NEWSPAGE 30 September
2009

(Photos: Duco Events / Office of Su'a William Sio)

NEW ZEALAND: Tua's hometown back champ's victory this weekend

(Photos: Samoa Rugby Union)

SAMOA: BBE Vaiala crowned Digicel Samoa Series 2009 champions
Source: Samoa Rugby Union Press Release

BBE Vaiala stormed to a pulsating 19-7 victory over rivals Samoa Pharmacy Moata’a to take the fifth and final leg title of the Digicel Samoa 7’s Series at Apia Park last Saturday, ultimately giving the men in black the valuable table points needed to oust Pacific Express Vailele for the Digicel’s Series Crown in 2009.

Judging from the days results leading into the finals, many expected a repeat showdown between BBE Vaiala and Pacific Express Vailele at the nations premier sevens finale, however, in the best traditions of sevens rugby, Pacific Express Vailele were upstaged in their semi final clash against Samoa Pharmacy Moata’a who showed superior courage and guts against their more fancied opponent. A sole try and conversion to Samoa Pharmacy Moata’a early in the second spell was enough to earn them a ticket to the finals against an awaiting BBE Vaiala who dispatched a tenacious Tepatasi outfit in the second semi final 17-5.

The finals showdown came down to which team would have the most will to win, with the players gas tanks clearly at the brink from the days draw. From the kickoff however, the frantic pace that ensued suggested there was more than enough in the reserve tanks to provide the spark and entertainment that followed. BBE Vaiala’s Leia Saofaiga opened the tap to the try line mid way in the first half, after quick hands allowing the lively mid fielder to dive over in the corner. Patrick Fa’apale was in impeccable form with the boot, nailing the conversion inches from the touch line to give BBE Vaiala the lead at the half time bell.

Samoa Pharmacy Moata’a were not to be undone and came out firing in the opening minutes of the second half, wining the territorial stakes with relentless attacks aimed at equaling the score. BBE Vaiala were as determined in defense, with Prop Viliamu Afatia throwing his body in the fray at every chance. Just as Samoa Pharmacy Moata’a were poised to pounce on an overlap, a wide pass from Moata’a’s Tauvaga Fa’afou, was intercepted by giant lock, Maselino Paulino, who showed an impressive turn of pace to outsprint the Samoa Pharmacy Moata’a defenders from inside his own half, to score between the sticks. Fa’aplae converted to give his team a handy 14 point lead with 6 minutes to go. Ordinarily, teams would have given up , however Samoa Pharmacy Moata’a stayed in the hunt, and responded almost immediately with a try to forward Pese, who drove through the middle to give Samoa Pharmacy Moata’a a deserved converted try.

Sniffing a comeback in the final four minutes of time, Samoa Pharmacy Moata’a continued to apply the pressure, taking them deep into BBE Vaiala’s quarter for most moments of the last quarter. However, a fumbled ball close to the BBE Vaiala try line, was snatched up by Leia Saofaiga who tore 80 meters down the sideline to set up a try for Patrick Fa’apale in the final minute of the thrilling final to seal BBE Vaiala its third leg title and Series crown in 2009. Samoa Pharmacy Moata’a could hold their heads at the end with a spirited challenge against BBE Vaiala and capping an upset win over Pacific Express Vailele in the semi finals. Pacific Expresses Vailele would be disappointed at not winning the series, and will have to be content with second place this year. Complacency seems to be Pacific Expresses Vailele’s flaw throughout the series, with an arsenal unmatched by most teams in terms of caliber players in their ranks. Tepatasi from Lotupu’e, Aleipata continues to progress, and has firmly established themselves as one of the nations premier sevens teams this year. Their win over Marist in the Cup Quarter Finals underlines their class, and their intention to remain amongst the top teams in years to come. Tepatasi comes in at fourth place, behind Samoa Pharmacy Moata’a who finishes in at third.

Laumua o Tumua snatched the Plate title, with a hard fought win over neighbors Malie, 7-5, whilst Fa’atoia overcame a physical Laulii Lions to take the Bowl championship 26-19. Lalomalava A had too much firepower for Saleaula, beating their Savaii counterparts 17-3.

In reflection of this year series, CEO Su’a Peter Schuster comments on the tournaments progress over the last two years, which has seen the increased competitiveness of teams from the rural provinces. “ Progress made, in terms of competitiveness from the outer provinces has been dramatic . The series contenders no longer revolves around teams within the Apia, Apia West or Tuamasaga, but now includes teams from Savaii, Aleipata and A’ana, which is a positive reflection on the development of sevens rugby in these regions” says Schuster.

In its eleventh year, the Samoa Sevens Series is believed to have contributed to the increase in competitiveness and leveling the stakes between teams from the outer districts and those from Apia. “Competition is the key element in promoting competitiveness and raising the levels of play through a broader cross section, the series is definitely contributing to this” says Lilomaiava Taufusi Salesa, director of Rugby Development. With Digicel Samoa sponsoring the Series, the tournament has grown over the years, which has seen a record amount of teams entering. “ It’s almost getting to a stage, where we may have to possibly look at hosting legs over two days, due to sheer amount of teams wishing to play each week” exclaims Lilomaiava. 

Manu Samoa head coach, Fuimaono Titimaea Tafua, has also been involved heavily in this years series believing the Digicel Samoa series as been crucial in the maintain the competitiveness of the National Sevens team at the IRB Sevens Series “ the success of our sevens team at the World Sevens Series, is a reflection of the series, so its important we continue to develop and foster this tournament.
 

Photo Captions:

Photo 1 - Towering lock Maselino Paulino securing lineout ball for BBE Vaiala.

Photo 2 - BBE Vaiala & Samoa Pharmacy Moata'a battle at the breakdown.

Photo 3 - BBE Vaiala receiving leg title from Rev. Susuga Alesana.

Photo 4 - MVP Player Patrick Fa'apale with Toalepai Waikato Lefale.
 

HAWAII: Big Isle library stays open as donations top $100,000
Source: Honolulu Star Bulletin

Fund-raising has helped keep Mountain View Public and School Library open on the Hawaii island, as statewide donations exceeded more than $100,000 since campaigns began Sept. 2.

The library was scheduled to close its doors from Friday to Oct. 22 because of staffing shortages brought on by the lack of state funding in a slow economy.

"We are thrilled," said Byrde Cestare, executive director of the Friends of the Library of Hawaii. "The public should know their money is having an impact, and we need to keep it going."

State library officials and volunteers with Friends of the Library of Hawaii began donation drives in hopes of keep libraries open statewide.

More than 500 people have made donations by credit card or check -- one of the latest a $25,000 donation to the nonprofit Friends of the Library by entertainer Jack Johnson.

Johnson donated $10,000 each to the libraries at Kahuku and Waialua and $5,000 to the general library fund, according to group.

The fund-raising follows state library officials' saying that with the elimination of most temporary hires to meet budget restrictions, about 28 branches faced reduced hours and intermittent closing.

Cestare said some people have donated $3, while many have given $20.

She said a senior line-dancing group sent a $170 donation and the Old Lahaina Luau on Maui started an employer-employee matching donation program. The luau business donated more than $9,600 for libraries in Lahaina and Hana.

Michael Moore, a founder of Old Lahaina Luau, said he hopes the donation would encourage other businesses to participate with similar programs. "For me, the library was an important place to discover the world," Moore said.

In October, he said, the company will donate $1 toward the library for every Aloha Mixed Plate bought at Aloha Mixed Plate restaurant in Lahaina.

"We are very grateful for the tremendous outpouring of support," state Librarian Richard Burns said yesterday.
 

(Photo: International Rugby Board)

TONGA: Campese boost for Tonga Sevens
Source: International Rugby Board

Australia's World Cup winner David Campese has agreed to help coach Tonga's national Sevens squad should they qualify for the Wellington, Hong Kong and Adelaide legs of the IRB Sevens World Series in 2010 as part of a new association with the country's rugby scene.

The Wallaby legend travels to the capital Nuku'alofa in October to launch the Campese Tonga Sevens event, the first leg of a new National Seven Series in the country to be played over the next three months.

The Player of the Tournament at RWC 1991 will conduct Sevens clinics during the Campese Tonga Sevens on 9-10 October.

Campese is no stranger to Sevens, having been a member of Australia's squad that finished runners-up to England at the inaugural Rugby World Cup Sevens in 1993 , before going on to win 101 caps and score 64 Test tries for the Wallabies.

He also helped to coach Australia's Sevens team on the World Series two years ago.

A new dawn

"It is a great honour to be part of Tonga rugby and l'm looking forward to being involved with the development of the game in Tonga," admitted Campese.

Tonga Rugby Football Union Chairman Sione Taumoepeau added: "A new dawn in Rugby Sevens has come to Tonga and the experience and reputation of David Campese in both fifteens and Sevens will help rebuild the Sevens game locally in Tonga.

"This is a long-term investment for Tonga and Campese's involvement will be a major boost for local rugby and rugby as a whole."

Given their limited exposure, Tonga regularly punch above their weight on the World Series. Two years ago they reached the Cup semi finals in Wellington and won the Plate in Adelaide, while in the most recent season they won the Plate in Hong Kong and reached the Plate semi final at the Rugby World Cup Sevens in Dubai.

The Tonga National Sevens Series kicks off with Campese's event in October before further tournaments on 6-7 November, 20-21 November and 4-5 December before the 'Best of the Best' finals tournament on 18-19 December.

Rugby Sevens faces a massive two weeks in the run-up to the IOC vote in Copenhagen on 9 October, when it will be decided whether the sport will be admitted to the 2016 Olympic Games.

Photo Caption: David Campese helped Australia to the RWC Sevens final in 1993.
 

(Photo: Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme)

WORLDWIDE: Climate change media training for regional journalists concludes
Source: Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme Press Release

Climate change was the main topic for over a dozen regional journalists to digest during one week of training and development with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).

The training was funded by the Government of Canada for journalists from throughout the Pacific region to learn more about climate change and other environmental issues in order to be better able to report on this hot topic.

From 21 - 25 September, staff at SPREP spent time with the regional reporters teaching them about climate change and other environmental concerns. The participants also carried out “skills development sessions” with the perspective to better report on climate change issues and as part of their training they also had to file one story a day back to their media organisation.

“SPREP is pleased to be able to help Pacific reporters understand a very difficult, but vital topic, so they in turn can report back to our Pacific communities,” said SPREP’s Associate Media and Publications Officer, Nanette Woonton who facilitated the training in partnership with Samisoni Pareti, a Pacific freelance journalist.

“The participants soaked up all the information and they learnt a lot during their week here at SPREP. We’re really hoping that from this we’ll see more climate change stories in our region so our local communities can understand more about this important issue. We think that this is just the start.”

This is the second time the training has been staged by SPREP and this year there was a strong interest. Over 40 Pacific reporters applied for the Climate Change Media Training this year for which SPREP had to select 12 reporters. The Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) worked in partnership with SPREP to ensure there was wide knowledge of the training and strong regional interest.

Now that the training is finished participants have returned home refreshed and keen to start raising the climate change profile.

One of the key factors for the training was the commitment from the different media organisations towards broadcasting and publishing climate change news stories. With this support, a strong wave of climate change reporting is expected.

“It paints me a clear picture of what climate change is all about and teaches me how I can inform my people about climate change in a more understandable way,” said one of the Pacific reporters in the evaluation session.

“This training was very user friendly, it simplified what can often be a complicated and technical subject matter,” said another participant.

“I have learnt about the important role of the media in getting the climate change message across, this was a very effective training,” wrote another participant during the evaluation session.

SPREP will be posting some of the stories that were filed during the week of training on their Pacific year of climate change website

http://www.sprep.org/climate_change/PYCC/index.asp, and will continue to work with the participants through an online network.

Participants that attended the training were from; Fiji TV, Fiji Sun, PACNEWS, a 3rd year USP journalism student, National Broadcasting Corporation in Papua New Guinea, the Tuvalu Media Department, Radio Kiribati, Nauru Media Bureau, The National newspaper in Papua New Guinea, Tonga Broadcasting Corporation and the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation.

For more details please contact SPREP’s Associate Media Publications Officer Nanette Woonton
E: [email protected] T: (685) 21929 F: (685) 20231 W: www.sprep.org

Photo Caption: Brianna Fruean Environmental Champion being interviewed by Pacific journalists.
 

WORLDWIDE: PIFS Secretary General concludes week-long trip to New York
Source: Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat Press Release

The Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS),Tuiloma Neroni Slade today (September 29, 2009) concluded a week-long visit to New York to attend a series of meetings and consultations in the margins of the general debate of the 64th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Mr Slade met and held consultations with representatives of the Forum Missions at the United Nations; the Office of the United Nations Secretary General, including its climate change directorate; the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP); the UN Department of Political Affairs (DPA); the UN Division for Oceans Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS), and other offices of the UN system.

Discussions focused on common aims and purpose to further foster and strengthen working relations and cooperation between the Forum Secretariat and the United Nations system. Such cooperation began when the Pacific Islands Forum was granted Observer status at the United Nation on 17 October 1994.

Secretary General Mr Slade expressed satisfaction that relations between the PIFS and the UN were progressing and developing well, as is evident in the active and cooperative working relations with the UN system based in Suva, in particular the excellent partnership developed between the PIFS and the UNDP Pacific Centre. Mr Slade also welcomed the expressions of confirmation and assurances of continued strengthened support and cooperation from the UN during his meetings.

The PIFS Secretary General also met with the Commonwealth Secretary General, Mr Kamalesh Sharma, and the CEO and Chairperson of the Global Environment Fund (GEF) Mrs Monique Barbut. Further, Mr Slade participated as an Observer at the AOSIS Summit on Climate Change on 21 September; the Summit on Climate Change convened by the UN Secretary General on 22 September; the general debate of the 64th Session of the UNGA; as well as the Conference on Facilitating the Entry into Force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty on 24 and 25 September.

Mr Slade welcomed the outcomes of the AOSIS Summit, which reflected the clear and strong advocacy of Forum Leaders for many of the concerns covered in the Cairns Communiqué, in particular the concerns of Forum communities regarding the consequences of climate change, as well as the impacts on the region of the Global Economic Crisis.

The PIFS Secretary General was accompanied by Mr Rick Nimmo, Director of the Political Governance and Security Programme, and Ms Desna M. Solofa, Political Issues Adviser.