Outrigger Motel’s practice of employing women managers since its establishment was the subject of a news item in The Fiji Times of December 18, 1976.
“Actually, men have taken over for short periods, otherwise they have been assistants,” said manageress Sophia Raddock of the decade-old tradition.
For Mrs Raddock, the new post came as a big surprise and challenge.
She had retired two years earlier after working as a typist in the civil service for 25 years – primarily in the education and medical departments.
“I had dreamed of tending my garden and being a good housewife for a change.
“However, it was not to be.”
She was approached by the managing director of Naviti Investments to take over from previous manageress Joan Eden who was leaving the job.
It was an entirely new field and Mrs Raddock was apprehensive at first but she said her husband, Pat, a personnel relations officer with Cope Allman and retired civil servant, gave help whenever she needed it.
“It’s a 24-hour job. “I can be called at any time of the night to solve problems such as a leaking pipe or to welcome a guest at the counter.”
Her day began at 6.30am with general supervision of staff members, then checking and ordering provisions for the kitchen and bar. “I do the banking, then buy fresh fruits and vegetable daily.”
She also had to check the repair and maintenance of the building.
“I even have to buy screws, tiles and catches to replace missing ones,” she said.
Sports The motel had changed hands in terms of ownership but Naviti Investments retained management.
Groups from New Zealand connected with sports stayed at the Outrigger because Pat Raddock was a well-known figure in hockey, cricket and rugby in his time.
The Outrigger accommodated rugby teams, swimmers and high school hockey teams from New Zealand.
The Outrigger, Mrs Raddock said, had many advantages.
It was pleasantly situated near the sea, away from the city yet near enough for a refreshing walk to the city.
“This attracts bowlers who come for the carnival season to Suva and stay with us.”
Many guests were returnees and looked forward to renewing the happy memories they had at the Outrigger.
“Surprisingly, most of them ask for the same family unit or room.”
Mrs Raddock emphasised cleanliness and well-prepared wholesome food.
“Occasionally, we serve some of our local foods which some of the guests are eager to try while others are bit hesitant.
“We had one group of Hawaiian tourists stranded because of an air strike.
“They especially asked for a lovo and thoroughly enjoyed it.”
Ideal job Mrs Raddock found managing a small hotel with 46 rooms, a small dining room and a bar an ideal job.
“We face less problems and create a decent family atmosphere around the Outrigger.”
But no matter how busy, she took one afternoon off a week to play tennis.
She was also a charity worker for the church and did choral singing.
Mrs Raddock was a keen hockey player all her life and was a patron of the Fiji women’s hockey team.
