It was an amazing weekend for at least 60 paddlers who took the initiative to highlight the need for Fijians to keep our rivers and streams free from plastic bags and plastic products.

Enthusiastic paddlers from Deuba, Nadi, Lautoka and Suva came out in large numbers and paddled on Saturday from Draubota Village, Rewa, to the National Sailing Centre in Laucala Bay.

The 23 kilometres paddle included a clean-up along the river of Draubota Village, down the Rewa River and a visit to the Naililili Church to hear word of wisdom from Sister Mariana who shared on Pope Francis’ Encyclical Laudato Si on Care for our Common Home.

The group later paddled down the Rewa River and where the river meets the ocean and across to Laucala Bay.

In a press statement, Events Co-ordinator Colin Philp said the paddling initiative was not a race but focused more on the need to play ones part in keeping the rivers clean and free from plastic bags.

Paddlers collected rubbish as they paddled to Laucala Bay. The rubbish was collected in special backpacks and bags and all plastic litter encountered were documented.

At Laucala Bay, the team also cleaned up along the foreshore at the National Sailing Centre and Suva Point.

This is the first non-motorised paddle event undertaken this year and is a joint initiative by the Fiji Outrigger Association, Uto Ni Yalo and the Fiji Yachting Association. It was sponsored by Yacht Shop, Bank South Pacific, Vuda Marina, Leleuvia Island Resort, Hot Bread Kitchen, Dennis Miller and BIC Sports.

Paddler, Reverend James Bhagwan of the Methodist Church in Fiji, said this was an opportunity for people from different walks of life and faith to come together to celebrate healthy living and a commitment to healthy oceans.

The initiative has also received endorsement by the National Advisor for NCDs and Head of National Wellness Centre for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Dr Isimeli Tukana, and Fiji’s Oceans Champion and Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Semi Koroilevasau.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

Feedback:  losirene.lacanivalu@fijisun.com.fj