The Holy Cross Parish in Wairiki, Taveuni are the first recipients on the island to receive a tractor under the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways Farm Mechanisation Program.

In handing over the tractor last week, Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Waterways, Dr. Andrew Tukana said that the assistance was made possible through their concerted efforts especially towards the submission of their one third of the total cost of the machine.

"Your commitment has paid off and the ministry hopes that you will look after the machine well and use it well to lift your farming programs to another level," said Dr. Tukana.

According to Father Joseph Vulumu Tora, the Head of the Holy Cross Parish, their 122 years of farming has not been in vain.

“In 1902, the Parish started with our farming Program and for years since the beginning of the farm, we have wanted to venture into mechanised farming. Finally the dreams of many heads of the Parish, some have gone on and to those that are still around, has finally come true,” smiled Father Tora.

“We are truly grateful to the Coalition Government and the Ministry of Agriculture & Waterways for the huge support that has been given to our community and church members,” added Father Tora.

The Parish consists of 42 Households with a population of approximately 130 members.

"Holy Cross College has a total school roll of 1,261 students out of which 475 day scholars and 150 students in the hostel. The primary school has 510 students and two streams of kindergarten with 126 students. The Parish is run by a Developing Committee chosen from the North to the South End of Taveuni.

"This tractor will certainly benefit the Holy Cross Parish and our extended families and we are truly grateful and blessed," said Father Tora.

Currently on the farm, there are 10,000 Yaqona plants, 5,000 Dalo and Cassava. Other crops such as Vudi, Banana, Yams and assorted vegetables are also being planted which is mainly used as food for the hostel students.

With the new tractor, more arable land will soon become productive as parish members hope to fully utilise the land for better livelihoods.

Lack of farm machinery has been a major drawback for the Parish members but through the new tractor, they are confident that farm production will surely increase to meet the increasing demand from export markets on the island.

With the technical advice and assistance from the agricultural officers on the Island, and also continuous help and assistance of their sister institute, the Tutu Rural Training Centre, Holy Cross Parish is looking forward to tripling their farm production.

-ENDS-

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