Liverpool’s Woodward Park in south-western Sydney was a sea of blue and white as thousands of Fijians and well-wishers came together to celebrate Fiji’s 55th Independence Day yesterday.
The annual celebration brought together Fijians from all walks of life, proudly waving the Fiji flag, and sharing the warmth and unity that define our people.
Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka officiated the event where he expressed his appreciation to the Fijian community for their continued love and contribution to the country they still call home.
“Even though you are far from Fiji, your hearts remain close,” he said.
“Through your remittances, your families, and your prayers, you continue to strengthen our nation. Vinaka vakalevu for your contributions back home, it goes a long way to supporting the economy back home, particularly, our communities.
“We are most grateful to you, to your employers and those who assist you here.
“In the first four months of this year, I am told that $448.5 million came from you to your relatives and communities back in Fiji.
You have lifted the lives of so many people back home. Thank you all very much for your contributions through remittances.”
The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to encourage Fijians in Australia to continue being good citizens and role models in their communities.
“Be proud of who you are. Uphold the values that make us Fijians and that is respect, humility, and compassion. Wherever you are, live in a way that makes others see the best of Fiji in you.”
Prime Minister Rabuka also expressed Fiji’s gratitude to the Government and people of Australia for their friendship and support under the Vuvale Partnership.
“Australia has been a true friend to Fiji. Our Vuvale Partnership shows the strength of our shared values and the deep connection between our peoples,” he said. “We thank Australia for walking alongside us as part of our Pacific family.”
Sharing the significance of Fiji’s national day, the Prime Minister reminded everyone that independence was both a gift and a responsibility.
“Fiji Day is a time to celebrate how far we’ve come, and to remind ourselves of the unity and faith that carried us through. Let’s continue to build a future filled with hope, peace, and love for one another and progress for all.”
The Sydney celebration featured traditional dances, cultural performances, food stalls, amusement rides and a rugby tournament that brought the crowd to life.
Fijians from across Australia also took advantage of the services offered by the Fiji Government roadshow team, which included representatives from the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Ministry of Immigration, the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) and other relevant agencies.
