BY BEN BILUA
GIZO

Fatboys has officially opened it brand new Dive Shop over the weekend marking another milestone on its operation.

The Dive Shop is equipped with world-class equipment and a 100-horsepower boat for divers to travel to their destination of choice.

Guests from Honiara included officials from DFAT, Strongim Bisnis, Tourism Solomons and Solomon Airlines and were joined by provincial guests led by Deputy Premier of Western Province.

In his speech, Deputy Premier of Western Province, Brian Lotikena congratulates Fatboys for the great achievement saying that the dive centre will not only provide employment to locals but also showcase the underwater beauty of Western Province.

He adds that the dive centre is more than just equipment and building but a tourism product that will contribute to national tourism industry.

“The opening of this dive centre marks an important milestone to your operations by adding another activity to your products. I’d like to congratulate you all for this great achievement,” Lotikena said.

He said Fatboys is unique as it is surrounded by natural beauty and the marine and tropical environment.

In her speech, DFAT’s representative, First Secretary Danielle Bourke also congratulated Fatboys for the important milestone saying that the opening of the dive centre marks a step forward for the dive industry in Western province and Solomon Islands.

“We’re pleased, the new customised boat and the jetty will help Fatboys attract more tourists from Australia and across the world,” she said.

Bourke said DFAT through Strongim Bisnis continues to support tourism operators in Western Province by establishing a hub at Munda.

She explained that the support is more on enabling local tourism operators to accommodate more guest and improve their products.

“I spend last couple of days here and have seen first hand the beauty of Western Province and the rest of Solomon Islands.

“This why Australian makes up the highest number of tourists and visitors to the Solomon Islands.

“The beautiful beaches, the rich culture and people, and off course the great underwater world. We want the world to see it too,” Bourke said.

She said Australia is working closely with the Solomon Islands government and other partners to support the tourism industry.

Bourke adds that Australia will continue to support local businesses to create more jobs for local communities.

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