IN PICTURES: Albany’s Fijian community celebrates Fiji Day with night of food, fun and song
Liam CroyAlbany Advertiser
Members of Albany's Fijian community in full voice. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
Albany’s Fijian community came together for a night of singing and celebration on Saturday as they marked their national day.
Fiji Day, which falls on October 10 every year, marks the anniversary of the nation’s cession to the UK in 1874 and its independence in 1970.
Held at the Beryl Grant Community Centre, the Fiji Day event was attended by O’Connor MP Rick Wilson and City of Albany Mayor Dennis Wellington.
Members of Albany's Fijian community celebrating their national day. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
Both of the guests of honour were treated to some kava — a drink made from the roots of the piper methysticum plant and used for ceremonies and relaxation.
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Many of the Fijians at the event arrived in WA last year to work at Fletchers International Exports abattoir in Narrikup.
Some only arrived in recent weeks.
Mr Wellington and Mr Wilson said they were making a crucial contribution to the local economy.
Joseph and Tave Raikoti. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
Joseph Raikoti shares a meal with O'Connor MP Rick Wilson and City of Albany Mayor Dennis Wellington. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
O'Connor MP Rick Wilson and City of Albany Mayor Dennis Wellington try some kava. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
O'Connor MP Rick Wilson and City of Albany Mayor Dennis Wellington try some kava. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
O'Connor MP Rick Wilson. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
City of Albany Mayor Dennis Wellington. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
Ratu Joji Sauniyaka serving kava. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
Seremaia Lago and Ramil Paragoso. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
Members of Albany's Fijian community singing a traditional song. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
Tikiko Dovi and Mike Dau. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
Luke Matanisiga, Apete Brad and Ilai Vakacegu. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
Nielyn Dela Merced, Apisai Yaranamua, Manuel Dela Merced and Ramil Paragoso. Credit: Liam Croy/Albany Advertiser
