Kerebi DAVID

16 major locations in Moresby Northeast district came alive yesterday, with vibrant colors of red, black, Gold and yellow, with the echoing sounds of the Kundu drums and live bands.Moresby Northeast member and Minister for Climate change and Environment conservation John Kaupa allocated K1.5million for the 51st Independence celebrations in his district in 16 different locations.As a success from the 1st trial last year for mini independence shows, this year was another successful celebration in the district as well.Celebrations were held at YWCA, APEX Park, 6mile Incubation Centre, Saraga, 8 mile, ATS, 9mile, Bomana and all the way up to 14mile.Most event included, traditional dance groups, creative dance group, dwarf dancing, brass band, comedy, flag drawing competition, live bands and the famous greasy pole with a K1000 price money on the greasy pole including other items.Speaking at the 6mile Incubation Centre Mini Independence celebration site on 16th September yesterday, Minister Kaupa thanked everyone who attended and emphasized the importance of Independence celebration as the celebration of identity and freedom.Furthermore, Kaupa’s first Secretary Mr. Jack Ninkama added that every Independence Day is a time to show off your cultural identity in traditional attires.“I thank the Moresby Northeast District development authority under the leadership of Minister Kaupa for organising Mini shows and for putting money to these celebrations so that everyone can participate”.“This shows are home shows, inclusive for all communities to participate, as well as you can celebrate amongst those you know, your security is guaranteed”.Previous years people travel to Ela Beach, Unagi and UPNG and then after celebrations, they are stranded or they become victims of petty thefts and violence but shows done within the communities guarantees their security.“Previous years you were spectators but this time you also participated”, Ninkama added.With the funds allocated for the independence celebrations, all groups and individuals who took part in the celebration across the 16 mini show sites will be paid, adding monetary value to the celebrations, acknowledging time and efforts put in by the participants.

A new bore water project has been launched in Porebada village on Saturday 12th September 2026, by the Hiri LLG vice president and Porebada West councillor Maba Morea. Mr. Maba on behalf of the Hiri Koiari district Development Authority and Hiri local level government, did the official groundbreaking ceremony at Bitogor area, which is within the main Porebada village, for the initial start of the project to start this month.Mr. Morea said water is an essential need for survival which has been lacking in the community for many years.Since being elected as the new councilor he has pledge his support to the Hiri LLG, the Hiri Koiari District Development Authority and the Central Provincial Government to ensure the bore water project is prioritised and pursued for construction to begin with the required funding.The Bitogo landowners’ group from Gunina one clan have given the ultimate support to ensure the bore water project addressed the crucial need of the Porebada community. This project is expected to cost half a million Kina funded by the Hiri-Koiari district Development Authority.Speaking on behalf of the local member Keith Iduhu, Hiri Koiari DDA member Arua Soge said it will be the single biggest project undertaken by the district in the community that will immensely benefit the village for a reliable clean, safe drinking water. With the ELNINO drought taking a toll on the nation, the MotuKoitabu village like Porebada, Roku, Kouderika, Boera, Papa and Lealea are facing severe water crisis. The project once into fruition will relief and improve the community health, reliability, economic savings, promote farming and safe water source that will enhance quality of life. The Motuan villages along the Central coastline have struggled to get safe drinking water since independence in 1975. Water PNG only provides water to the metropolitan city of Port Moresby and has not made its extension to Central province yet. The communities in Central have relied on natural source of water from creeks, rivers, rainfall and bore water for survival.The chairman of the water project committee Doura Morea has thanked the Hiri Koiari district DDA and the Hiri LLG for supporting the community with this life changing project. He said Porebada bore water project is important because it will give the community accessibility to safe, clean, reliable and consistent water supply every day of the year. It protects the children’s health, saves families time, money, and provides the foundation for the school and community to grow. He said water is life, and the bore water ensures life and development can continue even in dry season. The bore water project is expected to be the biggest water source that will supply water supplied to the entire Porebada community with a population of more than ten thousand people. The community has faced chronic water problem although it is a few kilometers away from the nation’s capital. The village was once connected to water by the then Eda Ranu now Water PNG in the 1990s, however the water completely ceased around 2004. Now for more than two decades, the community has been struggling to get clean drinking water.The community currently relies on water supplied by water tanks from Port Moresby. The lack of a reliable water source has affected government institution like Porebada Primary school, Redscar High school, the health center and the community at large, however with this new bore water project launched, it will greatly benefit the people of Porebada. In the meantime, the councilor for Porebada East Mr. Gau Parko has thanked the Member for Hiri Koiari Keith Iduhu and the DDA for the allocation of the fund that will greatly help the Porebada community having access to clean safe water. He also commanded the Gunina one clan members for releasing their land for this vital infrastructure development in the village. 

Porebada community in Hiri Local Level Government, Central province all came together and celebrated 70 years anniversary of education journey and success, from 08th-10th September 2026, Commemorating Porebada primary school's 70th platinum Jubilee anniversary.For those who have passed through, it was moment to reflect on their journey, that they pronounced their first English word in class, collecting shells and folding their fingers to do math, learning environment, culture, positive ethics, Christian faith and adapting to a new education standard that has shaped their dreams and future years on.The school was formally administered by the Australian colonial administration in 1956, after it was previously under the London Missionary society. Over the years it has transitioned through several reforms. 1947- 1956, it was a London Missionary Society school. 1957-1978 it became an area school. From 1979- 1995 was a community school. From 1996- 2026 it became a Primary school.Porebada Primary school has travelled through time and has now reached 70 years of providing preparatory and primary education to the community. It is indeed one of the few schools that was established after World War II, during its infant stages by the London Missionary Society, now the United Church of Papua New Guinea, then the Australian colonial administration. It was later taken over by the Education department after PNG got its independence in 1975. Few of the indigenous inhabitant of the area through their wisdom and a generous heart gave this prime land away to the Church then the Australian Government for a school to be established. That was the decision that has transformed the Porebada community to embrace school and learning, in parallel with their culture and Christian Faith.The teaching of love, hope, forgiveness and faith has shaped the Motuan way of life and believe. Education was later introduced as a catalyst of change in behavior, attitude, respect, dedication, and sacrifice. It became a bridge to learning that leverage civilization, interaction and connectivity with the outside world.The 70th Anniversary event attracted the entire Porebada Community, the nearby motu communities, parents' guardians, former teachers and students as well as other dignitaries.Dignitaries who attended the event include Keith Iduhu, Deputy Opposition leader, and Member for Hiri Koiari, Mr Haoda Rogea, Hiri LLG President. Councillors from Hiri LLG. Gau Parko, Porebada East, Maba Morea, Porebada West. Guba Kevau, Boera Ward 13, Gunia Ova, Papa Ward 14, Tai Doko, Bogi Kampa Ward 15. Billy Tai, Rearea Ward 16. Kaia Podi, Kido Ward 17, Tau Dair, Gaire ward, Rocky Ulato Douveri, Barakau. Hiri SPA Chairman, Porebada Hiri SPA representative Kauna Kin Gau, PNG GAS Resource Ltd Porebada representative Peter Vagi, Pastors of the Porebada 5 Congregation of the United Church, The Church of Christ Pastor, PNG Exxon Mobil delegates, Mr. Gau Eguta, Archie Iviaba, Allan Kealaua, Joanne Tokunai, Gari Morea, and Executive Chairman of the State Negotiation Team, Mr. Dairi Morea Vele.Former students who have passed through the school in the last seven decades made the occasion more electrifying by presenting items with their previous classmates. The groups then presented several gifts to the school administration received by the headmaster Jack Mario.Member for Hiri – Koiari and Deputy Opposition leader Keith Iduhu officiated the ceremony and urged the community to believe in the future of education as the foundation of student progress and prosperity in life. “They say it takes a village to raise a child, and Porebada Primary school is the definition of that truth.” “For 70 years, the strength of the school has not just been its classroom, but the unwavering community built around it."Mr. Iduhu highlighted that the generation of parents and dedicated teachers who poured their love and support into the institution as brought this school this far.“For 70 years Porebada Primary School has played an integral part of our community fabric, continuity, nurturing, shaping and guiding future generation.”  “At this milestone, I want to reflect on the importance of a strong foundation in education. The vital work of our primary school in early childhood learning and literacy outcomes cannot be overstated." Mr. Iduhu said during these early years the bedrock of lifelong learning was established, and this was a priority that the Hiri-Koiari District Development Authority takes very seriously.  Various cultural performances were done by both the elementary and primary students, and the celebration was filled with emotions, laughter and euphorbia as the young students and teachers of Porebada Primary school rewrite their names into the school history.Meanwhile, the school headmaster Mr. Jack Mario, Board Chairman Mr. Taumaku Baru and events chairman Mr. Busina Pune has expressed their gratitude of appreciation to all the participants, sponsors, parents, students, teachers and the organising committees for a successful hosting of the Porebada primary school 70th platinum Jubilee Anniversary. 

The prolong El-Nino has very much dried up all water sources, especially creeks and wells that are used for drinking and cooking.The hardest hit are people from the small outer islands of West New Britain.Families on Lolobau, Bali Vitu and Small Vitu are the worst hit, prompting families to travel out of their islands to look for water supplies in other parts of West New Britain.Hoskins is also facing the same disaster as all 9 wards have no water at all; thus, people are calling on authorities to come in to aid and supply clean water to families affected.West New Britain Provincial Disaster Coordinator Mr. Herman Volele highlighted also that all schools in West New Britain have been advised to run half a day, from 8am to 12pm only and students are dismissed home as all schools do not have any running or clean water supply.“With no running water, all tanks empty, and nowhere to get water, that is a serious sanitation and hygiene problem because this can also lead to other health issues for kids”.Mr. Volele also added that schools located on the islands are strictly advised to finish at 12pm, not only because of the water issue but also due to strong south to southeasterly winds that arises after midday and during the afternoons posing danger for kids travelling by canoes and boats between islands to go to school.  “There is no water plus, strong winds after midday, so as much as possible the safety of our children is paramount at this time of El-Nino disaster”.Full assessment of wildfires caused by heat waves, destruction caused by strong winds including no access to water has been noted by the WNB Disaster office and the full assessment report was presented to the National Disaster Centre in Port Moresby by the WNB Disaster Director Mt Clement Bailey, Volele says.“We are hopeful that with the full report from all assessment being presented, we should get some assistance as soon as possible”.However, in the meantime people of West New Britain are urged to use whatever water they can find wisely and assist one another during this El-Nino disaster until help arrives.

Strong South Easterly winds and drought caused by prolong El-Nino has caused widespread wildfires in West New Britain Province in recent times.People in KandrianGlosta, Talasia and Nakanai Districts have been very badly affected by this El-Nino, as most gardens and creeks run and every vegetable dries up and becomes fire hazard.  Oil Palms in Bialla, Hoskins and other different Local Level Government areas have been destroyed by wildfires.West New Britain Provincial Disaster Coordinator Mr. Herman Volele described the impact of the fire destruction on the oil palms blocks as very devastatedMr. Volele added that due to the strong winds, fire flakes from other burnt-out palms are being carried by wind to another oil palm block, triggering fire in just seconds and in minutes, it spreads to almost all oil palms.“Oil Palms are the livelihood of every family in West New Britain and to lose most oil palm blocks to fire is a very sad situation for those families and block owners.”“Because of the strong wind surges, containing fire is hard, when fire flakes or heat or ashes are blown by the strong winds, it automatically ignites anything flammable in its way”.Mr. Volele said the Provincial Disaster office has carried out awareness and has instructed everyone to remember to pour water on the fire after cooking, and when visiting their gardens, or if any fire is made anywhere, must be properly put out with water, this is to stop any possible fire destructions.“Everyone is also reminded to not make fire unnecessarily because with the current heat wave and the strong winds, fire is our major concern because it can cause the biggest disaster especially in this current weather condition.”Mr. Volele also highlighted that seven (7) family houses were also burnt down to ashes last month, August 21st, 2026, including almost 50 Oil palms and gardens leaving almost 40 families homeless in a village in Hoskins.“We have done full assessment of the fire disaster, and the Provincial Disaster Office gave about K10,000 worth of food rations and water supplies to the affected, including 14 big canvases to use for makeshift shelter.”Mr. Volele further highlighted that the month of July, August, and September are the hottest months, causing so many risks on the lives of people living on the islands, including mainland Kimbe.“Wildfire is very dangerous and all are reminded to stop making unnecessary fire, unless it is intended for cooking food but it must be put out completely after cooking, and during the night all fire must be put out completely with water as we want to avoid loss of lives, properties, homes, gardens and oil palms.”

The water level at the Sirinumu Dam in the Central province is visibly very low with soil now appearing in places once covered by water. This is now a major concern for the surrounding community and also for the city residents of Port Moresby and Central province which the dam supplies water and power to.Mr. Geno Varuna Deputy President for Koiari Local Level Government and Ward Councillor for Sirinumu, stated that this El-Nino is the worst ever felt.He said the dam walls are visible, the earth near the sides of the dam and trees in the middle of the dam are all visible, and this will get worse if this El-Nino persists.“Every morning when we come out of our homes, we can see the differences at the water level and its shrinking daily by centimeters.”He also added that most streams and creeks have dried up already and only about 4 or 5 creeks are still running but very low with so many algae.“All water sources have dried up; the remaining ones are filled with algae and it's not conducive for consumption”, Mr. Varuna said. “We are in dire need of clean drinking water.”“Because most water sources have dried up, we are now using the dam lake for bath, cooking, laundry and drinking, but it is not clean and we will get bacterial infection or typhoid.”Mr. Varuna further added that the Sirinumu Primary school is also facing water shortage. All its tanks are empty, prompting teachers to send kids home around 12pm middays because.“Students do not have clean drinking water even at home and at their schools too, and it is a serious health concern as well and a serious sanitation issue for them”.The people of Sirunumu and the entire Koiari LLG need food security and clean drinking water at this time.Since the Sirinumu dam operation in 1963 to 2026, the people of Sirinumu have shared their water with the entire population of this country that resides in Central Province as well as in Port Moresby, and this very water supply is slowly drying up because of this severe El-Nino.“About 4000 people including children, need food and clean water supply, and we are calling on the relevant authorities to come to our aid at this time when we cannot make food gardens nor get clean water from our creeks and streams.”Mr. Varuna is urging authorities such as PNG Power and Water PNG to come to their aid as it is the Sirinumu peoples’ water that is bringing money and employment for these authorities, and the least PNG Power and Water PNG could do is provide relief assistance to the people of Sirinumu and the Koiari LLG.“We are also calling on the National Disaster Office here in Port Moresby, Hiri Koiari District Development Authority, Central Provincial Government and the provincial disaster office to provide relief assistance to the people of Koiari LLG.”It is understood that currently Koiari LLG officers are carrying out survey and scoping arears and families severely affected by the El-Nino, and hopefully the report reaches the authorities and help is given as soon as possible.

Iobuna Kouba Primary School in the Hiri-Koiari electorate on Central Province on Friday, August 7, opened a teacher's duplex accommodation and a modern ablution block for its students.School board chairman Mr. Moses Koran announced during the opening that the two projects were fully funded by the school's allocated TFF subsidy over a few years. He stated that the teachers' accommodation cost about K180,000 whilst the ablution block cost about K135,000. A combined total of about K315,000.Koran stated that the ablution block commenced construction in October 2022 and was completed in November 2023."We could not open the ablution block earlier because we did not have a proper water connection."But we overcame this major challenge, hired the best bricklayers, plumbers and electricians and have now opened a proper WaSH facility for you (students)," he said.Koran called on the parents to work alongside the school in bringing to fruition such projects. "I challenge the P&C who have the numbers to step up and help the school management with funding to build similar projects going forward," Koran said.School principal Joseph Buka revealed that land space was limited and so any project like teachers' houses would be built as a duplex.He commended the contractors who had built great infrastructure at a reasonable cost to the school. "The teachers' accommodation has two bedrooms and a spacious living room and has been fully fitted and connected to electricity," he stated. "The ablution blocks have 10 flush toilets in total, five for the girls and five for the boys."He encouraged the teachers and students to take care of the facilities when using them. 

Preparations are well underway for Porebada Primary School in the Hiri Koiari district in Central Province for the celebration of their 70th Platinum Jubilee Anniversary.The 70th Platinum Jubilee Anniversary will be celebrated from September 08th -10th of 2026. A celebration events Committee was formed with Deacon Busina Pune as the Chairman, and the events Committee has a budget of K120,000 for the three-day event that will fully engage the community with the school for various programs, including cultural performance, prophets' songs, string band, live band and others.Former students, leaders and the Department of Education officials are expected to attend the event to commemorating 70 years of successful education along the Western Motuan coastline.The school board chairman Taumaku Baru said the school, the Church and the community are working together through the events Committee to ensure the necessary itineraries and funds are secured for the program, which is a month away.The first fund raising was done within the school premises last month and a corporate dinner is scheduled for 15th August 2026 at Kone Hanua lodge Resort."We are hosting our second fund raising through a corporate dinner at Koke Hanua Resort," he said.Mr. Baru said invitation letters were already sent out to several high- profile individuals and their political leaders including Provincial Member for Central Province Rufina Peter, Hiri-Koiari Member Keith Iduhu,Hiri LLG President Haoda Rogea and local councilors.Porebada Primary School Head Teacher Mr. Jack Mario said the school has existed in the community during the pre-colonial era in 1956 till now, indeed it is an asset to the community that produced human resource in the last 70 years of its existence He said the school has grown through its transition over the years run by the Australian colonial administration till Independence in 1975."Education today played a critical role in our community and nation. Porebada Primary School is a beacon of hope and a valuable resource of this Motuan community over the years." "The school 70th Platinum Jubilee Anniversary truly reflects the enduring rich history of the school, it's resilience, impacts and how education has embedded well into the community and transformed the livelihood of the people since 1956."Mr. Mario said despite the current challenges, the school has transformed in time with new infrastructure and teachers from all over the country who reside in the school to educate the children.The three-day celebration will importantly unite the community and set a new trajectory for infrastructure development and academic excellence of the school into the future.

The new Environment, Conservation and Climate Change Minister, has promised to build new homes for Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), and Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) officers. Minister John Kaupa highlighted that one of his top priorities in the 8 months before the 2027 National General Election is to roll out the Housing Scheme for Environment and Conservation Authority before his time is up.The new homes would be built at the Wildlife Conversation area in Port Moresby city, which has been sitting vacant for decades.“Urbanising all settlement to settlements to suburb with land titles under the Settlement to Suburb program has been one of my top priorities in my district and in this limited 8 months I want to live behind a legacy where not only CCDA and CEPA officers will benefit from but their families as well and that is the housing scheme."“I am good at it and will make it happen”.Kaupa mentioned that over the last decade, Ministers after ministers came and left, groundbreaking ceremony took place but still no development has occurred on the vacant land at Wildlife.“CCDA AND CEPA should have homes built for them on this empty wildlife land before I go, we will subdivision into this wildlife land a total of 100 homes depending on the size of the land.”Kaupa added that before the end of next month, his ministry should have and prepare all documents in order, titles, plan and will do an official groundbreaking ceremony, then get investors in put the land on tender for successful bidder to start building.“I’ll do NEC submission. Ge approval, get it done. I am good at it, I'll make it!”He further assured all senior staff of CEPA and CCDA who have been struggling to own a house and have been renting in the settlements that their struggles will soon cease, and they will have better roofs over their heads soon.For 15 donkey years, this land at Wildlife has been sitting there untouched and undeveloped and it might continue to sit idle for another 10 years and then it will attract squatters to come squat illegally on it, regarding it as free state land so this land must be developed now says Kaupa.“If I cannot do it, if CCDA MD Debra Sungi and CEPA MD Jude Tukuliya cannot do it now then who else will?”Kaupa said he had converse with Prime Minister James Marape regarding the housing scheme already, his talked to NEC already and is waiting NEC approval and then once NEC give approval then work can start for housing scheme.

Climate Change Development Authority, management and the Board of Climate Change Development Authority (CCDA) has established some very key reforms in the las ten years, highlighting a lot of progress was made under the leadership of the current Government the Marape Rosso Government. CCDA Acting Managing Director Ms. Debra Sungi in her recent speech during the recent hand overtake over ceremony of the former Climate Change Ministers Simo Kilepa and now Minister, John Kaupa, highlighted one of the greatest achievements was the establishment of the CCDA Board and this was made possible last year under the leadership of former Climate Change Minister Kilepa.“CCDA now fully has an eleven-member board, the Chairman is the Managing Director for National Energy Authority, and the Depuy Chairman is the Managing Director for Forest, two ex-official members who seats at the board including CEPA who is one of the key board directors”, said Ms.Sungi.Sungi further elaborated that this progress in terms of establishing governance is one of the very key foundations for any government agencies.For CCDA, apart from establishing the National Climate Change (NCC) Board, they have also made amendment to the Climate Change Act 2023.“The amendment of the climate change management act sets the foundation for the establishment of the National Climate change boards as well as the most and important key element in establishing our Carbon market regulation.”“For the first time under the Carbon Market Regulations, we have issued a total of six permits this year and we have two more in the pipeline that we hope to issue their permits in the next board meeting”.This clearly shows that if there is a strong governance system with established key transparent and accountable process set out in place, nothing will go wrong in terms of implementation.Ms. Sungi also added that under the leadership of former Minister, CCDA was able to achieve great mobilization of Climate Finance to establish more than a US$100,50 million last year alone.“We know we will continue on these progressive achievements under the ministry and leadership of Minister John Kaupa and the Marape Rosso Government for the next eight months to see progress on what we have in our work plans and what we would like to achieve by the end of this year and also going into next year”.It will be a challenging time for Minister Kaupa noting that there is just almost 6 months before the issuing of writs, but CCDA and CEPA know and trust Kaupa will be very supportive with his ministerial duties.Ms. Sungi thanked Kaupa for putting his hand up to tackle the actions for Climate Actions in the country.“We are at the very crucial time of seeing the frequent natural disasters, but we hope and we know that with your leadership you will bring us forward in terms of achieving our preparedness efforts in the country and or mitigation efforts as well”.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government, through the Directorate of Disaster and Emergency announces the successful repatriation of two fisherman from Lontis Village, Haku Constituency, who have safely returned home after surviving fourteen days adrift at sea and being found on Tanga Island in New Ireland Province.  Secretary of the Department of Community Government, Belinda Gara-Lanbong, when welcoming the survivors, described the repatriation as a moment of relief and renewed responsibility of all stakeholders involved. “Today, we welcome two fishermen of Lontis, Haku – sons of Bougainville who endured the uncertainty of the open sea and now have returned safely to their families.""Their repatriation is a moment of relief, gratitude and renewed responsibility for all of us,” she said. The fishermen – Gordon Malle and Arnold Musein who were lost at sea for fourteen days were washed ashore on Tanga island in New Ireland Province and safely transported to Bougainville yesterday by Manalos Helicopter, made possible through the Lloyds Metal and Energy Limited (LMEL).Their successful extraction was the result of a coordinated effort involving the ABG Directorate of Disaster and Emergency, the New Ireland Provincial Government, local authorities and the people of Tanga Island.Secretary Mrs. Lanbong acknowledged the pivotal role was played by Lloyds Metal Energy Limited (LMEL), whose timely support provided a helicopter to airlift the survivors directly from Tanga back to Buka, describing it as "responsible partnership" for ensuring a safe and efficient repatriation. The men had gone out fishing on a Saturday two weeks ago, however, upon their return trip, they ran out of fuel and encountered strong winds and heavy rain that caused their boat to drift off course, venturing out to open seas.According to Arnold Musein, they realized too late that there was no fuel to get them home and armed with only a wooden paddle, and no phone or torch, they drifted further away from home, praying and surviving on rainwater and floating dry coconuts for two weeks. “Mipla tirip tasol long tait, win na rain igo inap mi pla lukim hap maunten na mipla tingim olsem em mas Tangaa, na taim mipla sua, mipla apim emty container na ol man lukim mipla na oli ron kam helpim mipla,” he said.(“We drifted with the tide, strong wind and rain until we saw a mountain in the distance and assumed it was Tangaa. We managed to get the boat to the island and raised an empty container and people from the island ran out to help us.”)They were thankful to God and everyone who assisted to bring them home to reunite with their families.“Mipla tok tenk u lo God na olgeta lain were ol wok bung long bringim mipla kam bek long peles. Tenk yu long ol famili lo Tangaa na Tanir Ward 5 LLG long lukaut bilong ol inap mipla kam bek,” he added.(“We thank God and all that worked together to bring us safely back home. We also thank the families at Tangaa and Tanir Ward 5 LLG for their hospitality until we returned.”) The repatriation was also done through the collaborative efforts of the Office of the National Member for North Bougainville, Hon. Francesca Semoso, and the Office of the ABG Member for Haku, Hon. Patrick Koles.Secretary Lanbong also issued a stern warning to all coastal communities regarding the increasing dangers of maritime travel. She emphasized that the ocean is changing "faster and more unpredictably" due to intensified surges and shifting weather systems. "Our people must take heed of weather warnings, maritime advisories, and strong wind alerts. We cannot afford to lose Bougainvilleans to avoidable risks," Gara-Lanbong urged. The Secretary also reminded the public that while this mission was a success, the work is not yet finished.The ABG Disaster and Emergency is also in the middle of another separate operation to locate three persons still missing from Nissan Island. 

Seven (7) amazing aspiring women in seven categories were recognised for their contribution to the community and to the country last night, Saturday 25th July 2026, at the 2026 Westpac Outstanding Women AWARDS (WOWA). The 2026 Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA recognised these seven inspiring women who are making a big difference in Papua New Guinea through their leadership, commitment and the work they do in their communities, and these winners were recognised in seven different categories: Entrepreneurship, Not-for-Profit, Private Sector, Public Sector, Sports & Arts, Sustainability, and Young Achiever.The Westpac Oustanding Women Awards recognises excellence across a diverse range of sector, reflecting the breadth of talent, ambition and impact demonstrated by woman throughout the country and this year, more than 200 nominations were received from across the country, and through judging panels only 3 each were selected from each category and then out of the three finalists only one came out winner from respective category. Their stories showed the talent, courage and the positive influence they have in their space and the difference each woman has made in the lives of others, and the work they do to make this country a better country.Speaking at the awards ceremony, Westpac Board Chairwoman Tamzin Wardley said: "As Chairwoman of the Board, I am incredibly proud to celebrate the women recognised through these awards. Their achievements demonstrate the power of leadership and resilience to create meaningful change in our communities.""The Westpac Outstanding Women Awards recognise women who are breaking barriers, creating opportunities for others and helping shape a stronger future for our nation.”The Seven (7) category winners were:• ENTREPRENEUR CATEGORY – MARTHA RAKA Ms. Martha Raka was the winner for Entrepreneur Category, and she was given this award in recognition of the work she does as a social entrepreneur and cooperative development practitioner who us transforming rural livelihoods in Papua New Guinea. With over seven years' experience she leads climate resilient cooperative enterprises, engaging more than 1,500 farmers, strengthening incomes, governance and sustainability. Her Innovative, multi-stakeholders approach integrates community, government and private sector investment scalable impact, empowering women, building local leadership and driving inclusive economic growth across vulnerable communities. • NOT-FOR-PROFIT CATEGORY – JACQUELIN MARY BOGA GAROAU Jacqueline Mary Boga Garoau is a distinguished lawyer and the national advocate for persons with disabilities and women in PNG. As a former famale co- chair of PNGADP, she played a key role in consultations leading to Disability Services Act 2025. She is currently serving at the provincial level, continuing to empower communities and PWDs . • PRIVATE SECTOR CATEGORY – STELLA IPANG Ms. Ipang was recognised for her leadership in transforming and advancing Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) across Papua New Guinea’s health sector. She has driven the integration of inclusive practices in immunisation programs through innovative tools such as a GEDSI Action plan and Scorecard. Stella is also the creator of the EmpowerMe Puzzle, showcased internationally, and she is the author of My Action Words. Her work has helped support more inclusive healthcare for women, children and marginalised communities.•PUBLIC SECTOR CATEGORY – ELIZABETH TANDOA Ms. Tandoa is and household name in Gerehu Secondary school for decades, a transformational education leader and deputy principal, where she has driven remarkable improvements in discipline, academic performance, and student development through holistic programs. She is a passionate community advocate; she runs a literacy and numeracy program for over 10 years now, empowering young kids to succeed. • SUSTANABILITY CATEGORY - EMMA OLIVER She is a Marine Biologist, educator and founder of ENB Sea Keepers and ENB Marine Conservation Consultancy services, a leading community driven marine conservation initiative in PNG. Her work spans around coral restoration, biodiversity research and environmental education powering coastal communities with sustainable livelihood solutions. A One Young World Ambassador (2024) she combines scientific expertise, indigenous knowledge and global advocacy to advance locally led conservation and position in PNG's environment priorities on the international stage. • SPORTS AND ARTS CATEGORY – WOSI KAEYO  Wosi is a dynamic PNG Film Producer at the Jona Film Production, best known for Plesman 1 and Plesman 2, through her leadership she uses the films to address critical national issues including youth unemployment, tribal conflict, and women empowerment. Her work inspires communities to embrace self-reliance, peace, and development, while creating opportunities for local talents.• YOUNG ACHIEVER CATEGORY – GETTA KAMBAR Is an award-winning young leader and trailblazer in construction, community engagement and youth empowerment. She also uses sports and community initiatives to inspire young women, promote inclusion and drive social change. Her leadership has also earned her the CPL Young woman of the Year Award and Pride of Women Young Leader Awards. Out of the 7 winners, the 2026 Overall Winner was Stella Ipang, who was also Private Sector Category winner, as the overall Winner, Stella will receive a PGK 5,000 grant and a full-year mentorship program with Westpac PNG, and she will also attend an Australian executive leadership symposium in 2026 or 2027.Emma Low, Managing Director for Westpac Pacific, said: "Stella’s commitment to advancing inclusion and improving health outcomes has created tangible benefits for communities across Papua New Guinea. Her achievements stood out among an exceptional group of finalists and reflected the spirit of these awards."Reflecting on the recognition, Stella Ipang said: "Receiving this award is an honor. I am grateful to do work that has a positive impact on our community. I hope this recognition encourages more women and young girls to pursue their ambitions, embrace leadership opportunities and believe in their ability to make a difference.”Westpac PNG is proud to celebrate these outstanding women and the work they continue to do for their families, communities and the country. Chief Executive for Westpac PNG, Andrew Cairns said: “At Westpac PNG, we are proud to recognise these outstanding women and the positive impact they are making across the country.""Their leadership, courage and commitment show what is possible when people step forward to serve their communities and help build a stronger Papua New Guinea. I congratulate all the finalists and winners and thank them for the difference they continue to make.”Westpac is proud to provide a platform to tell the stories of the finalists and the winners and in doing so, Westpac believes that the Awards will inspire the next generation of female leaders, because this platform not only celebrates individual success but the collective progress of women across PNG.