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Surfing Decree The highly publicized surfing decree implemented by the Fijian Government in July of 2010 remains in effect. In the interest of safety for surfers and the protection of the environment, Tavarua remains hopeful that some form of regulation can be put into place. Until that time, Tavarua Island will uphold a policy of co-operation with the Fijian Government. We will continue to maintain the highest standards with regard to etiquette, environmental awareness and above all, safety. Guest satisfaction remains our highest priority and our boat schedules have been modified. We now offer more flexibility in an effort to take advantage of conditions, various surf breaks, and un-crowded opportunities. With an ideal proximity to some of the best surf in the world, Tavarua Island continues to provide the ideal Fijian surf experience. Safety Program Since 1986, when Tavarua first trained Fijian lifeguards and boat drivers, we have made safety our first priority. Today that tradition continues and has expanded to other areas of our staff thanks to the hard work of some special volunteers. For water and injury related rescue, members of the Surf Lifesaving Association and Marine Safety Officers, Steve Rueter and Claude Panis put Tavarua lifeguards and boatmen through this important training. The clinic lasted ten days and included instruction in lifesaving techniques, wave runner rescue, first aid, and a rigorous endurance swim challenge. In the end, 23 members of the Tavarua and Namotu staff proudly passed the test and were awarded certification as lifeguards. Congratulations team!! Tavarua also hosted Mono County paramedic and Life Flight Transport specialist Pete Levy on the island for CPR and AED training. Using the guidelines set by the American Heart Association, Pete worked day and night with our staff from all departments. Obviously, boatmen and lifeguards were trained, but other students included groundskeepers, housekeeping, kitchen staff, reception, even babysitters. In total, 68 members of the Tavarua Island staff are now trained in CPR and the emergency use of an AED. Thank you Pete and thank you to the staff for all of your hard work! Vakabauta & Medical Aid In January 2010 Tavarua hosted a unique and inspiring event – a medical conference training South Pacific doctors in upper limb surgery. The conference was hosted and organized by Vakabauta (Faith) Australia, a non-profit organization run by Tavarua regular Dr John Crock. After performing medical aid through out the Fiji Islands, John decided to go to the heart of the issue, to equip indigenous surgeons with world class medical teaching. Fifteen Fijian, Solomon Island and Vanuatan doctors spent a week with six international surgeons teaching them. Together Tavarua and Vakabauta were instrumental in providing the attending doctors with valuable new skills. With the assistance of Dr Michael Thompson (USA), Mr Gregory Hoy (Australia), Dr Rob Medoff (USA), Dr Tony Sobol (Aust.), and Professors Craig Adams (Aust.) and Eddie McCaig (Suva, Fiji), the conference was a roaring success.
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