Fiji Day celebrated in style in Albany, led by Fijian community leader Joseph Raikoti

Fiji’s 55th anniversary of independence was celebrated by a small but vibrant contingent in Albany on Saturday, as expats decked in native dress enjoyed the cultural festivities.

Hosted at the Juniper Albany Community Centre, the occasion honoured Fiji Day, which falls on October 10 and marks the anniversary of the nation’s cession to the UK in 1874 and its independence in 1970.

The celebration was organised by the leader of Olive Branch All Nations Christian Fellowship Joseph Raikoti, who has hosted the event in Albany for several years.

Mr Raikoti, who in 2024 was formalised as an Australian citizen with his wife Tavenisa and daughters Sereki and Eva, serves as a leader for the Fijian and wider Pacific Island community in Albany, many of whom work at Fletchers abattoirs and as caregivers at Juniper.

“It went very well,” Mr Raikoti said.

“On the Friday night, the boys were preparing the food, in the underground oven, a lovo in Fijian, and early in the morning, they put the fire up.

“They dug it up 12.30pm to 1pm and brought it to the place.

“We were very happy to do it, as I’m the father figure and my wife is a mother figure to the boys as they are missing home.”

The celebrations were not restricted to Fijians, with Tongans, Solomon Islanders and New Zealanders who work with the community also welcomed, as well as Mr Raikoti’s colleagues from Community Living Association.

“Most of the time they come back to our house after church for lunch so we are like a family,” he said.

“We were very happy and there was lots of merrymaking.”

About 50 people gathered at the event and enjoyed dancing, music and a feast featuring a suckling pig.

Federal Member for O’Connor Rick Wilson, alongside his wife Tanya, made a guest appearance and was presented with a ceremonial necklace, a Salu Salu by Mr Raikoti’s sister Lice Tuitavuki.