Volunteers help restore Shirley Park after TC Vaianu

With recovery efforts stretched in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Vaianu, community volunteers stepped in to help restore public spaces in Lautoka.

Last Saturday, volunteers from the Shincheonji Church of Jesus cleared debris from Shirley Park, reopening access to a key community area that had been left unsafe and impassable after the storm.

Large trees and debris had blocked the park’s main thoroughfare, cutting off pedestrian movement and halting activity in one of the city’s busiest public spaces.

Armed with tools, the volunteer group carried out a coordinated clean-up over several hours, sawing fallen trunks into sections, clearing tangled branches, and removing scattered debris.

The effort comes as the Lautoka City Council continues broader recovery work across the city following widespread damage caused by the cyclone.

Volunteer Peni Nabaivalu said the initiative was driven by a desire to support the community during a difficult period.

“What touched me most was not just clearing the trees, but bringing love, warmth, and hope to the people of Lautoka. In a time when the community was affected, we wanted to be a source of light and comfort,” he said.

Rita Sirmon said the response highlighted the strength of community unity in times of crisis.

“As someone who witnessed this meaningful act of service, I was moved by the selfless spirit and strong sense of unity shown by the volunteer team,” Ms Sirmon said.

“Amid the mess left by the cyclone, they chose to step forward, work hard, and care for the community without hesitation.”

Lautoka City Council head of services Shalend Singh said such support was critical as the city works to recover.

“The church came at a time when the city council needed support to bring the city back to normalcy after the devastation of Cyclone Vaianu. We look forward to continued collaboration in caring for our city,” Mr Singh said.