The Blackrock Training Camp is a testament to the peace-loving spirit of Fijians and the security and prosperity that Fiji and Australia strive for, across the Pacific and throughout the world.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says this at the official opening of the re-developed Blackrock Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief camp in Nadi earlier today.

“This world-class training centre will ensure that Fijian peacekeepers are trained and equipped to uphold Fiji’s 47-year legacy of defending the defenseless in the world’s conflict -ridden regions,” Prime Minister Bainimarama says.

“Blackrock will also serve as the regional launching pad for joint deployments that put Fijian and
Australian troops at the front line of the climate war raging throughout the Pacific.

“Our campaign to respond to the super-storms, floods, rising seas, bush fires, and other climate-driven disasters will not be won by guns, ammo, and artillery, but by seawalls, resilient infrastructure, and cutting-edge technology, we look forward to continually building our joint capacity to respond to these new threats together.”

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison is proud to call Fiji its partner, friend and family, and that Blackrock stood as testament to the strength of the bilateral relationship.

“The collaboration between the women and men of our armed forces and our officials in redeveloping Blackrock Camp has demonstrated the character of our broader relationship, and the values of family, mutual respect and mateship that underpin it,” Prime Minister Morrison says.

“This state-of-the-art facility will enhance Fiji’s peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance and
disaster relief capacity, and ensure intent is matched with resources to meet the common challenges and security of our shared region.

“It has become the norm for Fiji and Australia to back each other – and our broader Pacific family – at times of crisis. Blackrock Camp will now serve as a training and regional response hub for both disaster response and peacekeeping missions.”

Prime Minister Bainimarama thanks the Australian Government for its commitment to the project, and to deepening the relationship between the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and the Australian Defence Force.

Australia’s investment in Blackrock Camp provides a strong foundation and model for other security infrastructure collaborations in Fiji.

Imagery is available at: https://images.defence.gov.au/S20220471