No injuries were reported following an incident involving a ferris wheel at the Wairiki Sevens tournament in Taveuni, according to tournament director Iowane Gade. While Mr. Gade acknowledged the incident occurred, he refrained from providing details on how it transpired or the identity of the operator involved.
Reports indicate that a video has surfaced on social media showing smoke emanating from the ferris wheel’s engine. Bystanders acted quickly, manually shutting down the machine to ensure the safety of the riders, who all managed to disembark without harm.
In response to the malfunction, Mr. Gade confirmed that the ferris wheel’s operator has been instructed to halt operations, emphasizing the importance of public safety. The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) department is scheduled to inspect and dismantle the ride for further evaluation.
Despite this incident, Mr. Gade reassured attendees that it would not impact the ongoing Wairiki Sevens rugby tournament, which commenced on Tuesday and will conclude on Saturday. He urged the public to attend and support the events as planned.
Police spokesperson Wame Bautolu confirmed awareness of the incident and indicated that additional details would be provided later.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures at public events, ensuring that both participants and spectators can enjoy activities without fear. As the tournament proceeds, it presents an opportunity for the community to come together in support of their teams, showcasing resilience and unity in the face of unexpected challenges.
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