Geoffrey Shaw, the former owner of Castaway Island, Fiji, and director of Tokoriki Island Resort, has died. According to a tribute posted on Facebook by Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, which he co-owned until 2014, Shaw “very gently passed away on the morning of Sunday, September 22, 2024.”
The resort described him as “a gentleman and pioneer” to whom Fiji owes a great debt, adding that he will always be remembered fondly by the Outrigger Fiji community. They extended their heartfelt condolences to Shaw’s family during this difficult time, wishing him eternal rest.
Shaw was a strong advocate for environmental sustainability in tourism, serving as chairman of the Mamanuca Environment Society from 2004 until his death. Castaway Island, now run by Outrigger Hotels & Resorts, was a founding member of the Society.
In 2022, Shaw was appointed to the board of directors of Tokoriki Island Resort by its owners, Andrew Turnbull and family. The Turnbulls acknowledged Shaw’s extensive knowledge of the Fijian tourism industry, citing his more than 50 years of experience. He purchased Castaway Island in 1992 and played a significant role in establishing Outrigger on the Coral Coast in 2000, overseeing management, marketing, and strategic decision-making while leading a team of over 800 employees. In 2014, he sold both resorts, which have a total of 320 rooms, to Outrigger Hotels Hawaii.
Shaw also held significant positions in the tourism sector, serving as deputy chairman of Tourism Fiji and chairman of Airports Fiji Ltd.