The 1991 Suva Air New Zealand Hibiscus Carnival marked its sixth day by honoring senior citizens. On Friday, August 22, 1991, a special morning tea attended by approximately 200 senior citizens and their families was organized by Lord Mayor Paul Sloan at the Grand Pacific Hotel.
During his speech, Mr. Sloan emphasized the importance of recognizing not just the youthful energy of the carnival but also the significant contributions made by older generations. “This morning when I stood and watched the marvelous march past, I realized how many years of service to Fiji the marchers represented,” he stated. He noted that the attendees collectively contributed “over a thousand years of service” to the nation.
He underscored the value of maintaining a youthful spirit, regardless of age, and commended the participants for their longstanding dedication to Fiji. The event included a parade led by the Fiji Police Band, followed by various marching teams.
A notable highlight was a performance by 20 servicemen, who sang “Butuka Tu Lei na Rara ni Valu,” a song written in 1916 by Ratu Isireli Tawakidina and Ratu Jone Lewenilovo for the Labour Contingent during World War I. The morning tea, organized by the Returned Servicemen’s Association and the Fiji Council of Social Services, was initially scheduled to end at noon but extended until 1 PM as attendees enjoyed music and dancing.
The event underscored the carnival’s commitment to honoring all generations and celebrating their invaluable contributions to the nation.