Australia hands over Iumi Water Sports Park to Solomon Islands ahead of Sol2023 Pacific Games
PRIME Minister Manasseh Sogavare was officially handed over the Australian-funded Iumi Water Sports Park at the DC Park in East Honiara yesterday.
The Australian High Commissioner Rod Hilton handed the sports facility to the Prime Minister in the presence of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure Development Manasseh Maelanga, other Ministers of the Crown, Australian High Commission Officials, representatives of the National Hosting Authourity, Games Organising Committee, Solomon Islands National Institute of Sports, other Members of Parliament, including the Member of Parliament for East Honiara Douglas Ete, government officials, other guests and the media.
The park will host three relatively new sports in Solomon Islands, Vaa, Kayaking and Wind-Sailing.
Speaking at the occasion, an elated Prime Minister Sogavare described the event as another historical event.
He said the water sports park worth $4.35 million is part of a $100-million assistance from the Government and People of Australia towards the Sol2023 Pacific Games for which he is grateful for.
Prime Minister Sogavare said Solomon Islands athletes of the three relatively new water sports to be hosted at the park have commenced their training and are looking forward to doing their best in capturing medals and contribute to the 40-Gold Medal tally he expected from Iumi Team Solo.
The Prime Minister also used the occasion to acknowledge the leasers of land, the Chow Family for agreeing to a 10-year lease in December 2020 in return for a $1.35-million investment from the National Hosting Authourity to develop a third playing field, lighting for existing fields and a soccer court.
High Commissioner Hilton, in turn, expressed pleasure in handing over the park and described the event as a successful one.
The occasion saw the unveiling of the Water Sports Park Plaque, the blessing of canoes gifted by Australia Outrigger Clubs and their launching into the water.
The $4.35 million facility has been described by the Australian High Commission as key to Solomon Islands delivering the 2023 Pacific Games. It said the facility will be transformed into a community park and facility for all Solomon Islanders to enjoy after the Games, leaving a lasting legacy.
By CLAUDINA MELVIA & IAN LADDS
