La'ui Images

07/06/2026

𝐈𝐍 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐘: 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗨 𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗢𝗔 𝗥𝗔𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗔𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗘

​It is with profound sadness that we learn of the passing of Ratu Manoa Rasigatale, a monumental figure whose life and work touched the hearts of countless Fijians. A visionary historian, journalist, television personality, and former politician, Ratu Manoa dedicated his 78 years to protecting, celebrating, and sharing the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Fiji.

​Born on July 11, 1947, Ratu Manoa hailed from the village of Nabuli in the Rewa Province. He was a fierce champion of the arts, famously managing the Fiji Dance Theatre cultural troupe in the 1970s and later playing a pivotal role in establishing the Fijian Cultural Centre at Pacific Harbour.

​To many across the nation, he was a beloved and familiar face on television. As the host of popular programs like Mai Muri Mai, he captivated audiences by exploring local history, oral traditions, and the sacred sites scattered across our islands.
​Beyond culture, Ratu Manoa was a passionate guardian of the environment. As a co-founder of the Uto ni Yalo Trust, he seamlessly wedded traditional knowledge with modern environmentalism. In 2014, he famously led an initiative to sail a traditional voyaging canoe to Sydney, Australia, capturing global attention to spread vital messages about ocean conservation and climate action.
​His dedication to the nation also extended into public service. Ratu Manoa served with distinction in the Senate of Fiji, proudly representing the Rewa region. In recognition of his lifetime of service, patriotism, and hard work, the government honored him with special independence medals during major national milestones.

​Despite his immense achievements and public stature, Ratu Manoa will be remembered most for his profound humanity. He was a deeply humble, sincere, and compassionate man who consistently championed good causes and ensured that those in need were supported. His perseverance and dedication to Fiji were unmatched.

​On behalf of a grateful nation, we offer our deepest and most sincere condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.
​May his noble soul rest in eternal peace.

25/05/2026

The lifeblood of Sigatoka

The longest river in Fiji……with its source on the west side of Mount Victoria, our beautiful Sigatoka River flows 120 kilometres to the coast between the central and western ranges….generating and supporting life, all along the way. The Sigatoka Rivermouth is the major breeding basin for all the marine life in our region

This is the bird’s eye view, while gliding over the Bemana/Keiyasi area.
Please protect our river from pollution, erosion and degradation…Say no to mining and no to dredging. Plant more big trees along the riverbanks… and say no to deforestation within the close river proximity.
We must support the river that supports our lives.

19/04/2026

19/04/2026

🏉 CALLING ALL RUGGERS: JOIN THE QVSOB WOMEN’S RUGBY TEAM! 🏉

​Are you ready to represent and take the field with the QVSOB Women’s Rugby family? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or looking to pick up the ball for the first time, we want YOU to be part of the sisterhood.
​Join us for our upcoming training and information session. This is your chance to meet the crew, show your skills, and get a head start on the season.

​📍 THE DETAILS
​📅 WHEN: Wednesday
​⏰ TIME: 4:30 PM Sharp
​📍 WHERE: Albert Park (Meet by the fence of the old tennis courts)

​🎒 WHAT TO BRING
​Training Gear: Comfortable athletic wear and boots.
​Hydration: Plenty of water to stay fueled.
​The Vibe: Bring your energy, discipline, and passion for the game!
​Don't just watch the game—be the game. See you on the pitch!
​

16/04/2026

The Nabouwalu to Nasolo Road Sealing project is officially gaining momentum following a series of critical community consultations and site assessments across the Bua province. A primary dialogue was held at the residence of the Tui Vuya in Navave, where leaders gathered to discuss the 15km stretch of tarsealing and its impact on the district’s infrastructure. This was followed by community engagements in Vuya Village to ensure local residents are fully integrated into the development process.

Meanwhile, construction efforts have moved into Nawaido Village, marking a tangible start to the sealing works. Once complete, this 15km bitumen upgrade will drastically reduce dust pollution, lower travel times, and provide a reliable all-weather link between the Nabouwalu jetty hub and the surrounding communities, fueling economic growth for the North.

PHOTO CREDIT: Maloni Rawesi

13/04/2026

🏉 𝗝𝗢𝗜𝗡 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗗: 𝐐𝐕𝐒𝐎𝐁 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧'𝐬 𝐑𝐮𝐠𝐛𝐲 in Suva.
🏉
Are you ready to unleash your strength, and take your game to the next level? Whether you're a seasoned pro or have never picked up a rugby ball in your life, **Queen Victoria School Old Boys (QVSOB) Women’s Rugby Club** wants YOU!

We are officially recruiting for the "2026 Season", and there is a jersey waiting for you. Come be a part of a legacy built on empowerment, teamwork, and passion.

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐔𝐬?

𝑼𝒏𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒉 𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒕𝒉: Push your physical and mental limits.
𝑩𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒅 𝑭𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑: Join a supportive sisterhood on and off the field.
𝑳𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏 𝑺𝒌𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒔Expert coaching for all experience levels (Beginner to Advanced).
𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑪𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒕: Represent a proud tradition.

📞 𝐆𝐞𝐭 𝐈𝐧 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡
Ready to hit the pitch? Contact us today for more info on training times and registration:

𝑷𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆: 7222 934 or 8730489
𝑬𝒎𝒂𝒊𝒍: [email protected]

𝑃𝐿𝐴𝑌 𝐻𝐴𝑅𝐷. 𝑃𝐿𝐴𝑌 𝑇𝑂𝐺𝐸𝑇𝐻𝐸𝑅. 𝑃𝐿𝐴𝑌 𝐹𝑂𝑅 𝑄𝑉𝑆 🔵⚪️

07/04/2026

𝐒𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐓𝐂 𝐕𝐀𝐈𝐀𝐍𝐔 𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐈𝐅𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐓𝐎 𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐆𝐎𝐑𝐘 4: 𝗙𝗜𝗝𝗜 𝗢𝗡 𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛 𝗔𝗟𝗘𝗥𝗧 𝗔𝗦 "𝗗𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗘𝗥 𝗢𝗡 𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗦𝗛𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗦" 𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗠𝗦

**NADI, FIJI** — The "walkabout" is over, and the real danger has arrived. What began as a modest Category 1 system has rapidly transformed into a monstrous **Category 4 Severe Tropical Cyclone**, with **Vaianu** now packing destructive winds and threatening to overwhelm coastal and low-lying communities across the Fiji group.
Weather authorities confirmed this morning that the system has undergone significant intensification over the last 24 hours. After "roaming" through the Western Division's waters as a Category 2 and 3, Vaianu has now reached the dreaded Category 4 status, bringing sustained winds of nearly **190 km/h** and even higher gusts.

**"Heeds the Warning": The Risk is Real**
The slow-moving nature of the cyclone—often referred to locally as "hanging around"—has increased the risk of catastrophic flooding. With the system lingering to the west and south of the main islands, its outer bands are dumping relentless rain on already saturated ground.
* **Floods are Coming:** Heavy rain warnings are in force nationwide. The Fiji Meteorological Service has issued **Flood Warnings** for the Nadi River, Votualevu, and Nawaka, as well as the Tuva River near Semo.
* **Winds will Hover:** Destructive force winds are expected to "hover" over the Western Division and the Yasawa/Mamanuca groups, with the potential to uproot trees, damage power lines, and strip roofs.
* **The Night Risk:** Authorities are echoing the sentiment that it is **"better to evacuate in the light."** Once night falls, rescue operations become restricted, visibility drops to zero, and the danger to life increases exponentially.

**Impact and Closures**
The infrastructure is already feeling the strain. As previously reported, the **Semo Bypass is underwater**, cutting off the Queen’s Highway. With Vaianu reaching Category 4, further road closures and bridge washouts are expected throughout the evening.
| Hazard | Warning Status | Recommended Action ||---|---|---|
| **Wind** | **Category 4 (Severe)** | Tie down loose items; move to the strongest part of the house. |
| **Flooding** | **Extreme Risk** | Evacuate low-lying areas **NOW** before sunset. |
| **Travel** | **Prohibited** | Stay off the roads; the Queen's Highway is severed at Semo. |

**A Call to Action**
The message to the public is clear: **Heed the calls.** This "fulla Vaianu" is no longer a distant threat; he is on our shores.
The Government has already released non-essential civil servants to allow families time to secure their homes. If you are in a flood-prone area or a structure that cannot withstand Category 4 winds, **move to an evacuation center immediately.
** Do not wait for the "restrictive" darkness of night to make your move.

**Stay tuned to local radio and the Fiji Roads Authority for live updates as the situation evolves.**

07/04/2026

**Semo Bypass Submerged: Queen’s Highway Severed by Rising Waters**

**SIGATOKA, FIJI** — The vital link between Nadi and Sigatoka has been severed once again as the **Semo Bypass** was officially closed to all traffic today. Following persistent heavy rainfall across the Western Division, the temporary bypass road at Semo Village is now completely underwater and impassable.

The Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) confirmed the closure after floodwaters overtopped the temporary culverts installed earlier this year. This closure effectively shuts down the main corridor of the **Queen’s Highway**, as the original permanent crossing remains out of commission following a major road-drop and culvert collapse in February.

**Key Impacts:**

* **Total Closure:** Unlike previous advisories that allowed light vehicles to pass, the bypass is now shut for **all vehicles**, including trucks and buses.

* **Stranded Commuters:** Public transport services have been forced to halt on both sides of the crossing. Passengers should expect "transfer" arrangements, where travelers walk across if safe to catch connecting buses, though this is subject to water levels.

* **Heavy Vehicles:** There is currently **no viable detour** for heavy goods vehicles or long-haul trucks. Drivers are advised to seek high ground and wait for water to recede.

**Alternative Routes**
For light vehicles only, the FRA typically activates the **Nadiri/Ciri Road** detour. However, motorists are warned that these secondary gravel roads are narrow, slippery, and prone to their own flash flooding.
For those traveling between Suva and the Western Division, the **Kings Road** (via Rakiraki) remains the only guaranteed alternative, though it significantly increases travel time.

**Safety Warning**
Authorities are urging the public not to attempt to cross the flooded bypass.
The force of the water can easily displace a vehicle, and the underlying gravel surface of the bypass may have washed away," a road safety official warned.

The FRA will conduct a structural assessment once the water recedes to determine when the bypass can safely reopen to light traffic.

Travelers are encouraged to monitor the **FRA Emergency Dashboard** for real-time updates.

Photo Credits: Pkn Hemo

07/04/2026

Fiji Airways Flight Battles Severe Winds in Multiple Landing Attempts at Nadi

NADI, FIJI — Dramatic footage captured this afternoon shows a Fiji Airways aircraft struggling against the powerful conditions of **Tropical Cyclone Vaianu** as it attempted to touch down at Nadi International Airport
In a video taken by Whise Tukuna, the aircraft is seen emerging from a thick, grey overcast, battling intense crosswinds that visibly buffeted the plane during its descent. According to the eyewitness filming the scene, the pilot was on their *sixth attempt* to land the aircraft as the storm's intensity peaked.

Severe Weather Disruptions as
The incident occurred as **Category 3 Tropical Cyclone Vaianu** continues to lash the country with heavy rain and destructive winds. Current conditions in Nadi have reported:
* **Wind Speeds:** Sustained at **35 mph** from the North.
* **Condition:** Heavy thunderstorm rain with 91% humidity.
* **Alerts:** Flash flood, strong wind, and heavy rain warnings remain in effect across the region.

Operational Impact of the severe weather has forced significant changes to flight schedules. **Fiji Airways** flight **FJ914** from Sydney was recently diverted to Tonga as a safety precaution, while **Fiji Link** has suspended all domestic operations for the remainder of the day.

Earlier today, ground operations at Nadi International Airport were temporarily halted due to lightning and flooding on the tarmac. While some flights have managed to land safely despite extreme turbulence, the airline has emphasized that the safety of passengers and crew remains their "highest priority" during this weather event.
Passengers are advised to check the Fiji Airways website for the latest updates on flight status as the cyclone continues its path through the Fiji group.

**Note:** Ground staff and emergency services remain on high alert at Nadi International as weather conditions are expected to persist throughout the night.