BY ALFRED PAGEPITU
GIZO
WESTERN province’s culture and tourism division officially has handed over one of its funded projects to Oravae Cottage in Gizo, Western province.
Yesterday’s handing over ceremony was organised at the Oravae Cottage, which is a 20-minute boat ride from Gizo Island.
The jetty is one of the tourism projects initiated by the province with support from the national ministry of culture and tourism (MCT).
In April 2016, Western province Premier Wayne Maepioh and his delegation submitted a $5-million proposal through the province’s tourism division to MCT.
Western province’s minister of culture and tourism, Christian Mesepitu yesterday said that a good number of projects were being funded. They include; the Njari Island Jetty, Kennedy Island, Saeragi jetty, Gizo town toilet facilities, BSP bank leaf huts and benches, MSG building extension, Gizo town Council rubbish compactor have been achieved.
“Most of the projects was been handed to the recipients last year by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
“I would like to acknowledge the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for the assistance rendered in the development of tourism sector in our province.
“Solomon Island National government and provincial and the current ruling government sincerely appreciate the fostering of such partnership.”
Mr Mesepitu said the handover ceremony testifies the commitment and mutual partnership between the two governments, and this is something which the current Western province government appreciates.
Owner of Oravae Cottage Patson Baea acknowledged the Western province supervising Premier, Bruce Herick, Mr Mesepitu, provincial government officials and invited guests for witnessing the handing over ceremony.
He also acknowledged the contractors for completing the project.
The project cost $220,439.24.
Oravae Cottage has one bedroom with double beds, plus an additional four single beds in the spacious living area.
The cottage also contains a kitchenette and an indoor shower and toilet, plus an additional outdoor shower.
The highlight, undoubtedly, is the over-water verandah that leads right out over a beautiful blue lagoon, complete with hammocks and deck chairs.