Damend Gounder, the managing director of Yatule Resort and Spa and the Tour Managers Fiji group, highlighted the essential support from key stakeholders that fostered a favorable environment for local businesses to flourish. He made these remarks at the launch of the $5 million renovated Yatule Resort and Spa in Natadola, Sigatoka, on Monday.
Gounder emphasized that the successful outcome of this initiative is reflected in the revamped Yatule Resort and Spa, which presents a business model that not only ensures solid financial returns but also opens up exciting avenues for growth and expansion. He noted that such collaboration is crucial for the sustainability of smaller enterprises in Fiji.
“As Tour Managers, we take pride in our progress, but we remain ambitious. Our goal is to broaden our network and enhance our management skills,” Gounder stated.
Viliame Vodonaivalu, the chief executive officer of the Fiji National Provident Fund, remarked that this project will benefit fund members while positively impacting the overall economy. He recounted that the Yatule Beach Resort was initially established in 2005 to accommodate consultants and contractors involved in the Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa project. Following the completion of the resort, the Yatule Beach Resort was transformed into a bungalow-style lodging with only 11 bures, along with a restaurant and bar.
Situated in a prime location next to the famous Natadola Beach, Vodonaivalu mentioned that the partnership between Tour Managers and FNPF was established through a lease and operational contract for the Yatule Resort, indicating a commitment to proactively cater to international travel demands and provide job opportunities.