About Us

THE COMPANY

The prawn farm was established in 1989 by James & Judy Tilbury through their company NAVUA HOLDINGS LTD trading as PACIFIC PRAWNS (FIJI). From pilot project start, the venture has gradually grown to 8 growout ponds, 2 broodstock ponds, processing factory, and well established market. More production expansion is under way.

James Tilbury, prior to commencing the prawn farm in Fiji, was a Fisheries Economist with Queensland Primary Industries, Fisheries Management, one area of responsibility being assessment of aquaculture projects and advising potential investors. In 1999 he was appointed to a Consultative Committee charged with development of strategies for implementation of the Commodity Development Framework, a Ministry initiative to stimulate growth of key sectors of agriculture. Aquaculture was considered a key element in this initiative. He was an invited panellist at the 2006 National Economic Summit.

Many groups have visited the farm, including Government Ministers, senior civil servants, University study tours and school groups. The highlight has been the visit of Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, then President of the Republic of Fiji Islands.

In 1996, NHL was engaged as Consultants to Viti Corps Ltd, a Government agri-business corporation, to investigate feasibility of establishment of freshwater tilapia farming on the company's rice land at Navua. The Feasibility Study was adopted and NHL supervised the implementation, from design and construction to stocking and first harvest.

THE FARM

The prawn farm is situated at Navua and is 240 acres in total, freehold. Navua is on the Queen's Road, 30 kms from Suva on the southern side of Viti Levu, the main island.

The farm is special in that it has access to both fresh and salt water in unlimited quantities, totally pollution-free, making it ideal for prawn production or any other form of aquaculture, fresh or salt water species. Flat land, clay-based soil, absence of acid-sulphate and pesticides combine to provide an ideal production area. Nutrient-rich pond water, when exchanged, is released into the mangrove system to stimulate the breeding environment.

The farm comprises 8 x 8000 sq.m (2 acre) growout ponds and 2 broodstock ponds, with all the requisite infrasturucture, pumps, aeration, generators, freezers etc for a successful small-scale operation.

THE REGION

Navua is a small rural town situated on the Navua River, about 40 minutes from the capital city of Suva, 10 minutes from Pacific Harbour, and two hours from the international airport at Nadi. Services provided include post office, police station, supermarkets, hardware stores, sports arenas, provincial government offices, hospital and court house. Navua services a regional population of approximately 10,000. The hinterland is flat, rich delta country, with an extensive irrigation scheme, rising to the magnificent Namosi and Serua Ranges. The waterfalls, rainforest and dramatic rock sculptures are breathtaking. Tour companies operate whitewater rafting, kayaking, and cultural village expeditions in this region. Pacific Harbour has been described as the Adventure Capital of Fiji. The holiday/retirement residential centre boasts an international resort hotel, a Trent Jones Jr designed 18-hole championship golf course, restaurants, shops, supermarket, cultural centre and museum, post office and police post. Pacific Harbour is the base for activities such as whitewater expeditions, scuba diving trips, game fishing charters, and rainforest trekking.

FIJI

Situated in the hub of the Pacific Ocean, Fiji is rapidly becoming a sought-after safe haven from the troubles of the world. The group comprises three main islands, with some 300 other islands to discover. The current military government is quietly working towards a Constitution acceptable to all, and return to democratic elections. The economy is building with confidence. Investors from all over the world are starting to see the opportunities available, with private sector-driven Government policies, and investment incentives. Fiji remains one of the safest countries in the world. Tourism is a major sector, and the expansion of infrastructure will ensure continuity of growth. The recent 20% devaluation of the currency is a major stimulus to foreign investment.