“We work 24/7 and there is always crew on desk doing shift and charting our ocean for potential threats of illegal poachers, fishing and foreign vessels illegally intruding our ocean,” he said.
Lieutenant Josaia Moceinasavu Buarua, during an inspection check of boat operators in
waters near Macuata Province on November 30, 2023. Photo: Sampras Anand
Being the 3-D of the Fiji Naval Division may sound like a fancy job, but for Lieutenant Josaia Moceinasavu Buarua, this role calls for commitment and a driven passion.
Lt Buarua is a hydrographic surveyor, who has served for 13 years with the Navy.
Upon boarding the RFNS Kikau at Malau Jetty, on Wednesday SunNews met this officer who hails from Navuniivi, Navitilevu in Ra.
He cherishes every moment spent on the job.
Lt Buarua does not shy away from expressing that he is a man, built to take on challenges.
“Yes, I love my job. It is dynamic, there is always something new to learn and to understand our key role to national development, fuels my passion,” he said.
His role involves assisting in facilitation new ocean cover charts and update existing charts.
“We are grateful that we are part of the Fiji Navy and have a life to serve the best interest of our nation,” he said.
Lt Buarua said alertness at all times was the golden mantra in the naval division.
“We work 24/7 and there is always crew on desk doing shift and charting our ocean for potential threats of illegal poachers, fishing and foreign vessels illegally intruding our ocean,” he said.
The job of a hydrographic surveyor is to study the reef system, whether there is changes to its structure, harboring potential risk to vessels and small boats.
They also use state-of-the-art technology to produce detailed plans of seabed, habours and waterways, where they measure map underwater surfaces and study the construction of the seabed.
Lt Buarua said through such exercises, they understood the depth of the ocean in different circumstances of low tide, high tide and changes during lunar eclipses.
Recently married, Lt Buarua, said to be successful in the regimental forces, one must separate work from personal life.
Like most Ra man he is an ardent believer of professionalism at work.
The Fiji Hydrographic Office is part of and administered under the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division and is mandated to chart Fiji waters and maintain the efficiency of ocean charts.
“We work with stakeholders in identifying key areas, routes and places where developments may transition,” he said.
Search and rescue awareness Lt Buarua said the cost associated to conduct a search and rescue operation was a costly exercise.
Therefore, he encouraged all boat operators and those venturing out to sea to practise safety with all essentials at their disposal.
Feedback: sampras.anand@fijisun.com.fj
