By Nate Priebbenow and Nayda Hernandez
Prime Minister of Samoa, Hon. Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa, received a warm welcome from hundreds of local residents on October 6 during her three-day visit to celebrate Samoan Independence Day.
The community was thrilled to host her official visit, which began at the Hosanna Lighthouse Church in Ellen Grove organised by the dedicated Queensland Fast Family and Communities of Australia committee.
The day commenced with the raising of the flag, followed by a traditional Samoan welcome featuring singing and heartfelt embraces.
The morning was filled with rich tradition, culture, and dance, creating a vibrant atmosphere of celebration.
One notable cultural custom involved the laying of the elders’ staves onto a mat in the centre of the hall, symbolising their allegiance to the Prime Minister.
As the first female Prime Minister of Samoa, Madam Mata’afa’s presence served as a source of inspiration for the women in attendance.
During her visit, she took the time to speak with The Lake News and expressed how much she was enjoying her time connecting with the Samoan community.
She noted that this visit felt particularly significant after her previous trip to the country in 2023, which had allowed little opportunity for community engagement.
Madam Mata’afa’s visit, which spanned from Friday, October 4, to Monday, October 7, coincided with the long weekend and included speeches, congregational songs, donations, and a series of cultural customs.
Hosanna Church pastor Joshua Avia extended a heartfelt thank you to the committee, the volunteers, The Lake News, Heritage Bank Forest Lake, and the community for participating and donating to this once-in-a-lifetime local event.
“It was a great honour to host the Samoan Prime Minister and other dignitaries at the Lighthouse in Ellen Grove,” he said.
“Having the first woman elected to Samoan Parliament at our community hall was truly a dream come true. Her presence brought us face-to-face with a humble, visionary, and globally respected leader.”
(Left to right) The Lake News journalist Nate Priebbenow, Samoan Prime Minister Hon. Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa, Nayda Hernandez and Xavier Hernandez.
The official party held at Hosanna Church in Ellen Grove in honour of Samoan Independence Day.
