The Fijian Rugby Union’s financial crisis was once again highlighted this past weekend, as the Fijian Drua Women’s team were turned away from a restaurant in Australia, as they were unable to pay for the meal.
The reigning Super W Champions had to rely on the generosity of Brisbane’s Fijian community, ahead of their match against the Queensland Reds. The FRU has the responsibility of funding the overseas travels of the men’s and women’s Fijian Drua sides, as well as the Fijian national teams.
Pacific Island news outlet Tagata Pasifika reported how a post was circulating on social media, that highlighted the extent of the FRU’s financial problems. The Facebook post by Lusi Rokosuka read;
“Last night my family fed the Fijian Drua women’s rugby team…as the restaurant where they normally have their meals had shut the door on them…as FRU weren’t paying,” the post said.
“We had plans to feed them on Thurs…which was very lucky as the girls wouldn’t have any dinner. We are feeding them again for dinner today and tomorrow and Sunday breakfast…and Sunday after the game they are coming to Annerley for late lunch and ready to travel to Fiji on midnight flight.
“Any help of food or donation would go straight to their meals.”
The Pacific Rugby Players Welfare (PRPW) organisation re-shared the post on their facebook page.
“FRU is responsible for looking over the general logistics of any team traveling overseas. These include players allowance, accommodation, meals, and any other associated costs,” Acting CEO Sale Sorovaki said in a press statement, as reported by Fijian Toutlet MaiTV.
Sorovaki continued to say; “We are grateful to the Australian Government through the Vuvale Partnership which allows our Fijiana Drua Womens Team to participate in the Super W Competition.”
“To the Fijian families that have assisted the Fijiana Drua with meals and other support, FRU is eternally grateful to you for using your own hard-earned resources to help in the time of need towards our ladies and management.”
“We may not be able to repay you, however, we are deeply grateful for your kind gesture and support to our fellow Fijians at a time when they needed it the most. We pray that God’s blessings and provisions be upon each family who helped.”