Families from Koro in Levuka, Lomaiviti, gathered with unyielding enthusiasm to welcome the MV Captain Inoke, a new addition to the fleet of Goundar Shipping Limited. This momentous occasion held particular significance for the Ratotodro family as the vessel is named in honor of their late patriarch, Captain Inoke Ratotodro.
Emotions ran high as Melaia Ratotodro, the eldest daughter, expressed her heartfelt memories and gratitude for her father while witnessing the ship’s arrival at Port Mua-i-Walu. “Our dad, who was one of the longest-serving staff members at Goundar Shipping, passed away last October, and in his honor, this vessel was named after him,” she shared tearfully. She emphasized the hard work and dedication her father exhibited throughout his three decades with the company.
The managing director of Goundar Shipping, George Goundar, echoed the fond sentiments, reminiscing about the strong friendship he shared with Ratotodro. “When I founded this company in 2011, he was there to support me and provide valuable advice on the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji,” he stated. He acknowledged that Captain Ratotodro played a crucial role in the company’s operations, taking charge of various responsibilities while George handled the engineering side.
The MV Captain Inoke, now under the command of 31-year-old Sainimere Qutonilaba from Savudrodro, Savusavu, also showcases the legacy of nurturing talent within the company. Starting as a cadet in 2011, she has navigated several of Goundar’s vessels from abroad, highlighting the progression and achievements within the firm.
The arrival of MV Captain Inoke was celebrated with a traditional ceremony before guests boarded the vessel for a tour, marking a poignant launch for this honored ship and a heartfelt tribute to a beloved father and friend.
This event illustrated not only the continuity of commitment to the maritime industry but also a powerful reminder of community bonds and the legacy that hardworking individuals leave behind. It affirms the positive impact each person can have in their field and serves as an inspiration for future generations in the maritime sector.
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