Mobility Devices from O'Connor Deliver Independence and Hope in Fiji

MR RICK WILSON MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR O’CONNOR

24^th August 2026

Mobility Devices from O'Connor Deliver Independence and Hope in Fiji

Federal Member for O'Connor Rick Wilson has returned from Fiji after joining a colourful celebration for the delivery of a sea container of mobility aids donated by communities across regional Western Australia to people in Fiji living with disability.

The Mobility Devices for Fiji project was inspired by Albany-based pastor and Australian-Fijian community leader, Joseph Raikoti, who identified an opportunity to give unused mobility equipment a second life and improve the lives of Fijians living with disability.

The shipment included wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, walking frames and other essential mobility devices collected by volunteers throughout the O'Connor electorate.

"It was incredibly moving to meet recipients and see firsthand the difference these devices will make," Mr Wilson said.

"These aids provide more than mobility. They provide independence, dignity, opportunity and inclusion."

Mr Wilson travelled to Suva with Pastor Joseph to attend the official handover hosted by the Fiji Disabled Peoples Federation. The event was attended by Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, who acknowledged the positive impact the equipment will have on the lives of Fijians living with disability.

Mr Wilson thanked the Rotary Club of Albany City, Rotary Club of Suva Peninsula Sunset and the Rotary Clubs of Esperance, Katanning and Manjimup for their support, along with the many volunteers who helped collect, store, ship and distribute the equipment.

Special acknowledgement was also given to Geoff Griffiths and family for coordinating collections in Albany, and Rhys and Tracy Ravenhill for providing free storage facilities for the donated equipment.

"This project demonstrates the generosity and compassion of people across regional Western Australia," Mr Wilson said.

"It is a wonderful example of communities working together across borders to create life-changing outcomes for others."

"Projects such as this remind us that the strongest relationships between nations are often built not through governments but through communities, churches, service organisations and ordinary individuals achieving extraordinary outcomes."

ENDS

Media contact: Reuben Keyser
Communications and Community Engagement Adviser
[email protected] 
(08) 9842 2777
0455 125 035