Dear FNRL Fraternity, 

Happy New Year to you all.  I hope you celebrated the start of 2019 in good spirits with family & friends.  Now that we’re a few days into the year, it’s good to look ahead and think about what this year may bring to us.  But first, a quick look back. 

2018 was quite a year for us all.  We went through many developments, sometimes in less than favourable circumstances.  But we also achieved a lot.  I can say, we made good progress in the following areas:-

1. Smooth transition of Financial Year to accommodate Government’s Decree.
2. Strengthening in partnership with NSW Cup Bid Team.
3. Inclusion of a female into our Board of Directors.
4. Mandated percentage of Fiji Bati Team selection 

Of course there’s still a lot of work ahead, as the next 2 years will be eventful with new goals & opportunities, building up to RLWC 2021.  Through hardwork, perseverance & faith, FNRL has impacted the lives & livelihood of many Fijians.  That should do us proud as we remain patient through trying times, staying loyal when there’s doubt and be passionate always about our beloved sport of Rugby League. 

We have taken significant steps to strengthen our marketing & media outreach in order to attain more assistance from corporate bodies and government.  Measures undertaken to uplift service provided & development strategies have come not without cost.  However, we have initiated steps to reduce expenses and confronted headwinds by aligning our budget towards a leaner operating environment. 

I take this opportunity to convey heartfelt gratitude to our main sponsor, Vodafone Fiji Limited for their continuous support.  Not forgetting other stakeholders; Asco Motors as the official vehicle partner, LE as the official provider for our National Teams attire and the Government of Fiji through Fiji National Sports Commission. 

The bilateral visit of His Excellency Honorable Prime Minister of Australia Mr. Scott Morrison to our Nation, has indeed sparked a ray of sunshine for FNRL.  His remarkable announcement regarding the Australian Government’s support for rugby league in Fiji, is a momentous welcome.  It will provide more prospective ventures for our local talents in the Fiji Residents Team and open up windows of opportunities for our upcoming young Batis. 

Therefore, it is important for us to move forward as decisively & swiftly as we can.  That will only be possible with your continued dedication, teamwork and prayers. 

I leave you with an encouraging thought…”It’s not what you’ve done in the past, it’s what you’re going to do for the future, that’s more important.” 

GOD BLESS US ALL!