The Australian government has deployed the HMAS Adelaide to support a number of tasks in response to the severe impact of Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasa.
These include the immediate repair of schools, prioritised initially for the island of Galoa, and portable water production to support Fiji’s recovery effort.
And a Fijian Government statement issued today states that to allow the Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel to safely assist with the TC Yasa support, Fiji has reinforced its COVID-19 border quarantine protocols through carefully-supervised quarantine corridors.
“The development of these quarantine corridors has been based on the Ministry of Health’s protocols for maritime quarantine, quarantine for tourism initiatives, and quarantine and training practises for the Fiji Airways Academy,” it stated.
“Immediately prior to departure, all embarked forces and crew on board the HMAS Adelaide tested negative for COVID-19.
“The HMAS Adelaide is fully equipped with COVID-19 testing and laboratory equipment. After six days at sea, the disembarking force will be tested again for COVID-19.
“All other crew and embarked forces will remain on-board the vessel, and be tested on day 12 while in Fijian waters.”
The Government stated that while on site, the disembarked force would operate within a pre-defined, multi-layered “ADF Bubble” under strict surveillance from RFMF and Ministry of Health and Medical Services personnel to prevent any community exposure.
The HMAS Adelaide is scheduled to arrive in Fiji on December 30, 2020.
