Minutes after watching the  drawing of the Hibiscus Text and Win on Saturday evening, Philip Rao was advised that he had won the $75,000 Navara.

“I was watching the Hibiscus crowning and when the draw happened, I told my friend that I wonder  who won the vehicle. To my surprise few minutes later I received a call saying that I won it”, an elated Mr Rao said.

The Taveuni dalo and yaqona farmer thanked Vodafone as this was the first time he has won anything.

Mr Rao, 56, texted only twice and to his surprise won.

Vodafone Fiji sponsorship manager Adriu Vakarau, was at the handover to congratulate Rao.

“Anyone can be a winner with Vodafone. All you have to do is try your luck and text. Never know you may win,” Mr Vakarau said.

Vodafone has been partnering with the Hibiscus Events Group more than 10 years now.

Along with the sponsorship, Vodafone also has a text-in-win promotion parallel to the festival.

Chairman Hibiscus Events Group Hirdesh Prasad, congratulated the winner and also acknowledged the continued support from Vodafone for the Hibiscus Festival.

Also present were  the  newly crowned Vodafone Hibiscus Queen, Miss Candance Veramu, who is from Savusavu and King Mr Beniyamino Vakadranu who is from the same village as the winner.