A half-billion dollar COVID-19 quarantine facility in Melbourne's north will be closed after just eight months in operation following a drop in demand. The Centre for National Resilience in Mickleham opened in February to house international travellers, frontline workers and Victorian community members, but housed just 2,168 residents. It equates to a cost of more than $267,000 per resident during the quarantine hub's life span. The government said a decrease in COVID cases across the state had led to a drop in demand for quarantine accommodation at the site. The facility will close next week, with a small number of staff working to shut down the site until it is handed back to the federal government at the beginning of next year. Police Minister Anthony Carbines defended the facility's usefulness and said it would continue to be of use during future emergencies. "The Victorian Quarantine Hub has served its purpose in keeping Victorians safe from COVID-19. Its closure is another step in our recovery from the pandemic," Mr Carbines said. "Australia needed these facilities before the pandemic first hit – but this important facility now exists as an insurance policy in the event of a future pandemic, or to provide accommodation in emergencies like natural disasters." Source: ABC .com

A 36-year-old man died after collapsing while running the London Marathon, organisers have confirmed. The man, from south-east England, became unwell between miles 23 and 24 of the 26.2-mile event. He received immediate medical treatment and an ambulance arrived within three minutes but he died later in hospital. His cause of death is not yet known. In a statement, London Marathon Events expressed its "sincere condolences" to the man's family and friends. The organisation said his relatives had requested privacy at this time, adding: "No further details will be released in accordance with their wishes. "The cause of death will be established later through medical examination." Source: BBC

September was a busy month for UNFPA and our partners. As the lead UN agency for young people, UNFPA leveraged traditional haus man/meri platforms as spaces for intergenerational exchanges. The Youth Dialogue held with the provincial government in Alotau, Milne Bay Province, revealed leverage points for progress (health, education, and jobs) and showed clearly that trust-building involving law and order, together with mutual responsibility for the future were takeaways to guide our work into the next country program. The health system in PNG is critical in to the Government's development goals and it is also an entry point to build trust with the public. In the Momase Region, UNFPA conducted a Reproductive Health Commodity Supply Chain training under our DFAT-funded C-Surge program. This is part of a comprehensive strategy for health sector capacity building involving many more partners. For example, for a decade DFAT has been supporting the roll-out of a Health Information Management System which this week was extended across the Information Management System which this week was extended across the country (congrats to colleague for that!), and UNFPA's work to build capacity on M-Supply, the Logistics Information Management System, is a part of this. Our best advocates for that system will be the health workers themselves. When they see the results of our collective efforts, we are one step closer to delivering a health system that leaves no-one behind. This leads to an important day observed annually on the 26th of September, World Contraception Day. UNFPA works to deliver a world with zero unmet need for family planning. We use "family planning" a lot because there is a hesitancy to speak of "sexual and reproductive health". But when we shy away from candid conservations, we miss opportunities to protect vulnerable population and, in some cases, also save lives. Our mission requires us to have the courage to challenge social norms and behaviors that are harmful to people. Usually when we create opportunities for dialogue, we discover that people are not opposed to contraception per se, but that both men and women are confused about who has a right to use them, how to use them, and what choices they have, and there is too much stigma attached to the use of condoms. It's been a decade since PNG held a national condom campaign, STIs and HIV are on the rise PNG. Too many people living with HIV prefer not to know their status and do not access drugs that can suppress the infection. As a result, we have more children born with HIV. In a world with 1 million new sexually transmitted infections identified daily, we must break away from the idea that condoms are only for sex workers or other key populations. We must find entry points for discussion about how we manage our intimate relationships- emotionally and physically. That's why we are excited for our upcoming event "Condomize!" Together with NDOH, National Aids Council, UNAIDs and the Global Fund and CSO partners we're going to relaunch the conversation that saves lives.

Titans forward David Fifita is expected to pull on a Tonga jersey for the first time in next weekend's World Cup warm-up match against France after arriving in England with the Pacific nation's squad. Fifita is one of 21 NRL stars in the 24-man Mate Ma'a Tonga squad, which includes NSW Origin representatives Daniel Tupou and Siosifa Talakai, as well as rookie Panthers halfback Isaiya Katoa and hooker Soni Luke. The strength of Kristian Woolf's squad is highlighted by the players either unavailable or overlooked, including injured Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs, Wests Tigers forward Joe Ofahengaue and Bulldogs enforcer Tavita Pangai jnr. World Cup veterans Andrew Fifita and David Fusitu'a, who were key members in the stunning rise of the Pacific nation at the 2017 World Cup, will also miss the upcoming tournament in England. Tonga captain Will Hopoate, his St Helens team-mate Konrad Hurrell and Huddersfield playmaker Tui Lolohea are the three Super League players in the squad. Fifita, Tupou, Talakai, Titans prop Moeaki Fotuaika, Warriors forward Ben Murdoch-Masila and Broncos fullback Tesi Niu are others who didn't feature in the mid-season Test against the Kiwis. [caption id="attachment_27868" align="alignnone" width="840"] Titans back-rower David Fifita[/caption] The squad was announced on the Tonga Rugby League Official social media accounts on Monday. Tonga, who are ranked No.2 on the IRL World Rankings, open their World Cup campaign against Papua New Guinea at St Helens on October 18 before meeting Wales and Cook Islands in their remaining pool matches. Star forward Jason Taumalolo will miss the opening two matches as well this weekend's warm-up clash with France in Halifax after receiving a three-game ban for a tackle in North Queensland's semi-final defeat by Parramatta. Mate Ma'a Tonga Talatau Amone (St George Illawarra Dragons) David Fifita (Gold Coast Titans) Addin Fonua-Blake (Warriors) Moeaki Fotuaika (Gold Coast Titans) Siliva Havili (South Sydney Rabbitohs) William Hopoate (St Helens Saints) Konrad Hurrell (St Helens Saints) Isaiya Katoa (Penrith Panthers) Sione Katoa (Cronulla Sharks) Felise Kaufusi (Melbourne Storm) Keaon Koloamatangi (South Sydney Rabbitohs) Toluta’u Koula (Manly Sea Eagles) Tui Lolohea (Huddersfield Giants) Soni Luke (Penrith Panthers) Ben Murdoch-Masila (Warriors) Tesi Niu (Brisbane Broncos) Haumole Olakau’atu (Manly Sea Eagles) Will Penisini (Parramatta Eels) Mosese Suli (St George Illawarra Dragons) Siosifa Talakai (Cronulla Sharks) Tevita Tatola (South Sydney Rabbitohs) Siosiua Taukeiaho (Sydney Roosters) Jason Taumalolo (North Queensland Cowboys) Daniel Tupou (Sydney Roosters) Source: NRL. Com

The new Minister for Youth, Community Development and Religion made a courtesy visit to the office of National Youth Development Authority today. The Huon Gulf Member and Minister for Youth, Community Development and Religion Jason Peter was accompanied by the Department Secretary, Mr. Jerry Ubase were warmly welcome by NYDA Director General, Mr. Joe Itaki and his staff. The minister's visit to the office of NYDA is to get the feel of the office environment, it's operations and meet and greet with staff. The Hon. Minister was happy to see staff in professional attire and gathered on time for the meet. This reflects commitment and dedication to youth work and the desire to serve the state. The Minister shared his life's journey in brief as how he faced life in his youthful times from the slumbers of West Taraka in Lae and believe the operations of this office has important tasks on hand for the upbringing young elites of tomorrow. Source: National Youth Development Authority  FB Page

Providing a revitalized facility for children to study stimulates an encouraging learning environment for children,” says Head of BSP Credit Inspection, Mukesh Madho when handing over a completed refurbished project by Group Compliance team to Callan Resource Center Services Special School for Children with disabilities in Gerehu recently. The Gerehu Callan Resource Center Services Special School for Children with disabilities welcomed a refurbished building with new office furniture, equipment and stationeries for their learning. This was part of the BSP Group Compliance team’s 2022 community project initiative, which saw repairs done on the roof and ceiling, landscaping around the premises, and repainting of the building both inside and the exterior walls. The team also donated a computer set, 2 printers, stationeries and educational charts, reading books, five office desks, five office chairs, a conference table and medical kit including a wheelie bin for trash. Callan Services Board Member & Administrator Priscilla Kare applauded the BSP Group Compliance team for the great work done at the center saying, “We feel very important that BSP has once again stepped in to boost learning at this center.” “It may sound small but this has a bigger impact on our children, especially for children in this special school. This project will provide an equal and accessible education through an inclusive learning environment for all,” Mukesh Madho said, “Improving the quality of learning for all children is our objective for this project, especially for children with disabilities, hence, supporting teachers is also vital in promoting inclusion for special schools that teach children with special needs.” “We believe in providing such opportunity gives these children the chance to learn under a conducive environment and boost them to acquire more and feel loved by the community, “added Mr Madho. The Gerehu Callan Resource Center Services Special School project is the 28 out of the 49 projects handed back to the communities under the 2022 BSP Community Project initiative, all coordinated and organised by the bank’s different branches, departments, units, subsidiaries and the countries in which BSP operates in.

Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) was pleased to have been a part of the Internal Revenue Commission’s (IRC) General Tax Awareness Workshop for Micro Small Medium (MSMEs) Businesses, held at the APEC Haus from Tuesday to Friday last week. The awareness focused on educating registered taxpayers about how to complete and submit tax returns and documents to the IRC, keep proper business records, calculate their taxes and what taxes need to be paid. It also covered practical aspects of Company Income Tax, Goods and Services Tax, Salary and Wages Tax and the IRC’s Tax Services. The NSL team set up an information booth and had the opportunity to talk to business owners about the importance of superannuation for their employees and how this can help set them apart as an employer of choice. NSL’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Paul Sayer said ,“We are thankful to the IRC for giving us the opportunity to meet with these emerging leaders in the MSME space to talk with them about superannuation and compliance, as well as, the products and services offered by NSL”. “NSL maintains a strong relationship with the IRC and shares a common goal of encouraging good governance and financial compliance for the improved economic growth and stability of the Country.” “We aim to continue working with the IRC and other stakeholders to educate our Members of the benefits of good financial practices for use in both their personal and business lives”, he added. NSL also provides free awareness sessions, counselling and training to help Members take advantage of products like Voluntary Contributions, Retirement Savings Accounts and Choice Super to ensure they are maximizing their savings potential for a better future. Nambawan Super is prioritising the education of its 214,000 Members by offering FREE Financial Literacy Training which aims to help Members develop good financial practices. The fully certified NSL Financial Literacy Training offers Members five modules that cover the following topics:  Module 1 – Taking Charge of Personal Finances  Module 2 – NSL Superannuation Products and Services  Module 3 – Planning for Retirement  Module 4 – Buying Your Own Home  Module 5 – Financial Literacy Skills for MSMEs The Fund encourages all Members to enquire about the Financial Literacy Training and other services through the NSL Call Centre or at their local Branch.

Visitors to the 59th Morobe Show on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th October 2022, will have the opportunity to learn more about the National Superannuation Fund, Nasfund, as its showcases its products and services at this annual event. Over the two days, visitors to the Nasfund exhibit at Bay 14 will be able to check their Nasfund account balances,1 update their membership details, register for the Fund’s TextBal and online services, and be issued new Nasfund membership ID cards. Entrepreneurs who are involved in micro and small to medium enterprises (MSMEs) will also be able to register to save for retirement through the Fund’s Eda Supa product. Nasfund Chief Executive Officer Ian Tarutia says this event is an important part of the Fund’s engagement with its membership, particularly as Lae, Morobe Province, has the second highest concentration of Nasfund membership. “Morobe Province accounts for more than 110,000 Nasfund members. This number is expected to increase, given the increasing activity that is taking place, particularly with major investment projects set to begin in the coming months. As a Fund, we recognize these developments, and have taken steps to ensure we are ready to meet this impending demand, both in the formal and informal sector. We are pleased to have recently opened a second member service centre in the heart of Lae city, and are continually ramping our engagements with members through employer visits, and awareness sessions. The Morobe Show provides another opportunity for the Fund to interact with our members, some of whom who may not have time during the week. First held in 1959, this show is one of the longest running annual events which showcases a variety of exhibits from across the agriculture, horticulture, livestock, commercial, industry, education and culture sectors – all sectors which provide a large part of our membership. We encourage our members to visit us at Bay 14, where our friendly staff will be more than happy to provide you with information on what your Fund is doing to add value to you while you work, while we safeguard your retirement savings, so that you are ready for tomorrow.”

CAPTAIN Courageous Raymond Gunemba has created history to lead PNG Prime Minister Xl Men Soccer Team to the inaugural MSG Prime Minister’s Cup in Port Vila, Vanuatu. PNG won through penalty shoot-out 4-1 after both teams drew 2-2 at regular time, and 3-3 at extra time. The full time score is 7-4. From a football family, Gunemba’s passion of football builds around his father Peter who is one of the best brains in football in Morobe province. Coach Peter Gunemba was the mainstay behind the rise of Lae City Dwellers until Lae Biscuit company Ian Chow took over the franchise to name it Lae Toti FC. He has great influence in the football career of his children lives his sons Raymond, Troy and daughters Judith and Meagan taking up football. Interestingly, both Meagan and his brother Raymond has set a legacy with both leading the women and men’s national soccer team to victory. Brother Troy is the assistant coach to the PNG U19 team to Tahiti while Judith is a senior women’s referee with Morobe Football Association in Lae. Meagan played a leading role as co-captain to help PNG NWT to win the OFC Women Nations Cup in Fiji and now brother Raymond skippered PNG Prime Minister Xl Men Soccer team to win the inaugural MSG Prime Minister Cup in Vanuatu. Men Coach Harrison Kamake described the Gunemba sibling as unique in football history – with both sister-brother winning the respective football tournament. He also pointed out that PNG’s young midfielder Joseph Waiwai will become another story of its own. Young Joseph wasn’t born when his father Wesley Waiwai was part of the PNG winning team that won the Melanesian Cup (now MSG Cup) in Lae. Joseph who is following his father’s football and took up football to become the member of the winning team, winning the inaugural MSG Prime Ministers Cup in Vanuatu. The former fearless striker Waiwai was a member of the team with current coach Harrison Kamake, Francis Moiyap and captain Geoffrey Emang plus many others. Joseph’s mother is former PNG basketballer, Emma Launch Waiwai. PNG men’s skipper described the victory as sweet as ever. He dedicated the PNG’s victory at the MSG Prime Minister’s cup final to Lord God. He said it is not easy playing in front of the home crowd which was a great challenge. “I must thank the players for holding onto the 90th minute of football including extra time and during the penalty shoot-out to pool this historic win at the inaugural tournament. I gave full credit to all the players including those on the bench for getting behind us to win this match,” he said. “It was a very big challenge when you are trailing in most part of the game and eventually won the match in the penalty shoot-out. And I want to thank the good Lord for courage and stamina to keep us going extra miles in the match. I just want to say thank you God,” he said. A very big thank you to PNG Community in Port Vila who came and stuck with us through all four matches and eventually won the Cup. The win is for every Papua New Guinean living abroad like Vanuatu and back at home, Mr Gunemba said.

BSP Group CEO Robin Fleming is among five Papua New Guineans who have been accorded the honorary title of Professor by the University of Papua New Guinea’s School of Business and Public Policy for their contribution to the country as well as standing in the community. UPNG Vice Chancellor Professor Frank Griffin announced this on Monday 3rd October 2022, during his opening remarks at the UPNG Human Resource (HR) Day, hosted by third year HR Management students from the School of Business & Public Policy. The theme for the day was “Graduate readiness for the future of work’ and before the guest speaker, Mr Fleming, could give his keynote address to the students, Professor Griffin announced the recognition for the BSP Group CEO who has contributed 42 years of service in PNG. “In any academic institutions especially in universities, the school/faculty have the option of appointing certain people in the public arena because of their expertise. Earlier this year the University of Papua New Guinea through the school of Business and Public Policy Senate agreed to appoint five distinguished Papua New Guineans because of their standing in public and what they have contributed to the country. Mr Fleming was among those put forward and the Senate approved to accord him the title Honorary Professor in Banking and Finance,” Professor Griffin announced. [caption id="attachment_27807" align="alignnone" width="906"] BSP Waigani Banking Centre’s Branchless Banking Officers Malachi Apisai and Tovi Kapituakana assisting students with Account Opening and Digital banking Registration.[/caption] Humbled by the title, Mr Fleming thanked Vice Chancellor Griffin and UPNG for the recognition before proceeding to give his keynote address, in which he highlighted BSP’s Core Values to the students; Integrity, Quality, Professionalism, Leadership, Teamwork, Community and People – to the many attendees. “Human Resources is all about people. Businesses is all about people. When I first commenced working the department responsible for our staff was called staff department, then personnel department, then human resources, and then many other variations including talent management. Over the years, various expert consultants have changed the name in ways which subtly removes people from the purpose of the function. .While the workplace of the future in 10 years’ time will be different from what we experience today, and will use many different analytical and management tools, the purpose and reason of a Human Resources team will still be about our people. Human Resource and business is all about people and will remain about people,” Mr Fleming said. [caption id="attachment_27812" align="alignnone" width="906"] UPNG Vice Chancellor Professor Frank Griffin shaking hands with BSP Group CEO Robin Fleming after his keynote address to the HRM students on Monday 3rd October, 2022.[/caption] “In the 46 years of my work life, 42 years spent in PNG, I’ve learnt many things; the first is never think the current theory or proposition of work and the workplace will continue to hold true. We have seen in recent years the experts tell us the workplace of the future, post Covid will change, adapting to technology like zoom without the need for interaction of staff in the workforce . What that proposed change fails to tell us is that we are dealing with people. People need full interaction, need to be engaged in conversations and know whom they are working for and with. Zoom is a temporary tool for communication but is not an effective mode for engagement with staff,” Mr Fleming added. BSP was the platinum sponsor of the HR Day, supporting students with K10,000 that went towards staging the event. On Friday 30th September, 2022, BSP Group GM for Human Resources, Ms Hari Rabura presented the cheque to the organizing committee. She said BSP was pleased to support the event as such initiatives create opportunities for both the university and the potential employers to understand and work towards ensuring graduate readiness.

Prolific South Sydney try scorer Alex Johnston and Melbourne backs Justin Olam and Xavier Coates headline an experienced Papua New Guinea squad for upcoming World Cup. Johnston, the back-to-back Ken Irvine Medallist as the NRL's leading tryscorer, an the Storm pair will be joined by a host of familiar faces, including Rhyse Martin, Lachlan Lam, Nene Macdonald, Watson Boas and Wellington Albert. Fresh from clinching the Championship Player of the Year in England and helping Leigh to a place in the 2023 Super League, hooker Edwin Ipape also joins the side. "I wanted players with experience, but I also couldn't look past the players that did well in the Pacific Test," Kumuls coach Stanley Tepend said. "The bond they made and the sense of loyalty for winning that match is something to keep together. Players with the right attitude were the ones picked because that's what's important for the longer camp. "The players in the UK have all been part of our Kumuls team in the past, and whenever they've worn the jersey none of them have let Papua New Guinea down. They're all in good form and have all played together before, so getting them settled into camp shouldn't be any issue." Source: NRL.com

Makenzy Beard is holding her first solo exhibition at the Blackwater Gallery in Cardiff, with some of her paintings selling for as much as £23,000. The 15-year-old from Swansea only started to paint in March 2020 during the first lockdown, turning a garden shed into an art studio. Some of her work has been displayed at the Royal Academy of Arts in London. "It's really exciting and strange to see my work displayed, going there and being there with people wanting to chat to me about my work," she said. Source: BBC News