LOOKING to get a bird’s-eye view of a Fijian Drua match in Ba?
Then look no further than the big trees on the north and south ends of 4R Stadium.
With a clear view of the field and absolutely no admission fee, all one has to do is find a way up, pick a sturdy branch, and settle in, enjoy the comfort of a cool breeze and good company.
The cliché, “Fiji, the way the world should be,” seems to come alive here, where passionate fans can enjoy the game freely, without being hassled by authorities.
During the Drua’s clash with the ACT Brumbies on Saturday, a historic 42–27 victory, and those perched high in the trees probably had one of the most unique vantage points in the stadium.
Unfazed and dressed in an array of colours, the fans cheered loudly, soaking in every moment of the contest.
Some even kicked things up a notch, turning the branches into makeshift swings as the excitement built.
While the Fijian Drua organisation would no doubt love for those in the high-rise seats to buy tickets and help boost the coffers, in Fiji, it is what it is.
But it is also worth remembering that a tree branch can only hold so much weight.
Add too many fans and they may find themselves quite literally on shaky ground.
And while the climb up may be quick and easy, the trip down could be much harder.
For now, it’s all part of the match-day atmosphere and yet another scene that makes Fiji’s rugby culture so unique but safety should always come first.
Go Drua, go.
