Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka joined members of the Fijian community in Sydney for two milestone events — commemorating 190 years since the arrival of Christianity in Fiji and celebrating the nation’s 55th Independence Day.
At a special church service in Granville, Rabuka reflected on the arrival of the first Wesleyan Methodist missionaries, William Cross and David Cargill, in Tubou, Lakeba, on 12 October 1835 — an event he described as a “defining moment” in Fiji’s history.
He paid tribute to Fiji’s forefathers for embracing Christianity, which he said “brought about a new way of life” built on faith, peace, compassion, and unity.
“Christianity did not just introduce a new religion; it transformed our nation and continues to strengthen our families and communities.”
Emphasising Fiji’s enduring commitment to peace, the Prime Minister urged the congregation to let “the same spirit that transformed our ancestors” guide the nation’s actions and relationships today.
Rabuka also highlighted the Ocean of Peace Declaration — a vision for Pacific unity based on compassion and shared humanity — stressing that “our ocean must connect us, not divide us.”
The Prime Minister later joined thousands of Fijians and well-wishers at Liverpool’s Woodward Park, which turned into a sea of blue and white for the Fiji Day celebrations.
Addressing the crowd, Rabuka thanked the Fijian diaspora for their continued support and contributions to the nation, revealing that remittances reached $448.5 million in the first four months of this year. “Even though you are far from Fiji, your hearts remain close,” he said.
“Through your remittances, your families, and your prayers, you continue to strengthen our nation. Vinaka vakalevu for your contributions — you have lifted the lives of so many people back home.”
He also urged Fijians living in Australia to uphold values of respect, humility, and compassion:
“Be proud of who you are. Wherever you are, live in a way that makes others see the best of Fiji in you.”
Rabuka expressed Fiji’s gratitude to the Australian Government for its friendship and support through the Vuvale Partnership, describing Australia as “a true friend to Fiji.”
“Fiji Day is a time to celebrate how far we’ve come — and to remind ourselves of the unity and faith that carried us through,” he said.
“Let’s continue to build a future filled with hope, peace, and love for one another.”
The celebrations featured traditional dances, cultural performances, food stalls, amusement rides, and a rugby tournament. Attendees also accessed services from the Fiji Government roadshow team, including representatives from the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, Immigration, Employment, and the Fiji National Provident Fund.
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