Australia Supports Launch of New Dive Centre in Gizo
Fatboys Resort has now launched its new Dive Centre in Gizo, Western Province – a significant step in growing Solomon Islands’ dive tourism industry.
Fatboys has long been ranked one of the best tourism operators in Solomon Islands on TripAdvisor by its growing numbers of international tourists.
The resort has now moved into dive tourism, after the closure of two established operators in 2023 due to impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. It has invested its own resources to build a fully equipped dive shop, purchase dive equipment, and recruit an experienced dive instructor. Plans are also underway to construct new accommodation units for divers seeking to stay on-site.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, welcomed the launch and reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting the growth of tourism in Solomon Islands.
“Diving is one of Solomon Islands’ most unique attractions, and this new dive centre will help the sector recover and grow. Australia is pleased to partner with local tourism operators such as Fatboys to strengthen tourism, create more local jobs, and bring economic benefits to communities in Western Province,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
Australia supported the development of Fatboys’ new Dive Centre by financing the purchase of a customised dive boat and the construction of a new jetty for divers’ arrivals and departures.
Owner of Fatboys Resort, William Brody Ewing, said the dive centre is a milestone for both the resort and the wider tourism sector.
“Fatboys has always been committed to offering world-class experiences to our guests. Expanding into diving allows us to diversify our services, support the recovery of the sector, and showcase the incredible underwater attractions of Solomon Islands to more visitors,” he said.
The new dive centre will not only attract divers from around the world but also generate wider benefits for Western Province by creating employment, increasing tourism revenue, and strengthening the resilience of the local economy.
Through these partnerships, Australia is supporting Solomon Islands’ tourism sector, building business resilience, and inclusive economic growth.
Source: Australian High Commission, Solomon Islands
