While opening the 30th Anniversary Celebrations for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Officer’s Training Centre (OTC), the Australian High Commissioner to Fiji His-Excellency John Feakes announced the support of the Australian government in assisting the RFMF.
H.E Feakes stated that Australia acknowledges the services provided by the RFMF over the past few years and was pleased to announce several military courses that will be fully funded by the Australian government.
“We remember your service as far as WW I, WW II when the Pacific and Australia were under threat, we remember your service in Malaya but above all we remember your service and sacrifice in peacekeeping missions far and wide and in places where others refuse to serve.” H.E Feakes said.
“Australia recognizes the role OTC plays and that is why I am proud to announce that we will be supporting the RFMF to run the Infantry Captains Course in October to December this year.
Our support will not only cover the cost of the training but will upgrade some facilities here in OTC. In addition, I am pleased to announce in 2021, we will be supporting the Force Training Group during the Warrant-Officers Course and again will not only cover the cost but upgrade some facilities in FTG. This works will be completed by the RFMF alongside ADF engineers.”
The combined value of the support is estimated to be worth FJD 638,000, the bulk of which will be spent in Fiji. The support continues Australia’s long history of engagement at the OTC from the time they were posted to Fiji as instructors until now.
The High Commissioner was accorded a ceremonial quarter-men guard before the official unveiling of the OTC Commandants roll of honor and the two plaques for the accommodation blocks with which represents two historical landmarks where Fijian soldiers were stationed during the Bougainville and Malayan campaign (Ibu and Patu Bahut).
The Officer’s Training Centre was opened on the 11th of September 1990 by the late Colonel Paul Manueli and has facilitated a total of 59 courses and 28 non-military courses. The centre has had the privilege of having on its courses representatives from various government departments and more recently Officers from the RFMF’s regional partners.
