THE Auki Fishery Centre, which has been a key service provider for the people of Malaita, has resumed its operations after being installed with a replacement ice machine from the Malu’u Fishery Centre.
The Auki Fishery Centre stopped operation in December 2024 after its 45-year-old only ice machine broke down.
The breakdown of the aged machine disrupted the daily operations of local fishermen and also farmers who rely on the centre to store and preserve their catches and produce for sale.
Many were particularly affected as they were unable to preserve their catches and produce during the peak Christmas season.
The ice machine could not be fixed as there were no available spare parts in the country and even in the Pacific region to conduct repairs.
The Auki Fishery Centre serves fishermen and farmers from the northern, central, eastern regions of Malaita as well as the Malaita Outer Islands.
For nearly five decades, it has been a lifeline for local businesses.
The Managing Director of the Auki Fishery Centre, Thadius Mauri explained that the facility, including the 45-year-old ice machine, had been in use since he took over its management in 2003.
Mr Mauri expressed frustration over the machine breakdown, which he said, caused considerable hardship for customers.
“Many of my customers who have relied on this service were affected when the ice machine broke down.
“The situation was beyond my control and I felt sorry for them because they lost catches and produce worth significant revenue,” Mr Mauri said.
However, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources has this month authorized the transfer of a second-hand ice machine from the Malu’u Fishery Centre to replace the broken down one.
This replacement is expected to restore essential services for the fishermen and farmers who depend on the ice for their operations in Auki and Honiara.
A recent visit to the centre revealed that the Fishery Centre building itself is in poor condition with cracks in the walls, raising concerns about safety for both workers and the public.
Mr Mauri explained that the centre was built in 1977, just one year before the country gained independence.
“The demand for our services is high and it’s clear that the centre needs further support to fund a new machine and upgrade the building,” he said.
Mr Mauri is proud to have been part of the Fishery Centre’s history and his continued management of the facility to serve the people of Malaita.
While many other similar centres in the country remain closed or non-operational, the Auki Fishery Centre remains a beacon of support for local businesses.
Mr Mauri thanked the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources for their continued support in ensuring the centre could continue to operate despite the challenges.
“The second-hand ice machine allowed us to get back to work and I’m grateful for the ministry’s assistance.”
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
