HUNDREDS gathered at the Australian High Commissioner’s residence on Friday, February 3, 2025, to celebrate Australia Day, marking another milestone in the enduring relationship between Fiji and Australia.
Speaking to The Fiji Times, Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, Ewen McDonald, reflected on the strong ties between the two countries and the warm hospitality he has experienced during his tenure.
“This will be my last Australia Day in Fiji as I prepare to take on a new role in March,” Mr McDonald confirmed.
“I’ve been welcomed so warmly in Fiji during my time here.
“Two words I would say about Fiji: I love it.
“And you know how many Australians love it—we have record numbers visiting Fiji.
“They come, they’re welcomed, and they have a great time.”
Beyond tourism and diplomacy, Mr McDonald acknowledged the broader challenges Fiji faces and reiterated Australia’s commitment to supporting the country in key areas.
“I’ve spent a lot of time with the Prime Minister, the deputy prime ministers, and even watching some sport.
“But I’ve also spent a lot of time thinking about challenges faced by women and girls.
“We’ve worked to support key reforms in policing, knowing the challenges posed by drugs and, more recently, HIV.”
He reassured Fiji of Australia’s continued support, emphasizing their partnership through the Vuvale framework.
The event was attended by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, New Zealand High Commissioner Charlotte Darlow, renowned lawyer Jon Apted, and other distinguished guests.
3. Deputy Speaker of Parliament Lenora Qereqeretabua with invited guests.
(L-R) World Rugby’s HPU Manager Nicky Ponsforb, Suva prominent lawyer John Apted, Fiji Law Society president Wylie Clarke and Fiji Rugby Union Women’s director Cathy Wong.
7. FNPF Chief Investment officer Naibuka Saune, left, Australian High Commission representative Scott Robertson, middle, and Fiji Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne.
4. Fiji’s Australian High Commission’s representatives, Pranil Singh, left, and Keshwa Reddy with Minister for Environment and Climate Change Mosese Bulitavu and Fiji Roads Authority CEO Apisai Ketenilagi.
6. Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica with GCC Chair Ratu Viliame Seruvakula and Fiji Law Society president Wylie Clarke.
Gina Volavola of the Fiji Military band during the Australian day celebrations in Suva last Friday. Picture: KATA KOLI
5. (L-R) Rasala Malani, Kelerayani Dawai, Mrs Tuisawau and Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Ro Filipe Tuisawau.
1. Member of Parliament Vijay Nath, left, receives a bowl of kava from Joe Kuruivitu, middle, and Dorothy Druguta at the Australia Day celebrations in Suva last Friday.
Pictures: KATA KOLI