGregor have agreed to a
boxing match on August 26
in Las Vegas. The fight is ex-
pected to become the highest
grossing event in the history
of either sport.
The fight was confirmed on
Wednesday evening, with
McGregor tweeting THE
FIGHT IS ON, moments
before Mayweather posted
a short promotional video
to his Instagram page, along
with the caption Its offi-
cial.
Mayweather was immedi-
ately made the overwhelming
favourite to win the fight by
bookmakers across the world.
He boasts a flawless profes-
sional record of 49-0, while
McGregor has never previ-
ously been involved in a box-
ing match.
Negotiations for the fight
have lasted longer than a
year, with each man demand-
ing upwards of $100m and
insisting that they were the
main draw.
The exact financial details of
the fight have not been dis-
closed, but in a media call
both parties insisted they
were satisfied with how the
negotiations had proceeded.
Everybody is happy, Leon-
ard Ellerbe, the CEO of May-
weather Promotions, said.
Nobody is bummed out
about this deal, said Dana
White, the president of the
UFC. He later described the
contest as the biggest fight
ever.
White went on to reveal a
number of details about the
potentially record-break-
ing fight, including that the
12-round contest would be
held at the T-Mobile Arena
in Las Vegas, with both men
weighing in at 154 pounds.
Mayweather Promotions,
rather than the UFC, will pub-
licize the event, which will be
available on Showtime pay-
per-view in the United States.
The PPV price is expected to
cost in excess of $100.
Were not only drawing
from the universe of box-
ing fans and the universe of
MMA fans, weve actually
tapped into the audience that
doesnt follow either sport,
Showtime Sports executive
vice president Stephen Espi-
noza said. This is an unprec-
edented event.
McGregor will be looking to
pull off one of the greatest
upsets in the history of sport
when he takes on Mayweath-
er in his first professional
boxing match. The much awaited boxing bout between Conor McGregor (left) and Floyd Mayweather is set
for August 26. Photo: Supplied.
Although the Irishman is a
widely regarded as one of the win via a unanimous decision Should he defeat McGregor,
two-weight world champion
best defensive boxers to have and possesses the highest he will move ahead of former
in the sport of mixed martial
ever lived. average punch connect rate heavyweight great Rocky
arts, he has not boxed com-
He has been knocked to the of any active fighter, accord- Marciano, who also retired
petitively since the age of 16,
canvas just once in his 21- ing to the respected comput- with a perfect 49-0 career re-
when he was an All-Ireland
year professional career in erized scoring system Com- cord.
champion at youth level.
a fight he would come back to puBox.
In contrast, Mayweather is
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 16 SPORTS JUNE 25, 2017

Blues to face new FACT champions

BOG returns to Labasa after 14-years.
Maika Kasami

The Inkk Mobile Battle of the Giants returns to Subrail Park

in Labasa after a 14-year lapse.
It was in 2002 when the Babasiga Lions reached the final but
bowed out to winners Nadroga 2-1.
However, five years earlier, the northerners had recorded
their first ever BOG win defeating Nadi in the final (1-0)
thanks to a screamer by Labasa Bhagwan Taniela Tuilevu-
ka past a despairing dive by goalkeeper Waiski Batina from
roughly 30-yards out.
The official 2017 BOG pool draw was done on June 21 in
Suva.
Defending champions Lautoka has been drawn in Group B
and will face 2017 Vodafone Fiji FACT champions Rewa in
the BOG pool stages.
Labasa heads Group A where they will come up against Ra-
kiraki, Suva and Fiji FACT finalists Jacks Nadi.
Men in Black Ba who have won the BOG the most number
of times (16) is sure to have another tough outing.
But they look certain to bounce back and be back in conten-
tion for the domestic tournament titles on offer.
Delta Tigers Rewa will hope to make it two-from-two fol-
lowing its 1-0 over the Jetsetters in the recent FACT final win
at Ratu Cakobau Park.
The Blues will try to put behind their FACT disappointment
by successfully defending their BOG title. Fiji FA executives and Inkk Mobile representatives during the Battle of the Giants official pool draws in Suva. Photo: Anushil
They will have to get past Rewa, Ba and minnows Dreketi Kumar/VODAFONE
to stand a chance. back in 1997 at home.The BOG will be played from July 14- Churchill Park and Subrail Park.
Rewa comes in second with 7-BOG wins, followed by Nadi 16 in Labasa with the knockout stages to be decided depending Group A: Labasa, Rakiraki, Suva, Nadi; Group B: Lautoka,
(5), Suva (3), Lautoka (2) and Labasa have won it only once on the four teams that qualify. Dreketi, Rewa, Ba.
Venues available for the semis include Ratu Cakobau Park,

Bowling competition on the roll

Maika Kasami
Four-teams remained unbeaten after Week 2
of competition in the Parmars Footwear spon-
sored Lautoka Business House weekly com-
petition at the FSC Bowling Club.
Those that began with a bang recording a
hundred percent win include Team Finance,
Field Nadi and Par 5.
Field Lautoka made a slow start when they
were held to a 12-all draw against Blues in
Week 1 but bounced back to register its first
win over 1-Wood by 23-11.
The Munesh Kumar led Field Nadi side
began on a positive note winning both their
matches. They defeated the main sponsors
Parmars 18-12 before beating Blues 20-10 on
June 21.
Finance had a close win over Tri-Dees by
15-13 before accounting for Parmars (17-8).
Par 5 led by national representative Rajnesh
Prasad opened their campaign with the highest
score of Week 1, a convincing 31-14 first up
triumph over Superb Electrical. But they were
made to work hard against the Dev Anand
skippered Team Headquarters in Week 2.
The final result of 17-12 in their favour did
not really reflect the course of the match as
Anand and his team members put up a gal-
lant show with some fine bowling skills only
to lose out in the final two ends.
Prasad was also on top of his game guiding
his side well to score some crucial points.
They really gave us a good matchup, he
said of their opposition Team HQ.
Dev has been in good form recently and
this showed in the way he cut off of some of
our points and scoring some good ones for
them. He held his team well together.
But we stuck in there, survived the pres-
sure thrown at us and delivered when it mat-
tered. Im grateful to my team members who
backed me up well, Prasad added.
Tournament co-ordinator David Bennion
acknowledged the contribution made by Par-
mars which made it possible for non-bowlers
to improve their skills.
Only one non-bowler is part of a team com-
prising three-regular bowlers.
Bennion sad the weekly competition have
been serving its purpose of unearthing some The Par 5 Bowling team from left, Sanjeet Sen, Rajnesh Prasad (skip), Rajneel Pillay and
raw talents who have gone to become key lead Keegan Jaduram during the Parmars Footwear sponsored Lautoka Business House weekly
players for their respective teams. competition. Photo: Maika Kasami
The Parmars Footwear sponsored tourney is Week 2: Tri-Dees 26-6 Superb Electrical,
currently being held on Wednesdays begin- Electrical 14-31 Par 5, Field Nadi 18-12 Par- Team HQ 12-17 Par 5, Finance 17-8 Parmars,
ning at 6pm. mars, Lautoka Field 12-12 Blues, 1-Wood 24- 1-Wood 11-23 Field Lautoka, Blues 10-20
Results: 13 Team HQ. Field Nadi.,
Week 1: Tri-Dees 13-15 Finance, Superb

Timely boost for Service Soccer Club

Service Football Club, the oldest soccer club in Fiji received a timely boost with Quality Power
Engineering Solutions coming on board to sponsor the side with a new set of BLK branded soc-
cer uniform, soccer balls and cash in kind to cater for the team expenses throughout this season.
While accepting the kind gesture and sponsorship from Director, Quality Power, Mr. Jeffry
Kumkee, President of Service Football Club Tariq Bahadur said, The club is grateful indeed to
businesses like Quality Power who consider sponsoring local district clubs in Fiji, as we all know
the hardships local club officials undergo each year to finance the running of the club and look
after their players welfare.
Director for QPES Mr. Kumkee said he saw the need to assist local clubs after learning that
they were being neglected.
The local clubs have been neglected in the sense of breeding good soccer players in Fiji, I be-
lieve promoting local clubs might be the solution for improving the level of soccer and of course
upbringing new talents in our country.
Club has produced Fijis Greats in the name of Augustine Thoman, Josaia Tubuna and Kel- From left, Secretary Service FC Ashtosh Singh, Captain Kavaia Rawaqa, President Tariq
emedi Vosuga Cheetah to name a few. Bahadur, Director QPES Jeffry Kumkee and team official Patrick Fong during the cheque
presentation. Photo: Supplied.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 JUNE 25, 2017 SPORTS 17
Gopal family fully support LGC
Maika Kasami

The sponsors, the Gopal Family with winner LGC Club vice-captain Surend Pillay (second from left)..
Photo: Maika Kasami
The Gopal family from Canada has thrown their full support to spon-
sor more tournaments at the Lautoka Golf Club.
This is following the completion of the June 10 18-holes individual
stroke event in memory of Anita Gopals late brother, Raj Paul Persaud
of George Town, Guyana.
Mahendra Gopal, who had been earlier sponsoring under the Tif-
fanys of Canada banner confirmed that his family is fully dedicated to
help Lautoka Golf Club in a number of their weekly tournaments and
each of the monthly medal events.
For his enormous contribution towards LGC and at the same time
supporting the junior golf development program, Gopal was accorded
an honorary member of the club.
Meanwhile, club vice-captain, Suren Pillay and Mahendra Go-
pal were the outright winners of the Anita & Tiffany Gopal Western
Open Golf-sponsored 18 holes stroke Championship at the Golf Links
course.
Pillay carded a par round 69 to win the overall gross title. Gopal
claimed the overall nett title after scoring 58.
Club president Chong Lee thanked the Gopal family for coming on
board to support the club through their sponsorship.
Other results: Chandar Shekar, Abhinesh Goundar, Wella Pillay,
Dinesh Chand - 70. Rusiate Kauniloloma, Anthony John, Lawrence
Naidu, Anil Prasad - 71. Mohd Imitaz, Sunia Radovu, Ray Singh,
Suresh Chand - 72. Zabir Ali, Paras Ram - 73. Bobby Reddy, Shiro
Mani, Sukhend Singh, Dr. Ganesh Chand, A.K. Raju, Gaffar Ali - 74.

LGC to host Skaffworks tourney

Gaffar Ali with his spoils after winning on June 24 at the Lautoka
Golf Club.
Maika Kasami

The only active golf club in Fiji with exciting and attractive prizes
on offer every weekend, Lautoka Golf Club is set to welcome the
staging of the Skaffworks and Building Solution Limited sponsored
18-Holes Western Classic Stroke Championship on July 1.
LGC chairman of trustees Raymond Singh said they are delighted
with the support shown by corporate bodies towards the club which
has seen tournaments being held every weekend.
Singh said he is thankful to those members who have participated
every weekend and helped the club financially.
He said they are looking forward to another exciting weekend of
golf.
Two tournaments is scheduled for this weekend. On Friday well
have the Anita Gopal/Tiffany Gopal sponsored 2-men 18-holes
Stroke Ambrose event while on Saturday is the Western Classic
Stroke tourney sponsored by Skaffworks and Building Solution
Limited.
Meanwhile, Gaffar Ali took out the M.E Equipment Traders spon-
sored tourney on June 24.
Ali recorded a fantastic score of 67 to beat club vice-captain
Surend Pillay and club-captain James Krishna who finished on 74.
In the B-grade, A.K Raju was on 71, Abdul Jalal with his favour-
ite score of 69 and Sunia Radovu making a comeback playing his
best golf took out this grade.
Arvind Pillay was third in the C-grade, Narendra Gopal was sec-
ond and Ashish Kumar was declared the winner.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

18 SPORTS

Boxing revival on track

JUNE 25, 2017

The Canada Fiji Southern Boxing Promo-

tions will hold their first ever program in the
country on June 30 at Prince Charles Park in
Nadi.

And the man responsible for the power

packed boxing extravaganza is CFSBP di-
rector Mohammed Shameem who has spent
$50,000 to make it all happen for boxing fans
in the country.

The Sniper Sebastian Singh faceoff with

the Razor Junior Farzan in the main bout
(10x3min).

City Star Sports (CSS) spoke to Mohammed

Shameem (MS) on his bold move in coming
all the way from Canada to stage his first box-
ing program.

CSS: What year did you leave Fiji and after

how many years have you come back?
MS: I left Fiji on Dec 10 1977 and came
back to Fiji for a wedding in Dec 2007

CSS: How and when did you develop the

interest in boxing?
MS: Boxing was in my blood since I was
a kid.

CSS: Do you also hold such programs back

in Canada?
MS: No, not at the moment because I have
been very busy with my business and by next From left (Simon Naushad co-Promoter for Canada Fiji Southern Boxing Promotions, Sebastian Singh, Director Mohammed Sha-
year I have big plans for programs back in meem and lawyer Aman Singh who is the manager of Sebastian during the signing of the contract in Suva. Photo: Supplied.
Vancouver.

CSS: How did the idea of promoting a box-
ing program in Fiji come about?
MS: My dad was the biggest promoter in
boxing and wrestling in Fiji from 1965-1981
until he migrated to Canada. He promoted
under Southern Boxing Promotions banner.
When
I came back to Fiji in 2007 I met Filimone
Naliva who was the former Heavyweight
Champion of Fiji and he had asked me to look
after his sons and do what my dad had done
for him. Then I thought at that time to step
into my dads footsteps. We had so many great
boxers from overseas to fight in Fiji during
those days such famous boxers from Tonga
such as Mani Vaka, Toni Pulu, Fonamanu Se-
kona ,Meli Visa , Luke Veikoso, these were
all heavyweight champion of Tonga. Malupe
Halalilo, Nalesoni Taufa Light heavyweight,
Sione Maluifanua middleweight and many
others .Bobby Stininato and Monty Betham
from New Zealand and there were many more.
I had interest at that time to be a promoter in
Fiji unfortunately I migrated to Canada back
then.
CSS: You have included two female fights.
Whats the reason behind such initiatives?
MS: As for the ladies fighting, I think it is
time for them to show their talent and encour-
age more female fighters to participate and
one day to have only ladies boxing. Most im-
portantly we want to promote gender equal-
ity which goes in line with the governments
manifesto where ladies should be given fair
chances in sports. As you can see they are
doing very well in World Cup Soccer and
sometimes I would watch them than the mens
games.
CSS: Were any of your family members
ever into boxing?
MS: My younger brother had fought in am-
ateur fights in Suva with Sunia Cama behind
him as his manager. We were five brothers and
all of us were very much into boxing. I had
trained Luke Veikoso and managed him while
he was in Fiji and made him the Heavy-
weight Champion of South Seas when he beat
Sunia Cama for the vacant Title.
CSS: You must have been aware of the situ-
ation of the sport in the country. What made
you take the bold step in reviving the sport?
MS: I decided to do something in Fiji and
bring back some action in boxing with the
experience I have. My goal is to give every
boxer in Fiji a chance to fight and show their
talent and make their life financially stable. I
am very confident of what I can do to revive
boxing in Fiji with the promotions I have lined
up for next 2 years. Bring quality fighters and
let the fans enjoy the sport.
CSS: What risks have you taken in this pro-
gram and what can the fans expect?
MS: I dont see any risk in this in this pro-
gramme and I am very confident that the fans
will be witness one of the best program after
so many years. We have found the best and
lined up best boxers so it will be a night to
remember.
CSS: What are your future plans?
MS: Future plans are to put two-more pro-
motions this year in Suva in September and in
Labasa in December
CSS: Your thoughts on what needs to be
done to the sport locally so that it can again be
recognized internationally like before?
MS: My thoughts that the boxing com-
mission should be encouraging fights to take
place more often than six weeks gap they have
between each promotions. In the 70s and 80s
fights were held within 2 weeks and in differ-
ent towns with no restriction on promoters.
This is the only way boxing can be revived in
Fiji and boxers to have more interest as they
will have more fight in a year .My goal is to
promote the best and expose them to the fans
who are waiting to see good boxing.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 JUNE 25, 2017 SPORTS 19

Flying Fijians bring joy to kids

Maika Kasami

Sports players need to undergo mental toughness to be ready

for International matches.
In three-weeks the national side has managed to play three-
top ten ranked teams in the likes of Australia, Italy and Scot-
land.
For each of these matches, they are also required to be good
ambassadors off the field.
Before the match against Scotland on June 24, six members
of the Flying Fijians vowed to play for all the children in the
country when they took on Scotland at the ANZ Stadium in
Suva.
The players visited the Colonial War Memorial Hospitals
childrens ward where they managed to bring smiles to those
kids fighting against sickness.
Veteran Center Vereniki Goneva, who scored an intercept
try versus Italy the week earlier, was emotional after seeing
the young children specially in the Oncology Ward fighting
against Cancer.
He said the visit has really motivated them and they will be
out to play for these kids.
It was really emotional seeing the kids fight against sick-
nesses and it makes us play for them and everyone in Fiji,
Goneva said.
We spoke to these children and their parents to keep up the
hope against those sicknesses and we hope theyll be well and
back home soon.
We saw a lot of emotional things here which will boost us
and make us be grateful and work harder come the game time.
Lock-forward Api Ratuniyarawa echoed similar sentiments
after the visit.
Its an eye-opener for the boys to see the challenges these
patients go through because of the sicknesses they have.
Its a big boost and will surely motivate the boys to play The Vodafone Flying Fijians members led by Vereniki Goneva during their visit to the CWM Hospital
well and go for win once again. in Suva before facing Scotland at the ANZ Stadium, Fiji went on to defeat Scotland 27-22 in a classic
They have become the biggest motivation for us and we
encounter. Photo: Anushil Kumar/VODAFONE.
are honoured to come and visit them, thanks to our sponsors
Vodafone.

Top Four for Skipper Cup semis Nadi FA intro

-duces Little
League
Source: Nadi Soccer Fiji

Nadi Football Associations Little League competition re-

Action from the Nadroga versus Nadi match in the Skipper Cup competition. Photo: Waisea Nasokia (Fiji Sun)
Maika Kasami
Defending champions BLK Nadroga looks set to appear in
another semifinal as they eye another successful defence of
the Skipper Cup title.
The Esala Nauga coached side has only lost once this season
going down to Suva 21-10 in Round 2.
The Stallions look certain to be accompanied by Capital City
side Suva, Namosi and a formidable Naitasiri side as the top
four teams after the preliminary rounds even with a round to
spare.
Malolo and Nadi look safe from being demoted to the B-
Division while Northland and Macuata seem to be headed
down to the lower ranks for next season.
Round 1: Naitasiri 31-16 Namosi, Malolo 22- 31 Suva, Mac-
uata 18-15 Northland, Nadroga 47-22 Nadi.
Round 2: Nadi 31-27 Northland, Naitasiri 22-13 Macuata,
Namosi 25-14 Malolo, Suva 21-10 Nadroga.
Round 3 Malolo 30-10 Macuata, Northland 13-17 Nadroga,
Namosi 30-7 Suva, Nadi 8-38 Naitasiri.
Round 4: Malolo 27-18 Nadi, Northland 20-32 Suva, Nadro-
ga 22-16 Naitasiri, Macuata 13-34 Namosi.
Round 5: Suva 15-28 Naitasiri, Namosi 22-41 Nadroga, Nadi
27-13 Macuata, Northland 26-38 Malolo.
Round 6: Naitasiri 20-19 Northland, Nadi 10-17 Namosi,
Nadroga 38-27 Malolo, Macuata 15-36 Suva.
Round 7: Nadroga v Macuata, Malolo v Naitasiri, Suva v
Nadi, Namosi v Northland.
ceived a $2000 sponsorship from KKs Hardware recently.
The Little League is an initiative to enhance youth develop-
ment with the introduction of age group competition in the
Under-11 and U14 categories.
Nadi FA president Javed Ahmed said this is an important
event for Nadi FA in terms of development and they need the
publics support to make it a successful one.
Were keen with the idea for the transition from the age
group to the senior level, he said.
The kits will be provided by the association through the
assistance of the sponsors. This is part of having children and
parents to be involved.
The competition starts at the end of June and will run for
the next three months with six to eight teams in each division.
Ahmed confirmed that a few senior clubs are ready to field
age group level teams and are supported by overseas clubs.
He added they are working with Fiji FA in conducting clin-
ics for the coaches and junior players as a whole for the better-
ment of football in the country.
Our traditional sponsors Jacks of Fiji has promised to con-
tribute to the initiative to complement their support for the
senior side.
KKs Hardware managing director Kavit Karan said they are
proud to be associated with officials who have die-hard pas-
sion to see the growth of Nadi football.
We need parents and players to be involved as this is all
part of development and we love to support at grassroot level
as this will boost the senior team not now but in the future,
he added.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

20

Flying Fijians eye RWC spot

june 25, 2017

Maika Kasami

John Mckee sits on a hot seat.

The June Tests provided the Flying Fijians
head coach the much needed build up matches
before facing the likes of Tonga and Samoa.
The national side could not have asked for
better oppositions than testing our players
against the Six Nation teams in Italy and Scot-
land which followed of course the meeting
against the Wallabies in Melbourne.
Mckee has been rotating his players in the
view of getting his best ready and available
for the decider against our fellow Island broth-
ers.
He has full confidence in the players named
in the squad that they are more than capable of
earning us a ticket to the 2019 Rugby World
Cup (RWC).
Mckee has even declared the group he
wants his men to play in at the RWC because
according to him it will be the easiest pool
from which to progress to the finals.
McKee had made the bold statement ahead
of the match against Wallabies in Melbourne
Fiji will end up in Pool D alongside Aus-
tralia and Wales if they defeat Tonga and Sa-
moa in July. Flying Fijians halfback Nikola Matawalu delivers from a ruck against the Australian Wallabies during their Test match in Melbourne.
We already know the pool draw and quite Photo: Supplied
clearly Oceania 1 is the pool with the most
light at the end of the tunnel, McKee told holds a World Cup win over Wales, the epic to progress.
News Corp Australia. 38-34 victory in France in 2007 that saw them McKee has hired Brumbies defence Coach
Its the one I see giving ourselves the best progress to the quarters and nearly knock over Peter Ryan, and strength and conditioning gu-
chance to get out of and into the playoffs. eventual champions South Africa. rus Damian Marsh and John Pryor to be part
Pool D with Australia and Wales has two It would be a hugely difficult task for Fiji of his 2019 campaign.
tier-one nations in it. if they were to be in Pool B alongside the All
Fiji is ranked 10th in the world while Aus- Blacks and Springboks, while Pool C is the
tralia is third and Wales eighth. Fiji already official pool of death with England, France
and Argentina lumped together and only two

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