Levuka Public School’s brass band and colour party have been invited back to play a central role at this year’s Coca-Cola Games, with organisers again asking the Ovalau school to perform in the opening and closing ceremonies and to conduct the flag-raising — a responsibility the school will carry out for a second consecutive year.
Assistant principal Vilisoni Rigamoto said school leaders were both surprised and grateful by the repeat invitation. “We did not plan for this, but we are truly honoured to have been invited once more to take part in these important capacities at the annual meet,” Rigamoto said, stressing the significance of the opportunity for the remote Levuka community.
This year marks a milestone for the band: 40 members are scheduled to perform at the finals for the first time. The colour party will include 18 students entrusted with the flag-raising duties. Rigamoto said the larger ensemble and the formal role at the finals reflect growing recognition of the school’s musical and ceremonial standards.
To make the trip possible, Levuka Public School ran community fundraisers that Rigamoto described as “well received.” He said parents, old scholars, teachers and the wider community came together to raise the funds needed to cover travel and logistical costs for the band and colour team’s participation. The school did not disclose exact amounts, but emphasised the community effort that supported the delegation.
Rigamoto highlighted the wider significance of the invitation for Levuka and Ovalau. “Having our students represent Levuka Public School and Ovalau in these roles is a source of great pride for our school and community. It is a wonderful opportunity for them to showcase their talents on such a big stage,” he said, noting the exposure and experience the students will gain from performing alongside the national schools’ meet.
The brass band and colour team’s role at the Coca-Cola Games adds a ceremonial and cultural element to the athletics spectacle and underlines Levuka Public School’s commitment to excellence both on and off the track. With the band’s expanded numbers and another year in the official programme, the school is set to strengthen its profile at one of Fiji’s most prominent annual school sporting events.