Bike ride for men’s health

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Ashlen Gosai, closest to camera with other bikers during the Fiji Motorcyclists Association Movember Bike Night at Nokonoko Rd in Suva. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU

The Fiji Motorcyclists Association (FMA) held its FMA Movember Bike Show on Saturday night as part of a national effort to raise awareness about prostate cancer and men’s health.

The event took place at the Fortech Complex Carpark in Nokonoko, Laucala Beach, in partnership with the Fiji Cancer Society and the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

Held under the theme “Bikers for Prostate Cancer: Save It or Shave It,” the Bike Show aims to help strengthen public understanding of men’s health while promoting safety on Fiji’s roads.

A key moment of the night was a speech delivered by Alanieta Buloucereluki from the Fiji Cancer Society. She described the atmosphere as “a sight to behold, the roar of engines and the community gathered today not just for the love of bikes but for something even greater, the health and well-being of our men.”

The message reminded those present of the meaning behind the purpose of the event, stating, “Today we ride for our fathers, brothers, sons, uncles, and friends. We ride for the men who are still fighting, for those who have survived and for those we carry in our memories.”

She highlighted that many men continue to struggle in silence, and that strength is not silence, it’s in speaking up, it’s in getting checked, it’s in asking for help.”

She outlined the society’s long-standing work, from counselling and financial assistance to home-care support, community outreach, and cancer screening across Fiji, including areas facing isolation and limited access to healthcare.

Her message stressed the importance of continued awareness and open discussions, noting that “conversation saves lives.”