Ratu Naca Loganimoce, 43, is eagerly anticipating upgrading his family home in Serua Province upon his return from Australia.

He will spend nine months as part of the Pacific Labour Scheme.

He was part of a group of 14 men from various provinces who will work for Costa Berries group at the Corindi Farm in New South Wales.

Costa Group is a prominent berry producer in Australia, with multiple farms across Queensland, New South Wales, Tasmania, and Western Australia, cultivating strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.

Ratu Naca said that last year he worked with the same team for six months in Citrus in Adelaide, earning around $5000, which he utilized to register his only child and help out many people in his home.

He said the company had advised his group to be financially literate, and they had learned to save money and avoid consuming alcohol.

For the first time, seven women were also part of the group, with Vasemaca Daunimoala from Savusavu, Vanua Levu, expressing excitement about her first stint.

Vasemaca Daunimoala (front, third from left) with family members. Photo: Waisea Nasokia

“This is to assist me and my family back home. Also, I have a deep love for nature and hope to learn more about horticulture and agribusiness.”

Costa Berries in a statement said that they hire people from all over the world in a variety of positions, including horticulture, agribusiness, and professional support services, both on a casual and permanent basis.

The company provides training and on-the-job assistance to support and develop their employees.

Meanwhile, 29 women will join the company on May 8.

Story by: mereleki.nai@fijisun.com.fj