Anzac traditions honored at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort and Castaway Island, Fiji

RELEASE NUMBER 35|18

FIJI ISLANDS — Hundreds of guests gathered at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort and Castaway Island on April 25 for Anzac Day memorial services.

Outrigger Fiji General Manager Peter Hopgood said it was the eighth year the ceremony had been held and that each year it proved more and more popular with guests.

A wreath-laying ceremony was followed by the playing of the Last Post and a moment of silence. The singing of the national anthems of Australia, New Zealand and Fiji by the Outrigger choir was followed by a recitation of the poem In Flanders Fields.

Castaway Island Fiji General Manager Steven Andrews said it was the first time an Anzac Day service had been held at the resort and its popularity with guests ensured it will become an annual event.

“The highlight of our program was the floating of the wreaths into the ocean. One wreath was laid by guests Richard Dihmans and Sandra Viol representing Australia and another by Esther Turley and Sophie Tripp representing New Zealand.

“We also were very fortunate to have a bugler from the Royal Fiji Military Force Band to play The Last Post,” Mr. Andrews said.

Mr. Hopgood said that Anzac Day was a time to reflect on the qualities of past generations of Australians and New Zealanders who in hardship displayed courage, discipline, self-sacrifice, self-reliance, resourcefulness and friendship.

“Today we remember those who paid the supreme sacrifice so that we, and the people of other nations, can live in peace.

“We remember those who continue to suffer through their physical or mental scars, including those next of kin whose grief and sense of loss can never be eased.

“This is also a day of thanks and quiet reflection on what wonderful nations in which we live,” said Mr. Hopgood.

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