MV Torba Rose to boost TORBA-Port Vila Connectivity
January 21, 2025 10:41 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Doddy Morris.
The arrival of the MV Torba Rose in TORBA Province is set to boost fast transportation from TORBA to Port Vila, with plans to align its schedule with the Vanuatu Ferry’s arrival and departure in Santo.
During the welcome ceremony yesterday, the President of the TORBA Provincial Government Council (TPGC), Edgar Howard, called for better transport coordination to improve connectivity between TORBA Province and Port Vila.
Currently, residents traveling from TORBA to Port Vila must rely on any available ship coming to Sola. From there, they travel to Santo, where, if their arrival does not coincide with the Vanuatu Ferry’s departure, they may have to wait up to two weeks before continuing to Port Vila.
The introduction of the MV Torba Rose promises quicker access to Port Vila, allowing TORBA residents to travel more efficiently between the province and the capital.
“Today marks another milestone as we witness an improvement in shipping services in TORBA Province, which will accelerate the pace of development in Sola and the communities of our province through the services of MV Torba Rose,” he said.
President Howard expressed gratitude to Brett Kerr, the visionary behind the project, and the TPGC for approving Kerr’s proposal.
“As President of the TORBA Provincial Government Council, I am happy and proud to express my gratitude to God and to Mr. Kerr for bringing this vision to life. Thank you to the Provincial Technical Advisory Committee (PTAC) and the TPGC for recognising and approving Mr. Kerr’s proposal, which we now see bearing positive results,” he said.
Mr. Kerr, a long-time resident of TORBA, was recognised for his dedication to resolving the province’s transportation issues. He commented on the importance of dependable shipping services to support local businesses, hospitality providers, and farmers.
However, according to Kerr, the primary objective is to ensure shipping reliability and continuous service, allowing the people of TORBA easier access to transportation. The community needs a weekly routine, which is why they have established their own ship.
The TPGC plans to use the MV Torba Rose to stimulate economic activity in the province. Future developments include establishing a store, bakery, and butchery to supply retail shops, with the ship playing a vital role in these initiatives.
“The decision to support this initiative will bring changes that boost economic activities in TORBA Province. The TPGC will work closely with Mr. Kerr to implement these plans,” President Howard conveyed during the ceremony.
“Once we work together, we will see development happening around us. TPGC is proud and promises to work alongside you.”
A seasonal worker in Australia, Ray Tagai, also shared his thoughts about the new vessel, stating it will help them a lot, especially as seasonal workers who travels a lot.
“I am very happy about the new development in TORBA Province, where we have just received shipping service through Torba Rose. I think in past years we have faced many challenges with transportation,” he said.
“With Torba Rose, I believe that we, especially workers in Australia and New Zealand, will have big opportunities in terms of transportation. To conclude my message, I want to say thank you to the owner of Torba Rose and the authorities in TORBA Province.”
The arrival of the MV Torba Rose signals the start of a transformative phase for TORBA Province. By aligning its schedule with the Vanuatu Ferry, which services Santo and Malekula before returning to Port Vila, the new vessel will improve connectivity and economic prospects. With enhanced transport and ambitious development plans, TORBA Province is on the path to sustainable growth.
