Pearl farmers in Fiji will soon benefit after the Australian International Agricultural Research Centre donated $AUS150,000 today to the Ministry of Fisheries.
While handing over the cheque, University of the Sunshine Coast Professor, Paul Southgate says they have made an assessment of the damage and they have noted the most immediate requirements.
Southgate says they are having discussions with the Ministry of Fisheries on further support for the rehabilitation of the Fijian Pearl industry through the provision of infrastructure required by the industry to maintain the supply of oysters.
He says they are trying to replace some of the vital infrastructure required which helps communities and pearl farmers collect juvenile pearl oysters which will be used later in the Pearl production.
He says the Pearl industry helps the livelihood of all Fijians.
He adds Fiji Pearl is very unique in its different color ranges which make them very marketable.
Meanwhile, Director Fisheries, George Madden says Fiji Pearl industry have lost more than a million dollars in the devastation of Cyclone Winston.
