TRIATHLON: One of the most heavily affected areas of Fiji following Cyclone Winston earlier this year was the Yasawa Islands and the Airlie Beach Triathlon is doing it's bit to lift the spirits of the remote communities.

For the last three years the triathlon has conducted a 'Sports Drive' through the local schools and organsiers are once again encouraging the community to donate sports shoes, sports clothing and sporting gear to Vinaka Fiji on race day.

Vinaka Fiji was founded by the staff members of commercial tourism operations in the area, keen to say thank you ('vinaka' in Fijian) for allowing them to share their paradise with guests after it quickly became apparent that in reality, the villagers live far from the 'paradise' that first meets the eye. The villagers struggle from day to day with immense shortages of clean drinking water, little to no health services or facilities, poor nutrition, a lack of educational support and supplies, inadequate power and no sustainable way of life. The charity funds projects, places volunteers in communities and in marine conservation as well as working within the education system.

Race Director Steve Jackson said with sport such a positive part of the Fijian lifestyle, he wanted to contribute. "Triathletes are famous for their gear, and with kids always growing out of their shoes and clothes, having an opportunity to share excess sporting goods seemed like a win-win. Once a year, we can clear the cupboards and put a smile on the faces of others," he said.

Both Reef Safari and Cruise Whitsundays have sister operations in the region and have been instrumental in assisting the Triathlon Club getting their donations to the region. Donations for the drive will be accepted at local schools and at the office of Reef Safari in specially marked bins donated by JJ Richards.

Vinaka Fiji is just one of two charities supported by the event, with Ronald McDonald House the beneficiary of financial donations made by competitors. Donations are made by participants during the registration process and help Ronald McDonald House cater for Whitsunday families who travel to Townsville for extended medical care. Last year over 45 families from across the region stayed for an average of over two weeks. For anybody interested in assisting either organisation, contact Steve Jackson on 0408 236 483.