The Fiji Times, on July 2, 1967 published an article where more than 400 residential blocks were allotted by ballot to members of the Nasinu Land Purchase and Housing Co-operative Society Ltd, at a ceremony in Nasinu.
The newspaper article stated that the first ballots were drawn by Ratu K. K. T. Mara, Leader of Government Business, who on arrival, was met by the president and secretary of the society, Messrs Chinta Rama and S. K. K. Maqbool, the treasurer, Mr Ram Narayan and the legal advisor, Mr M. T. Khan, MLC.
The article said due to rain, which made the newly-formed roads of the society’s 320-acre estate greasy, the proposed tour of the estate by Ratu Mara and other guests was cancelled.
Ratu Mara hailed the occasion as a milestone in the history of the co-operative movement in Fiji and in the South Pacific area.
“It is gratifying to see ideas of mutual help and self help turned into reality,” Ratu Mara said.
The proposed program for a satellite town with a population of more than 3000 included provision for 657 residential sites, 16 commercial areas, 49 lights industrial areas, 12 agricultural lots and sites for schools, a theatre, marketing areas and parking space, Ratu Mara said.
“It is generally believed that the value of residential lots in about Suva is so high that these are seldom within the reach of ordinary men and women with limited resources,” he continued.
“Because you have done so much yourselves already, it is pleasing to note that you will allot blocks to your members for something like £425 and £450.
“You will provide tar sealed roads, a sewerage system and other amenities which are still a dream of many a township in Fiji today.”
Ratu Mara also offered advice when dealing with troubles that were often inevitable in many complex organisations.
“If you face these problems in a business-like manner with goodwill and the spirit to help each other and by embracing the belief that there is always ground for compromise in the mutual settling of petty differences and for overcoming obstacles you will I am sure look back with satisfaction at having done a service to yourselves and future generations.
“With your efforts so far you have surprised everyone with your determination and far-sightedness.”
