Former Wallaby stars Radike Samo and Lote Tuqiri, accompanied by Queensland Reds players Isaac Henry and Joanna Rabaka, brought joy and inspiration to Wailevu West District School in Vanua Levu, Fiji.
The school, which had been devastated by Tropical Cyclone Yasa, was being rebuilt with the support of the Australian government.
The rugby legends engaged in fun-filled activities with both primary and senior students, spreading happiness through the sport that unites Fiji and Australia.
Henry was blown away by the warm hospitality he received and thankful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in communities that have faced tough challenges, saying “Getting this opportunity to spread happiness through rugby in Fiji … is an experience I’ll never forget.”
The visit was part of the Vuvale Week tour, organised by the Fiji Rugby Union and Rugby Australia, to celebrate the strong rugby bond between the two nations.
Daniel Millis, Rugby Australia’s Pacific Partnerships Manager, highlighted the significant efforts made by the two countries to rebuild the school.
He said: “We hope the visit of the rugby players was an added boost for the school and village… inspiring young minds to pursue their dreams both in sport and life.”
The Australian government has invested a total of $3.7 million in the reconstruction of Wailevu West District School, as part of their larger cyclone recovery program. The recovery program, valued at AUD28.5 millon aims to rehabilitate nine schools in Vanua Levu and two hospitals in Kadavu and Taveuni.
