The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), in partnership with the Australian Defence Force (ADF), has successfully completed two Military Instructor (MI) courses aimed at enhancing internal training capabilities within the RFMF.

The courses were held at Queen Elizabeth Barracks (QEB) in Nabua, concluding on 11 April 2025, and were part of the ongoing Coral Warrior training collaboration between the two defence forces.

A total of 19 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) completed the instructor training. The first block, held from 2–7 April, focused on NCOs directly involved in the development and future delivery of Initial Employment Training (IET) courses in maintenance, operational support, and petroleum operations. The second block, from 8–11 April, included a broader group of NCOs from across the Land Force Command who are not directly involved in IET course delivery.

The closing ceremony was officiated by Major Sirino Ropate, Commanding Officer of the RFMF Logistic Support Unit, who congratulated the participants and acknowledged the support of both the RFMF and ADF facilitators.

“This program aligns with our broader goal of upskilling soldiers within their specialties and professionalising the Logistic Battalion,” said Maj Ropate. “The skills and mindset gained through this training are critical to developing others and improving overall unit readiness.”

The courses were led by a joint instructional team, including four members of the ADF’s 7th Combat Service Support Battalion—Lieutenant Rebecca Rasmussen, Sergeant Joe Kubunavanua, Corporal Amy McHugh, and Corporal Christopher Culpas—alongside Staff Sergeant P. Suka from the RFMF Logistic Support Unit.

Both training blocks concluded with the presentation of the Instructor’s Choice Award for leadership and instructional excellence. Private L. Tinai (W33699) received the award for Block One, while Corporal V. Lesi (33921) was recognised for Block Two.

The successful conclusion of these courses marks another step forward in the RFMF’s efforts to build sustainable and high-quality internal training programs in collaboration with regional partners.