An Australian couple, Owen and Christine Twist, expressed joy at their return to Fiji, where they were among the over 2,000 passengers on a P&O Cruises Australia ship that docked in Lautoka on Monday. The Twists lived in Fiji during the early 1970s while serving the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Suva.
“It feels so good to be back in Fiji. We were hoping to meet some of our local friends that we have contacted through social media,” Mr. Twist shared. He reminisced about their initial two-year stay that extended to nine years due to their affinity for the local community. “Fiji has always held a special place in our hearts,” he added.
The couple’s daughters, both nurses, also spent part of their childhood in Fiji, which further deepened the family’s connection to the island. The Twists reflected on the lasting relationships they formed during their time in Fiji, which made this visit particularly significant.
To commemorate their return, the couple purchased Fijian souvenirs, including handicrafts from local woodcarver Jone Sito. Following their stop in Lautoka, the cruise ship will proceed to Taveuni before returning to Sydney.