ALBERT Park — the green heart of Fiji’s Capital City — has always occupied a special place in the hearts of every Fijian, whether they live in Suva or not.
Not only it has been restored to its former glory, it has been redeveloped into the modern age with a redeveloped ground and new facilities that Fijians can all enjoy now and is worthy of the generations to come.
As one nation, one people, one Fiji, the people are finally putting the lost years behind them and are fulfilling the promise of that magical day 46 years ago when in this very place, Independent Fiji came into being.
This new pavilion finally gives a structure worthy of this historic and wonderful place — a building that keeps its surrounding and also provides people with the ability to accommodate 1000 people under cover and in comfort.
Albert Park is not only Suva’s heritage but Fiji’s at that, hosting many historical events that etched sweet memories on the people.
The park was the site of a landing by the Australian aviator, Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, during the first trans-Pacific flight from US to Australia in 1928.
It was also the site of the first hoisting of the new national flag of Fiji in 1970.
The pavilion was built in the 1930s. It held hundreds of overseas dignitaries, royal families, and the people of Fiji.
The cost of the Albert Park redevelopment project is $17million.
This redevelopment includes rugby or soccer grounds, two cricket fields with artificial pitches and modern lighting.
The biggest improvement includes a new grandstand with a seating capacity for 1000 people, corporate lounges, VIP rooms, seats for the disabled, a control room and parking for 28 vehicles.
