Local based Fijian Drua squad members fly out today for Australia for their maiden voyage into the Super Rugby Pacific which kicks off on February 18.

Yesterday five players boarded the bus from the Rugby House picking the rest along the way to Nadi where they spent the night before flying out this morning at 9am.

Interim chief executive officer, Brian Thorburn has confirmed the team will be based at Lake Ainsworth Sport and recreation Centre in Lennox Head, in Northern New South Wales.

“The team will train at Lake Ainsworth where there is a full size field amongst other facilities,” Thorburn said.

A 35-member squad has been named with the remaining three to be announced later.

Asked about the remaining players’ announcement he said: “Progressively in coming weeks, we do not have a specific deadline, and are keeping some options open as we assess players in training, and also await availabilities.”

The local based players include: Ratu Meli Derenalagi, Serupepeli Vularika, Meli Tuni, Vinaya Habosi, Kalioni Nasoko, Jone Koroiduadua, Chris Minimbi, Peni Matawalu, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Apisalome Vota, Kitione Taliga,  Simione Kuruvoli,  Rusiate Nasove, Samuela Tawake, Kitione Salawa, Sorovakatini Tuifagalele, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre and Vilive Miramira

The coaching panel met face to face for the first time on Tuesday to lay out the plan for the next several weeks of training and camp.