Back to Homepage

Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort scores a double at Excellence in Tourism Awards

RELEASE NUMBER 19/16

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA  –  Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort received the prestigious Deluxe Accommodation Award at an awards ceremony held in Nadi on Friday, Feb. 19, edging out finalists that included sister property Castaway Island and Koro Sun Resort and Rainforest & Spa.

The Tourism Leader category was awarded to the resort’s General Manager, Mr. Peter Hopgood.

This category was assessed on personal service and involvement in the community, benefits to the industry and success.

Chairman of the Coral Coast Hotels Association, Peter has been one of the driving forces behind fundraising initiatives to help improve the lives of Fijians, holding charity golf tournaments, organizing donations and sponsorships from major corporations and soliciting contributions from resort guests.

Projects completed as a result of these efforts include raising over $600,000 towards building a new maternity ward at Sigatoka Hospital, as well as raising significant funds to support projects such as extensions to the outpatients ward, refurbishment of the operating theatre and  the construction of an accident and emergency ward and a medivac helipad.

His commitment to the resort has benefited the Fijian economy generally as well as the tourism industry and local community. It has seen guests gain a greater appreciation of Fijian culture which they have carried back home promoting an appreciation of Fijian cuisine and culinary skills and encouraging guests to immerse themselves in the local experience and become unofficial tourism ambassadors for the country.

On receiving the two awards Peter said his greatest achievement was his team.

“I have established a strong relationship with my team of 600 hosts and have implemented a number of staff benefits in the form of regular achievement/recognition awards, family entertainment days, health checks and fitness programs and housing.

“I accept only the highest standard of service and this is best achieved by developing a sense of trust and respect between management and staff,” he said.

“I am extremely proud of my team members. They are diligent, dedicated and loyal and without them we wouldn’t be the best Deluxe Accommodation in Fiji,” he said.

“I also feel extremely honored to be recognized for the Tourism Leader award. It is most definitely a career highlight for me,” said Peter.

END