The anniversary of landing in Sinuvaca on Koro Island serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of Tropical Cyclone Winston, which occurred ten years ago. On February 23, 2016, I, along with my colleagues Jese Tuisinu from Fiji Television Ltd and Jona Konataci from The Fiji Times, arrived on the island to witness the destruction firsthand.
From above, the village appeared shattered, with homes resembling mere matchsticks scattered across the landscape. Our landing revealed the dire reality—locals rushed towards our helicopter, their eyes filled with hope, desperately seeking food, water, and other essentials from the mainland.
After a grueling 12-hour preparation and a previous failed attempt to reach the island, I was determined to make the trip. The pilot informed us we had limited time on the ground—less than an hour—due to encroaching darkness and impending rain.
As I stepped out, my first question to the village was straightforward: Did anyone die? My training reminded me that in times of disaster, understanding the human toll is vital. The villagers had lost everything, their belongings swept away by the storm, yet they wore smiles that spoke of resilience—a memory that continues to resonate with me.
The interviews that day were among the toughest of my career. Mosese Kikau Daulakeba, a village elder then aged 60, shared his grief alongside the heartbroken parents of 10-month-old Apisai Vulaono, Alifereti Samu and Mereani Biaukula. The sorrow was palpable as Mr. Daulakeba recounted how the relentless waves crashed upon them, tragically separating the father from his child.
A decade later, the memories of that day linger, highlighting the profound loss experienced by the community and the remarkable strength they exhibited in the aftermath of one of the most catastrophic storms to hit Fiji. Their resilience is a testament to the human spirit, showcasing an enduring hope in the face of unimaginable hardship.
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