Thousands of people from various backgrounds gathered in eight rows around the Albert Park arena to celebrate one of the most successful Fijian Nights (Bogi ni Taukei) events since the Hibiscus Festival’s inception in 1956. This event was officially opened by Adi Lady Lala Mara, the wife of the chief minister, who also crowned Bulou Sekinairai Veibataki as the Adi Bogi ni Taukei 1969, in a ceremony officiated by Adi Litia Tavanavanua.
Bulou Sekinairai, representing the Kadavu Sports Club, raised $200 and was awarded a return flight with Fiji Airways to Nadi, along with a weekend stay at the Mocambo Hotel with a companion. Second place went to Adi Sereana Uvu, who raised $171 with support from the Tamavua community, while Luisa Vunivola, representing Raiwaqa, placed third by raising $146.64.
The evening’s program began with a traditional welcome song performed by the well-known Rewa entertainment group, Via ni Tebara, under the direction of Jeremaia Lomaivuna. Subsequent performances included the Nurses’ choir, the Tamavua i Cake group, a spear dance by young boys from Nabua Fijian School, the Seni Bua group, and the Lomaiviti Youth Club showcasing songs and meke.
Also featured were the Adi Cakobau Girls’ School choir, various choirs from Centenary, Raiwaqa, and Tamavua, as well as representatives from the Tongan community residing in Suva.
Awards were presented by Adi Litia Tavanavanua to the winners of various competition categories. The MH Trophy for the best men’s meke was awarded to the Kabu Kei Vuda group, while the Wing Chang Trophy for choirs with fewer than 20 members went to Maka Ni Korocowiri. The overall winner of the Prouds Trophy was the Raiwaqa choir, and the Corbetts Butchery Trophy for best costumes was awarded to the Tongan group.