It is with sorrow that we report the passing of Jimi Vulavou DAMU on the 9 October. Jimi was a flying Fijian winger who played for the Grammar club during the 1980's. Jimi was a humble man who always sported a great smile and always had a friendly word to say. I also recall both Tia and Jimi hosting a traditional kava ceremony on a number of occassions.

Jimi made a number of appearances for the great Auckland side of the mid 1980's

Jimi played the 1987 Rugby World Cup playing against France in the quarter final, scoring a try. In 2011 Jimi was involved with a number of ex Fijian players who raised funds for Fiji to play in the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Jimi is survived by his wife and daughter and brother Tia who many Grammar club members will also recall.

Provincial Teams

Auckland B 1984, 1985, 1990, 1991.

Auckland 1985, 1986, 1987 [15 games]

Fiji 1985-1987 [4 games]

A service celebrating Jimi's life will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 21 Carruth Road Papatoetoe on Monday 15 October.

Article added: Friday 12 October 2018