The tranquil shores of Muani Village witnessed a significant development as forest harvesting machinery from Drelaga Holding Ltd and Burning Bush Pte. Ltd. arrived via Genesi Shipping Barge Services on the evening of May 17, 2024.

The pine harvesting operation, overseen by the Fiji Pine Trust and supported by the government through the Commercial Maritime Pine Subsidy, marks the beginning of a new chapter for the village in the District of Ravitaki.

Despite recent adverse sea conditions, the barge crew completed the 25-hour journey from Lautoka without incident, delivering 16 vehicles and heavy machines.

A 30-member logging crew, including machine operators, logging truck drivers, log makers, floor boys, and chainsaw operators, has now set up camp in Muani Village. The team began operations this morning, May 18, 2024, at 11 a.m., with forward roading into the Muani Pine Scheme.

Weather conditions, which had posed challenges in the lead-up to this operation, are now improving, allowing for a gradual commencement of logging activities. Additionally, work on the Muani Port is progressing, with only 10 meters left to complete the causeway. The port is expected to be finished by next Friday, May 24, 2024, with the first loading of harvested pine scheduled for June 1, 2024.

This development not only underscores the resilience of the involved parties but also highlights the potential economic benefits for Muani Village and the broader Kadavu Island community.