The World Surf League (WSL) has given $60,000 to the people of Tabanivono i Wai (Nabila and Momi villages) as a goodwill contribution for their support of the Championship Tour event and to facilitate the annual access to the rebuilt Cloudbreak judging tower and reef.
WSL and the Fiji Government recently announced the highly anticipated return of the Fiji Pro to the elite Championship Tour (CT) scheduled for next year.
This year’s announcement is particularly special as it signifies the rebuilding of the Cloudbreak judging tower, which was destroyed during Cyclone Harold in 2021 after standing tall for over two decades.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka said giving back to the local community and traditional custodians was an important part of tourism.
“In this case, we are empowering the people of Tabanivono i Wai who stand to benefit from commercialising the soon to be built Cloudbreak Tower.”
Tourism Fiji CEO Brent Hill said, “Events like the WSL not only boost tourism in Fiji but also forge meaningful connections with the local people, culture, and environment.”
WSL will cover the entire cost of constructing the new tower and donate it to Nabila and Momi villages.
A local working committee will be established to manage the tower, exploring opportunities for revenue generation outside of the event windows.
WSL APAC president Andrew Stark stated, “the WSL is grateful to the Fiji Government and the local community for having the event back next year as it is a very exciting time for all involved and we look forward to working closely with the local community to create a lasting positive impact”.
“We are also proud to make this $F60,000 donation to the community along with the positive economic and social impact that will flow through the tower building phase and through the event.”
The World Surfing League’s return to Fiji is making a positive impact on the community, boosting the economy, creating jobs, and fostering local pride while promoting environmental conservation.
