Two lives, two journeys: Families prepare final farewells

Two families are preparing to lay their loved ones to rest following the deadly stabbing in Quakers Hill, Sydney, Australia.

One victim will be brought home to Fiji, while the other will be buried in Australia, a tragedy that highlights how grief knows no borders.

They will be laid to rest next week. Grief continues to weigh heavily on the two families following the December 28, 2025 tragedy.

The late Epineri Naitini, 30, will be brought home to Fiji, while Anaseini Waqavuki, 38, will be laid to rest in Australia.

Ilisapeci Naitini, wife of the late Mr Naitini, confirmed that her husband’s body is expected to arrive in Fiji on Saturday night.

Upon arrival in Nadi, the body will be taken to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, where it will be kept before being transported for burial.

Mr Naitini will be laid to rest on Monday, January 12, at the family residence in Naulu, Nakasi, before burial at the 9 Miles Cemetery in Nasinu.

“The family is still finalising whether the body will be taken home on Sunday or early Monday morning,” Ms Naitini said.

While one family prepares to welcome their loved one home for a final farewell, another faces the pain of saying goodbye far from home.

Funeral arrangements for the late Ms Waqavuki have not yet been confirmed, though her family has indicated she will be buried in Australia.

Her mother, Saini Waqavuki, said she and Anaseini’s children are expected to travel to Australia next week.

However, the journey depends on visa approvals, and no official funeral date has been set.

“The funeral service will be held one day next week, but no official date has been confirmed,” Ms Waqavuki said.

The deadly incident on Illabo Street has left a lasting scar on both families, underscoring that grief knows no borders.

While one family prepares to bring their loved one home for a final farewell, the other must navigate the heartbreak of saying goodbye from afar.

Feedback: rariqi.turner@fijisun.com.fj