The Penrith Panthers have been hailed as champions after their decisive 14-6 win against the Melbourne Storm in the NRL Grand Final held at Accor Stadium. The game solidified the Panthers’ status as one of the greatest teams in rugby league history, marking their fourth consecutive premiership—a feat not seen since the St George side achieved the same from 1963 to 1966. Clive Churchill Medal winner Liam Martin showcased an outstanding performance, supported by Nathan Cleary’s exemplary leadership. The match was a thrilling showcase of rugby league, distinguished by intense tackles and impressive tries, including a remarkable effort from Fijian player Sunia Turuva, who contributed significantly to the Panthers’ victory.
Concerns have been raised regarding the role of Investment Fiji in vetting potential investors for land leases, following comments from the CEO of TLTB. Suggestions have been made for the task to be assigned to the Special Branch of the Fiji Police Force or FICAC to enhance oversight in the investment process.
Amidst rising drug-related issues in Fiji, Suva’s streets are seen as increasingly affected by homelessness, prompting discussions about societal responsibility and parental support for youth vulnerable to drug influences. The call for more effective treatment facilities and stricter enforcement of drug laws has become urgent to combat these social challenges.
Local government leadership has come under scrutiny due to escalating infrastructure issues, rising crime rates, and inadequacies in public service. A growing disconnect between elected officials and community needs is evident, with calls for transparency and decisive actions to restore public trust.
The alarming statistic of 21 fire-related deaths since 2021 has raised concerns about the safety features of homes in Fiji, particularly regarding burglar bars that are difficult to open from the inside during emergencies. Advocates are urging for improved safety measures to prevent such tragedies.
The government’s vision of achieving high-income country status by 2050 has been met with skepticism, particularly in light of the pay rises and purchasing habits of current MPs. Public sentiment appears to question the government’s effectiveness in truly improving the living conditions for all citizens.
The anticipated 50-cent hourly wage increase set for April 2025 has been framed as a solution to the rising cost of living, prompting mixed reactions from the public. While some express optimism for the future, others remain wary of the effectiveness of such measures.
In response to concerns about food safety during festive seasons, the Consumer Council has emphasized the importance of checking expiry dates on food items.
Flashes of controversy emerged after reports of MPs receiving laptops and mobile phones funded by taxpayers, prompting criticisms regarding public expenditure amidst widespread poverty in Fiji.
The restrictions on frozen chicken imports have resurfaced discussions about local poultry production and demand, indicating a potential shift in the market landscape.
The presence of numerous Christian denominations in Fiji raises questions about the unity of belief within the community, highlighting a perceived confusion among congregants.
A young music artist, Saisha Tappoo, is gaining recognition for her inspiring talent at just 16, with a song that has resonated well with listeners, drawing attention to her promising musical career.
The announcement of new laptops and mobile phones for MPs has been met with acknowledgement of their necessity as work tools, coupled with hopes for adequate training to ensure their effective use.
Tourism in Fiji is experiencing a notable upswing, with recent reports showing a record influx of visitors. Stakeholders in the tourism industry are calling for more detailed monthly reports to provide clarity on the industry’s performance and projections.
The persistence of teenage pregnancies among the iTaukei community calls for introspection and change in cultural and familial priorities to better support youth and address this ongoing issue.
Concerns have been raised regarding the decision to relocate the main Fiji Day Celebration from Levuka to Labasa, prompting discussions around regional representation and event planning.