In a cheeky campaign fronted by Wallabies legend, Lote Tuqiri, Australians have been invited to become ‘Flying Fijians’ and support Fiji’s efforts at the Rugby World Cup.
Australia has missed out on the quarter-finals at the tournament in France, but Fiji’s team is through for the first time in 16 years, despite a narrow defeat to Portugal on Monday morning (Fiji time).
Fiji meets England in their next match. Tourism Fiji says it’s time for Aussies to embrace the true spirit of Pacific vuvale.
Lote Tuqiri – Wallabies legend and Fijian rugby league representative – has already jumped on board, announcing he’ll drop the green and gold for the black and white of Fiji. In fact, his nephew will even be taking the field, who is a part of Fiji’s 2023 Rugby World Cup squad.
Tuqiri said, “I’m proud to see the Flying Fijians step up to the plate as they gear up for the quarterfinals. The team has earned their place in the Rugby World Cup and it’s an honour to stand with a team that embodies the heart of Fiji through unwavering dedication and resilience to the support. Standing behind Fiji to show your support of the Flying Fijian isn’t just about rugby spirit. It embodies Pacific brotherhood and mutual respect that binds us on and off the pitch.”
According to Tourism Fiji data, Australians made up 41% of all visitors to Fiji in August alone this year.
The campaign included two full page ads in Australian newspapers yesterday.
CEO of Tourism Fiji, Brent Hill said, “Sure, it’s a bit cheeky. But the union really makes sense. Aussies already love Fiji’s sun, sand, and culture. And they love Fiji’s players too. Well, the ones wearing gold anyway. So why wouldn’t Australia get behind the next footy fairy tale? Because just like happiness comes naturally in Fiji, rugby does too. And that means the quarter final against England will just be the start.”
The campaign promotes unity and camaraderie between Australians and Fijians, encouraging Australians to support the Flying Fijians, strengthening the bond between the two nations, and boosting interest in Fiji as a travel destination.
Tourism Fiji encourages Australians to wave the Fijian flag high, showing support for the Flying Fijian by snapping or sharing a picture of the Fijian flag, tagging @tourismfiji on Instagram and sharing on social media.
