The 2025 Infantry Week celebration officially concluded today at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks (QEB) in Nabua, marking the end of a week of spirited competitions and military camaraderie.

The closing ceremony was officiated by the Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion Fiji Infantry Regiment (3FIR), Lieutenant Colonel Pio Varawa, who commended the dedication and professionalism demonstrated throughout the week.

In his address, Lt Col Varawa acknowledged the participation and commitment of personnel from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), the Australian Defence Force (ADF), and the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF). He extended his appreciation to all sailors and soldiers—both regular and Territorial Force members—who took part in the week’s activities.

“Your wholehearted commitment throughout this week, your competitive spirit, teamwork, and discipline have embodied the essence of the infantry soldier,” Lt Col Varawa said.

He also highlighted a significant milestone—the participation of an all-female team from the Territorial Force Brigade—as a proud reflection of RFMF’s ongoing efforts toward greater inclusion and empowerment within its ranks.

“A significant milestone and a proud reflection of our journey towards inclusion and empowerment within the RFMF,” Lt Col Varawa said.

Lt Col Varawa congratulated the winners of this year’s competitions, noting their achievements as setting a new standard for future events.

“Your performance has set a strong benchmark this year, one that will no doubt inspire even greater determination and competition as we look ahead to Infantry Week 2026.”

In his closing remarks, Lt Col Varawa called on all participants to carry the spirit and lessons of Infantry Week into their daily duties.

“As we close Infantry Week 2025, let us give thanks for the unity, spirit, and pride that this week has reinforced in us all. May we carry its lessons and its purpose with us throughout the rest of the year.”

The annual Infantry Week serves as a vital platform to strengthen operational readiness, celebrate regimental traditions, and foster partnerships with regional allies.

𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿-𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗶 𝗦𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀

𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:

1. New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF)

2. 3FIR Support Company (SPT COY)

3. 3FIR Rapid Respond Infantry Company Group (RRICG)

𝘽𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙨𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥:

· Gold – LCPL Folau (NZDF)

· Silver – PTE Tikomailevukai (SPT COY)

· Bronze – PTE Nabuli (RRICG)

𝙎𝙪𝙠𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙡𝙪 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙝𝙮:

· Joint Winners – HQ RFMF & NZDF

𝘽𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙈𝙖𝙡𝙚:

· PTE Hotai (NZDF)

𝘽𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙁𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙚:

· OS Rokowati (RFMF Navy)