Post Courier, Monday January 5, 2015

SCHOOLS NOT READY FOR REFORMS

UNION WARNS: PAGE 3

KEREMA HOSPITAL WITHOUT DOCTORS

PATIENTS REFERRED TO MORESBY: PAGE 8

YOUTHS KICK OUT STREET VENDORS

TRIBES AIM TO CHANGE CITY: PAGE 15

105 and still going strong

Dream homes

Govt to hand out

BY ISAAC NICHOLAS

THE

2000 free land titles to PNG workers to build homes

able homes, National Planning Minister Charles Abel has indicated. A similar number would be allocated in Lae under a pilot project, which would eventually spread nationwide.

Mr Abel, who is also the chairman of the ministerial committee on affordable land and housing committee, said the program was targetting the ordinary, working class Papua New Guineans, not

the well-off and those who already own homes.

He said the Government has already identified land in Port Moresby, near the Jackson International Airport, and Nadzab out-

side Lae city. He said the National Airports Corporation has agreed to make available some land for the affordable land and housing program.

CONTINUED PAGE 2

Government will give out 2000 land titles in Port Moresby –free of charge – to ordinary Papua New Guineas to build afford-

HISIANI Vasiri Garu is 105-years-old. She celebrated her birthday in a moving occasion yesterday at her Tatana village home in Port Moresby. She was born in 1910. She is seen here being kissed by a relative. Picture: TARAMI LEGEI SEE STORY ON PAGE 9

Health woes getting us no where

THEdelivery of health services including the availability of specialist medical officers during emergencies has to be a top priority for the National Government this year.

Last week the Post-Courier published a story on a Papua New Guinean man in the East New Britain Province laying a complaint with local police alleging negligence following the death of his wife and baby at the Nonga General Hospital. Recently, it has come to our attention that the Madang General Hospital’s accidents & emergency section (A&E) remains closed to the public for various reasons including the lack of specialist staff. Today we confirmed that patients in urgent need of medical emergency in the Gulf Province are asked to make their way to Port Moresby with some paying the ultimate price with their lives when they got into the city too late.

The charge of negligence against staff at the Nonga General Hospital is serious and should be closely observed by the National Department of Health in Port Moresby. Reaction to the tragedy on social media has been overwhelming with Papua New Guineans breaking their silence on their alleged harassment and abuse at the hands of staff. Nurses in public hospitals including the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) came under a lot of criticism for targeting expectant mothers.

In the Gulf Province, sick Papua New Guineans in urgent need of medical aid are condemned to die if they are not able to get to the National Capital District on time. Most are not able to make the five to six hour drive from Kerema with one man recently pronounced dead on arrival, a victim of a fatal vehicle crash in Malalaua. The Kerema General Hospital has been without a doctor for a long while, compelling hospital staff to refer emergency cases to the PMGH in the national capital. The same fate awaited a pregnant 20-year-old girl whose complications led to her being medivaced by an airline company to the Kerema General Hospital, only to be told that she needed to make her way to Port Moresby.

It is totally unacceptable that the Kerema General Hospital continues to operate without a qualified medical officer with health extension officers (HEO) and nurses taking on the role normally performed by doctors. What has the Gulf provincial administration been doing in recent years to rectify the situation? And how long has the provincial administration known about this sad state of affairs in the province’s premier health facility? It is obvious there are bureaucrats in the provincial administration who are getting paid for doing nothing, due to their failure to address the situation.

The Health and HIV/AIDS Minister Micheal Malabag should personally take carriage of this matter to ensure no more lives are lost. We applaud the O’Neill/Dion Government for increased funding to the health sector. But this money will not translate to positive outcomes for ordinary Papua New Guineans until and unless we address the poor attitude and lack of adherence to customer service that staff in many of our health institutions have. The reassigning of a doctor to the Kerema General Hospital should also be a priority, considering the fact that it is a provincial hospital and should be properly staffed.

Index

Asia news .............................42

Bougainville Today ..............18 Business ..........................20-22

Classifieds .......................45-50

Comics..................................44

Highlands Post.....................15

Home news.............2,4-9,12-13

Islands Post .........................17

Mamose Post .......................16

Pacfic news ..........................41

Southern Post ......................14

Sport ................................52-55

Stars ......................................39

Sudoku .................................39

The drum ...............................3

Turf Guide .............................51

World news...........................43

Yu tok ...............................10-11

How to contact us

EDITOR

Alexander Rheeney

Ph: 309 1021

Email:rheeneya@spp.com.pg

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Paula Speakman

Ph: 309 1044

Email: pspeakman@spp.com.pg

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Bala Babaga

Ph: 309 1013 Fax: 321 3284

Email: bbabaga@spp.com.pg

DELIVERY INQUIRIES

Ph: 309 1102

Email: bbabaga@spp.com.pg

REGIONAL OFFICES

Lae: Franco Nebas Ph/fax: 472 4683. Email: fnebas.spp@global.net.pg

Kokopo: Grace Tiden

Ph: 982 9186. Fax: 982 9147.

Email: gracetiden@gmail.com

Mt Hagen: Johnny Poiya. Ph: 542 2602. Fax: 542 3039. Email: posthagen.spp@global.net.pg

Buka: David Lornie

Ph: 973 9188

Fax: 973 9170

Email: davelornie@ digicelpacific.blackberry.com

CLASSIFIEDS HOTLINES

309 1175, 309 1174, 309 1088

www.postcourier.com.pg

NEWS

Ph

Enga sets record for quiet festive season

BY TODAGIA KELOLA

ENGA, a province normally associated with crime and lawlessness, has experienced one of its most peaceful and quiet Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Provincial police commander acting Superintendent George Kakas reported that all districts, including Wabag, Lagaip-Porgera, Kandep, Kompiam-Ambum and Wapenamanda reported incidentfree celebrations.

“There was no major incident or crime normally attributed to New Year celebrations such as roadblocks, vandal-

ism and fights, there were also no traffic accidents or motor vehicle-related deaths reported,” he said.

“We were bracing for the worst as we had received intelligence that homebrew factories were working overtime to stock up to the demand of consumers because there was a liquor ban in place.

“I called in a section each from mobile squads two and 11 and a section of the Defence Force engaged at Porgera to assist with enforcing law and order. To our delight the people, especially the youth, were generally law-abiding.”

He attributed the peaceful

celebrations to his men and women who were proactive by conducting continuous awareness prior to those occasions.

“In one such surprising occasion several young men at Wapenamanda decided to call police over on their own accord on New year’s eve, at about 8pm and voluntarily surrendered their home brew drinks and equipment after drinking for some time in anticipation of the usual mid night count down.

“They said they were fed up of the continuous cycle of self-destructive behaviour which was getting them

nowhere, and what better timing for them to quit this habit than in the midst of a drinking spree. The police station commander of Wapenamanda Inspector Bari was on hand to receive them and thanked them for making the right decision.

“Enga does not face the same type of crime problems that other provinces face. We do not attack or infringe on the rights of another human being wantonly and without reason. Petty and choice crimes such as thefts, rapes, robberies and unjustified murders are strongly abhorred in Engan society.”

Govt to hand out 2000 free land titles

FROM PAGE 1

HE said this was part of the overall national Government housing program whereby the each of the 89 districts of the country would be receiving K1 million each for 10 houses to house public servants.

“We are giving every district K1 million to build public service housing,” Mr Abel said

“Then by March this year, want to give free title away to ordinary Papua New Guineans, starting with our public servants and then the private sector.

“Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has put K200 million to Bank South Pacific but the main problem now is the title, which is security required for people to access housing loan.

“We are going out there

targeting ordinary Papua New Guineans, not for the rich people, but ordinary people who do not have a home.

“It is the desire of the O’Neill-led Government to give free titles to ordinary people. You get the title then you can go to the bank and access the K200 million, without the title you cannot borrow because the banks will say, ‘sorry no security’.

“We want 2000 of these title available in every province, again, we will pilot it in the centre, Port Moresby and Lae, where the pressure is great with settlements and all that and the land is completely beyond the price of the ordinary people.

“We are taking about K150,000 house, over 40 years of loan repayment period at the lowest interest rates.”

BIRD WATCHERS OF TATANA

Schools ‘not ready’ for new curriculum

BY NELLIE SETEPANO

THE school year begins in the first week of February but schools may not be ready for the new standards-based education curriculum and the 2-6-6 system, says the Papua New Guinea Teachers Association.

The association thinks these directives had arrived too quickly for schools to implement, although they were introduced since 2011.

Three years on, there was no awareness and proper planning given to schools and teachers on these directives. Both lacked proper awareness, teacher training and schools do not have readily teaching resources and infra-

the drum

DELUGE

CITY residents are hoping for consecutive days of rainfall following last Friday’s heavy downpour. The deluge on the second day of the New Year cut off a section of the Poreporena freeway and flooded roads in town.

GREEN

HISTORICAL records show January to be the wettest month of the year for Port Moresby with September the driest. And with the Pacific Games due in July let’s hope the rain keeps the city green long enough for our visitors.

SHAME

WHO was that Kwikila-based policeman who was drinking in uniform and terrorising a certain village in the Rigo district area of the Central Province recently? His antics have taken the definition of “community policing” to a new level in 2015.

KWIKILA

THE good news is the behaviour of Kwikila coppers has come under scrutiny. Their attempts to extort money from a female motorist backfired when she posted on Facebook. The matter has been brought to the attention of PHQ at Konedobu.

FIRES

At a glance

STANDARDS BASED

CURRICULUM/2-6-6 SYSTEM:

The PNG Teachers Association think that schools are not ready for both curriculums although introduced in 2011. They say both lack proper awareness, teacher training and schools lack infrastructure to implement these directives.

structure to implement these directives.

Only a rushed training was done towards the end of this year in Port Moresby on the Standards Based Education or Curriculum.

PNGTA general secretary

Ugwalubu Mowana said at the weekend that implementing the directives this year, would cause a lot of confusion and in the end students will be greatly affected.

Standards based education was all about improving education standards in schools. These come in the form of teacher preparations and professional development, examinations, inspections; school governance and restructuring of school system and structures are some of the many components that would be improved by a standards based education curriculum.

The 2-6-6 structure includes two years of elementary, six years of primary education

and six years of secondary education.

Towards the end of last year, Education Secretary Michael Tapo said he was confident that teaching materials and awareness on the two new structures are ready to implement in the 2015 academic year.

Mr Mowana told the PostCourier that it was impossible for these government directives to be implemented when teachers had little or no awareness and lacked necessary training and schools lacked much infrastructure to cater for the big exchange of students from one school to another. He said the two systems would cause chaos in schools.

WEED EM

TOP marks to the Port Moresby Metropolitan Superintendent Andy Bawa and police public relations guru David Terry for immediately responding to the Facebook post. It is time to weed out the bad apples from within the constabulary.

NO WEAR

IT IS good to see youths from all over Gerehu in NCD keep themselves busy in their annual Christmas and New Year touch rugby competition. Sadly the match officials officiating at the games had no uniforms and the makeshift goal-posts looked worse for wear.

LABEL

ONE of our scribes travelling home for holidays had a mobile number written on all her luggage labels that were checked into cargo bound for Alotau. It appears she has fans among the airline’s cargo staff!

AIYONI

THE cargo staff will be disappointed to learn that our esteemed female scribe is “not available”! So if you are the owner of the mobile number 7606 3884 then please don’t take it personally if you never got that call saying “aiyoni!”

PENGEE: thedrum@spp.com.pg

The lion used in the original MGM movie logo killed its trainer and two assistants the day after the logo was filmed.

The Post-Courier has been the heartbeat of PNG since 1969. The Post-Courier has been the heartbeat of PNG since 1969.

HOPE the recent burning of the DHL office in Kimbe doesn’t signal the start of fires targeting business houses. In January last year fire destroyed the Datec and Pelgens office in Lae and a month later Tropicana mart in Kokopo was burnt.

EARMA Kara, Ian Cholai and their friends of Tatana village in Port Moresby showing a bird that they captured, with its nest. They plan to look after it until it gets old enough to be set free. Picture: TARAMI LEGEI

PM told to admit govt has no funds

BY BENJAMIN KUMAN

UPNG Journalism Student

THE Opposition has called on Prime Minister Peter O’Neill to admit that the Government had run out of cash and there is no money in the system.

Opposition Leader Don Polye claimed that as a direct result of this the private sector was under pressure as there was no liquidity in the domestic economy to pay for goods and services rendered to the State.

Mr Polye claimed that the government could not easily raise funds through government securities, like treasury inscribed stock and treasury bills.

“No wonder I see important and fundamental public systems now running out of money – for instance an important component of public service is the education sector.

“It has no money in the system to look at small in-house issues like the payment of airfares, let alone the commitments the Government is going to make in the new year that is coming,” he said.

Mr Polye said he believed that in the first quarter of this year, the Government would be looking for money as there will not be any funds available even to mitigate on some challenges that may arise without warning.

He said if natural disasters like volcanic eruptions, floods and earthquakes occur, the government would not be ready.

He said Mr O’Neill must reassure the people if there were funds available to mitigate such challenges.

Pomio LO seeks assistance to develop limestone project

BY GORETHY ATOBU

A LANDOWNER in the Pomio district of East New Britain province wants assistance from relevant government authorities to progress their limestone project.

Principal landowner to the Pomio limestone project, Greg Lowen raised concerns over the slowness in developing the project due to lack of funding from the district and provincial government.

OPPOSITION: Is calling on the Prime Minister to admit that the Government had run out of cash and their is no money in the system. Opposition Leader Don Polye is claiming that as a result the the private sector is under pressure as there was no liquidity in the domestic economy to pay for goods and services rendered to the state.

“Departments are accruing debts as operating funds budgeted for the close down period has been depleted, with some public servants stating that the state has taken funds to assist fund the added costs in terms of SP Games projects.

“The Government will now be under pressure to meet obligations which it will now scurry around to look for.

“They have squeezed everything out through the supplementary budget and there remain no more funds.

“You will now find that they have gone through operational budgets of state departments adding more to the recurrent expenditure,” Mr Polye said.

Comment is being sought from the Government.

In an interview with this newspaper, Mr Lowen said he wrote a letter to the ENB Provincial Government a few years ago but there has not been any response.

Mr Lowen in his letter had requested for funding of K1.5 million to develop the project. He said they were only given K100,000 which was not enough to develop the project.

He also said another hold up was the unavailability of Pomio district funds which they have not received and expressed frustrations over Pomio not getting their DSIP funds.

Mr Lowen was later told that he cannot continue with the project as their MP Paul Tiensten will have to give the final say but this will again take time as their member is in jail at the moment.

He said with the holdup in funding, the project will be delayed.

He stated that Pomio people are living in the dark in regards to Pomio government funding and he urged the Governor Ereman ToBaining Jnr to step in and assist.

Mr Lowen also appealed to relevant authorities in the province to fast track financial assistance so the project can be developed.

ENB looks back at 2014, plans for more events this year

BY GRACE TIDEN

AUTHORITIES in East New Britain province are looking forward to hosting more national and international events this New Year.

National functions coordinator Gordon Gaius said they have a number of activities planned for this year.

However, he is yet to release the confirmed events especially the international activities that will be hosted by ENB this year.

Last year had been a very busy year, especially in re-

The bottom line

gards to hosting for the first time a number of international events.

The events last year comprised of meetings to sporting activities and all these activities have had a great impact on the local economy according to Mr Gaius.

The 2014 international gatherings started off with the Pacific Islands Immigrations Director Conference in April which saw almost 100 participants from across the pacific converge on ENB for the event.

This was followed by the

PASOLS Military Conference meeting in May.

The 2nd Inaugural South Pacific Defense Ministers Conference which was supposed to be held in July did not eventuate and was moved forward to this year.

Another international meet was the 13th Session of the Coordinating Committee for North America and South West Pacific (CCNASWP) meeting in Kokopo in September. The one-week session was attended by representatives from the CCNASWP 14 member countries, WHO and FAO,

A donkey will sink in quicksand but a mule won’t.

the Codex Secretariat and observers and Prime Minister Peter O’Neil officiated at the opening ceremony. .

Next was the staging of the 50th session of the Coordinating Committee for Geoscience Programs (CCOP) for East and South East Asia in Kokopo followed by the 63rd CCOP Steering Committee Meeting in October.

The meeting drew representatives from Japan, China, Singapore, Thailand, Korea, Philippines, Malaysia, Cambodia, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, Denmark,

Finland, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands, Poland, France, USA, Canada and Australia.

Meanwhile, over 20 cruise ships including the peace boat the MV Ocean Dream, Queen Elizabeth and Pacific Dawn visited ENB last year with an estimated 15,000 tourists.

Tourists had also been making use of the Air Niugini direct flights and charters between Cairns and Tokua.

ENB was also fortunate to have been selected to host several Queensland Intrust Super Cup matches in 2014 as well as the Prime Minister’s

13 match in Kokopo between the Kangaroos and PNG Kumuls.

Meanwhile, another highlight was the staging of the 5th Melanesian Festival of Arts and Culture where Kokopo was selected as one of the satellite venues in PNG to host the festival in mid 2014.

Another event that the province hosted and especially the Rabaul District was the commemoration of Australia’s first military action of WWI and the disappearance of Australia’s first submarine the AE1.

THIS family from Kanudi in Port Moresby took advantage of the low tide recently to look for shells. With the school year coming up these youngsters decided to spend the remaining days of the holidays together, and what fun way to do it then by spending the day at the beach. Picture: TARAMI LEGEI

SEASHELLS BY THE SEASHORE

DON Polye

With hold up in funding, the project will be delayed ...

GREG LOWEN Pomio District

Expatriate found dead

BY FRANCO NEBAS

AN expatriate businessman has been found dead at his home in Lae, Morobe Province and police have not ruled out murder as a possible cause.

The body of the Singaporean, identified as Tan, was found yesterday morning at his Eriku suburb home.

Tan, the owner of Morobe Stationery Company, had been operating in the province for more than 20 years.

Police said Tan lived in a high security residential area at Hibiscus Avenue and was home alone when he was attacked.

They said he was attacked from behind with a sharp object in the neck and left bleeding to death.

Police had difficulty entering the house before a locksmith was called to open the door.

Tan had been schedule to fly to Port Moresby yesterday afternoon.

Police were alerted by Tan’s driver who discovered a back door fly-wire ripped off and the sliding glass door open.

In a related story, a youth was also murdered and dumped at Bumbu River near Talair Compound.

This is the third killing into the New Year in Lae following the alleged shooting of a woman on the New Year Day.

MP: National Planning corrupt

BY ISAAC NICHOLAS

NATIONAL Planning Minister Charles Abel has stressed the need for equitable distribution of resources to all districts and provinces and not through mates and political cronies.

Minister Abel said the Department of National Planning had a reputation as the most corrupt department in the history of the country and that was why the Government had decided to remove all funding held by the department.

He said whatever funding currently held in the depart-

NATIONAL PLANNING MINISTER: Charles Abel.

STRESS: Need for equitable distribution of resources.

SCRUTINY: Award projects to credible candidates and not through political cronies or mates.

MOST CORRUPT DEPARTMENT: The Department of National Planning has a reputation.

DECISION: Government removed all funding held by the department.

ment had very strict criteria which includes the land and housing program, the district housing program and the coastal vessel program.

Minister Abel said this when presenting a cheque

for K2.3 million to the Madang Provincial Government to buy a prototype vessel, the Sea truck 22.

The Minister was in Madang on December 24 to make a presentation to Governor Jim

Kas. He also made a presentation of K1 million to Madang MP and Petroleum Minister Nixon Duban to buy another vessel under the coastal vessel program.

This vessel will be made from marine grade steel and is designed to carry 50,000 litres of fuel, up to 100 passengers when not carrying fuel, four light vehicles or 2x20 foot containers, tractors or earth-moving equipment on the deck and unload at the stern.

Mr Abel said the vessel was the first of its kind and specifically designed to PNG specifications to deliver a variety

of payloads so that its use can be maximised not only for trade goods but also for people movement and provision of government services to the people of Madang on Karkar, Bagabag, Long Island and Rai Coast and Saidor.

He said this vessel is supplied under the National Responsible Sustainable Development Program to support the production, distribution and use of a renewable fuel source – bio diesel from coconuts. The vessel will be owned by the Madang Provincial Government and operated under the public private partnership arrangement.

MP praises Nipa-Kutubu people for attitude shift

BY JEFFREY ELAPA

ONE of the volatile districts in the Southern Highlands has changed completely and local leaders have commended the people for the change in attitude.

The Nipa Kutubu district, one of the most feared and unsafe districts in the Southern Highlands is now a free and safe place to visit as the people have changed their attitudes, local MP Jeffrey

Komal said. The MP, who spent Christmas and New Year in his district with the 160,000 people of the district, thank them for observing a peaceful festive season and for the tremendous change in the attitude of the people, something the people should be proud of.

He said the Nipa Kutubu district has been named a “no-go zone” but the people have embrace the changes as a result of the political leadership

being provided at the district and the provincial level with the election of Governor William Powi and himself that has resulted in the change in the attitude of the people.

He said the district is known for warlords with frequent road blocks, armed holdups, fierce tribal fights and other law and order problems but that is something of the past.

“We cannot continue to live a hostile life. We are humans

and we need to respect each other and also our friends and our visitors that passes through our district. The world is changing, we cannot continue to be hostile and live in a hostile environment,” he said.

However, Mr Komal said the people have realised that their actions were not right and have decided to change their way of thinking.

“I’m proud and I commend the people. Nipa is not a cow-

boy town any more. The roads are free, people are free and are not a war with any one.

“People have observed the festive season as a time for family and have celebrated them peacefully. This is a sign that the people have changed and we have to be proud of that.

“The alcohol ban in the province and the regular police road blocks and police presence has also contributed to the decline in the law and

order problems and I thank the police for a good work,” he said.

Nipa Kutubu Administrator Joe Pereap commended Governor William Powi and Mr Komal for providing the leadership resulting in the many changes taking place in the district and for addressing law and order in the district.

“The political leadership of the two leaders have set the foundation for the change in leadership,” he said.

LAE residents trying to catch a glimpse of the goings-on at the scene of the death.

NATIONAL Planning Minister Charles Abel, right, presenting the cheque to the Madang Governor Jim Kas.

One dead in New Year clash

ONE man is dead and four injured in a New Year’s Day fight at Badihagwa, in Moresby Northwest, between Goilala settlers and Highlanders living over-hill at Tokarara.

The situation was stable yesterday, however there is growing fear among nearby coastal villagers of payback revenge.

It was not clear as to how the clash started but people living at Badihagwa, near Hanuabada village, said that Goilala settlers had attacked and confiscated the bags of some men who had climbed over the mountain between Badihagwa and Tokarara in search of alcohol due to the ban over the festive season.

After the attack by the Goilalas on New Year’s eve, the Tokarara men returned, regrouped and raided the Goilala settlement.

According to the witnesses, a man from Goilala was killed inside the house which was attacked. He died of multiple stabs and cuts to the head, neck and body.

Warders involved in Baisu jail breakout

BY JOHNNY POIYA

A NUMBER of Correctional Service officers have been implicated in the mass prison breakout at Western Highlands’ Baisu jail last Wednesday.

At a glance

ISSUE : One man dead and four others injured in a New Years clash between Goilala and Highlands.

SITUATION: The situation is still tense as Highlanders fear retalliation of the Goilalas.

VICTIMS: The victim is from Goilala who was killed inside his house whilst his wife and school aged daughter sustained injuries from knife attacks.

LOCATION: The incident happened at Badihagwa in the Moresby Noethwest.

His wife and school-aged daughter sustained injuries in the knife attacks while another young man’s hand was cut off.

They said that at the weekend vehicle tyres were set on fire and rolled down the mountain towards the Goilala settlement at Badihagwa. Police could not be contacted at the weekend to comment on the clashes.

Polye repeats call for budget adjustment

DON Polye has reiterated his call for the Government to readjust the 2015 budget because the downturn in world commodity prices, particularly the liquefied natural gas (LNG) and minerals, will greatly affect the revenue forecast.

The Opposition Leader said this will happen despite the government’s argument that Papua New Guinea was largely protected from oil price fluctuations because forward contracts for LNG were signed before the recent change in the oil prices.

Mr Polye said world oil prices are no more than 35 per cent lower than at the time of the 2015 budget presentation and this will have a direct impact on the LNG revenues since LNG prices are directly linked to oil prices.

“Can the Prime Minister simply confirm that the fall in LNG prices will reduce the government’s revenue by over 1.4 billion in 2015 which is more than 10 per-

cent of all revenues and also revenues in 2016 are now at K2.5 billion less than expected at the time of the 2014 budget” Poliye asked.

“The public needs to know how must revenue we have lost in 2015 based on treasury models and current world prices and they need to know whether or not it will have an effect on the 2016 budget projections.” He added

Mr Polye said as a belated Christmas present to the people of Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister Peter O’Neill should own up and inform the people of PNG of the drastic effects his government decisions especially the 2015 national budget would have on the economy of this country.

He said as part of the belated Christmas present the 2015 budget should be reworked so that in our key planning year of 2016 the economic sector will not face huge cuts and be slashed from K1909 million in 2015 to only K1648 million in 2016.

YOUNG STARS

As police prepare to investigate the breakout, the Correctional Services Department had suspended several warders in the escape of 33 prisoners on New Year’s Eve, Highlands divisional police commander Teddy Tei said yesterday.

“We believe one or two CS officers were bribed to release one of the inmates but when it did not work out, they went in with firearms,” Mr Tei said.

One warder was wounded in the shootout that followed the rescue attempt.

The escapees were all from Enga Province and were locked up in one cell block. Last year 20 prisoners also from Enga locked in a same block fled.

Last Wednesday, about 10 armed men raided the prison compound around 3am to free a man who was involved in the murder of two men during a tribal fight-related roadblock in Enga Province.

A combined search operation by CS and police into parts of Dei and along the Waghi River in AnglimpSouth Waghi proved futile.

ACP Tei said proper investigations would be conducted as soon as the New Year operations as well as the funeral arrangement for a senior CS officer Sabina Meleke who died more than a week ago was over.

He said some of the escapees were known and plans would be made to recapture them following the New Year Operations.

“I will sit down with the jail commander Supt Timbi Kaugla and we’ll devise plans for investigations into the whole issue,” Mr Tei said.

He appealed for public to come forward with information and help police as most of them were hard core criminals who were locked up for serious crimes.

Bawa: Police should not demand cash

BY BENJAMIN KUMAN

POLICE personnel are not cash collectors and should not demand cash from the public for an offence regardless of its nature and magnitude, says NCD Metropolitan Superintend Andy Bawa.

Mr Bawa said this after a woman inboxed him on his Facebook account claiming she was forced to pay K80 for no good reason by police at Kwikila in the Central

Province over the festive season when she was travelling back from the village.

“I urge you all to request whoever police personnel who asks you for a spot fine to give you his/her name and number together with which police station he/she works and report them to me so I will deal with them,”

Mr Bawa said “It is a very serious offence for police personnel to collect cash from the public,

there are designated offices for fines to be paid and receipts issued.”

According to Mr Bawa no major incidents were recorded within his command and the city residents observed a peaceful Christmas and new year period despite minor hiccups.

Whilst commending the city police for a successful festive operation Mr Bawa revealed that 904 cartons and nine bottles of beer

were confiscated during the festive operations.

Meanwhile, a man was killed and four people including a mother and daughter were injured in a new year brawl at Badiagwa near Port Moresby.

Police say the diseased is from Goilala and the incident happened as a result of an attack on a group of men who were in search of alcohol in the area during the liquor ban.

YOUNG children at Hanuabada village in the National Capital District playing cricket at a local competion.Kids cricket competion runned by vilagers to develope young stars in the game of cricket.

City youths assist in police ops

BY TUMBE SAM JNR

GORDON and Six-Mile police have been greatly assisted by the Moresby Northeast Reform Youth’s Association during their New Year operation.

The youths sought permission from NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Andy Bawa to assist police during New Year’s Eve to set up road blocks and foot patrol operations in their suburbs, carrying out the command effectively.

According to the chairman of the association, Stanley James, they confiscated several beer cartons during their operations and handed them over to the two respective station commanders for a report that will be filed and submitted to Mr Bawa.

Mr James said during their operations they rejected bribes and corrupt practices, carrying out their work without fear or favour.

Union to take leave fare issues to court

BY NELLIE SETEPANO

MANY teachers are still waiting for their leave fares but the PNG Teachers Association has announced it will provide financial assistance this week for teachers to sue for their tickets.

The PNGTA General Secretary Ugwalubu Mowana said the PNGTA had no other alternatives but to resort to court action for the thousands of its members still stranded at their various schools nationwide.

At the weekend he warned the Government to address the teachers leave fares to allow teachers to travel home for their holidays or the country could face industrial action next month, the beginning of the academic year.

Mr Mowana was concerned

At a glance

PNG TEACHERS ASSOCIATION: With teachers still waiting for their leave fares the PNGTA has warned that it will assist by providing financial assistance this week for legal fees for teachers to sue the Government on this outstanding issue, which has got worse over the years.

OTHER ISSUES: The association general secretary also cited other issues that were affecting teachers such as the standard based curriculum and the 2-6-6 system, which are earmarked for this year, stating that these policies have been shoved down the necks of teachers to implement without proper awareness and training and lack of resources and infrastructure.

that the unpaid leave fares for 2014 were a time bomb waiting to explode.

He cited other issues that teachers were frustrated about, including the standard based education and the 2-6-6 system, which were earmarked to begin this year.

Mr Mowana said these policies were shoved down the necks of schools for teachers to implement without proper awareness and training, lack of resources and infrastructure.

The 2-6-6 structure is a government policy to be intro-

duced into public schools this year, which will have elementary schools having two years of education, primary schools and secondary schools to have six years for each. He also pointed out that teacher appointments for 2015 is also a problem in

Women keen in drapery course

some provinces. Mr Mowana is saddened and at the same time frustrated that the leave fare problem has become an annual problem that has never been addressed thoroughly over the years.

“The PNGTA will support its members in the provinces financially with legal fees starting this week.”

“Although this is an expensive way to deal with this issue, we have no other alternative but to go to the courts,” Mr Mowana said.

He noted that the teacher leave fares is one of 13 recommendations by the Parliamentary Referral Committee on Education, that the secretary is hopeful government will address for the good of teachers. The leave fare issue has become a contentious issue for the Government.

Islanders say communication cut risky

BY VERONICA HANNETTE

CONCERNS have been raised by Nissan islanders that they have been out of Digicel’s network coverage for more than a month.

According to village councils, the tower was struck by lightning during a thun-

der storm which burned the whole tower.

A district representative, Marceline Butu, said they have already alerted the Digicel office in Buka about the situation but nothing has been done yet.

He said Digicel coverage was reliable especially for

contacts during emergencies and when travelling to and from Buka.

“We usually call relatives and disaster office in town to alert them when we are travelling into Buka town or out of town so that they are aware that we arrive safely and monitor out trips but

now since the network is out, we are at high risk especially with emergencies,” he said.

Mr Butu said with the coverage out of order, they are way behind with communications

Meanwhile, there is only Citi-phone coverage available but telecom cards are very

limited on the island and only few people can afford it.

“Nissan Island is the gateway to other atoll islanders and if we do not receive reliable network coverage our other entire sister islands will likely face emergency problems and will not be able to contact for help,” he said.

The first bomb the Allies dropped on Berlin in WWII killed the only elephant in the Berlin Zoo.

FABRIC decoration is becoming a skill of high demand amongst women in the country and East New Britain Province is no exception. Just recently, 40 women from all over the province converged on the Kokopo Primary School hall to learn the art of drapery and table skirting.

The course is the final phase of a five-stage beautification training conducted by Wherz Consultants, which was held in the province over a two year period.

The other four courses in the program include plant source and supply, floriculture, landscaping, decorating with plants and fabric decoration.

According to course facilitator and manager of Wherz Consultants, Wesley Martin, he had prepared for 20 participants but could not turn away another 20 women who had turned up to be part of the training.

He said with his passion for natural beautification he attended numerous courses over the years in the areas of agriculture, horticulture and floriculture and after doing his own research, he created the five course modules which is proving to be of high demand among women in the community.

Mr Martin said the women who attended the drapery and table skirting course at Kokopo Primary School will end their course today with a graduation to follow.

MORESBY North-east Reform Youth Association president James Kelly and his youths standing in front of the car, which was used during their new year operations. Picture: KENNEDY BANI

UGWALUBU Mowana

Gulf hospital going without doctors

BY ROSALYN ALBANIEL

KEREMA General Hospital

in Gulf Province has been operating without doctors for a long while now.

For months the hospital has been forced to refer patients needing urgent and or specialist treatment to Port Moresby General Hospital.

Victims of a fatal car accident at Malalaua soon after the New Year, including a pregant woman, had to be rushed to Port Moresby General Hospital.

The driver in the road accident was killed instantly while four passengers survived.

Reports are that with no doctor to cater for the survivors who had sustained serious head and internal injuries, they had to be “rushed” to Port Moresby – a five to six hour drive.

One of the four survivors

did not make it as he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The other three, including two girls, are reportedly in critical condition fighting for their lives.

Days later and after New Year, a young pregnant woman in her 20s whose pregnancies is her third, also had to make the long trip to Port Moresby.

Reports are that she was fortunate to have been flown into Kerema Town and by North Coast Aviation, which operates two flights in a week into the Kerema township.

It is understood she is into her 26th week of her pregnancy but due to complications from the car accident, she started experiencing bleeding, thus prompting health workers from the Catholic church in the area she is from to come to her rescue.

Upon arrival at Kerema and after undergoing checks, she

was referred by the health workers to Port Moresby. Her fate is not known.

A member of the hospital board and several health staff said since the departure of the hospital’s specialist doctor, the hospital staff had been depending on the expert advise from the three health extension officers and long serving nursing officers.

They said the trip to Port Moresby cost hundreds in terms of fuel costs, accommodation and allowances for health workers on duty travels with patients.

They added that the cost could increase.

The hospital’s chief executive officer was not available for comment but a board member said the authorities were aware of the plight of the hospital and its on-going challenges in recruiting specialist officers to the province.

Leaders: Release K10m for bridge

TWO Chimbu leaders have called for the immediate release of K10 million allocated for a bridge across the Tua River which would link remote Karimui to the outside world through Gumine.

The money was allocated by the National Government in the 2014 national budget for this vital bridge as contractors close in to the Tua from both sides.

Former Karimui-Nomane MP Posi Menai and provincial works chairman Thomas Bare said the money should be released now so that the bridge would complete the road link with Karimui.

Mr Menai said the connection to the river was a milestone achievement for his people and construction of the bridge should not be delayed as funding was already available.

Mr Menai commended contractor

Oasis Enterprises for flying in the machinery, personnel, parts and supply to Karimui to make sure the Karimui road became a reality.

The leader called on his successor and Governor Noah Kool to help in counterfunding to ensure the road was completed.

“Politics should not be an issue when it comes to services delivery. The people of Karimui have been denied vital government services due to lack of road link and now that we have headway, there should be political support, not opposition,” Mr Menai said. Mr Bare reiterated that funding for the bridge should be utilised and construction begin.

He said: “It’s indeed good news for the people of Karimui and Chimbu as a whole with the completion of that section of the road. While the provincial works unit is working from the Gumine side, the bridge should be constructed.”

Youths urged to change behaviour

BY LEONNIE WAYANG

YOUTHS in Dei district in the Western Highlands Province are encouraged to change their attitudes and embrace modern changes taking place in their villages for the New Year 2015.

Solomon K Nape, a local from Kinjipi-Prandeka tribe, Kinjipi village in Dei district, but who lives and works in Port Moresby said he wanted to encourage young people from his area to change their behaviour.

“I have a concern for young people and I want to encourage them to change their attitudes for the better,”

Mr Nape said.

“We have to change and look towards the new year. Let us not involve

ourselves in illegal activities like consuming drugs or home-brew but embrace the services the government is providing us,” he said.

In highlighting government provided services such as health centres and especially schools that will benefit the young people and the community, Mr Nape said the onus was up to the young generation to look after the infrastructures.

“There are more young educated people in the district now than ever before and we have to give back to the community,” Mr Nape said.

“Let us embrace the positive changes that are happening around us and create a better future for ourselves and those coming after us.”

JOHNNY POIYA

AN aerial view of the Karimui road reaching the Tua River. Picture: JOHNNY POIYA

Relatives want killers arrested

LEADERS and relatives of a man who was gunned down on New Year’s Eve at Piripu-Kikita village in the Hela Province have urged those responsible be immediately arrested and charged by police.

Provincial police commander Mark Yangan could not be reached for comments in relation to the incident.

However, reports from the grieving relatives are that the victim, named as Hepari Haralu, a local from Benaria, was shot at close range by a group of armed men on December 31.

According to Benjamin Huralu, Hepari had fled his native home of Benari due to the on-going tribal conflicts there and had fled to Pai village in Tari where he had been taking refuge with a friend for a year.

Benjamin said on the day Hepari was murdered, he had gone to Piripu village to visit a sibling who is married to a local woman there. He said he was in the company of this brother and another fellow tribesman from Benari and while celebrating on New Years eve when he was shot.

Central woman celebrates 105th birthday

IT was a very moving birthday celebration yesterday when Hisiani Vasiri Garu celebrated her 105th birthday with her extended family at Tatana village in Central Province. She was born in 1910. Her eldest child from her first marriage, Vagi Maima, is 85 years old and lives at Porebada.

He is the only surviving child after four of his siblings passed away over the years. He was also at his mother’s celebration yesterday.

Vagi’s father was from Porebada. From Hisiani’s second marriage, she had six children – one of them passed away with only four surviving.

She was overjoyed with tears yesterday, sitting alongside her younger sister Igua Vasiri who is 82 when all her relatives turned up to wish her well as they brought her gifts.

The matriarch had agreed to having her birthday earlier and having all her family around just to bring her spirits high as she looks forward to the New Year.

The 105-year-old’s second husband was from Tatana and had also passed away in 1974.

She has 18 great, great grandchildren from both her first and second marriages put together.

Two killed in Gulf accident

BY ROSALYN ALBANIEL

THE festive season in Gulf Province was marred by a fatal road accident and rape of an 18-year-old girl.

Gulf Provincial police commander Lincoln Gerari said the road accident happened on Christmas Day, claiming the lives of two people, while three were rushed to Port Moresby General Hospital and are fighting for their lives.

Mr Gerari said the driver of the vehicle, registration number BDM 704, was travelling at high speed and police believe that he may have been under the influence of alcohol.

He said the vehicle had overturned and rolled, killing the driver instantly while the four who were seriously injured were put on another vehicle and rushed to Port Moresby.

One of the victims was pronounced dead on arrival while the other three, including two girls, were admitted to the wards.

He said the same day police had apprehended and charged an adult male at Moveave village for sexually molesting an 18-year-old.

Mr Gerari said the teenager was out in her garden collecting mustard when the incident happened.

He said the girl was brought to Kerema General Hospital where health workers had not only confirmed the allegation but had also

At a glance

treated her.

Also in another incident police in the province had also hauled in a total of 36 cartons of liquor including beer and spirits from one trader who was caught selling despite the province wide liquor ban.

He said the licensee has since been dealt with.

On the whole he said the Christmas and New Year celebrations in the provincial capital have been peaceful and orderly and hailed the police operations as a success.

He said the period has been one of the quietest witnessed and this was due partly to the liquor ban.

He said a total of 20 complaints had been lodged since the start of the police operations, which ended on January 2, with eight arrests made.

He commended all policemen and women under his command as well as the public and residents of Kerema for ensuring the festive period was trouble free for everyone.

ISSUE: Festivfe in Gulf province was marred by a fatal road accident and rape of an 18year old girl.

VICTIMS: From the accident, three people died whilst two are fighting for their lives in the hospital.

HISIANI (second from left on chair) with her sister Igua (to her left) and daughters (far left and far right) surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great grand children during her birthday yesterday. Picture: TARAMI LEGEI

Quick thoughts

DRIVERS GET ROBBED

CERTAINLY there are fi ve groups of people checking motorists in POM.

The National Road Safety Authority, the MVIL, the Central traf fi c, the NCD traf fi c of fi cers and the policemen in hired LandCruisers.

At check points, motorists are held and charged for minor traf fi c offences. The fi ne varies and at alarming rates. For example, one group charges K150, another K300, the other group charges K50 and those in LandCruisers get a K200 fi ne. In this case just for an expired safety sticker. Who is coordinating this activity. Is there any fi xed amount for this particular offence and who actually are the right people whom we can pay the fi ne to?

It seems like most of them do it not for its intended purpose rather, they do it to help themselves. They pick on certain cars to check.

W hen they hesitate to pay the fi ne, they are threatened with phrases like, “yu laik go streit lo Boroko sel ah?” The poor driver is not formally charged yet so how dare they threaten him/her. Eventually the driver offers K20 and off he goes without getting a valid receipt. Should they be continuously robbed off their hard earned kina in the name of police road blocks?

Over to you, Public Road Safety Authority.

Tisa Noifa

PLEASE STAY PUT

PLEASE allow me space to comment on the attitudes of senior public servants of Western Province. The District Administrator of North Fly is forever in Port Moresby. His assistant is also doing the same, leaving the public servants without direction. For the year 2014, all public servants who needed to fl y home to their respective provinces did not receive their airfares. The province needs people who can stay put.

Concerned Westerner

MY name is Albert Joshua from New Ireland and I am searching for my daughter. Her name is Francisca. Her mother's name is Regina Bugava from Sheba village, Rigo District, Central Province.

I last met my daughter in 2008 at Port Moresby, where I was attending my apprenticeship. Francisca will be doing her Grade 10 this year 2015. Here is my number: 7242 1627 or email: baiaujoshua@ gmail.com

ROCK WELL

PAPUA New Guinea is a suppressed country and Australia is the cap that suppresses her from thriving.

Asia is the new influence that is sprouting up on PNG’s shore, and the negatives of Asian influence are but collateral to the damaging impacts of the Australian hegemony on PNG. The reason why Asian contamination, that is things like low quality fake products etc, can been seen as a collateral impact to Australia’s cruel hegemony is best observed in that absurdity of an act that the Papua New Guinea Defence Force carried out in 2002 when they decided to downsize the Defence Force upon advise

from Australia. This is almost akin to Japan being forced into forming a law that denies it from attacking but only defending. The difference is Japan at the time did that because it wanted to make sure no harm would find its citizens after the bombings, it wanted to show the world, especially America, that it was surrendering because its people were more important and harming them was too much. But Australia forcing PNGDF to downsize its manpower defies logic.

In doing so, the PNG Government created porosity in our borders, allowing illegal activities to thrive. Hence the influx of illegal

cheap goods, human smuggling and drug trafficking.

Papua New Guineans must wake up from this slumber of “kanaka and masta” and simply end all ties with Australia.

Australia will never help PNG to stand on its own feet.

It is the weight that stunts PNG’s growth and prosperity and it must be removed. Ending all ties with Australia will send a clear message to other nations that when dealing with PNG, the decision must be made to help Papua New Guinea grow, anything less than that and our relationship will be severed.

Concerned Patriot

PRIME Minister Peter O’Neill looking forward to the challenges faced and the progress to be made this year.

WRITE TO US Text us on 208

Teachers’ issues mounting

Letter of the day

THE common issues faced by teachers continues into the new year. Like the leave fare issues currently faced by teachers, who knows what will happen starting this week on teachers' salaries?

Serving teachers around the country will be expecting some salary increments starting off with the first pay of 2015. Specifically, they hope to see changes in their pays based on two awards that formed the part of the 2014 - 2016 Salary Fixation Agreement signed between the state and the Teachers' Union or PNGTA.

One of these awards is the 10% awarded for 2015, which will be automatic and will take effect across the board for all teachers commencing in the first pay of 2015.

That means all teachers will see a 10% increase in their base salaries starting this week. The salary increase will apply to all teachers who are on the government's payroll starting from elementary to colleges.

The other award that is also a part of the 2014 - 2016 Salary Fixation Agreement is a salary adjustment. This salary adjustment is for some teachers based on elevation of base level teaching positions by one step up at various institutions that applies.

Primary school base level salary will start at position TS02, followed by high schools at TS03, secondary schools at TS04, national high schools at TS05 and colleges at TS06 respectively as approved in the agreement.

The top salary range of teachers' salary scale was TS011 which has been elevated to TS012 in the agreement.

However, this particular award that is based on elevation of base level teaching positions has not been implemented as yet by Teaching Service Commission (TSC).

It should have taken effect commencing January 1, 2014 as approved in the agreement.

The delay has taken one whole year and is a breach of the agreement signed between the state and PNGTA.

Teaching Service Commission

Text us on 208

has failed the teachers by not implementing this particular salary adjustment last year. Year 2014 has gone by and teachers are now into the 2015 academic year.

They are continuously made to wait just like the leave fares issue causing long delays. Teaching is a noble profession and teachers should be fairly treated with respect in any area that is affecting their job and welfare.

They should be valued as important stakeholders towards nation building.

Why are issues affecting teachers making news headlines, while the government is happily preaching its tuition fee free education?

Remember that teachers are now waiting to see some increments in their salaries this week after waiting for one whole year.

But what if nothing good eventuates out of this overdue salary increase as expected by teachers? Will they continue to have the patience anymore like they used to for another year?

James Iki via email

Jiwaka police keeping to its tasks

AS A citizen of North Wahgi, Jiwaka Province, I want to commend the excellent job Jiwaka policemen and women at the Chimbu/Jiwaka border check point in ensuring an alcohol and trouble-free festive season. There was peace and quiet so let's keep the check point operational.

WHP and Jiwaka political heads must build permanent bases so that all vehicles and commuters are checked.

Alcohol and drugs are a major cause of crime in PNG communities.

Police records can show and hospital statistics can prove this.

Papua New Guineans were legally allowed by the Australian Colonial Administration to consume alcohol in 1963, that’s 52 years today. Since then it has cost PNG government dearly with alcohol related problems.

The Wahgi people living along the Highlands Highway must support police and the youth are encouraged to refrain from drug abuse and home brewing activities.

Calls for stronger alcohol and

WHERE IS ANDY?

ALCOHOL was widely sold in the Port Moresby right through the night of the New Years 2015. Customers fl ocked into many illegal and licenced outlets along the Pitpit Street Road, at North Waigani, and bought lose bottles or cartons of beer.

How did these outlets get their licences, if any?

Furthermore, it remains unclear as to how these beer dealers established their outlet in residential areas, such as North Waigani.

Authorities, including the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), must explain why this was allowed.

By law, beer cannot be sold in residential areas.

Concerned Resident - POM SHP’S HEALTH IS POOR

I WOULD like to express concern why health functional grants were consolidated back to fi nance?

Almost K1 million have been consolidated back to Finance in 2014 December 31 from the Department of Finance, SHP treasury in Mendi.

If funds are going back why complain about poor service delivery in rural areas?

drug laws from churches, NGOs, women groups and government agencies seem to be loud and clear but governments are yet to put good laws into action with more logistic and manpower assistance to police and support agencies.

Mr J. Tondop, PPC Jiwaka and his men are doing a very excellent job and many of us here in the new province are witnessing good outcomes.

The health division will wait for functional grants CFC to arrive in June or July 2015 as usual.

How will the health sector function to carry out patient referrals, medical patrols, immunisation mobile clinics and do supervisory visits from January to June.

Health functional grants must be available all year round on a timely basis.

At the end of last year, at Agiru Centre Finance was printing cheques that will be misused and will do nothing in the much talked about Improved government service delivery.

The Government is not using the

vehicle it is supposed to use, the public service machinery. Unfortunately, for the Southern Highlands Province, poor service delivery will still see many innocent people die of curable and treatable illnesses.

Bush Dokta. SHP

MUD TRACK

I COMMENT on an article which appeared recently in the PostCourier, regarding Middle Ramu road construction.

The contractor cleared 9 km of this mud track which fed off a logging mud track of Ramu Block 1 FMA.

Another 190 km of this road link to Madang has another 115 km of impassable mud track during the rainy season and the other 90 km, under dispute by Sogeram landowners and Gogol TRP landowners Does this 9 km of mud track justify the K5.8 million that the MP claims to have spent?

What about the claims by the Gogol/Naru people regarding their issue with Jant?

If the MP doesn’t know, we the Ramu people have had clashes with these road corridor landowners because this road corridor is not a provincial or National Government Gazetted road. These people have claims of road toll fees that needs to be settled by Jant, Madang Timbers and the Provincial Government. And for someone to fi nish off just 9 km of mud track to Ramu river and claim credit is a joke. I for one don’t believe K5.8 million was spent on this mud track. This road has no future. Where is the rest of the money?

Robert Mukoi Sogeram River

A LIQUOR ban has been slapped on Lae for the first time from December 23 to January 2. Consumers of the ale cannot comprehend why after 51 weeks of sales? PC Drum Dec 29 - 2004 10 years ago

THE year 2015 will mark our 40th year of independence as a nation and will provide an opportunity to take stock of and build on our recent progress.

Michael Dokup (Dr) Nondugul, Jiwaka

Manam students face grim future with budget cut

BY ROSALYN ALBANIEL

THE local level government services improvement program fund has been a lifeline for high school students from Madang’s Iabu LLG area.

With the decision by the Government to drastically slash this funding support, concerns are that these students may be deprived of the opportunity to advance their education.

Iabu LLG president Martin Ururu told the Post-Courier that out of K500,000 disbursed to the people of Manam, the local level government assembly had allocated 20 per cent toward education.

Mr Ururu said priority in this sector had gone towards assisting parents in paying a portion of the total school fees for selected students chosen to attend Holy Spirit Catholic High School in Bogia district.

He admitted that this may have been small and may not have been according to the regulations governing the use of these funds.

At a glance

LOCALLY KNOWN: Manam Motu. ISLAND: It is an Island off the coast of Madang Province.

MANAM: The Island is 10km wide and was created by the activity of the Manam volcano.

However, the president said he saw education as vital, especially for the future of the children from his area.

He said the volcanic eruption incident had robbed many parents from Manam the means to earn a decent income to pay for necessities including school fees.

He said the consequences were far graver than him having to bend the rules to accommodate this need.

Mr Ururu said while any form of school fee assistance ought to be given by the local MP under his district support services improvement, his people had been missing out.

However, he has expressed con-

cern that he may not be able to do that this year.

He said while the LLG SIP was supposed to go towards impact projects, they had to make the concept workable to suit their needs.

“It has been difficult trying to commit to impact projects which are permanent because Manam was still active and for the care centres, the land is not ours,” he said.

Manam, known locally as Manam Motu, is an island located in the Bismarck Sea across the Stephan Strait from Yawar on the northeast coast of mainland Papua New Guinea.

The island is 10km wide, and was created by the activity of the Manam volcano, one of the country’s most active.

It was evacuated in 2004 and its residents resettled elsewhere in Papua New Guinea, but many have begun to return in recent years, despite concerns of future volcanic activity.

The island is reached by boat from nearby Bogia on the mainland in Madang Province.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Air Niugini worked very closely with various key stakeholders, parties and individuals throughout the process of putting in place the new employment contract for its Pilots which took effect as of 01 January, 2015.

The advice, guidance and understanding provided in this project by all parties concerned is greatly valued and appreciated. The combined efforts enabled Air Niugini to implement the new Pilots’ Contract by 01 January 2015, thereby enabling Air Niugini to continue with its business as usual, delivering air service to the travelling public, particularly at this time of the year.

The Board and Management of Air Niugini take this opportunity to sincerely thank the following in this matter:

SHE MOVES LIKE AN ANGEL

THIS woman dances to the beat at Tatana village during their festive celebrations. Festive celebrations in many Central and Motu Koita villages included sports, children’s fun games, church activities and dramas, as well as theme nights. These activities usually start before December 25 and end on New Years Day. Picture: TARAMI LEGEI

Highway re-opened after Jiwaka strife

BY JOHNNY POIYA

THE Highlands Highway at Kumbal, Jiwaka Province, was re-opened on Saturday following a three-day closure by locals who had dug a trench across it.

The trench was dug last Wednesday to divert water and retrieve the body of a local man who had drowned in the roadside drain – which had flooded because of a blocked culvert under the highway.

A clash erupted between locals and combined police from Jiwaka, Chimbu and Mt Hagen manning a checkpoint for alcohol smuggling over the festive period, before the drowning incident.

Jiwaka Police Chief Joseph Tondop said during the early morning hours of Wednesday, locals charged fees for vehicles passing through the flooded area. Police who were managing the checkpoint some 500m away intervened and chased them away. One of

them decided to escape by swimming through the flooded area and drowned in the dark, Mr Tondop said.

Locals dug a drain across the highway in an attempt to divert water and retrieve the body. They refused to refill the ditch after retrieving the body.

Mr Tondop urged the locals who reluctantly agreed to patch up the highway and allow for traffic to flow again.

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill was one of the users. He was visiting major government-funded projects in the Highlands, including the construction of the Western Highlands and Jiwaka provincial headquarters.

Mr Tondop has appealed to the people not to take advantage of such situations and disrupt the Highlands Highway traffic or damage State properties. “People should not take the law into their own hands and created more problems. They should seek police assistance,” Mr Tondop said.

Church to host evangelistic meet

THE Eastern Highlands Simbu Mission (EHSM) of the SDA church is set to host a week-long evangelistic meeting in Sinesine’s Koge village.

The meet, sponsored by the church’s Kumul district, will lure an estimated 7000 faithful, according to pastors Simon Essy and Andrew Kimin.

Guest speakers Albert Robert, Benjamin Kola and Agnes Kola will present topics on the Bible, health,

family affairs, current events, global warming and hope for humanity.

The speakers had studied theology, family affairs and Bible in the Philippines.

Organisers have invited other church members as well as members of other denominations across the Highlands region to attend the gathering, which will began yesterday and end on January 11.

Tribes reconcile after 40 years

BY ANNA OMBA

THE Jika Milakamb and Yamka tribes of Hagen Central have made peace after 40 years of living as enemies.

A tribal fight between the two tribes began in 1971 and lasted till 1974. Many lives were lost during the three years of fighting.

At the peace and reconciliation ceremony on Wednesday, most of the men speaking at the ceremony were those who lost their fathers and relatives in the tribal fight. They shook each other’s hands, hugged and cried together, showing that they truly wanted peace and reconciliation and no longer wanted to live as enemies.

Present at the ceremony was Minister for Transport and MP for Hagen William Duma, Deputy Governor for Western Highlands Wai Rapa, councillors, community leaders, church leaders, peace mediators and police personnel.

During the 40 years, the two tribes never talked to each other, even individuals. They saw each other as enemies until their leaders realised that the hostility had to end.

“We must let law and order take its course instead of taking matters into our own hands. We must change and say no to tribal fights and keep our province and community safe,” said Jacob Popona, a community leader from the Yamka tribe.

The Yamka tribe apologised to the Jika Milakamb leaders for what their fathers did. They promised peace with the Jika Milakambs in the future. They said they have come to realise that only peace will bring love, joy, prosperity and ‘gutpla sindaun’ in their community.

The Jika Milakamb tribesmen accepted the apology and reconciliation and said they are happy that peace has finally reached their home and families.

Anitua branches out

ANITUA Mining Services is branching into two other provinces, according to the company’s newsletter NCS Gardona

“Not only are we generating new business off Lihir,” says AMS general manager Mark Edwards. “We’re also making sure we get maximum usage of our equipment, some of which would otherwise not be utilised on Lihir with the shrinking of Newcrest’s operations.”

Together with local firm Pusinai Quarry, AMS has formed a new company called Pusani Ltd. The company will be primarily involved in producing crushed materials from a quarry located in the Polomou area of Manus, with the materials being used both in some major projects as well as routine road maintenance projects.

Police warn drug smugglers

JOHNNY POIYA

CHIMBU police have warned outsiders not to smuggle marijuana into the province following an effective initiative against the illicit substance by the drug squad.

The warning came from provincial police commander Michael Welsh following the arrest of a man from Eastern Highlands trying to smuggle a kilogram of packed dried marijuana into Chimbu last week.

The drug squad, under the command of detective Yatefa

Welis, has covered the whole province over the last four years under special operation ‘weedim grass’ and successfully destroyed hundreds of thousands of marijuana plants over the years. The operation also covers home-brew, as well as the confiscation of fire arms during raids following tip-offs.

“We warn outsiders not to come in with marijuana and destroy the good work our boys have done in combating marijuana and home-brew in Chimbu Province.

“Those who are caught will

be severely dealt with,” said Mr Welsh.

He and his team, after covering the whole province couple of times, have recently targeted the border areas between Eastern Highlands Province as well as going into the nearby province to uproot marijuana in known areas.

He said his team would revisit the places they had already raided in the past years to ensure the people realise they were serious in removing the illegal drug from the province.

DETECTIVE Welis with dried marijuana (right) and one of his men with suspect Nelson Daniel in Kundiawa, Chimbu Province. Daniel was caught trying to smuggle marijuana from Bena into Kundiawa.

Students study risks

BY TONY SII

STUDENTS at the University of Papua New Guinea now have an opportunity to learn more about the hazards and risks of natural disasters and how to assess and manage them when the CHARM diploma course begins this year.

National Disaster Centre assistant director Kaigabu Kamnanaya said it was an achievement for the centre to have UPNG run the Comprehensive Hazard Assessment Risk Management (CHARM) course this year but more so the course was a big boost to disaster education in PNG.

“The course basically looks at hazard composition, their causes and intensity and areas such as population, environment, infrastructure, economy and social and cultural aspects likely to be impacted by the hazards,” he said.

Mr Kamnanaya said the course allows the students to then make

assessments, rating the hazard or risks levels from high to medium to low and come up with appropriate diagnosis or treatment to lessen their impacts or prevent their occurrence and escalation.

He said it was through such courses that people could be educate to make decisions that could ultimately prevent and minimise the impacts of disaster.

He said the course is beneficial to students whose study interests relate to hazards and disasters as well as to those already working in the associated fields.

Mr Kamnanaya said as part of the course students will also be taught associated topics such as law, geography, planning, environment, management by different lectures over a 18-week period for two years (14 weeks each year).

The course is coordinated by the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainable Development at School of Natural Physical at UPNG.

Buai adds to pollution

BY DONALD WILLIE

Office of Chief Secretary to Government

NATIONAL WORKING GROUP ON IMPROVING BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT CLIMATE IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Assessments on the Importation of Uncooked Poultry Products (Chilled and Frozen Poultry Meat and Infertile Table Eggs) from Australia and New Zealand as follows:

1. Review of the technical biosecurity risk assessment and import protocols

2. Economic impact assessment study (economic risks, costs and benefit) on its effects on the local poultry industry

The National Working Group on Improving Business and Investment Climate in Papua New Guinea (NWGIBIC) is a public/private sector committee aimed at building cooperation between the public and private sectors in improving the environment for business and investment in PNG.

The NWGIBIC committee is seeking experts in either the Technical Biosecurity Risk Assessment and/or Economic Assessment fields to engage in the above independent review/assessment.

The studies relate to the importation of uncooked poultry products which may pose a biosecurity threat to the local poultry industry in the country, and the economic impacts on the local poultry industry of such importation.

Suitable local and International experts are required to pick up the Terms of Reference for both studies from:

The Secretariat of the NWGIBIC

Level 2- Policy Division, Moale Haus, WAIGANI

Department of Trade, Commerce & Industry

P O Box 375, WAIGANI

Melanesian Way

Phone: (675) 325 6099/6080 Ext: 2526/96

Fax: (675) 325 6108

Email: angeuforty.kuselley@dci.gov.pg / angeufortykuselley@gmail.com

All suitable applicants should submit their Expressions of Interest with their relevant documents to the NWGIBIC Secretariat, no later than COB on Monday, 16th January, 2015.

Manasupe

Z. Zurenuoc, Kt., OBE

CHIEF SECRETARY TO GOVERNMENT and CHAIRMAN of NWGIBIC

ALTHOUGH a banned substance in Port Moresby, betelnut has never lost its presence in the big village of Hanuabada, which has become the unofficial betelnut capital of the city.

Since the ban was imposed by the National Capital District Commission, buai or buatau in the Motu dialect, has been smuggled into Port Moresby like drugs even though the people have consumed it freely for generations.

This risk is high so price automatically jumped from K1 to K1.50 per nut. However in recent times, prices have gone as high as K2-K3 and fluctuates depending on how much was in supply at any given time.

The people fear the price may reach the K5 as demand will be high.

Some people have just given up betelnut, not on the reasons of health – just because it is too expen-

sive these days.

NCD Governor Powes Parkop in a previous media conference maintained his stance on the betelnut ban, saying it will remain banned until the people’s attitude changes. He said since the banning of betelnut in Port Moresby, the city has seen a lot of changes especially in terms of cleanliness.

Meanwhile, although many villagers from Hanuabada are satisfied that betelnut is still made available to them by the ones who take this risk, there are some who are not so happy as the trade of the betelnut brings a lot of outsiders, both buyers and sellers, into the village.

This contributes to law and order problems, traffic jams near the main market and filth.

“The village is already filthy enough and this rubbish from this market just adds to it making it really worse” an elder of the village told Post-Courier

you have a story to tell, call us on 309 1042, or email

Dr David Mokelaand his family and friends drove out of the city to celebrate the birthday of his eldest daughter, Barbara Kari Moana who turned 33 recently. The small celebration was enjoyed by everyone at Gaire village. Barbara is seen here admiring her cake before cutting it.

HAPPY 33 BIRTHDAY

Rubbish polluting Hanuabada village

If you have a story to tell, call us on 542 2602, or email

Youths kick out street vendors

By RIODAN BEGUSHAR

THE Youths of Yamka, Moge, Jika and the other neighboring tribes in the Western Highlands Province had made a general announcement yesterday at the Hagen main market to all street vendors and sellers to cease their selling activities on the streets of Mt Hagen.

“We will kick, destroy and even harm whoever we see sell on the streets of Hagen town,” the youths said. After chasing the street sellers outside the Hagen market, the youths told the vendors that today was a warning, if they see and catch whoever sells on the streets will face the consequences. The call to cease

those selling activities came from the youths purposely for free clean and safe Mt Hagen city.

Over the recent months to current standing of Mt Hagen city, the city is so filthy according to youths. They said the cause of rubbish and untidy face of the Hagen city is due to streets sales.

A youth told Post-Courier that he loves his province and the town so much and it is so sad that the road and the corners of the city are filled with rubbish and betelnuts stains.

“The face of Mt Hagen city is so dirty and untidy because of the rise in the number of street sellers and vendors”, the youth said.

CHURCH DECORATION

CHRISTMAS is the season for all the Christians around the world to come together and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in different ways, and include decorations, lights, gifts, food and sharing. These children from Aviamp, are coming back from the bush with their leaves and palm trees to decorate their church for Christmas. Picture: MAL

Church baptises 17 people

By RIODAN BEGUSHAR

THE Murpup Christian Fellowship Church in Dei District Western Highlands Province had baptised 17 people during its 35 years anniversary celebration.

The nine girls and eight boys were baptised by Pastor Joe Para and officially blessed them in the name of the high God to continue carry his work.

Pastor Para said a girl or boy who believes that Jesus died for him or her and took their sins away can be baptised.

He said he is pleased to baptise the 17 people for it was first of its kind .

“Baptism is a separation that occurs in water, the old ways are washed away and the new person is born out from the water”, Pastor Para said.

One of the baptised people, Esther Ruing, said she was glad to change her ways.

TAIME

If you have a story to tell, call us on 472 4166 or email postlae@spp.com.pg / or call 422 3120, email postmadang@spp.com.pg

MP given red carpet welcome

FOLLOWING a Supreme Court decision throwing out an election petition against Maprik MP John Simon, his people were overwhelmed and him on Christmas eve.

Mr Simon was surprised and moved when he saw the reception he got at the Boram Airport in Wewak and even more when he arrived at his electorate.

According to former Yamil-Tamaui LLG president and a local leader in Maprik, Mathias Gilichebe, the decision came as a Christmas present not only to the MP but to his people.

“We his people congratulate him on his win and we are proud of him, said Mr Gilichebe.

“He is a powerful leader willing to deliver services to his people but the court petition has been one of the obstacles blocking him.

“This is our Christmas present.”

When Mr Simon arrived in Wewak on Wednesday afternoon, there was a traditional singsing group all

the way from Maprik ready to receive him.

After the 2012 election, Mr Simon was taken to court by the former member for Maprik Mr Gabriel Kapris.

Since then he has been to all the courts in the country and ended up at the Supreme Court in which the three men bench dismissed the 2012 election petition case.

When he arrived in the district on Christmas day, he received a much greater welcome.

“It was as if he won the election for the second time. We are all happy and we know he will continue to deliver positive services to his people of Maprik,” said Mr Gilichebe.

Mr Simon is currently in his electorate to celebrate the festive season with family, friends and his people of Maprik District.

When receiving him at the airport, ESP deputy Governor Mr Ian Samuel said that it has been tough and not an easy experience.

ENGA PROVINCIAL SUPPLY & TENDERS BOARD EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

FOR THE PROVISION OF FOOD RATION SERVICES TO THE SCHOOLS IN THE ENGA PROVINCE

Vision

Education is the priority of the Enga Provincial Government. The Provincial Education Board in this regard has identified a number of projects and programs and begun to implement them to achieve the Provincial Government’s vision of Reformed Quality Service delivery and to ensure that the ser vice is truly provided to the schools in the province.

Scope of Service Required

Consistent with the Provincial Government’s vision of providing quality service to the schools the Provincial Supply and Tenders Board is seeking Expressions of Interest to provide high quality food rations to the schools in the Enga Province.

Legal Standing, ability and Experience

The ideal bidder will be registered, reputable service provider having demonstrated high level management and continuity in the respective industry. The company must have proven track record in the provision of high quality supplies and capable of meeting demands of the schools.

Essential Requirements

Expression of Interest proposal must contain details of the type of service to be provided and must have IPA registration certificate, tax certificate, company profile and such other relevant documents.

Delivery and Due Date

All proposals clearly marked “ EPSTB 02/2014 – Provision of Food Ration Service” must be delivered no later than 4:06 p.m. on the 30th January, 2015 to:

The Chairman, Enga Provincial Supply and Tenders Board, P. O. Box 109, WABAG, Enga Province.

Authorised By: Dr. Samson Amean Provincial Administrator

Games unite Central Sepik people

THE people of central Sepik convered in Maprik to take part in district games initiated by Maprik MP John Simon to celebrate Christmas and New Year.

The games were organised to unite the district as well as Central Sepik through sports and at the same time keep youths away from drugs and home brewed alcohol.

Participating teams came from as far as Pagwi and Nuku as well as the local teams from in and around Maprik.

Local business houses backed the event with Mr Simon, who launched it last week while on a tour of the district.

Mr Simon used the opportunity to encouraged the youths to participate with the spirit of true sportsmanship.

“I urge the young people and whoever is participating in the event to play like a true sportsman and woman,” the MP said.

“It does not matter if you lose or win as there can only be one winner and I encourage you to congratulate each other and practice hard for next year’s event.”

He also called upon the organising committee to see that proper seasonal games are organised this year in order to see that the players are in form and ready to play when the need arises.

“We must have proper seasonal

At a glance

GAMES OPENING: Maprik District had its Christmas Tournament open games last week with teams all over Central Sepik.

TRUE SPORTSMANSHIP: When opening the event Mr Simon encouraged the youths to participate with the spirit of true sportsmanship. I urge people participating in the event to play like a true sportsman and woman.

PREPARATION: Having seasonal games will also prepare them for big events such as PNG Games and South Pacific Games as well.

games and not just tournaments as it is not good for the health and talents of our children in the district and in Central Sepik,” Mr Simon said.

“Having seasonal games will also prepare them for big events such as PNG Games and South Pacific Games as well as tournaments in other parts of the province.”

The games include soccer, volleyball and dart with both male and female teams.

Mr Simon visited his electorate over the festive season fresh following a court ruling that threw out an election petition challenging his 2012 victory from former MP Gabriel Kapris.

MAPRIK MP John Simon receives red carpet welcome at Makipita village in the Albiges-Mamblep LLG of Maprik district.

If you have a story to tell, call us on 982 9186, or email postrabaul.spp@global.net.pg / or call 973 9188, email postbuka.spp@global.net.pg

Dion explains party switch

DEPUTY Prime Minister and East New Britain Regional MP Leo Dion has explained why he left the Triumph Heritage Party and joined the ruling People’s Natinoal Congress.

In his Christmas message to the people of the province, Mr Dion said the decision to move to another party was not easy.

He said his main motive of joining the new party was because he wanted to put ENB first, adding that the province had a lot of development plans.

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

Governor Sasindran Muthuvel has opened a four-in-one classroom at Bialla Secondary School with the presentation of two new school trucks, and a double classroom at Kabaiya Primary School.

Railroads vital for revenue, services

BY ABRAHAM AVEDIBA

DESPITE railroads not being placed in the Government’s infrastructure plan, the advantage of having them built in the country is considered far greater.

Former businessman and Duke of York community leader Harry Hoerler said this during an interview with the Post-Courier yesterday.

“Imagine having trains carrying passengers and commodities from province to province, this would mean decentralisation of city areas and an increase in productivity for businesses,” Mr Hoerler said.

According to Mr Hoerler, the operation of diesel trains would greatly assist the rural communities to move their cash crops like coffee, copra and cocoa to various parts of the country.

“The general public will also have an alternative and cheaper means to travel.

“The government will also benefit greatly as it would own and oper-

ate this service to generate revenue from.

“Furthermore, the service will be a cost cutting measure for the government as they will not have to worry about spending too much money maintaining the rails unlike normal sealed roads,” he added. He also explained that the security enforcement sector of the country is often confronted with the challenge of having to cut costs in transporting police and defence personnel to trouble spots.

However, this option will enable such law enforcers to travel more conveniently to trouble spots in times of need.

Mr Hoerler explained that many countries have established this mode of transport and he is calling on the government to consider placing this infrastructure in their plans in the near future.

“If under developing countries are using this mode of transport, I see no excuse why a financially stabled country like PNG, should delay in establishing this service,” he added.

Deputy PM urges cooperation

EAST New Britain Regional

Member and Deputy Prime Minister Grand Chief Leo Dion has appealed to leaders in ENB to understand their roles and responsibilities and appreciate their limitations.

He urged the leaders in the province to work together. Mr Dion said despite being the Deputy Prime Minister, he was still the elected regional member for ENB by law. He told the people of the province through a radio program that

being the DPM did not mean he cannot participate in any decision making in the provincial assembly or ENB’s Joint Provincial Budget Priority Committee where development plans or the provincial budget can be discussed by the five national members of parliament before they are tabled in the provincial assembly.

He said unfortunately, unlike before, consultation with the regional member and other MPs is not usually done.

He said there are upcoming projects the province was looking forward to achieving, such as the redevelopment of Tokua into an international airport, upgrading of Tokua-Kokopo

road, Kokopo town sewerage system, alongside water supply extensions, the New Britain Highway as well as the building of the emergency airport at Tavilo and many more. He said another reason was to make sure there was stability in the Government.

He paid tribute to Prime Minister Peter O’Neill in having the trust and confidence in him and appointing him as the deputy prime minister of Papua New Guinea.

Meanwhile, Mr Dion also made it clear in a radio program that he had no ill feelings towards Don Polye, who is the leader for THE Party, its executives and supporters.

He said in politics there are many decisions a leader has to make and at many times some of these decisions will not go down well with other people and supporters.

He urged the people to continue working with him to develop the province and the country as a whole.

ENGA PROVINCIAL SUPPLY & TENDERS BOARD

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

FOR THE PROVISION OF STATIONARY SUPPLIES TO THE SCHOOLS IN THE ENGA PROVINCE

Vision

Education is the priority of the Enga Provincial Government. The Provincial Education Board in this regard has identified a number of projects and programs and begun to implement them to achieve the Provincial Government’s vision of Reformed Quality Service delivery and to ensure that the serv ice is truly provided to the schools in the province.

Scope of Service Required

Consistent with the Provincial Government’s vision of providing quality service to the schools the Provincial Supply and Tenders Board is seeking Expressions of Interest to provide high quality stationaries to the schools in the Enga Province.

Legal Standing, ability and Experience

The ideal bidder will be registered, reputable service provider having demonstrated high level management and continuity in the respective industry. The company must have proven track record in the provision of high quality supplies and capable of meeting demands of the schools.

Essential Requirements

Expression of Interest proposal must contain details of the type of service to be provided and must have IPA registration certificate, tax certificate, company profile and such other relevant documents.

Delivery and Due Date

All proposals clearly marked “EPSTB 01/2014 – Provision of Stationary Service” must be delivered no later than 4:06 p.m. on the 30th January, 2015 to:

The Chairman, Enga Provincial Supply and Tenders Board, P. O. Box 109, WABAG, Enga Province.

Authorised By: Dr. Samson Amean Provincial

Administrator

THE WNB Provincial Government’s emphasis on education as its priority is bearing fruits with new infrastructures.

LEO Dion

If you have a story to tell, call us on 982 9186, or email postrabaul.spp@global.net.pg / or call 973 9188, email postbuka.spp@global.net.pg

Pastor stresses need for unity

GOD’S Kingdom Network chairman

Pastor Albert Magoi presented his Christmas and New Year message to Bougainville in Buka town recently, stressing the need for unity.

At the Network Partners Combined Sunday Service last week, Ps Albert thanked the partners of God’s Kingdom Network for their sacrifices over the last four years in building the Region “by continuing to water the Tree of Unity”.

He also thanked local disadvantaged households, individuals, organisations, local churches and ministries for their outstanding achievements. Gods Kingdom Network is a movement which unites people through its principles, which place value on family life, villages, community and the Region as a whole.

“As people of Bougainville, we must collectively continue to fight for unity, progress and growth of the region depends on unity,” Ps Albert said.

“We cannot stand still or slip further backwards in developing our people and our economy. Our ABG leaders have tasked churches and ministries to lead the way and uphold unity as vital key for development and transformation, with strong commitment from networking churches and ministries in region building.”

Momis praises acting secretary

BOUGAINVILLE President

John Momis has praised outgoing acting chief secretary Chris Siriosi and thanked him for his hard work.

“I want to take this opportunity to record my thanks to Mr Chris Siriosi for acting as chief administrator since August 2013 and more recently as chief secretary,” Mr Momis said.

“Mr Siriosi has worked extremely hard. The progress under his leadership in the last 15 months has been substantial. Included in those achievements is establishing the Bougainville public service and its new departments, introducing the Bougainville public finance system, revitalising the annual budget process for 2015 with greater community and district engagement and improved engagement with the National Government,” Momis said.

Siriosi welcomes decision

By VERONICA HANNETTE

BOUGAINVILLE’S outgoing acting chief secretary Chris Siriosi has called on the people of Bougainville to respect the decision of the Bougainville Senior Appointments Committee on new Chief Secretary Monovi Amani.

Mr Siriosi said he respects the appointment because he had sworn to an oath to serve as a public servant in the region and respects the process of the appointments committee.

He said the appointment of Mr Amani as a qualified Bougainvillean is important for that position.

“No one should be under any misunderstanding about my position because I support the ABG President and the Bougainville Executive Council (BEC) and the appointments committee for establishing a credible professional Bougainville public service under its own laws,” Mr Siriosi said.

“Change is never easy to manage and it is even more difficult in a situation such as that faced by Bougainville.

“Therefore I believe the only one part to fulfil our constitution and the Bougainville Peace Agreement is to follow the rule of law and support transparent prinpled and ethical standard.”

At a glance

CHRIS SIRIOSI: Bougainville’s outgoing acting chief secretary.

CHANGE: Change is never easy to manage and it is even more difficult in a situation such as that faced by Bougainville.

He said this after a protest was made last week during the 2015 budget sitting at the House of Representatives where the ABG President addressed the crowd.

Mr Momis told the leaders and the protesters that the appointment of the Chief Secretary was based on qualifications and expects them to co-operate instead of staging protests.

Meanwhile, Mr Siriosi said he had enjoyed his time as acting chief secretary and is willing to work for the government in any position that best suits his skills.

Mr siriosi thanked the Mr Momis and the BEC for giving him the opportunity to serve in that position and is willing to help the government’s public service as well. He also urged the people of Bougainville to accept the decision and support the new Chief Secretary as he takes over from Mr Siriosi.

PASTOR Magoi speaking at the service last week

ELA MOTORS WELCOMES 2015

OVER 100 CARS TO CHOOSE

If you have business story to tell, text or call us on 3091028, or email ptwundai@spp.com.pg

Basil: Lack of fiscal discipline distressing

BY FRANKIY KAPIN

DESPITE the 2013-2014 national budget allocating K20 million as the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP) fund to the 89 districts, the Bulolo district has received only K16 million to date. Deputy Opposition Leader and Bulolo MP Sam Basil welcomed the New Year 2015 with these somber remarks despite the 2015 budget promising a K5 million increase of the DSIP.

Basil said out of the K16 million which is K4 million less, K2 million was a bounced cheque that was raised by the Finance Department and the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) and never released the

funds because there was no funds.

Basil said the opposition realises that towards the end of 2014 many other institutions such as the teaching services have cried foul over unpaid leave entitlements.

“We understand that cheques were not paid meaning there were problems faced in both the cash flow and liquidity in the system,” said Basil.

Basil said the current O’Neill Government has no liquidity management plan.

Basil said that the opposition has expected the BPNG to come forward and announce to PNG what is really going on in terms of the liquidity of PNG’s financial systems. “From what has happened we understand

that there is no government liquidity and fiscal discipline in terms to spend money according to budget appropriations,” said Basil.

He said after two years in the running and now going into the third year of the O’Neill Government, PNG is looking at K2.3 to K4 billion budget deficits.

Basil said with most of the revenues to fund the budget derived from non-renewable resources mainly the LNG and gas exports apart from other minerals such as gold, copper and silver, the deficit is unavoidable. He stressed that the incoming of the LNG project has increased PNG’s income dependency on minerals to 80% with the remaining 20% taken up by the ag-

Market Snapshot

ricultural sector, a failed sector in terms of government investments in the last few years.

Basil said the opposition understands that there is a new LNG project coming up in Australia creating competitive market for the LNG commodity in the Asian market.

“We also understand that the LNG product that has been coming out of the PNG LNG project has been presold to the Asian markets,” said Basil.

He said with the current developments in the international arena displaying a decline in the oil and gas sector and as mentioned above, the 2015 PNG budget will surely be affected.

Container market booming for settlement mothers

BY PATRICK.T.WUNDAI

FOR what almost many urban dwellers see as insignificant or never even take notice of, especially the working class, is somewhat a cash generating avenue for few urban informal sector mothers.

This Patrick.T.Wundai picture shows few mothers from settlements around 5-Mile, 6-Mile and Erima selling water/fuel containers of various sizes near the Erima Roundabout, Port Moresby.

A mother who didn’t want to be identified said, it’s an informal income generating activity that most people don’t to want venture into. She told this editor, it’s quite a lucrative business for mothers.

Most of the containers are sold to villagers of Central Province who come to town. When they return, they fill their container with fuel of any kind or water.

A four liter container is sold for K5 while a 44 gallon is sold at K70.

Philippines Airlines sets sights on PNG

PHILIPPINES Airlines Inc (PAL), the country’s flag carrier is looking at mounting flights to Papua New Guinea to accommodate the growing number of passengers,

The Philippines Star reported last week.

The newspaper reported that PAL has filed with the Civil Aeronautics Board an application for re-allocation of additional entitlements on

the Manila- Port Moresby from the unutilised seat entitlements previously allocated to budget airline Cebu Air Inc. (Cebu Pacific).

The Tan Group is crafting a strategic plan that would pave the way for the entry of a foreign strategic partner into PAL within the next three years after successfully retaking back the national flag carrier from diversified conglomerate

San Miguel Corp (SMC).

PAL president and chief operating officer Jaime Bautista earlier said the Tan Group is looking at taking in a strategic partner of up to 40 per cent of PAL over the medium term or within two to three years. To prepare for the entry of strategic partner, Bautista said PAL would finalise a short term plan including the review of the

and

airline’s fleet after SMC undertook a massive refleerting program after it bought into PAL through San Miguel Equity Investments Inc. in April 2012.

Then PAL president and chief operating officer Ramon S. Ang entered into two separate agreements worth close to $10 billion (K25.7 billion)for the acquisition of 65 brand new Airbus aircraft.

$A weakens as greenback knocks euro

SYDNEY: The Australian dollar weakened on the first trading day of 2015 as the greenback gained strength from a faltering euro.

At 1700 AEDT on Friday, the Australian dollar was trading at 81.37 US cents, down from 81.93 cents on New Year’s Eve.

The local currency dropped from 81.72 US cents, minutes before noon, to 81.31 cents within little more than half an hour.

National Australia Bank chief markets economist

Ivan Colhoun said the Australian dollar fell as the euro hit its weakest point against the greenback since July 2012, which saw the US dollar rise against a series of currencies. “It’s more ... US dollar strength and euro weakness,” he said.

Traders overseas are also squaring up their positions on the greenback in anticipation of strong American economic data, and the prospect of a US interest rate rise in 2015. “The view for the year is to be long US dollars,” Mr Colhoun said.

He predicted the Australian dollar could touch 78 US cents by the end of 2015, which would put the currency marginally above Reserve Bank governor Glenn Stevens’s wish for it to trade at 75 US cents.

“He’d be quite happy about that,” Mr Colhoun said. At 1700 AEDT, the Australian dollar was at 98 Japanese yen, down from Wednesday’s close of 98.08 yen, and at 67.51 euro cents, up from 67.40 euro cents.

Meanwhile, the bond market weakened on as investors prepared for a strong set of US manufacturing numbers for December from the Institute for Supply Management. At 1630 AEDT on Friday, the March 2015 10-year bond futures contract was trading at 97.175 (implying a yield of 2.825 per cent), down from 97.240 (2.760 per cent) on New Year’s Eve.

The March 2015 three-year bond futures contract was at 97.850 (2.150 per cent), down from 97.900 (2.100 per cent).At 1230 AEDT on Wednesday, the March 2015 10-year bond futures contract was trading at 97.240 (implying a yield of 2.760 per cent), up from 97.215 (2.785 per cent) on Tuesday.

MOTHERS selling containers at the Erima Roundabout, Port Moresby. Picture: PATRICK.T.WUNDAI

Buai ban affects local economy

BY ROSALYN ALBANIEL

WHILE betel nut prices have hit the roof in Port Moresby with buyers paying up to K2K3 a nut, prices are at their lowest in the Gulf province.

Gulf has for years been one of the main suppliers of the green gold but this once thriving business has dropped and locals are blaming the betel nut ban in Port Moresby for its demise.

Many complained bitterly when the Post-Courier visited the township during the New Year.

Villager Soso Meroro from Iokea village said prior to the betelnut ban, sellers like him were able to reap up to K300K400 for a 10 kilogram bag. His income and many of his fellow villagers has since been slashed drastically with them now only making about K40-K50 a bag.

Similar sentiments were expressed by Albert Saiwa, another betelnut seller.

They said talks had been held with a team from the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) with the intention of providing a win-win situation for all but no favorable outcome was achieved.

They said with the school year approaching and the province lacking opportunities for other economic activities, they feared their

children’s education would be at stake.

“The school year is just around the corner and we are still waiting. With the current prices being paid for our betelnut it will be a challenge for many of us parents especially for those of us who have kids attending high schools,” he said.

Paul Paiva and his wife Anna who own and operate a PMV in Kerema say their business and others to have also suffered as a result of the demise of this growing trade.

They said besides the PMV fares that freight fees had also been another source of income.

This they said had gone down.

“Previously and like all PMV operators we would charge K10-15 on freight. With the ban we have only been able to get K5 and sometimes nothing.”

Petronas Pacific NorthWest

MALAYSIA’S state-owned Petronas will set the tone in 2015 for British Columbia’s fledgling liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry in what is shaping up to be a makeor-break year for the Pacific NorthWest LNG joint venture. The Petronas-led Pacific

sets tone for LNG

industry

NorthWest LNG project is widely viewed by industry analysts as the most promising among 18 proposals to export LNG from the West Coast to energy.

Petronas and its four Asian partners decided in early December to indefinitely delay their final investment deci-

sion on whether to build an $11.4-billion B.C. export terminal.

But the project will gain a new lease on life if the consortium is able to reduce construction costs, secure aboriginal support and overcome environmental hurdles.

“We’re trying to be a first

mover and be out in front of these other LNG projects because we know there will be competitive forces,” Pacific NorthWest LNG president Michael Culbert said in an interview.

The project, planned for Lelu Island in northwest British Columbia, finds itself in a

BSP exec calls for branch upgrade

BY ROSALYN ALBANIEL

CALLS have been made to authorities to upgrade the Kerema Bank South Pacific (BSP) Sub-Branch to a fully fledged branch.

The calls are from the branch manager Aisi Aua in light of ongoing challenges that he and his staff have been facing.

Mr Aua said the services have been restored in the township in June last year following six

years of absence in the province. He said the challenges were largely associated with the cash flow capacity to meet the demand given the current sub-branch status opposed to what could have been a fully fledged branch. “One of the major challenges we are facing is to do with cash flow. There is more money going out than there is coming in.

“This problem could be minimised if our local business

houses come to us for their banking needs. But this has not been the case.

“For reasons only known to them, a large number including our local businesses are still opting to travel to Port Moresby for their banking needs, despite the risks involved,” he said.

Mr Aua pointed out that other reasons for customers still opting to travel to Port Moresby is related to processing of loans, a function not possible given

race provincially against LNG ventures that are positioning themselves to vie for skilled construction workers.

Having a labour shortage would be a pleasant problem for the nascent B.C. LNG sector, which has yet to see any proponents make the decision to forge ahead.

in 2015

Globally, British Columbia trails other countries in the LNG sector.

New exports are set to hit the market over the next five years from rival producers such as Australia, the United States and Papua New Guinea. – energynewsbulletin.com

their current status.

Despite this he said he is pleased to report the numbers of new accounts to be increasing. “The demand is there but our challenge is staff and logistics. Ultimately the sub-branch has to be upgraded but this will depend on the support from our leaders, but more importantly our people.

“Banks are a commercial entity and they also need to make money,” he added.

THESE contractors were hard at work on the light poles along the Poreporena freeway towards Hohala, Port Moresby. Picture: KENNEDY BANI

LET

Talks had been held with a team from NCDC but no favourable outcome was achieved ...

BETEL NUT SELLERS Gulf Province

Another year has come and gone. Hope everyone had an enjoyable and safe Festive Season.

As we look forward to another year of work, I, on behalf of the board and management, want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your exceptional performance last year.

Your performance has resulted in the company enjoying a good year again. Operationally, we have seen continued improvements in our operations, with vessel turnaround times declining as a result of improvements to core infrastructure at our two biggest ports, Port Moresby and Lae.

We have recorded increased revenue tonnage of commodities as well as traded containers for the year. We have also successfully partnered with ExxonMobil to provide pilotage and surveillance services to the LNG Project and these contributed to the positive results we have achieved for the year.

For the rst time, our company has physically veri ed all xed assets at all the ports and rolled out the lein and Technology One System in Madang Port bringing the number of Ports using lein and Technology One to ve

The annual statutory audits of the company are up to date to 2012, with the 2013 audit also completed and expected to be released soon. We are aware of the need to take advantage of the current strong operational and nancial performance through strategic investments in core infrastructure across our network, which we are undertaking and will continue in 201

We have successfully delivered on the projects we have planned for last year and we will continue to deliver in the New Year into 2016 with your continued support and commitment.

I fully acknowledge and thank you all for the support you gave me, to my management team and to the Board this year. As a token of the Board and management’s appreciation for all your efforts, all employees were awarded some discretionary bonus last year apart from the normal Christmas vouchers for the families. I hope you had a good Christmas with your families.

I also want to thank all our stakeholders across our network of ports for their understanding and their support throughout the year.

Thank you all. I ask you for the same support in the New Year. With these words, I wish you and your families a pleasant and prosperous new year 201

Mr Stanley Alphonse PNGPCL Chief Executive Of cer

Lae port improves e ie

PNG’s biggest and busiest port is poised to handle more ships, increase efficiency and reduce costs to port users following completion of several multi million kina port infrastructure improvement projects.

The most recent of these which was launched by Prime Minister Peter O’Neill in October is the completion of the overseas wharf extension.

The extension, built at a cost of over K100 million, complements other infrastructure projects including the one stop shop building for customs and immigrations, NAQIA and other government agencies, the rubber tyre gantry crane tracks and berths 2 & 3 extensions.

These will together revolutionize operations at the country’s premier sea port. PNG Ports Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Alphonse said: “Wharves and related structures in the 21st century have to be designed and built to handle large vessels, heavier machinery and increased throughput to meet the demands of the growing economy in Papua New Guinea and the Asia/Pacific region.

“Therefore we have made enormous strides in terms of investment in core port infrastructure, given the neglect of over 20 years, to ensure we rehabilitate our infrastructure to a state capable of meeting current and future demand for port services.”

The aggregate berth length at Lae Port is currently 655 metres. This has increased by 100 metres (24%) to 755 metres following the berth 3 extension. With the availability of the extended berth, more vessels are able to use the port at any given time, generating increased revenue from the additional vessel calls through pilotage, wharfage and berthage revenue streams.

Currently an average 55 vessels call into Lae port every month. This is expected to increase to 68 vessels per month with the extension. This works out to about 158 extra vessel calls per annum, bringing more revenue into the company.

Mr Alphonse added: “Consistent with our corporate strategic objectives and the Government’s development aspirations, we are reinvesting in our core infrastructure in some of our main ports

with the main focus currently being in Lae, Port Moresby, Alotau and Kimbe”.

Lae Port, located in Morobe Province, handles the bulk of the country’s trade and in recent years, the demand on its services has gone up due to the unprecedented growth in the economy, which experts predict will jump to a whopping 20 per cent next year due to the export of LNG gas, combined with the growth in the mineral and agriculture sectors.

PNGPCL was struggling in recent years to handle the increasing volume of traffic and cargo transiting through its main ports in Port Moresby and Lae.

The aging and inadequate infrastructure at the port slowed down movement of ships and cargo to levels that gravely concerned the private sector over cost and its trickle down effects to the citizens. After carefully assessing the situation, PNGPCL came up with the Ports Reorganisation and Modernisation Programme not only to deal with the demand but most importantly harness the opportunities created from this growth.

With approval from the Independent Public Business Corporation (IPBC) board, PNGPCL has invested heavily in its core infrastructure at the ports to bring them up to international best practice and standards.

The company rolled out several infrastructure investment projects at Lae Port, starting from the quayside to the exit gate, valued at about K200 million. The objective of these projects are to reduce ship dwell time at harbour or berth and

to enhance efficiency in cargo clearance processes such that they are moved in and out of wharf yard with minimal delay.

“The investment projects include the new Lae Berth 3 extension project, existing Lae Berth 2 and 3 Concrete Repairs, Design Phase of Lae wharf western-end extension project, Port Moresby rubber tyre gantry cranes tracks, Kimbe coastal wharf upgrade, Alotau wharf upgrade and the remodeling of Lae and Port Moresby Container Terminals, to name a few,” Mr Alphonse added.

The location of Lae city makes Lae Port the most strategic marine gateway in PNG because it is connected to the Highlands and the New Guinea Islands regions, two resource rich regions of the country, by road and sea easily.

Moreover the city is the industrial hub of the country, and Lae made products make their way to markets in the Asia/ Pacific region as well as throughout PNG from this port. According to data provided by PNGPCL, the port handles in excess of 200 million tonnes of cargo monthly and the investments in the infrastructure will boost efficiency and productivity.

“In recent years, business for the port has grown significantly, driven by the economic boom and it is important that Lae is maintained as a well-functioning and efficient port to effectively manage the movement of freight between sea and land transportation,” Mr Alphonse said.

The investments are consistent to enhance efficiency in cargo clearance processes such that they are moved in and

out of wharf yard with minimal delay.

“The investment projects include the new Lae Berth 3 extension project, existing Lae Berth 2 and 3 Concrete Repairs, Design Phase of Lae wharf western-end extension project, Port Moresby rubber tyre gantry cranes tracks, Kimbe coastal wharf upgrade, Alotau wharf upgrade and the remodeling of Lae and Port Moresby Container Terminals, to name a few,” Mr Alphonse added.

The location of Lae city makes Lae

Port the most strategic marine gateway in PNG because it is connected to the Highlands and the New Guinea Islands regions, two resource rich regions of the country, by road and sea easily. Moreover the city is the industrial hub of the country, and Lae made products make their way to markets in the Asia/ Pacific region as well as throughout PNG from this port.

According to data provided by PNGPCL, the port handles in excess of 200 million tonnes of cargo monthly and the investments in the infrastructure will boost efficiency and productivity.

“In recent years, business for the port has grown significantly, driven by the economic boom and it is important that Lae is maintained as a well-functioning and efficient port to effectively manage the movement of freight between sea and land transportation,” Mr Alphonse said.

The investments are consistent with PNGPCL’s strategic objectives to strengthen its core business, develop

new business opportunities, and attain business and operational excellence as well as improve stakeholder relationships and efficiency.

The project is also linked to the Government’s aspirations to provide a reliable water and sea transport system, rehabilitate national ports and facilities, improve inland and coastal water transport infrastructure for marginalised communities and ensure safety and compliance of maritime vessels and facilities operational standards and procedures.

Lae Port is the hub of PNG’s domestic and international trade and the projects implemented there are timely, not only to address pressing challenges the port is facing but also to meet international best practice in port operations. Starting from the quayside to the storage yard through to the exit gates, these projects will address pressing issues like the long vessel dwell time, congestion, efficient transfer of cargo, safety and security both in the short term and long term when operational.

The investments are necessary because the strong economic performance by PNG saw cargo volumes grow at an annual average of 7.7% from 2006 to 2011 and a strong growth of 10% in 2011.

The growth in throughput is continuing and it is vital that Lae Port develops its capacity to facilitate a smooth and efficient flow of trade.

THE changes to the Lae Port will enhance operations at the country’s busiest port a great deal, Chairman of the Board of PNGPCL, Nathaniel Poya said when the completed wharf was launched by the Prime Minister. Mr Poya said cost to shipping companies is expected to be reduced and with increased efficiency, more revenue can be realised by PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL) in the months ahead following. The Chairman said the overseas wharf extension, built at a cost of over K100 million and other infrastructure rehabilitation projects in Lae Port have revolutionized operations at

premier sea port. “Wharves and related structures in the 21st century have to be designed and built to handle larger vessels, heavier machinery and increased throughput to meet the demands of the growing economy in Papua New Guinea and the Asia/ Pacific region,” Mr Poya said. “Therefore we have made enormous strides in terms of investment in core port infrastructure, given the neglect of over 20 years, to ensure we rehabilitate our infrastructure to a state capable of meeting current and future demand for port services.

the country’s

PNG Ports Chairman Nathaniel Poya giving his welcome address during the launching of the new Lae Port wharf facility

PM Peter O’Neil launches the new Lae Port overseas wharf facility.

Oro Bay wharf rebuilt

“ANCHORING prosperity” is easily the catch word for PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL).

Individuals, corporations and even nations prosper on tremendous volumes that are transacted through the sea ports of any nation and PNGPCL proudly holds that prestigious honour in PNG.

With honour comes responsibility and a big part of it is to ensure that PNG ports are “ship-shape”, to borrow an industry pun.

When the western trestles at Oro Bay sank in 2013, PNG Ports went to the rescue early in 2014.

Life has been very difficult since Cyclone Guba devastated the province in 2007. Restoration efforts were greatly hampered because equipment and supplies needed for key infrastructure projects in the province could not be moved to the sites on time because of the state of the Oro Bay wharf.

The collapse of the western trestle in December 2013 prevented bigger vessels from berthing at Oro Bay.

The reconstruction of the wharf has allowed bigger ships to berth, discharging equipment and supplies for several key projects that are being built as part of the restoration program. PNGPCL spent about K10 million for the rehabilitation works which was carried out by Curtain Brothers (PNG) Limited.

“This rehabilitation program is part of PNGPCL’s plans to rehabilitate its network of ports and to provide efficiencies at the wharves for the benefit of its clients and stakeholders,” Chief Executive Officer of PNGPCL, Mr Stanley Alphonse said.

“The completed Oro Bay Port Trestle is timely and in line with the National Government and Oro

Provincial Governments’ efforts to restore key infrastructure and elements of service delivery affected by Cyclone Guba in 2007.

“Three major infrastructural projects coming up in Oro include the construction of four new bridges, the extension and upgrade of Girua Airport, and the Divune Hydro project. Mobilization of equipment and materials are handled through Oro Bay Port,” PNGPCL Business Manager in Oro, Endley Aro said.

“The successful completion of the project is a relief to PNG Ports Corporation, the Oro Provincial Government, business houses, shipping agents, and the stevedoring contractor - Oro Port Services Ltd.

Vessel and Quay transfer turnaround time has been improved and safety hazards posed by the collapsed trestle has been removed.

Projects under construction in the province are worth K137.9m with the Government of PNG contributing K85.5m and the Australian

PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL), which guards the maritime entry points at all approved ports, has taken measures to prevent the deadly Ebola virus from entering the country.

As the world go on high alert to fight Ebola, PNGPCL has its guards up by forming an Internal Ebola Working Committee to develop and implement strategies at all major ports to ensure that the virus does not make it onto PNG shores.

This move also puts PNGPCL one step ahead in the country’s proactive measures to stop the deadly virus from entering PNG.

Set up by the company’s Occupational Health, Safety and Environment (OHSE) Department, the committee has prepared strategies to counter possible outbreak and response to Ebola at the sea ports.

In line with the International Health Regulation, the committee will monitor the lethal disease over November and December 2014 and implement key prevention strategies immediately.

This move by PNGPCL comes amidst claims

Government is providing up to K52.4m. It is scheduled for two years and will include the reconstruction of Eroro, Girua, Ambogo and Kumusi bridges that were destroyed by cyclone Guba in 2007.

The K35 million Rehabilitation and extension of Girua Airport will include the extension of the existing runway and upgrade of airport facilities to accommodate bigger planes.

Project mobilization is expected in early 2015 which will see all equipment and materials handled via Oro Bay Port.

The construction of the Divune Hydro Power Station will be the biggest in the province as it will have great impact on the lives of the people of Oro.

“Households and businesses will be transformed as patterns of demand and supply will also be impacted in a positive way. Currently the supply of power is concentrated within Popondetta Township,” Mr Endley said.

by Australian disease experts that countries close to Australia, including PNG, were not ready to tackle an Ebola outbreak.

The experts also said that Australia’s closest neighbor, PNG, was battling some of the same public health problems as Ebola-hit Liberia.

Their concerns that PNG, although wealthier than Liberia, had a health system that had not kept up with the economy, were in support of Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott who allocated $A 20million to help its neighbors, including PNG, fight the spread of Ebola.

The PNG government has also made its moves to stop Ebola spreading into the country by setting up the national Ebola taskforce and is in the process of setting up temporary isolation tents at various international entry points.

While Health minister Michael Malabag recently said the potential for Ebola entering the country was very low, PNGPCL is being proactive on the issue. PNGPCL’s OHSE manager Stanley Semery said sea ports were gateways for such diseases entering the country and PNGPCL, as sole authority managing all

Oro Bay port also known as Dyke Ackland Bay was the site for the advance base for the USA army during the Pacific Campaign in World War II. PNGPCL officially launched the Oro Bay Port rehabilitation project on Thursday 10th April 2014) and the Prime Minister Peter O’Neill officiated at the launch.

“As per our strategic plan we are working very hard with the Government of PNG to maintain our network of port infrastructure for our people living in the maritime provinces,” member of the PNGPCL Board, Mr Patrick Amini said at the official launching. “Ports are important as they are the main facilitator of trade and the gateway to goods and services to most of the maritime provinces and even inland provinces,” he said.

The Oro Bay port rehabilitation is historic in the sense that this is the first major maintenance or reconstruction work that is going to be done since 1970 when the Western wharf trestle

declared marine ports in PNG, has to be on the lookout.

“Ebola is spreading, and the maritime industry is in a vulnerable position…. the worry is real,” Mr Semery said.

“With international ships still calling into ports, which are regarded as one of the key Points-of-Entry for potential importation of Ebola and are considered a prime place for Ebola to spread,” he said.

“The borders are not closed for shipping. They are still open but a high standard of hygiene and alertness is required,” he said.

“Although ship owners have a duty of care to play to put in place sensible precautionary measures to reduce the risks, Port operators are equally responsible and committed to prevent infection and minimise any potential outbreaks,” Mr Semery said.

According to Mr Semery, the threat of Ebola coming to PNG was extremely low but PNG needed to set up its disease response facilities to cater for outbreaks before they happened.

“PNG Ports, as a sole Authority responsible

was built.

It is now 44 years since the wharf was built; five (5) years before Papua New Guinea gained Independence.

The Eastern wharf trestle was built 18 years later in 1987. “Oro Bay port, like most of our smaller port infrastructure, were built in the early 1960s and 70s and are in need of major reconstruction and rehabilitation works.

We are spending about K10 million on this project that will include the complete reconstruction of the Western trestle and extension to the existing bend at the Eastern trestle to accommodate 40 foot container traffic,” Mr Amini said.

Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill was accompanied to the launch by the Minister for Public Enterprises and State Investments, Ben Micah, Minister for Works, Francis Awesa, Minister for community Affairs, Delilah Gore, Minister for Forests Douglas Tomuriesa and the Attorney General Ano Pala.

for management of all declared Marine Ports in PNG is committed to doing its best to prevent infection and minimise any potential outbreaks at the Port Operations Level,” he said.

As part of the action plan, Mr Semery said PNGCPL would provide guidelines to its employees and port community stakeholders on the risks factors in a port environment.

He said PNGPCL would focus on sensitising workers on what to do, what to avoid and to maintain personal hygiene.

PNGPCL will work in collaboration with key border control agencies in PNG Customs, National Agricultural Quarantine Inspection and Safety Authority (NAQIA) ,National Department of Health (NDoH), World Health Organization (WHO) and other key stakeholders to reinforce key maritime regulations and practices for the purpose of early detection and prevention. The committee plans to provide Ebola trainings and raise awareness among staff, port users and travelers, conduct active surveillance in collaboration with stakeholders for the purpose of earlier detection and response, and strengthen control capacities, case management and infection prevention.

CRUISE ship traffic into Papua New Guinea is growing as the country fights against all odds to rid itself of a negative image that has hindered development of the mega million kina tourism industry in the past.

If records of cruise ships to PNG are anything to go by, the efforts are being rewarded. Records with PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL) show that 480 cruise ships have made PNG their destination in the last 10 years, starting with 14 in 2004 and peaking at 60 last year.

“By the end ofAugust this year, the number of cruise ship calls into PNG was up to 48, and this is going to go up by the end of the year because the country is seeing more cruise liners from Carnival Australia.

“Much of the work we have put in with the support of the Government and the Tourism Promotion Authority in promoting cruise ship tourism in the country is bearing results,” Chief Executive Officer of

PNGPCL, Stanley Alphonse said.

The Government has facilitated the growth in the cruise ship tourism sector by easing various regulations including the entry visas and pilot charges as well as providing finance for the redevelopment of the Alotau Port and many small jetties around the islands of Milne Bay Province.

“We redeveloped the Alotau Port at the cost of K40 million and added another 290 metres of berthing space to the existing wharf infrastructure,

which allowed the first cruise liner, the Pacific Dawn into port in November last year,” Mr Alphonse said. From bird watching to diverse flora and fauna and unique and fascinating cultures, Papua New Guinea is a fascinating tourist destination. It is immensely blessed with only 7 million speaking 800 dialects or nearly one quarter of the world’s languages, untouched rainforests which contain some plant and animal species unknown to science.

According to the records, Milne Bay and East New Britain provinces remain the most popular cruise ship destinations in Papua New Guinea, followed by Madang and East Sepik provinces.

Industry experts say Carnival Australia has made Milne Bay and East New Britain (Rabaul) two permanent destinations for its cruise liners and the Ports of Kavieng and Madang will be added to the list next year. “PNG Ports

Kimbe wharf gets facelift

KIMBE Port is a key revenue earner after Lae and Port Moresby and in recent years growth in the economy has placed stress on the port facilities in the town.

Papua New Guinea’s premier port services provider, PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL) has recognised this need and continues to invest heavily in port infrastructure to meet the demands triggered by the growth in the economy.

After rebuilding the Lae and Alotau overseas wharves at over K200 million, the company is now moving to rebuild the Kimbe wharf due to the growth in business at the port at a cost of K49 million. PNGPCL spent K10 million of its own money to rehabilitate Oro Bay Port’s trestles and barge ramp this year. Work has also commenced at Buka and Kieta in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville and at Kavieng port in New Ireland Province.

Chief Executive Officer of PNGPCL, Mr Stanley Alphonse said the company strives to remain Papua New Guinea’s premier gateway for maritime trade by developing port infrastructure and providing efficient port services.

Mr Alphonse said this was also in line with PNGPCL’s community service obligation (CSO) initiatives to provide quality port infrastructure and efficient port related services for trade to continue to stakeholders and the people of West New Britain Province.

PNGPCL aims to provide improved customer services at its ports, working with key stakeholders to build dedicated wharf or berthing

facilities to help ease berth congestion and allow for normal cargo delivery to organisations and individuals of WNBP. Stakeholders including business houses and the general public in the WNBP have been experiencing long delays in receiving and sending their cargoes because of berth congestion at the quay face over the years.

The berth congestion is caused by the successful growth of New Britain Palm Oil Limited (NBPOL) and the impact of its palm oil tankers on general harbour traffic which tends to affect the normal flow of cargo delivery into the province. The palm oil tankers have also increased in size over the years and can be at

berth for over five days causing delays to other cargo deliveries into the province. PNGPCL’s plan was to build a dedicated oil palm berth facility to free up the current wharf for coastal and overseas vessels but this has not been successful due to lack of financial support by key stakeholders and customers.

The Board and Management of PNGPCL opted for an alternative design to relieve the current berth congestion at the Kimbe Port. “The idea now is to construct a new Kimbe Coastal Wharf Permanent (piled) Structure. This new wharf structure will accommodate the general cargo trade in and out of Kimbe

recognises the importance of cruise shipping to its business and the wider community through trickledown business opportunities and is keen to contribute to provide berth and port facilities that encourage growth in this business,” Mr Alphonse said. Statistics provided by PNGPCL show Port Moressby had 47 cruise ship calls over the last 10 years, Oro Bay 3, Lae 5, Vanimo 1, Kimbe 7, Kavieng 11, Buka 3 and Kieta 7.

Port,” Chief Infrastructure Officer, Mr Waqa Bauleka said. Mr Bauleka said approval of the contract document for the commencement of the project was granted by the PNGPCL Board followed by the IPBC Board on the May 21st this year. He said the project was awarded to Curtain Brothers Limited on May 26th and is now in its preparation phase. Current works being done are pile splicing and casting of precast concrete elements for better quality control at the contractors yard at Motukea. The contractor was expected to be on site in Kimbe in mid November this year and to is expected to complete the works in May 2015.

Kimbe Port’s congested space will soon get a facelift.

INTERNATIONAL shipping is set to increase greatly for ten ports in PNG after the ports were declared compliant with the mandatory International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code requirements by the International Maritime Organization.

PNG Ports General Manager Corporate Affairs, Mr Joseph Aisa said the ten ports would have the ISPS regulated status for the next five years until 2019 when they would be due for re-assessment by the Department of Transport which is the designated authority on the ISPS Code in the country.

During a small ceremony Mr Aisa said that 12 out of the 15 ports which the corporation owned and operated were ISPS Code regulated while the other three were non-ISPS regulated.

The ISPS Code was adopted by the IMO on Dec 12, 2002 and came into force on the July 1, 2004. It was set up primarily for the purpose of providing new security measures for contracting nations to implement in their respective nations to deter acts of terrorism to ships and ports which engage in international trade.

Transport Department Acting Secretary Mr Kevin Luana, who handed over the statements of compliance, said in today’s age of increased shipping

and trade PNGPCL was bound by this mandatory international obligation to have its port facilities operate with appropriate approved security measures. Mr Luana said that it took over five months for officers from the Department of Transport with the assistance of security officers from PNGPCL to “carry out the

comprehensive maritime security risk assessments of each of the ten individual ports as a necessary prerequisite for producing detailed port facility security plans that have been approved by the department”. In commending the officers involved, Mr Aisa said that it took nearly six months of hard work

by dedicated officers from both organisations to complete the 10 port assessments, assessments reports and 10 plans. He said world trade and economy were highly dependent on shipping and that increased volumes of trade also increased the risks presented through threats of terrorism and

others such as arms, drugs and human trafficking.

“PNGPCL ports are not immune to such threats and risks and we must have plans and strategies in place to deter or prevent such threats from either reaching or happenings on our shores,” he said.

Mr Aisa said he was happy “to see organizations working together in playing their part both locally within the region and globally in ensuring a safer and secure maritime domain for all”.

First Assistant Secretary for Maritime Division with the Department of Transport Mathew Wowoni said following this compliance any PNG registered vessels which departed from an ISPS Code regulated port in the country would be accepted to berth anywhere in a foreign ISPS Code regulated port in the world and vice versa for any foreign flagged shipping vessel visiting PNG. PNGPCL team leader for security Michael Gifiro said the10 ports are: Vanimo, Aitape, Wewak, Madang and Lae in the Momase region, Rabaul, Kimbe and Kavieng in the New Guinea Island region and Oro Bay in Oro and Port Moresby in the nation’s capital rounding off for the Southern region.

Coolers for Chimbu farmers

RURAL farmers in Chimbu were given two container coolers by PNG Ports Corporation to store their fresh produce in November. The 20 foot containers were presented by the Chairman of PNGPCL, Nathaniel Poya to a delegation from Chimbu, which comprised a member of the Provincial Executive Council, representatives from the provincial administration as well as farmers.

“PNG Ports is proud to support the farmers because these containers will go a long way to help the farmers from Chimbu keep their fresh produce and transport them to markets.

“Farming is a very important source of income for many of our people and this is an activity that involves the bulk of our population,” Mr Poya informed the representatives from Chimbu at

the presentation. As vegetables are perishable products, keeping them fresh during storage and transportation is a key issue facing farmers so a gesture such as that made by PNGPC is very much appreciated by the Chimbu farmers.

The Chimbu Provincial Administration established an umbrella company, Simbu Farmers Marketing Limited (SFML) to take care of the rural farmers in Chimbu by assisting them to transport vegetables to established markets SFML wrote to PNGPCL seeking donation for a 20ft reefer and 20ft dry container for the transportation of fresh vegetables from Simbu to Lae.

The SFML will manage the containers and transport them on a newly purchased 18T Hino truck.

Transport Department Acting Secretary, Kevin Luana (lft) presents the Statements of Compliance to PNGPCL’s Joseph Aisa

PNGPCL donates refrigerator containers to Chimbu farmers.

her mark

MORE and more women are today venturing into male dominated fields so the novelty of being first female has worn off somewhat. Still, for the woman who attains such a position the confidence sapping apprehension and the huge courage needed to step forward into the unknown is huge.

This has been the case for Judy Mark when she made her decision to become a metal fabricator. As always in such cases there has been a gentle but insistent nudge from somebody else and in this instance she thanks her God, her husband Eisah Eino and her male work colleagues who have been “very encouraging”.

Mark, from Henganofi and Okapa districts in the Eastern Highlands Province (EHP), joined the Corporation last year as a Fabricator in the Works and Services Department after successfully completing her apprenticeship with Niugini Steel Corporation Limited.

Ms Mark said: “It is like work against the clock but thanks to my hubby who understands my profession well and helps me with my motherly duties.” This determined mother’s responsibilities as a Fabricator includes maintaining and repairing, assisting with construction, welding, sheet metal and resolving immediate safety concerns.

Ms Mark said being the first female Fabricator working in PNGPCL and performing that kind of role is a bit tough and rough, especially when it comes to project site jobs in Port Moresby and other port areas but she thanks her male colleagues who “never let me down”.

She said: “Each day I get to interact and communicate with all kinds of people both within and outside the workplace. Whenever I am performing my duties, I try to keep an open mind and ensure that I portray good qualities and image so I can earn respect from men.”

“My motto is: ‘If anybody can do it, I can do it and it’s through the help of God’. “I have now overcome all these barriers and have established a good working relationship with my male colleagues where we have mutual respect for each other,” she said.

Ms Mark expressed her gratitude

towards PNGPCL for recruiting her as the first Welder/Fabricator in the company and said this has exposed her to all areas of the maintenance works which are very beneficial to her career.

Ms Mark acknowledged PNGPCL’s

efforts in providing training for its staff both old and new and said that there are opportunities in place like the current Company’s training programs that staff should utilise for their benefit. Her advice to college graduates who are seeking to pursue careers under PNGPCL is to take each job opportunity as a privilege.

“It is an exciting career to take up in the Port and Shipping Industry. I would like to encourage more females to take up such challenges,” she said.

Judy also recognises PNGPCL’s commitment in providing equal gender participation at the workplace

environment under the company’s equal opportunity policy.

Judy said this after winning a place in the Australia-Pacific Technical College (APTC) Scholarship program under the Australian Aid in October last year to undergo training in Certificate III in Mechanical Engineering- Fabrication and Welding at the APTC Port Moresby campus.

She was supposed to attend the training from the 9th of June to the 5th of September this year.

However, due to personal and work commitments she asked for a deferral and started attending the training in October this year with the full support of PNGPCL which granted her leave to attend training. Judy’s immediate supervisor, Works & Services Manager, Mr Dulama Mou said he is happy for Judy and congratulated her on her achievements in a male dominated career.

“I am a pleased to have a female technician in my team,” Mr Mou said. “Judy is the only female technical staff based at the Port Moresby workshop amongst all the male staff in all 15 Works and Services sections throughout our network of 15 ports.”

“There is no room for complacency in this field of work and Judy has shown such qualities among her male colleagues.”

“She has some very qualified male counterparts who are very considerate and ensure that she accomplishes tasks allocated to her.”

Mark and Eino have three children - daughter, Estellanorah who is 8 years old, 6 years old son, Joshua Alois and 20 months old baby son, Frixiemane.

Ms Mark commenced her education at Eki Vaki Memorial Primary School from 1991-1998, where she did her grades 1 to 8 and then continued to do her grades 9 and10 at Tairora High School from 1999 to 2000 in the remote area of Obura Wanenara District of EHP.

She obtained a placing at Lae Technical College in 2001 to study Metal Fabrication and Welding –Pett Course.

Judy Mark (inset) hard at work at her station

From Japan with new ideas

AYOUNG engineer has returned from a short training in Japan with ‘new ideas’ for her role at PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL).

Among these ideas are some innovative thoughts on how to rescue the sinking Lorengau Wharf on Manus Island, an eroding foreshore of PNG’s second largest container terminal – the container terminal 5 (CT 5) in Port Moresby, and traffic congestion at CT 5.

Rose Kaiulo, a young civil engineer employed by PNGPCL, was among a group of port engineers from the Asia Pacific region who travelled to Japan for a two-month training on ‘Group and Region-Focused training –Sustainable Development and Planning’.

As part of the trainings’ requirement, Ms Kaiulo identified three technical problems from her country to use in a final action plan.

They were the Port Moresby Container Wharf (‘Restrict Loading on Berth 4A’), Port Moresby Container Terminal 4&5 (‘Design of Foreshore at Terminal 5’), and Lorengau Wharf (‘Upgrading of Lorengau Wharf’).

Ms Kaiulo said these issues were real and using some tips gained from her training, she hopes to address them.

She said the learning experience in Japan was “great” as they learnt about how Japanese ports are run, the improvement of their ports, government involvement and later compared it with their own port of origin.

She said Japan was a big player in the shipping industry and seeing the structure of their ports, how they dealt with traffic at the ports, the volume and amount of cargo exchanged at the ports was “amazing”.

She said different ports at Japan were run by different people, adding that the shipping

industry was tied in with the tourism sector.

In a country constantly being hit by typhoons and natural disasters, she said their infrastructure and port setup were done to withstand these and underwent constant infrastructural developments.

Ms Kaiulo said unlike PNG, Japan spent “too much” on wharf infrastructure and revenue made was not enough.

“Ports in Japan are operated similar to PNG but the way they did things there was indeed a learning experience for me,” she said. “The training has broadened my knowledge on the shipping industry and I have gained new ideas in solving technical issues.”

Ms Kaiulo is not the first from PNGPCL to attend the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) sponsored training.

JICA has a partnership agreement in place with PNGPCL where staff are sent to Japan for short trainings.

The training was based around five modules where participants identified issues related to port development of their respective countries, acquired and explained basic technical knowledge necessary

MANAGERS have different approaches to extracting the best out of their team in order to achieve their goals. Some adopt the dictatorial approach, demanding absolute obedience and to never deviate from that which is commanded.

Others will require far more independence and initiative, giving their staff quality time to arrive at something of value applying their own skills and expertise. Singaporean David Soh, head of the new Business Development Division of the PNG Ports Corporation, is of the latter mould.

He describes his approach as being proactive, rather than reactive. And it is this approach which seems to be weaving its magic in his division.

His charges have found this experience rather rewarding “because of the many lessons learnt”.

Mr Soh, who joined PNGPCL in April this year to oversee the functions of the division, is serious about only one thing and that is to develop the business of PNGPCL.

The division is in charge of stakeholder liaising, maintaining and establishing existing business relationships, creating new business, identify revenue leakages, save cost, maintain business and public relations.

Mr Soh believes that these widespread responsibilities should be covered through team work and proactive thinking from staff members.

members in helping the organisation to achieve higher service excellence in providing port services and reach a greater height in the port industry,” Mr Soh said.

Whether in the Business Development unit or Corporate Communications team, all staffs have their own comments, but one thing is for sure, they have all learnt from Mr Soh invaluable work ethics and skills.

for port improvement, learnt about port development/ planning methodology, and were given better understanding of situations at ports around the world, and formulated action plans that covered port-related global issues and sustainable initiatives.

Training or up-skilling of staff is one of the benefits PNGPCL offers its staff. Other benefits include Total Remuneration Packages (TRP) which gives PNGPCL employees the flexibility to use their income in the way which best suits their priorities, CPI Increases, Flexible Leave Options, and Discretionary Annual Bonuses.

The company also provides for Annual Health Checks, Medical and Life Insurance for all staff (fully-paid for by PNGPCL), Professional and Club Memberships, Graduate Development Program, and Financial Literacy Training.

There is also the Employee Assistance Program which is facilitated by PNGPCL for employees who need professional counseling to deal with work and social issues, and the Grievance and Dispute Resolution Policy. For those staff who have been employed prior to 2002, there is the Loyalty Recognition Policy.

The first thing Mr Soh demanded from the department’s Corporate Communications team was pro-activeness.

“I want you all to be proactive in your roles, not reactive. You have to plan ahead, visualise the outcome and know what to expect before it even happens. We must not be reactive workers, but proactive thinkers,” he stressed over a recent luncheon he hosted for the Corporate Communications team.

Business Development officer, Cathy Kale, said working under Mr Soh, was an everyday challenge, but in a very positive way. “When there are deadlines, you have to meet them without delay.

A deadline is a deadline,” she said. “I take his comments very positively because the lessons I am learning from him are invaluable.”

Ms Kale said the best part about working with Mr Soh was the fact that he was a leader and manager, qualities which she describes as rare.

“There are bosses who are managers, but not leaders, and leaders who are not managers. He is both, which makes working with him challenging, yet rewarding because we have the opportunity to work with an experienced person and learn a lot of lifetime skills from him.”

Richard Rowaro, also a Business Development officer, said the work ethics encouraged by Mr Soh would be something he would use forever.

Mr Soh, with his diversified career background and experience, said he would strive to share, motivate and develop his team members. “I will help them to be more private enterprise minded, focused, work diligently with commitment, and also to work closely together with other Management team

Mr Soh holds a BSc (Hons) Degree in Marketing from the University of Wales, Management Studies from Singapore Institute of Management, and is also a certified Marine Engineer.

He sailed as a Marine Engineer onboard a Panamax class container vessel plying between United States and Europe. Bringing with him over 17 years of management experience in sales and marketing, and business development, Mr Soh is not new to the role.

He has also been the commander of a Navy ship and a maritime patrol aircraft.

His last appointment was General Manager of Portek Systems & Equipment (PSE) Pte Ltd in Singapore, and was responsible for overseeing the company’s marketing & sales activities, and long-term business development.

Prior to that, Mr Soh was the Regional Sales Manager in Cargotec, MacGregor Marine Service Division, where he was accountable for the company’s strategic sales and marketing on the after-sales market for the shipping industry in the Asia region. He was also Cargotec’s Internal Auditor & Regional Quality Manager responsible for the ISO 9001-2008 compliance for all the Asia offices.

Mr Soh has also gained more than 12-years experience serving the Mining/Cement/Port industry where he held key management positions and attained several achievement awards from the companies he served.

He was a Captain in the Republic of Singapore Navy where he had a chance to command a Naval Patrol Vessel and Maritime Patrol aircraft. With his experience and the wealth of knowledge he has to share, it is no doubt his staff find working with him an ‘eyeopener’ and ‘learning experience’.

Mr David Soh.

Ms Rose Kaiulo.

Marine captain beats all odds

“I AM a dead man talking,” were the words of a Marine Pilot who has cheated death, not once but many times.

In PNG, not many survive heart attacks, but Captain Gibob Kaya survived a stroke in 2009, was able to live for many years with a heart that was not working, and his heart was nothing but just a huge clot of blood.

Capt. Gibob is a Marine Pilot with PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL) and is based at the company’s Kimbe Port in West New Britain Province.

The father of four was living with a coronary heart disease but had never been aware of his condition until last year, thanks to PNGPCL for organising annual health checks on all employees.

Compulsory health checks are organized annually and are one of the many lucrative benefits that PNGPCL offers its employees. These health checks are conducted in order for staff to know their medical conditions.

During the health check in October last year, Capt. Gibob was found to have had high blood pressure, high cholesterol and glucose levels, and had suffered a heart attack in 2009.

He was then recommended by the consulting doctor in Kimbe to travel abroad for advanced medical checks and treatment because his condition was not good.

In September 2014, Capt. Gibob was then referred to the Sir Buri Kidu Heart Foundation in Port Moresby for a second opinion and it was confirmed that he had a Coronary Artery Disease with a Left Ventricle Thrombus (blood clot) and he had a stagnant heart with only a small part of his heart keeping him alive.

Coronary artery disease develops when the coronary arteries become damaged or diseased. The coronary arteries are the major blood vessels that supply the heart with blood, oxygen and nutrients.

The man from Nawae in Morobe Province

PNG Ports joins NCD Governor’s worthy cause initiative

PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL) has embraced the walk-the-talk ways of National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop.

PNGPCL Chief Executive Of ficer, Stanley Alphonse, said this while making a presentation of K10, 000.00 to support Governor Parkop’s Kokoda Walk for the future project.

The governor, along with 11 others tracked the famous Kokoda Trail in September in order to raise K1.8million to build a ten-classroom complex for the Catholic Church-run St Charles Lawanga high school in NCD.

The school is expected to take in more students and be elevated to a secondary school status in 2015, hence the need for more classrooms.

Mr Alphonse said the Governor had walked the talk, and it was pleasing to see leaders take on the challenge for a worthy cause instead of just talking and doing nothing.

He said PNGPCL would support the Governor in his bid to improve the educational opportunities of the future generations.

“PNG Ports embraces your walk the

talk ways and will do whatever it takes to help that cause going forward,” Mr Alphonse said.

“We (PNG Ports) want to be a very good corporate citizen to your initiatives,” he said.

Mr Alphonse also said that PNGPCL was supportive of the developmental phases the city was undergoing and had decided to relocate to the nearby Motukea in order to free up land for more developments to take place in Downtown, Port Moresby.

Governor Parkop thanked PNGPCL for the donation saying that his team had already raised most of the money from the Kokoda Walk challenge, with around K400, 000.00 yet to be raised.

Governor Parkop said the walk, under the theme ‘no more drop outs, no more push outs’, has an overall aim to improve the capacity of NCD to ensure that children in the city are educated to as far as grade 12.

Additional donations can also be made at 6:30am every Tuesday and Saturday where the Governor completes his walks from the Jack Pidik Park at 5-mile to Ela Beach.

knew at that time he was seriously sick, but his faith in God kept him positive that he was a survivor after all these years and he kept cool about it.

He was admitted for three weeks at the Port Moresby General Hospital and could not walk long distances nor could he support himself to get up from bed. He was basically immobile and all the time, his loving wife was at his side.

Miraculously, an echo test showed significant reduction in the size of the thrombus and Capt. Gibob was released from the hospital on October 10.

He was put on oral medication for two weeks whilst PNGPCL paid for his stay at the Shady Rest Hotel upon hospital discharge.

His review on October 24 revealed that the blood clot had disappeared, and there were motions noticed within his heart. Capt. Gibob rejoiced because his almighty God was a Healer. However, he still needed the Angiogram and Angioplasty recommended by doctors in Kimbe to clear a stubborn clot because a small part of the left side of his heart was still not moving or active.

Capt Gibob and his wife flew to Singapore in early November, courtesy of PNGPCL, to undergo the angiogram, angioplasty and a coronary by-pass surgery at the Raf fles Hospital, a surgery that would take two weeks.

Coronary angiogram is a procedure where an ink is pumped into the heart to see where the blockage is located, while Angioplasty is a procedure where an instrument is pushed through the blockage area and opens it up to allow blood flow in the event that the blockage is too many and too tight. A coronary by-pass surgery is

then done to remove the blockages.

PNGPCL caters for such medical trips for its employees through its insurance broker, Pacific Assurance Group.

Upon return to PNG, Capt. Gibob has since been cleared by his doctor and allowed to resume work again at the Kimbe Port.

Before he left for Singapore, Capt Gibob was a frail man, barely unable to walk long distances on his own.

Two weeks on, he strode casually into the PNGPCL head of fice in Downtown, Port Moresby, with a huge smile that said it all as he joyfully greeted his colleagues.

“It’s good to be alive,” was the first thing he managed to say as tears welled in his eyes as he struggled to put feelings to words at the Human Capital Department’s conference room.

“Thank you. From the bottom of my heart I thank you. Whatever I say cannot express it, only God knows how I feel,” said the humbled man as he thanked of ficers from the Human Capital Department who enabled him to take the life-saving trip.

To say he was happy and was given another shot to live life would be an understatement. Only those who have been through a similar situation will understand.

This Christmas will be extra meaningful for him as he unites with his loved ones. Capt Gibob will forever be indebted to his wife, children, colleagues, friends and medical workers who helped him through this turmoil. And with each passing day, at each steady beat of his heart, he will also be forever grateful to PNGPCL, the company he lovingly served for 22 years, and counting.

CAPTAIN Gibob Kaya and Mrs Kaya.

GOVERNOR Parkop receives the pledge from Mr Alphonse, right.

Kavieng has new storage facility

The construction of the new cargo storage facility in the township of Kavieng, New Ireland Province has been completed despite some major challenges.

The storage facility was completed on time and is being prepared for commissioning and will soon be handed over to PNG Ports Corporation Limited’s (PNGPCL) Kavieng Port management for use, according to the contractor, Lims Construction Ltd (Lims).

The new storage facility located at portion 1030, allotment 985, within New Ireland’s provincial town, Kavieng, will increase storage capacity for Kavieng port to about 1.6 hectares from its current storage space of 6,624 square metres.

The facility consists of a 1 hectare storage area (hardstand), lighting system, drainage system and perimeter fencing including the construction of an access road to the facility.

Lims Managing Director, Robert Bartho said his company was fortunate to be given the contract and thanked PNGPCL for its support to during the initial stages of mobilisation and construction works.

Mr. Bartho said this made things much easier for the mobilisation, shipment of machinery and construction materials to Kavieng from Lae to commence works without further delay.

Lims Project Manager, James Kamun said bad weather, particularly continuous rain was the main problem faced during the construction stages.

Mr. Kamun said another major challenge was collecting and moving 16,000 cubic metres of karanas from a neighboring village to the project site. He said 2,500 cubic metres of excavation was carried out to remove swamp material and the 16,000 cubic metres of karanas that was purchased locally as support to the local communi-

ty was used to back fill the swamp area in which the hardstand is located.

However, he said despite all these, the project was delivered as per PNGPCL requirements and that he was happy to work with the PNGPCL management and engineering team. The project is in line with the Company’s 20 years strategic plan to rehabilitate and or upgrade port facilities throughout PNGPCL’s network of 15 ports.

Chief Executive Of ficer of PNGPCL, Mr. Stanley Alphonse said “this will create more opportunities for containerised cargo and to boost business activities in New Ireland Province.”

“This is part of PNGPCL’s community service obligation (CSO) initiative towards the people of New Ireland Province,” Mr. Alphonse said. Kavieng District Administrator, John Kum said the Kavieng people are fortunate to have this; it is really paving the way for economic development of the province with the establishment of this facility.

“I believe it will really enhance and will bring a lot of economic opportunities for the people and also enhance the economic functions in the province,” Mr. Kum said.

He acknowledged the PNGPCL Board & Management, the local Member of Parliament and Minister for State Investments & Public Enterprises, Hon. Ben Micah and Lims Construction for delivering this project for the people of Kavieng and New Ireland Province as a whole.

Kavieng Port Business Manager, Saulo Aua said he is grateful to all stakeholders for their support and involvement in the project which will benefit the wider community.

PNG Ports maintains good track record

WHEN it comes to keeping checks and balances, PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL) is one company that wants to see its already good track record, enhanced.

To ensure this, PNGPCL has stepped in to aid its internal auditing staff by spending more than US$2,000 to purchase new books, guides, manuals, and CD’s on auditing and risk management for staff to use to improve their knowledge

on their profession..

PNGPCL’s Governance and Risk Department, which is in charge of the company’s internal audits, purchased the items because the internal auditors had to have access to information on current practices in order to keep pace with the changing global trends in the profession and business.

PNG Ports’ Governance & Risk Department offi cers display audit manuals.

FINAL works on the hardstand been carried out this year. Inset: The storage area is located outside of the current port area.

Kamale: Audits vital for PNGPCL

FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Governance and Risk Department General Manager, Allan Kamale, said there was a need for auditors to have access to international benchmarking information, systems and technology in order to deliver optimum and proficient assurance and advisory services to PNGPCL.

“In order for staff to perform their roles and responsibilities in a professional and proficient

manner, they must acquire the necessary skills and competencies required in auditing, investigation and risk management,” he said.

Mr Kamale said the last decade had seen a significant shift in the role and function of internal auditing to an integral part of the management providing real time, value-adding assurance and advisory services.

“The ever increasing speed and frequency of the changing markets create new expectations and challenges for the internal audit function

across the globe,” he said.

“Corporate boardrooms are increasingly looking to internal auditors to provide guidance and assurance,” he said, adding that key business risks were being identified and managed in an effective and ef ficient manner that yield operational excellence, sustained competitive advantage and created stakeholder value.

“Stakeholders including the State agencies, shareholders, regulators, suppliers, customers and interest groups and such others are de-

manding increasing levels of transparency and disclosure.”

“While the expectation on audit professionals to provide independent and professional assurance and advisory services has never been any easier, we at PNG Ports want to perform to global standards,” he said.

Mr Kamale urged staff to use the items to improve themselves in order to contribute more meaningfully to the objectives of the company.

PNG Ports acquires Lae Tidal Basin Wharf

THE Lae Tidal Basin wharf, currently undergoing developmental phases, will be operated by PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL) after an of ficial handover, says Minister for Public Enterprises and State Investments, Ben Micah.

Mr Micah announced this during the Commissioning of the Completion of phase one of the Tidal Basin Project in Lae on 17 December, 2014.

“I congratulate PNG Ports for owning a brand new very large facility which will soon, after completion of several processes, be handed over to PNG Ports,” he said.

Mr Micah was happy that the work carried out was impressive and was the first time in the country’s history where a development of such magnitude had been completed on time and on budget.

“As the minister responsible, I am proud and speechless with the work done,” Mr Micah said.

The Independent Public Business Corporation (IPBC) is the implementing agency for the Lae Port Tidal Basin Project.

PNGPCL Board Chairman, Nathaniel Poya, assured Mr Micah, Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, IPBC, stakeholders and development partners that PNGPCL was ready to take on the huge role that would be brought on by the new facility.

Mr Poya said PNGPCL was looking forward to working with IPBC towards a formal handover.

This new facility, worth more than K700 million, will serve as the central port for big ships travelling to the country and the Asia/Pacific region.

The Lae port is PNGPCL’s largest port and upon completion of this new project, the port’s cargo handling capacity will be increased and bigger ships will be allowed to berth at any given time.

Phase one has been completed, with the second phase progressing.

Mr Micah said Lae was host to “this magnificent facility” because it was “the window into the highlands, Madang, Sepik and the New Guinea Islands”.

He said the business community in these provinces had already expressed interest to make use of the port facility.

MINISTER Ben Micah

THE Lae Tidal Basin Wharf

tech-talk

For advertising, call 309 1103 or email lotej@spp.com.pg

How to talk to tech support

FOR most people, working with technical support is somewhere near dental work on a list of fun things to do. Believe it or not, calling, or chatting with, tech support for a computer problem doesn’t have to ruin your day.

I can’t promise that the experience will be enjoyable, but there are several things you can do to help make talking to tech support less painful for you than it may have been in the past.

Be Prepared Before Calling or Chatting

Before you pick up the phone, or start typing in that chat box, make sure you’re prepared to explain your problem.

The better prepared you are, the less time you’ll spend talking to tech support.

The exact things you should have ready will vary depending on your problem but here are several to keep

in mind:

If you have an error message: What’s the exact error message on your screen?

If you don’t have an error message: What exactly is your computer doing?

“It just doesn’t work” isn’t going to cut it.

When did the problem start happening?

Did anything else happen at the same time the problem started?

(e.g. a blue screen of death, smoke coming from the computer, virus warning, etc.)

What have you already done to troubleshoot the problem?

Has the problem changed since it first started happening (e.g. computer shuts off more frequently, error message appears at a different time now, etc.)

I recommend writing all of this down before requesting any tech support.

Some tips you can use

Communicate Clearly

Working with technical support is all about communication. The entire reason for your call is to communicate to the support person what the problem is and for them to communicate back to you what you need to do (or they need to do) to fix your problem.

The person on the other end of the phone might be 10 miles away or 10,000 miles away. He or she might be from the same part of your country or from a part of a country you didn’t even know existed. That said, you’ll prevent a lot of needless confusion and frustration if you talk slowly and enunciate properly.

Be Thorough and Specific

The need to be thorough and specific of the trouble your computer has been having but the tech support person is not. You have to tell the whole story in as much detail as possible.

For example, saying “My computer just quit working” doesn’t say anything at all.

There are millions of ways a computer might not “be working” and

the ways to fix those problems vary tremendously. Always recommend stepping through, in great detail, the process that produces the problem.

If your computer won’t turn on, for example, you might describe the problem to tech support like this:

“I hit the power button on my computer and a green light comes on the front of my computer and on my monitor. Some text shows up on the screen for just a second and then the whole thing shuts off.

The monitor stays on but all the lights on the front of my computer case turn off. If I power it on again, the same thing happens over and over.”

Repeat the Details

Another way to avoid confusion when communicating is by repeating what the person you’re talking to is saying. Repeating the details will help avoid a lot of confusion, especially if there’s a language barrier.

Don’t Get Emotional

No one likes computer problems. Its very frustrating. Getting emotional, however, solves absolutely nothing.

For editorial, call 309 1107 or email kialaw@spp.com.pg

training & development

For advertising, call 309 1103 or email ksibona@spp.com.pg

For editorial, call 309 1107 or email kialaw@spp.com.pg

Pilot school prepares to build airstrip

MADANG Pilot School is preparing to build the first ever private airstrip in north coast of Madang to cater for students flight training. The school after purchasing aeroplanes for flight training has signed up a memorandum of understanding with a Chinese airline company to help assist in build-

ing the airstrip. This is in line with the Asia Aviation Education and Training summit held in china on march 29 2014. Jurden Dale director of the school was happy with the progress aimed at producing 23,000 pilots by 2016 to meet the Asia demand.

The summit attendants have pledged to support Al-

lied Aviation Academy to develop seven pilots and five flight attendants each year. The airstrip will be used purposely for flight training, and owned and operated by the school.

In addition the school plans to operate an aviation high school in the same campus so that students can continue strait into the

flight training. The new aviation training school will be at the Brungke village. Mr Jurgen dale says recreational aviation in Papua New Guinea is the right start to flying career. He is confident that he will work closely with Casa PNG; Casa Australia and recreational aviation Australia to make it happen.

Above left and below right: IS the area where the private airstrip is going to be built.

PACIFIC ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY

ABKOSA, Georgina

AMAKO, Vivianne

BOLA, Ronlish

EYASI, Thelma

ENGA COLLEGE OF NURSING

ALUS, David

AMOS, Billy

ANTRE, Daniel

BENO, Jacklyn

CHIKOU, James

ENOCH, Anna

FRANK, Tabitha

JOSEPH, Herman

JOSEPH, Shirly

KAMBI, Apo

KOI, Martina

KOREKEN, Juma

LASIS, Sandra

LONDESS, Larry

PETER, Venessa

PIT, Merolyn

POKO, Melissa

POKOPU, Nathalie

RAYMOND, Mathew

SALEU, Paula

TAKAN, Ezekiel

UVOVO, Warao

HIGHLANDS

REGIONAL SCHOOL OF NURSING

CORNELIUS, Blastus

ESE, Jordan

GOI, Baxcina

HAROVA, Junior

JOSHUA, Jack

KIAPA, Helen

KOINGE, Simon

LUMBU, Nelson

MAILIM, Genevive

2015 Australia Awards Pacific Scholarships

Congratulations to the following applicants who have been given a provisional offer for an Australia Awards Pacific Scholarship to undertake Bachelor of Nursing and Diploma of Nursing at the respective institutions listed below.

BACHELOR OF NURSING

JACOB, Stephanie KALA, Stephanie

KIALOU, Tracey

KINGAL, Ruben KURI, Bobby MANDE, Roxanne

MARCUS, Laro

MENDA, Moro

MIKASIMO, Nadia

OLPA, Jospina

ONO, Max

PAKEA, Benson

RAKIA, Fidelma

SIALE, Serah

STANLEY, Angela

THOMAS, Stella

YARONG, Leannel

LAE SCHOOL OF NURSING

AMOS, Esther

ANDREW, Roger

ESOKE, Esther

FORE, Peter

JAMES, Christina

KEMBU, Vanessa

KIPOI, Hency

MATOC, Sharon

MORRIS, Joshua

MUHUYUPE, Rebecca

NAGIVALENA, Daniel

NAYE, Rachel

NERI, Emmanuel

NINKAMA, Johanes

NOPPY, Ipi

ROPAS, Dencil

SAPAT, Leonie

TAUTAI, Louisha

TIMOTHY, Dallyanne

TUMAU, Stanley

MELKIO, Misek

PAKAU, Esther

PARAKA, Jonathan RANGAI, Mavis SEMBENOMBO, Melinda TANGAL, Muria

DIPLOMA OF NURSING

LUTHERAN SCHOOL OF NURSING

DABUNG, Maryanne

DONGE, Patrick

ELIJAH, Gatana

GUYOROBO, Anita

JOHN, Cathy

JU, Bethany

KESINEYA, Ryan

LOEKIRI, Delnah

MAKIS, Bathsheba

MONDA, Justin

PALIK, Maryangela

PHOGA, Maryanne

RYAN, Watson

SAI, Janet

SAVI, Olive

TIMBIL, Jerolyn

MENDI SCHOOL OF NURSING

ALBERT, Mary

AMBON, Era

BONIFAS, Cathlyn

DENNIS, Ruth

GIBBON, Kurumba

ISSAC, Luta

JACK, Grace

JOHN, Joycelyn

KAWANG, Cindy

KEE, Joel

KEMA, Ian

LAIULA, Nancy

LAPA, Mercy

MASO, Samo

MOSES, Kerry

SAKARO, Christopher

NEXT STEPS

TOROVI, Jim

ULPIT, Narex

VIGIL, Norah

WENA, Betty

UYAVAYAVA, Lucian

TEMO, Angeline

TEPNIS, Dickson

TODUK, Flora

YAUKO, Tamilus

NAZARENE SCHOOL OF NURSING

ALBERIC, Lydia

DONE, Felin

FOILEE, Fredah

KAUTIL, Nicole

KIAP, Rodney

KIN, Elis

KOLIP, Beven

KURU, Boken

LESLEY, Dellar

MOL, Elizabeth

NAGABI, Jennifer

NANG, Moses

NEMA, Sini

PAIS, James

PAUL, Ruben

PHILIP, Hanson

STEVEN, Janet

STEVEN, Jim

WANGI, Sandra

WESIS, Jennifer

WINUAN, Naomi

ST BARNABAS SCHOOL OF NURSING

ANDREW, Rosah

ARIO, Winke

AYONG, Mirriam

DOUDI, Thelma

DUKADUKA, Gervina

FRANCIS, Laneta

ISIKIEL, Peninah

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

This scholarship is a provisional offer upon sighting of original supporting documents by Australia Awards - PNG Facility. The above named students are strongly advised to contact the Australia Awards - PNG Facility to: Confirm your offer,

Confirm current contact details and Confirm postal addresses for the receipt of mail

Scholarship Conditions:

This scholarship offer is ONLY for the named individual and does not cover dependants. The conditions of your scholarship are set out in your student contract. The Australia Awards - PNG Facility will give advice on the details of your scholarship conditions.

Travel Arrangements:

For those travelling by road and sea, please organise your own travel to your institutions. You will be reimbursed by Australia AwardsPNG Facility upon provision of original receipts.

JEREMIAH, Joel

KAMRAI, Jeffery

KANUMB, Billy

KAWELE, Dehu

KESAL, Nason

LAS, Elizabeth

LULUT, Joanne

MOKIS, Caroline

PETER, Rose

POGA, Damien

STEVEN, Annemarie

TONI, Alicen

YOKOBO, Julie

ST MARY’S SCHOOL OF NURSING

DOMINIC, Wendy

DUIKIAK, Rubbie

JACK, Rebecca

JIMMY, Rubeck

KIEKIE, Naomi

KOMBOKON, Christina

KONGA, Anna

LAKI, Lerrianne

MAELA, Lorraine

MAIOSI, Lorraine

MAPE, Stephanie

MICHAEL, Edith

MOGORETEIP, Helenthrude

NOBI, Delma

PAIAS, Judith

PIRAH, Rachel

ROMALUS, Rosey

SANGKOL, Mathilda

SOHOTUA, Nadine

TANGOLE, Francisca

YAREKI, Ivy

For those requiring air travel, please contact Australia AwardsPNG Facility.

DO NOT PAY INSTITUTION ENROLMENT OR REGISTRATION

FEES.

MORE INFORMATION

Australia Awards - PNG Facility

Ground Floor, Port Tower, Hunter Street (between Defense Haus and Moresby Inn) Port Moresby National Capital District

Ph: 73733851 or 70141974 | Fax: 321 1828

E: incountry@australiaawardspng.org

W: www.australiaawards.org.pg

Lutheran School of Nursing

AUNDA, Trisha

BOM, Veronica

JACK, Kelin

JANGIM, Aku

KAIOK, Matilda

KAJOI, Juliana

KEKAO, Ann

KLAPAT, Madlyn

KUMB, Catherine

KUMAI, Esther

KUMAI, Lynch

LAKOKO, Galie

MANPAGAREA, Angelica

MARULAI, Theresa

MINEYUPE, Henny

MUKABE, Lina

MUGUA, Maria

NIA, Mary

ORERE, Josepha

PHILIP, Gaugara

SAPAR, Dominica

SIMEON, Charles

WARBING, Christine

YOT, Juliana

2015 Australia Awards Pacific Scholarships

Congratulations to the following applicants who have been given a provisional offer for an Australia Awards Pacific Scholarship to undertake a Bachelor of Midwifery at the institutions listed below.

BACHELOR OF MIDWIFERY

Pacific Adventist University

ANDE, Druagle

AUSO, Aseneth

BEISO, Doreen

DEAN, Polyn

DENGDAM, Eric

DONALD, Mouna

HUNNEY, Beverly

IPAKASA, Jossie

ISHMAEL, Dorcas

JOSHUA, Pisi

KAIPEL, Jenny

KEM, Elizabeth

KERENGA Noreen

KEVENGU, Susan

KOMI, Christina

KULIMBUA, Jolly

MUKALE, Ruth

PAIN, Agnes

PAITA, Laila

SAP, Joyce

SARIMAN, Leani

TALIEN, Eli

UKUPU, Stella

University of Papua New Guinea

ARARI, Faymary

DIKINA, Marcella

EVARI, Sandra

FRANK, Joyce

GUTA, Anna

IGA, Joyce

KAGL, Linda

KANDAI, Josin

KORAI, Pea

KUVANG, Linda

LAMBERT, Lucy

LIVI, Waiso

LILYO, Rachael

LOMBANGE, Mavis

MAIBANI, Muriel

MONDO, Evelyn

NAMBREA, Maggie

ODDO, Sanitha

ORAWI, Rosa

PARI, Roselyn

POIOU, Julie

SARUA, Levi

SAUKA, Theresa

SAVINIO, Joycelyn

SELMARTIN, Erica

TEREA, Helen

THOMAS KOKE, Cathy

VINNIE, Edith

WAPILI, Flora

WAREA, Nettie

YAMBAI, Vickie

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

NEXT STEPS

This scholarship is a provisional offer upon validation of supporting documents by Australia Awards - PNG Facility. The above named scholars are strongly advised to contact the Australia Awards - PNG Facility to: Confirm your offer,

Confirm current contact details and Confirm postal addresses where your scholarship offer letters and contracts will be sent to you.

Scholarship Conditions:

This scholarship offer is ONLY for the named individual and does not cover dependants. The conditions of your scholarship are set out in your student contract. Australia Awards - PNG Facility will give advice on details of your scholarship conditions.

Travel Arrangements:

For those travelling by road and sea, please organise your own travel to your institutions. You will be reimbursed by Australia Awards - PNG Facility upon provision of original receipts.

For those requiring air travel, please contact Australia Awards - PNG Facility.

University of Goroka

AFIA, Avis

ANDAKEN, Henny

BUNAT SABAK, Elizabeth

DAVID, Elos

DIRYE, Grace

EKESAE, Salume

FELIX, Tom

GAIU, Mitiniu

GORO, Susan

HOFA, Paul

HUK, Job

KAMANE, Rose

KAVIRI, Tsivane

MAME, Miti

MARINJEMBI, Hilda

MOLIAN, Esther

MOTI, Maureen

NAGUMA, Larisha

NASIM, Cathy

NIKINTS, Sylvia

OBAKI, Isaac

PAUL, Elis

RAMBUA, Olive

REKEPA FUGRE, Betty

SAILAS, Glenda

SAMOF, Shirley

SIMON, Jessica

SIMON, Karinas

SUGUYA, Samah

TEMOP, James

VISE, Vanita

WILSON, Diana

YAMO, Lillian

DO NOT PURCHASE TRAVEL TICKETS OR PAY INSTITUTION FEES IN ADVANCE.

MORE INFORMATION

Please contact:

Australia Awards - PNG Facility

Ground Floor, Port Tower, Hunter Street (between Defens Haus and Moresby Inn) Port Moresby National Capital District

Ph: 73733828 | 70141974

Fax: 321 1828

Email: incountry@australiaawardspng.org

Website: www.australiaawards.org.pg

2015 Australia Awards Pacific Scholarships

Congratulations to the following applicants who have been given a provisional offer for an Australia Awards Pacific Scholarship to undertake Certificate in Community Health Work at the institutions listed below.

CERTIFICATE IN COMMUNITY HEALTH WORK

Braun

BASARING, Joyce

BEI, Sese

BOFFY, Tally

EMENGTE, Mayu

GESANG, Lorraine

JACK, Gambi

KIPAS, Solomon

LAURIE, Bridgit

MORKS, Uke

MURUWE, Ireen

NATILE, Samuel

PAPOTO, Rose

SURING, Fufuse

TIWAKA, Melissa

WELA, June

Gaubin

AVIKAI, Donatus

BABUK, Dudom

BALANGEN, Roselyn

BASUL, Katalun

FUNUMARI, David

GANI, Debbie

KUEL, Dumap

LALAM-WAGOL, Lima

MADOI, Peis

MAGUN, Hudson

MONEP, Damma

MUKAR, Sonny

PAILAM, Joshua

WAKON, Mukei

WILLIE, Mark

Kapuna

BATHEMIAS, Gesa

BUBURA, Azel

DAVID, Barnabas

GAWAI, Nason

HARRY, Bathsheba

HARRY, Mirriam

HOINGU, Ishmael

NEXT STEPS

HURAE, Ariki

JIMMY, Dicken

KAIRI, Vaii

KALAMA, Anthony

KOIME, Gabriella

KORE, Henson

MARAGA, Eva

NAMUARA, David

Kumin

ALUPI, Melly

GUMALE, Marian

JELIKAWAS, Alexander

JIMMY, Warin

KEN, Edward

KONPES, Esslyn

LEPI, Getrude

MENE, Ladislaus

NET, Catherine

NICHOLAS, Janet

PAIS, Ronny

RUMU, Christopher

UNDI, Alice

WARI, Jostony

WEB, Daniel

Lemakot

BABA, Albert

BIRIO, Jayleen

KANAWI, Rollen

LORY, Semirah

MANASSAH, Agnes

MARA, Jessica

MAUSAU, Veronica

MOLE, Kalaiah

MOU, Lazarus

NAMBAN, Omen

PATRICK, Cameron

POEI, Julie

PUSLA, Methodius

SAMOU, Paskalis

SIMON, Colleen

Onamuga

APA, Joe

ASA, Asae

DOTNU, Jurap

ELIZAH, Wama

GANA, Gavin

JONAH, Mathias

KAILE, Bill

MALIE, Regina

NAKOLE, David

NAPOLO, Jeffty

NEHO, Helen

ORAKEURA, Johani

OSINKE, Boselan

SOLOMON, Newton

THOMAS, Shulamith

Raihu

ANGKOR, Melody

APAO, Felix

ATIMAI, Evodia

BEATUS, Jenevihe

BURO, Salanus

KAILUWA, Linus

KUSO, Melisha

MAUN, Elizah

NANKEN, Sidella

SANGAI, Phyllis

SIONI, Fidelish

TAPO, Belden

URITA, Leoba

WAIBE, Cynthia

WAOKO, Miller

Rumginae

CHRIS, Rhonda

GETSY, Kordy

GULL, Megam

JOHN, Jim

KAVE, Michael

KAYIRA, Joycelyn

KEBA, Zebron

MEGORR, Joyce

MISSIN, Dangnai

PARAU, Tores

PETER, Jethro

RUBEN, Skullin

UDORE, Jonah

YONDI, Leisy

YONOKBON, Joe

Salamo

BEREKA, Hildegard

BRUCE, Smith

GANISI, Vicky

HALULELE, Maria

KADIWAULELE, Mirraim

KAMARIKI, Mirriam

LEPANI, Idesa

MATHEW, Wilma

MOSAKUNA, Cherol

NICKY, Stella

PAMBARU, Marcella

PHILIP, Wesley

ROIDI, Bjorn

SAILOSI, Betty

TIBELIA, Ianselot

St.Gerard’s

AIDABOE, Joseph

AISA, Charles

AISAISA, Francis

ANDREW, Daisy

AVILA, Collette

GOROMA, Maino

KAEKAE, Michael

KENNETH, Johntom

KOGO, Allan

MAE, Alfred

MIRIA, Collette

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

This scholarship is a provisional offer upon sighting of original supporting documents by Australia Awards - PNG Facility. The above named students are strongly advised to contact the Australia Awards - PNG Facility to: Confirm your offer, Confirm current contact details and Confirm postal addresses for the receipt of mail.

Scholarship Conditions:

This scholarship offer is ONLY for the named individual and does not cover dependants. The conditions of your scholarship are set out in your student contract. The Australia Awards - PNG Facility will give advice on the details of your scholarship conditions.

Travel Arrangements:

For those travelling by road and sea, please organise your own travel to your institutions. You will be reimbursed by Australia Awards - PNG Facility upon provision of original receipts.

For those requiring air travel, please contact Australia Awards-PNG Facility

ORAPA, Theresa

OUMBA, Grace

PAIVU, Benjamin

TOMIYE, Thompson

TUSALA, Seraphim

WENE, Osrike

St Margaret’s

ABEL, Brian

AUGWIE, Lydia

AWAL, Nelson

BORAI, Joanna

DEKAMA, Nathan

DUMAVI, Anna

GOREWA, Branillah

HATIKI, Paula

KOVAKARI, Matthew

KURUME, Japhet

PHILIP, Richard

SUARI, Mageu

TANGOLE, Francisca

THOMAS, Ruth

TONIKA, Dorothy

Tinsley

BONNEY, Rachael

DICKSON, Kuru

JETLEE, Marley

KIPA, Ivonne

KUNJIL, Marilyn

KURI, Jacklyn

LUCAS, Joyce

MANG, Melisah

MANGRO, Joy

MAOGAM, Samson

MOWA, Japahet

MULD, Mary

PENGKUNDI, Yuanni

SAMUEL, Renate

TORE, Georgina

DO NOT PAY INSTITUTION ENROLMENT OR REGISTRATION FEES.

MORE INFORMATION

Please contact:

Australia Awards - PNG Facility

Ground Floor, Port Tower, Hunter Street (between Defense Haus and Moresby Inn) Port Moresby National Capital District

Ph: 73733851 | 70141974

Fax: 321 1828

Email: incountry@australiaawardspng.org

Website: www.australiaawards.org.pg

Hon. Havila Kavo, MP

GULF PROVINCIAL AND LOCAL LEVEL GOVERNMENT

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR MEDIA RELEASE

1st January 2015

As we move into the year 2015, I am compelled to publicly address my people of the Gulf Province living in the province and in other parts of the country through this media release. I hope that in making this media release I will also address an issue that is most critical to our province at this point in time and that is the position of the Governor for Gulf Province. I also hope that in setting out a few of the province’s more significant developments, our people will appreciate and acknowledge that under my leadership our province is making significant progress in the development of our province.

THE POSITION OF GOVERNOR OF THE GULF PROVINCE

A lot has been reported and said about proceedings currently on foot in our courts of which I am a party to. As the proceedings are still ongoing, I will not discuss the matter here.

There is a very dangerous misconception and or misunderstanding being talked about and promoted by self serving and self centered individuals in Port Moresby and in the province that there is a vacancy in the office of the Governor for Gulf. Nothing could be further from the truth.

I have been advised by my Lawyers that by virtue of the provisions of section 103 of the National Constitution of Papua New Guinea, I am still and will remain the duly elected and legitimate Governor of the Gulf Province, until such time as my appeal in the Supreme Court determines otherwise.

My position is supported by a statement made by the Electoral Commissioner, Andrew Trawen in the National and also by the Chief Secretary to Government when verbally advising our Provincial Administrator that I was still the Governor of the Gulf Province.

To our people of Gulf and the Provincial Administration, there is therefore NO VACANCY in the OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR FOR GULF.

My simple message to these individuals in Port Moresby and in the province is to stop their disruptive and destructive politicking and work with me to continue to deliver goods and services to our people in our respective roles until 2017 and let our people of Gulf decide through the ballot box.

I will now address our people and bring to your attention significant development projects our Provincial Government in partnership with our landowners and other stakeholders are developing or will be a key stakeholder in the development of the project, under my leadership as Governor of Gulf Province.

RESOURCE & PROJECT DEVELOPMENTS FOR THE PROVINCE

The province is seeing constructive and tangible developments taking place including the upgrade and sealing of the all important Malalua to Kerema highway. In the not too distant future, our new administrative office complex will become functional. Our specialist advisors are putting together a concept for a new township that our province desperately needs. There are numerous other developments taking place which I do not have the space or time to mention.

THE ELK/ANTELOPE (GULF) LNG PROJECT

So much has been said and reported in the media and in various forums and conferences in the country and overseas about the development of the country’s second LNG Project, the Elk/Antelope LNG project in the Gulf Province.

The Developer, Total SA and Petroleum Retention License (PRL) 15 license holder, Interoil Corporation are telling the country and our people that our LNG project’s total construction costs are likely to be in access of PNG Kina 35 billion, a mind blowing and staggering amount of money.

I have said in earlier similar paid media releases that our gas resources MUST be developed in the Gulf Province. I have consistently advised all our stakeholders including our National

Government, Total SA and Interoil Corporation that under no circumstance will our gas be piped out of the Gulf Province and processed in a LNG Plant built or located outside of the Gulf Province.

I repeat what I have said in my earlier media releases, that this position is clearly set out in Gulf Provincial Assembly Resolution No. 01/12 of Meeting No. NPG 01/12and Gulf Provincial Executive Council (“PEC”) Decision No. NPG 01/2012 of Meeting No. 01/2012, which state in no uncertain terms that our gas resources MUST be developed in the Gulf Province.

Under my leadership our Gulf LNG Task Force and external Industry Advisors are working to ensure that the province receives maximum benefit from the development of our LNG project. Our team is working towards ensuring that we achieve the maximum benefit from our negotiations with the State at the upcoming Development Forum for our LNG project.

I am also totally committed to ensuring that the National Content Plan for our landowner business spinoffs from our LNG project construction phase and beyond is developed most favourbly for our landowner umbrella companies and Gulf companies.

ELK/ANTELOPE GAS FIELD (PRL 15) LANDOWNERS POSITION

Our position is further strengthened by our Elk/Antelope gas field landowners in PRL 15 recently passing a number of resolutions one of which states that our Elk/Antelope gas MUST be processed in the Gulf Province.

For our people of Gulf, this project is a massive transformational project that will absolutely transform the Gulf Province in a very short space of time. I repeat what I have said earlier that the development of this project will be a catalyst for the development of the Gulf Province.

Our people know in their minds and hearts how desperate we are for development. We are the only province that Air Nuigini doesn’t fly to. Even third level airlines do not operate commercial flights into the province. Kerema town cannot develop further. We are therefore committed to developing our new township into a modern metropolis of which we all can be proud of for generations to come.

GULF GAS MASTERPLAN CONCEPT

Petroleum Industry Experts are now telling the nation and us that Gulf Province is potentially sitting on large volumes of gas. On Monday in the National newspaper, an Interoil Corporation Executive stated that Gulf Province potentially has more gas than any other province.

Our Provincial Executive Council recently passed PEC Decision No. 08/2014 of Meeting No. 03/2014, and engaged the country’s leading national natural resources development company to develop our provinces gas master plan.

We are privileged to be working with a company whose directors, team leaders and specialist consultants have worked in very competitive areas of the petroleum industry in the Middle East, Africa, South East Asia and Australia.

The company is now in the process of developing our Gulf Gas Master Plan which will set the foundation for our Provincial Government to develop a Gas Hub in the Gulf Province.

I am informed through the recent Mining and Petroleum conference held in Sydney on 1st to 2nd December 2014, that the Developer, Total SA will finalize the technical details of our LNG project by mid 2015. I am also informed the construction of the LNG Project will commence in early 2016.

As a Provincial Government we are committed to developing a petro-chemical hub in the Gulf Province to process some of our gas resource into LPG gas, fertilizer, plastics, etc. We have world class technical advisors committed to developing this project and as such we are fully committed to ensuring that

the petro-chemical hub is developed alongside the Gulf LNG project.

Our Gulf Vision 2020 which was officially launched by Prime Minister Peter O’Neill in 2011, in Kerema represents our renewed hope for a modernized, advanced and progressive Gulf Province. The cornerstone of this vision is the development of an Industrial & Petro-Chemical Hub in the province using some of our vast natural gas resources.

I am now talking with like minded Governors of provinces who share our vision to develop a Gas Hub/Petro Chemical Hub in the Gulf Province and the interest from these Governors is very high.

There will be the usual commentators saying this is a “pie in the sky dream”. This is what we said about developing an LNG project in PNG, and look where we are now, the PNG LNG Project is exporting LNG to overseas markets.

VAILALA OIL PALM PROJECT

My Provincial Government is not only focusing on the development of the Elk/Antelope LNG Project. We are now in direct discussions with the new owners of New Britain Palm Oil Ltd, Sime Darby, who will be partnering us and our Vailala oil palm project area landowners to develop 40,000 hectares of oil palm plantation in Ihu District.

Sime Darby technical personal have visited the project sites on several occasions and talked with our landowners who have expressed their genuine desire to give their customary lands to us for this project. The development of this project will bring immense economic and social benefits to the project area landowners.

I am advised by our Technical Advisors that the Minister for Agriculture & Livestock and the Department are fully supportive of the development of this project and the Minister is likely to bring National Executive Council (“NEC”) Submission to Cabinet in 2015.

DEVELOPMENT OF A MODERN MULTI-STOREY OFFICE COMPLEX ON SECTION 278, ALLOTMENT 35, HOHOLA, NCD

The Gulf Provincial Government through it’s wholly owned business arm, Gulf Province Properties Ltd owns a prime piece of vacant land located of Independence Drive, opposite the National Library at the Central Government Wagani offices.

The company has engaged PNG’s leading Architectural firm, Pacific Architects (PNG) Ltd (PAC), who are into several weeks of a schematic design of a modern multi-storey office complex. The company will at some stage approve the final design and move to development phase. The company is also in talks with several leading companies to partner it in developing and constructing the complex into the country’s premier office complex.

SUMMARY

In summary, I am still the legitimate Governor of the Gulf Province and there is no vacany in my office.

The message I give in this media release is one of hope and for our people in the province and in other parts of the country to unite and rise up to partner the Provincial Government, our development partners and other stakeholders develop and move the province forward to a better, brighter future for the present and future generations.

HAVILA KAVO, MP GOVERNOR

Bushfire destroys homes

AN out-of-control bushfire has destroyed at least five houses, two sheds and a fire truck in South Australia overnight and has sparked the evacuation of hundreds of people as it moves closer to Adelaide’s north-eastern suburbs. One person is missing and authorities expect more homes will be lost.

The Country Fire Service says the fire threatening Kersbrook in the Mount Lofty Ranges is now extremely serious.

“All residents within 15 km of Kersbrook should enact their survival plan,” the CFS said.

“Homes cannot be defended due to 100km winds and all CFS staff and volunteers are now withdrawing from fire ground.

“Roads are starting to become congested.”

The CFS says people should listen to local radio station ABC 891 for further information.

The fire in the Adelaide Hills is so large a smoke plume could be seen from Adelaide’s CBD.

Bushfires a reminder for govt to address climate change

GREENS leader Christine

Milne has pointed to the fires in South Australia and Victoria to argue the Federal Government should do more to prepare for climate change.

As firefighters battle blazes in the two states - and fears mount that dozens of homes have been lost - Senator Milne said the Government was failing to recognise the costs of global warming.

“Every year we are going to face these extreme weather

events, which are going to cost lives and infrastructure, and enough is enough,” she said.

“The Abbott Government has to stop climate denial and help to get the country prepared to adapt to the more extreme conditions.”

Ms Milne said now was the time to talk about Australia’s preparedness for extreme weather events.

“Look at what is happening to people, communities, our

environment, loss of infrastructure and for goodness sake abandon your nonsense about climate variability,” she said.

“Accept global warming is real and let’s get on with working together to plan for resilience in the face of extreme weather events.”

Minister for Justice Michael Keenan said the Federal Government needed to have a conversation with state governments to review how

money was spent before disasters happen, rather than in recovery. “We need to look at how we are looking at the money spent on disasters in the most effective way,” he said.

“At the moment we spend most of the money in relation to disasters in Australia in response and recovery.”

Mr Keenan said the Productivity Commission should look into the proportion of money being spent by the

Teen dies from sniffing deodorant

A 12-year-old boy has died in Alice Springs after police suspected he sniffed at least two cans of deodorant with a group of teenagers.

Northern Territory Police superintendent Bob Harrison said the boy was found unconscious by an officer at the Coles shopping complex in the town about 8:15pm on Saturday night.

“His attention was directed towards a person collapsed near the Discount Chemist,” he said.

“He checked for vital signs. Finding none, he commenced CPR.

“[Paramedics] conveyed the young fellow to hospital but unfortunately he passed away.”

Police believed the boy had consumed “a couple of cans” of deodorant earlier that

night at Billy Goat Hill, a notorious sniffing spot in the centre of the town.

“We received information from a security guard that they’d spotted about eight young people sniffing cans near the hill,” Superintendent Harrison said.

“Unfortunately without pre-empting the coroner’s findings and the autopsy we believe this contributed to the death of this 12-year-old.”

Superintendent Harrison said sniffing deaths were incredibly rare.

“Going back through my memory I can’t recall another [death] in relation to aerosol cans,” he said.

“Yes it is [prevalent] in the centre of Australia but I can’t think myself of a previous death.”

Police were interviewing

states before and after bushfires.

“We have a small amount of money being spent on mitigating the threat of a disaster and the vast majority of the money spent on dealing with the after effects,” he said.

“Clearly we need to have a conversation with the states [about] whether we can spend that money more effectively to mitigate the effects of a disaster before they occur.”

-ABC news

witnesses and scouring the site for evidence.

“I believe we found a number of cans there so they’ve been exhibited and will form part of the evidence base,” Superintendent Harrison said.

Most retailers already restrict the sale of inhalable sprays in Alice Springs.

In a statement to the ABC, Coles said it “has already ordered a display cabinet which will restrict access to aerosols liable to solvent abuse” for its Alice Springs store.

But the supermarket chain said the Christmas holiday period had caused a delay in delivery of the cabinet.

“In the meantime, Coles is removing at-risk products from shelves.”

The high-risk products were already off the shelves before the boy died. -ABC news

The CFS says the fire is burning out of control in an erratic manner.

Overnight the fire also moved towards the Adelaide suburb of Golden Grove, as well as the Upper Hermitage, Break Neck Hill and the One Tree Hill areas.

It is understood hundreds of people were evacuated to the Golden Grove Village Shopping Centre. -ABC news

Severe thunderstorm warning

AN emergency thunderstorm warning has been issued for Canberra and parts of New South Wales, raising the prospect of heavy rainfall and flash flooding.

The warning for the ACT and across the border in the Goulburn and Bateman’s Bay areas was released at 2:00pm (AEDT).

The Bureau of Meteorology said severe thunderstorms were likely to produce heavy rainfall, that could lead to flash flooding over several hours.

Heavy rain began in Canberra’s north shortly after the warning was issued.

Other areas that were likely to be affected included Scone, Bowral, Orange, Mudgee, Bathurst, Katoomba, Yass, Tamworth and Parkes.

The State Emergency Service advised people living in the warning area to keep clear of creeks and storm drains and avoid any resulting floodwaters.

It also recommended residents unplug computers and appliances, avoid using the phone and keep children and pets indoors during the storm.

-ABC news

Bushfire in the Adelaide Hills on January 3, 2015. Picture: ABC

A 12-year-old boy has died after sniffing deodorant on Billy Goat Hill in Alice Springs. Picture: ABC

Climate change is a golbal

AirAsia plane search enters second week

THE search for the main wreckage of AirAsia QZ8501 in the Java Sea has entered a second week, with poor weather still hampering operations.

Divers had hoped for better conditions but faced continued suspensions.

A fifth large object, thought to be debris from the plane, has been located under the sea. Another body has also been found, bringing the total to 31.

Flight QZ8501 crashed en route from Surabaya in Indonesia to Singapore last Sunday with 162 people aboard.

Bad weather is believed to be the biggest factor in the crash.

The Airbus A320’s “black boxes”, or flight data record-

Opposition faces bullets

COLOMBO: Gunmen have opened fire at an opposition rally in Sri Lanka, marking an escalation of violence ahead of next week’s crucial presidential elections, party officials and police say.

Unidentified attackers fired from a jeep as the main opposition candidate Maithripala Sirisena was leaving the meeting in his home constituency of Polonnaruwa district on Saturday, his office said.

A party official said Sirisena was unhurt but a bystander was injured, while a vehicle was also damaged. Police sources said an investigation was underway, but no arrests had been made.

The latest attack, by far the worst targeting the opposition in the run-up to the January 8 election, came a day after a stone-throwing attack injured supporters of Sirisena elsewhere in the island.

Campaign-related violence has escalated across Sri Lanka as President Mahinda Rajapakse fights an unexpectedly tough battle to remain in power, poll monitors said.

Outrage over terror drill

THERE has been outrage in India after police in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home state of Gujarat conducted mock security drills using fake “militants” dressed as Muslims.

ers, have yet to be located.

Most of the victims’ bodies are thought to be trapped in the plane’s fuselage.

On Saturday, officials said a ship using sonar had detected four large objects, the biggest measuring 18m (59ft) by 5.4m, at a depth of 30m.

Remotely operated cameras were being used to try to photograph the objects, but waves up to five metres high were hampering the effort.

On Sunday, search and rescue agency chief Bambang Soelistyo said a fifth object, measuring 9.8m by 1.1m, had been located on the seabed.

He said that two divers who reached the site had to turn back almost straight away because of the bad conditions.

Dozens of divers from Indo-

nesia and Russia have been deployed to the search area, which has been enlarged to allow for tides sweeping bodies and debris further afield.

National Search and Rescue deputy chief Tatang Zainudin said: “We are racing with time and weather in running this mission.”

Rukman Soleh, the weather bureau chief at the search headquarters in Pangkalan Bun, had earlier said the weather on Sunday and Monday “should provide the search effort with a window of opportunity”.

Another search and rescue official, SB Supriyadi, said 95 divers were on standby.

“We’ll be concentrating on the underwater search, hopefully we’ll be able to evacuate

more bodies,” he told AFP news agency.

“We want to speed up the evacuation of bodies which might be stuck inside the plane’s body.”

The Indonesian weather agency, BMKG, said that conditions at the time of the plane’s disappearance suggested it had probably flown into a storm.

It said initial analysis suggested icy conditions in the air had caused the engine to stall.

Officials have said the plane was travelling at 32,000ft when the pilot’s last communication was a request to climb to 38,000ft to avoid bad weather.

AirAsia did not have official permission to fly the

Surabaya-Singapore route on the day of the crash, but was licensed on four other days of the week.

The Indonesian authorities suspended the company’s flights on this route pending an investigation. AirAsia has said it will “fully co-operate”.

There were 137 adult passengers, 17 children and one infant, along with two pilots and five crew, on the planethe majority Indonesian.

Families of victims have been holding funerals as bodies that have been recovered are flown back to Surabaya.

AirAsia previously had an excellent safety record, with no fatal accidents involving its aircraft.

-BBC news

A video of a drill in Surat district showed police restraining men wearing long tunics and white skullcaps.

Another video shot in the Narmada district had the “militants” shouting “Islam Zindabad (Long live Islam)”.

Muslim leaders have called the videos “atrocious and highly condemnable”.

Critics say the videos stereotype Muslims, who make up nearly 14% of the country’s 1.2 billion population.

After the videos were shown on Indian TV channels, Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel admitted that the exercise was “a mistake”.

“It’s wrong to link religion with terrorism. The issue has been resolved and the matter should be put to rest now. The mistake has been rectified,” the chief minister said.

Police arrest five over Japanese tourist’s gang-rape

INDIAN police have arrested five men in connection with the alleged abduction and gang-rape of a 23-year-old Japanese tourist, officials said on Saturday.

The woman had filed a complaint through the Japanese consulate in the eastern Indian city of Kolkata saying she had been staying in a budget hotel in the city in November when three local men who spoke Japanese befriended her and took her to the seaside resort of Digha in the state of West Bengal.

Kolkata police said she

claimed they had robbed her and then taken her to Bodh Gaya, a major Buddhist pilgrimage and tourist centre in the eastern state of Bihar.

There, she alleged that two more men joined them and raped her.

The university student was allegedly held for three weeks.

“When her health condition deteriorated due to repeated rape and poor living conditions, she was brought to Gaya (district headquarters) for medical treatment on December 20,” an investigating police officer told news agency

Agence France Presse on condition of anonymity.

But she managed to escape and reached Varanasi where she met some Japanese tourists who helped her contact the Japanese consulate in Kolkata, the officer added.

“We have arrested three people from Kolkata and two from Gaya in Bihar in connection with the incident,” said Pallav Kanti Ghosh, a senior police official in Kolkata.

He said two of them had been charged with gang-rape.

The incident has again turned the spotlight on the safety of

women in the world’s largest democracy.

Millions of Indians took to the streets in 2012, after a medical student was gang-raped and killed in New Delhi, to demand official action to reduce the number of assaults on women.

Since then, several attacks on foreign women have also been reported, leading to a dip in tourist numbers to the country.

Last January, a 51-year-old Danish tourist was robbed and gang raped at knife-point in Delhi. -ABC news

Search teams have found debris of missing AirAia plane but have not found a survivor yet. The bottom line

INDIAN activists hold candles near hangman’s nooses during a candle light march to mark the second anniversary of the fatal gang-rape of a student in the Indian capital that unleashed a wave of public anger over violence against women in the country. Picture: ABC/AFP

Human rights lawyer claims arrest threat

BRITISH human rights lawyer Amal Clooney has claimed in an interview that she was threatened with arrest in Egypt after identifying flaws in the judicial system that later contributed to the convictions of three Al Jazeera journalists.

Ms Clooney, a rights lawyer who married Hollywood star George Clooney in Venice last year, helped compile a report for the International Bar Association in February 2014 that raised questions about the independence of judges and prosecutors in Egypt.

“When I went to launch the report, first of all they stopped us from doing it in Cairo,” she told the Guardian newspaper on Saturday.

“They said: ‘Does the report criticise the army, the judiciary, or the government?’ We said: ‘Well, yes.’ They said: ‘Well then, you’re risking arrest’.”

Ms Clooney is one of the lawyers representing one of the trio of Al Jazeera reporters currently detained in Cairo.

The report, based on a fact-finding mission made in mid-2013, warned about the wide powers that ministers had over judges and highlighted a record of selective prosecutions.

The three Al Jazeera journalists, including Australian Peter Greste, were detained in December 2013 and accused of spreading false information and aiding the blacklisted Muslim Brotherhood. Supporters say the charges were politically motivated.

One of the recommendations in Ms Clooney’s report was to end the practice that allows Egyptian officials to handpick judges in certain politicised cases.

“That recommendation wasn’t followed, and we’ve seen the results of that in this particular case where you had a handpicked panel led by a judge who is known for dispensing brutal verdicts. And this one was no different,” she said.

Egypt’s top court on Thursday ordered a retrial of Greste, Egyptian-Canadian Mohamed Fahmy and Egyptian Baher Mohamed, but kept the journalists in custody pending a new hearing.

Fahmy - whom Ms Clooney representsand Greste are seeking deportation, while Mohamed’s wife said she was looking at ways to get her husband out of Egypt.

Ms Clooney said she hoped that Fahmy’s deportation would go ahead “in fairly quick terms”, expressing little confidence in a retrial.

“I don’t see how the prosecution can proceed again in a trial process even if the judges were to be constituted properly this time around. I don’t see how they could fix the lack of evidence,” she said.

“We have to continue and double our efforts to achieve his release in other ways. Unfortunately we have to conclude that we can’t rely on these Egyptian court processes to achieve a fair or swift result.”

-ABC news

French mayor refuses burial of Roma baby

CHAMPLAN: The mayor of a Paris suburb has been accused of racism after he refused to allow a Roma baby to be buried in the municipal cemetery.

Christian Leclerc, the mayor of Champlan, about 23 kilometres south of Paris, has explained his refusal on the grounds that the cemetery has “few available plots”. “Priority is given to those who pay their local taxes,” Leclerc was quoted by Le Parisien daily as saying.

The mayor was not available on Saturday for comment.

Critics, however, believe his decision to refuse the nearly three-month-old girl a final resting place was motivated by anti-Roma sentiment.

“It’s racism, xenophobia, and stigmatisation,” Loic Gandais, president of an association helping Roma families in the region, said. Gandais accused Leclerc of hiding behind the fact that the baby, identified only as Maria Francesca, was pronounced dead in another town.

-AAP news

First black US senator dies

BOSTON: Former US senator Edward W Brooke, a Republican who became the first black person in US history to win popular election to the Senate, has died at the age of 95.

Brooke died of natural causes at his Coral Gables, Florida, home on Saturday, said Ralph Neas, a former Brooke aide. Brooke was surrounded by his family. Brooke was elected to the Senate from Massachusetts in 1966, becoming the first black to sit in that branch from any state since the post-Civil War Reconstruction era and one of nine blacks who have ever served there - including Barack Obama.

Brooke said he was “thankful to God” that he lived to see Obama’s election as the first black US president.

-AAP news

North Korea attacks ‘hostile’ United States sanctions

NORTH Korea has described new sanctions imposed in response to a major cyberattack against Sony Pictures as part of groundless and hostile US policy.

The US placed sanctions on three North Korean organisations and 10 individuals, after the FBI blamed Pyongyang for the cyber-attack.

North Korea has denied involvement but has praised the attack on Sony.

IT is thought to be the first time the US has moved to punish a country for a cyber-attack against a firm. Picture: BBC

It came as Sony was about to release The Interview, which

portrays a plan to assassinate North Korea’s leader.

Sony initially cancelled plans to show the film, before deciding to release it to a limited number of cinemas and online.

The fresh US sanctions imposed on Friday are believed to be the first time the US has moved to punish any country for cyber-attacks on a US company.

Announcing them, the US said the apparent effort to stifle the movie release was

part of the justification for the new restrictions, though the targets of the sanctions were not directly involved.

In response, the North’s state-run KCNA news agency on Sunday quoted its foreign ministry spokesman as saying: “The policy persistently pursued by the US to stifle the DPRK [North Korea], groundlessly stirring up bad blood towards it, would only harden its will and resolution to defend the sovereignty of the country.

“The persistent and unilateral action taken by the White House to slap ‘sanctions’ against the DPRK patently proves that it is still not away from inveterate repugnancy and hostility toward the DPRK.”

North Korea has blamed the US for lengthy internet outages in the country last week.

US sanctions are already in place over North Korea’s nuclear programme.

-BBC news

HUMAN rights lawyer Amal Clooney, representing one of three Al-Jazerra reporters currently detained in Cairo, says she has been threatened with arrest. Picture: ABC/AFP

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 2x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 6 inclusive

Solution to puzzle SL0822

stars

ARIES

March 20 - April 19

When your ruler Mars moved to accent friends, colleagues and even neighbours, in early December, you began a cycle that’s been as informative as it’s been frustrating. Certain individuals have taken considerable time making decisions. Still, what you’ve learned in the process has taught you worthwhile, and lasting, lessons.

April 20 - May 19

Although now both your ruler Venus and the inquisitive Mercury are in the crucial midheaven angle of your chart, decisions aren’t as urgent as they seem. What is pressing, however, is the exploration of new and possibly unappealing ideas. Once you learn a bit more about these, they might seem more intriguing.

May 21 - June 20

After weeks of having to put the interests and ideas of others first, at least you can focus on certain matters of interest to you. Better yet, you’ve time to gather information. What you learn promises to be sufficiently interesting, you’ll put off decisions so you can explore a bit more.

June 21 - July 21

Every sign is influenced by the Full Moon. However, the current one is in Cancer, which means it will stir not only your emotions but those of partners in your personal or working life. This could give you an opportunity to discuss issues others usually refuse to acknowledge, still less discuss.

July 22 - August 22

Getting the facts is a relief. Still, what’s just surfaced may not be what you want to hear. However, the recent encounter between your ruler the Sun and the uncompromisingly truthful Pluto is about facing the truth, not what you’d hoped were the facts. At least you now know where you stand.

August 23 - September 22

Even those Virgos who say they don’t plan ahead and insist they’re disorganised are usually more on top of things than almost anybody else. Which means you could regard the sudden shift in longstanding arrangements triggered by Saturn’s move to accent the structure of your domestic or working life unbelievably annoying.

September 23 - October 22

There’s no better feeling than knowing you’ve helped somebody you care about get out of a difficult situation. Still, it took a great deal of effort and was time-consuming, enough now that everything is settled, you need a break. It’s coming. Your biggest challenge will be putting yourself first.

October 23 - November 22

The Sun’s recent encounter with your ruler Pluto will have forced certain unspoken issues out in the open. Worrying as this seemed at first, especially because you weren’t entirely prepared to discuss these matters, the resulting exchange of ideas is proving informative for you and, equally, clearing up confusion for others.

November 23 - December 22

You’ve no fear speaking frankly. In fact, in the past the only time you’ve had real problems was when you didn’t say exactly what was on your mind. Still, recent swift yet frank discussions seem to have resulted in confusion. Tackle this now, while it can be dealt with easily.

December 21 - January 19

Few things annoy you more than those who announce they’ve made a decision, then refuse to explain the thinking behind it. But that’s exactly what you’re facing. While you can demand more information, you’re more likely to get it if you say nothing. Eventually the individual in question will tell all.

January 20 - February 17

After a tricky period during which either facts were in short supply or, for reasons of diplomacy or strategy, you were prevented from addressing issues frankly, suddenly everything’s changing. Now that both charming Venus and the communication planet Mercury are in Aquarius, you’ll know exactly what to say and when.

February 18 - March 19

Most Pisceans are masters of tact. Being so inclined yourself, the aggressive attitude and behaviour of one particular individual has shocked you. Ask a few questions. Once you know more about the situation and, especially, the individuals they’ve been dealing with, you’ll understand they really had no option but to be tough.

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

(CONSULTING SERVICES –INDIVIDUAL SELECTION) For Naoro Brown Hydropower Project

Credit No./Grant No.: 5201-PG

Assignment Title: Environment Safeguard Specialist

Reference No. ESDP/PPL/C/5

The Independent State of Papua New Guinea has received a credit from the World Bank for its PNG Energy Sector Development Project (ESDP) and for consulting services.

The consulting services (“the Services”) of the Environment Safeguard Specialist/Advisor will include working closely with the Transaction Advisor, providing strategic detailed advice to PNG Power on all the Environmental Safeguards requirements and aspects of the NB project leading to the selection of Developer and up to Financial Close. assisting the Transaction Advisor with the bidding documents for the selection of the NB developer to ensure all environmental safeguards requirements are incorporated into these documents. reviewing all relevant project documents including the ESDP Project Appraisal Document (PAD), the ESDP Appraisal and Concept stage of Integrated Safeguards Data Sheets (ISDS), the listed safeguards documents above, the terms of reference’s contained in liaising with the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) and all other relevant PNG national and provincial authorities on behalf of the government, to ensure timely information is provided to these agencies, and to ensure they receive the required project documents (ESIA and EMP) for their review. The Environment Safeguard Advisor would then be responsible for ensuring any issues raised by DEC are addressed satisfactorily.

reviewing, revising and updating the Terms of Reference (TOR) for Environmental Baseline and will supervise the consultant doing this work and ensure baseline report is completed according to the TOR.

reviewing the detailed engineering designs and all construction related drawings and contract documents to ensure all of the environmental management measures are included therein. working with the Social Advisor to prepare the Communication and Consultation Strategy for potential Project-affected People (PAPs) and other stakeholders.

additional feasibility study work (i.e. Preparation of Geological Baseline Survey including additional drilling to assess options for limiting seepage from the reservoir and, subject to further review, possibly some drilling along the tunnel route, and information dissemination with affected communities) is required. The Environment Advisor will be responsible for ensuring this drilling work is done in accordance with the agreed safeguards requirements.

preparing/revising/updating the TOR, the draft contracts, and all other necessary documents relating to hiring and management of the Panels of Experts (dam safety and social / environmental) reviewing the ESIA, EMP, DSP and all other safeguards documents prepared by the NB developer for compliance with the tors and thus the applicable triggered WB policies and the requirements of the GoPNG. day-to-day supervision of the NB developer regarding the environmental aspects to ensure compliance with all of the relevant and approved safeguards documents, including consultations with the project affected persons and all other stakeholders. training the key staff of NB developer and the civil works contractors on all compliance requirements and environmental safeguard issues

PNG Power Limited now invites eligible individual consultants to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested perform the Services.

The shortlisting criteria are; at least 12 years relevant experience working on the environmental issues associated with hydropower projects in challenging and sensitive physical environments in developing countries; familiarity with World Bank safeguards policies, or those of other international development agencies such as AusAID, ADB, JICA, EU etc… and gained at least 5 years of direct hands on experience working on hydropower projects funded by these agencies or bi-lateral agencies. requires that consultants provide professional, objective, and impar tial advice and at all times hold the client’s interests paramount, obligations to other clients, or that may place them in a position of being unable to carry out the assignment in the best interest of the Borrower.

Credit No./Grant No.: 5201-PG

Assignment Title: PPL Technical Advisor

Reference No. ESDP/PPL/C/19

The Independent State of Papua New Guinea has received a credit from the World Bank for its PNG Energy Sector Development Project (ESDP) and Project.

The consulting services (“the Services”) of theTechnicalAdvisor will includeservices of; assisting PPL with drafting and advising on TORs for consultancy work. reviewing and complementing the consultancy work carried out by other consultants in support of PPL. providing comments/reports as per request from PPL in relation to the NB project. reviewing, mentoring and building the institutional capacity of the Project Unit. The consultant will provide guidance, mentoring and empowering PPL technical staff to manage and oversee the development and implementation of the NB project. drafting and advising on TORs for consultancy work; reviewing, mentoring and building the institutional capacity of the Project Implementing Entity, the Electricity Management Committee and supporting staff.

PNG Power Limited now invites eligible individualconsultants to indicate their interest in providing the aforesaid Services. Services. The shortlisting criteria are;

experience of at least 7 years in power companies is a must; experience of at least 5 years in Hydropower projects is required; experience in state own power companies is an advantage.

The consultant will report to Mr. Chris Bais, Naoro Brown Project Director, PNG Power Ltd (PPL). Bank or those of other international development agencies such as AusAID, ADB, JICA, EU etc… requires that consultants provide professional, objective, and impar tial advice and at all times hold the client’s interests paramount, obligations to other clients, or that may place them in a position of being unable to carry out the assignment in the best interest of the Borrower.

Credit No./Grant No.: 5201-PG

Assignment Title: Social Safeguard Advisor Reference No. ESDP/PPL/C/4

The Independent State of Papua New Guinea has received a credit from the World Bank for its PNG Energy Sector Development Hydropower (NB) Project for consulting services.

The Social Safeguard Specialist/Advisor will work closely with the Transaction Advisor, providing strategic detailed advice to PNG

Power on all the Social Safeguards requirements and aspects of the NB project leading to the selection of Developer and up to Financial Close. The consultancy services will include; assisting the Transaction Advisor with the bidding documents for the selection of the NB developer to ensure all social safeguards requirements are incorporated into these documents as per Bank and PNG regulations.

reviewing all relevant project documents including the ESDP Project Appraisal Document (PAD), the ESDP Appraisal and Concept stage of Integrated Safeguards Data Sheets (ISDS), the listed safeguards documents above, the terms of reference’s contained in the review.

the continuation of the earlier work done on information sharing and consultation, that is the Preliminary Social Assessment and Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) andbe responsible to (i) deepen information sharing and consultation in the project area, (ii) develop a strategy for information sharing and consultation, (iii) collect data to analyze and describe the relevant socio-economic determination of the impacts of civil works on villages in the area, and (v) develop a Land Acquisition and Resettlement Polic y Framework that lays out the principles for management of land acquisition impacts and access to use land and water in the project area. The outputs of this consultancy will be made available to the Naoro Brown Hydropower developer. starting the advance the work on the genealogical census mapping rights and interests in land, which will be completed by the project developer.

assisting and supporting the hydropower developer to reach agreement with men and women in the project area on entitlements ensure the timely, transparent, and equitable provision of agreed entitlements. taking the lead in liaising with all the relevant national and provincial authorities of Papua New Guinea, to ensure timely information is provided to these authorities, and to ensure they receive the required project documents (RPF, RAP and IPP) for their review. reviewing, revising and updating the TORs for ESIA, RPF, RAPs and IPP to ensure all the issues and requirements are captured in each. working with the Environment Advisor to prepare the Information and Consultation Strategy for potential Project-affected People (PAPs) and other stakeholders.

reviewing the ESIA, EMP, RPF, RAP and IPP and all other safeguards documents prepared by the NB developer for compliance with the TORs and thus the applicable triggered WB policies and the requirements of the GoPNG. assisting the Environment Safeguard Advisor in developingEnvironmental & Social Management Plan for the Naoro-Brown Access Roads (ESMP)

day-to-day supervision of the project developer regarding the social safeguards aspects to ensure compliance with all of the relevant and approved safeguards documents, including consultations with the project affected persons and all other stakeholders. providing required training to the key staff of NB developer and the civil works contractors on all compliance requirements and social safeguards documents as necessary.

PNG Power Limitednow invites eligible individualconsultants to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants shortlisting criteria are combination of 15 years of direct and relevant experience consulting and working with local communities either in PNG, gained experience working directly on World Bank social safeguards policies, or other international agencies such as AusAID, ADB, JICA etc.. consultants provide professional, objective, and impartial advice and at all times hold the client’s interests paramount, without any consideration being unable to carry out the assignment in the best interest of the Borrower.

Credit No./Grant No.: 5201-PG

Assignment Title: Transaction Advisor

Reference No. ESDP/PPL/C/3

The Independent State of Papua New Guinea has received a credit from the World Bank for its PNG Energy Sector Development (NB) Project for consulting services.

The consulting services (“the Services”) of the Transaction Advisor will includeservices of a consortium of technical, legal and and support PNG Power and the Government in introducing private sector participation in the Naoro Brown Hydropower Project (“the Project”) through the ownership, management, operation and maintenance of the Project by a privately owned Naoro Brown maintenance of similar facilities. It is possible that the Naoro Brown Project Company may have both private and public

The Advisor’s scope of work shall cover the activities presented below and the Advisor whenever possible shall undertake activities simultaneously in order to minimize the overall duration of the assignment. The assignment is divided into phases as;

Phase 1: Sector and Project Review; Design of Transaction Structure and Design of the bidding process.

Phase 2: Preparation of all documentation required for the selected bidding process; Bidding and Proposal Evaluation.

Phase 3: Negotiations with the selected bidder and Financial Close.

Phase 4: Supervision of the construction.

experience to perform the Services.The shortlisting criteria are;

Experience with contractual and implementation agreements for hydropower projects.

Procurement of hydropower schemes in Independent Power Producer.

Deep experience in design and supervision of hydropower dams and power plan

Deep experience in doing the procurement for a developer of hydro power schemes EPC engineering procurement construction.

Expertise and experience in developing and negotiating legal documentation required for the implementation of privately owned power generation, including hydropower projects in the electricity sector; Track record of providing advisory services for private sector-driven, preferably hydropower generation projects of similar nature as the project included in this assignment.

by World Bank or those of other international development agencies such as AusAID, ADB, JICA, EU etc…

requires that consultants provide professional, objective, and impartial advice and at all times hold the client’s interests paramount, obligations to other clients, or that may place them in a position of being unable to carry out the assignment in the best interest of the Borrower.

1. Mr Chris Bais Director – Strategic Planning and Business Development

PNG Power Limited, Tel: (675) 324 3546

P. O. Box 1105, BOROKO, NCD.

Papua New Guinea

Fax: (675) 325 0008

Email: cbais@pngpower.com.pg

2. Francis Uratun Manager – Infrastructure, Strategic Planning and Business Development

PNG Power Limited, Tel: (675) 324 3548

P. O. Box 1105, BOROKO, NCD.

Papua New Guinea

Fax: (675) 325 0008

Email: furatun@pngpower.com.pg

Our client, is one of PNG’s largest and most successful private sector organizations with its head office based in Port Moresby and operations throughout the country. Its current and future growth and development opportunities have been significantly enhanced by the PNG LNG project and a number of significant major resource projects currently underway or planned. The organization is currently undergoing a major revitalization of the services it offers to meet these major challenges and to develop the capacity of its workforce to deliver high quality service to all stakeholders. The organization is committed to attracting the highest calibre of professionals who can make a difference to the organization and provides a positive work environment which rewards employees who contribute to business success.

The following vacancy currently exists for a qualified and experienced professional to fill this senior management role.

ICT Manager

The organization sees IT as one of the key drivers to improving its business and needs the best professional available within the IT market who is looking for the challenge to make this a reality.

Based at its Head Office and reporting to the Chief Finance Officer the position is responsible for developing and directing the organization’s overall ICT strategy and managing the acquisition, development, implementation and continuous improvement of Information and Communication Technology infrastructure that supports the organization’s operations and helps to achieve its goals and objectives.

Key Functions and Responsibilities:

and satisfy all operational requirements. documentation, implementation and regular review of ICT operational policies, procedures and processes to maintain and continually improve network and systems performance and quality standards. monitor its performance against agreed objectives. satisfied.

equipped to fully discharge all areas of responsibility at a competent level.

Work and Team Work and Co-operation standards are promoted and maintained to the highest possible standards.

Essential Competencies

Graduate qualifications are desirable. equivalent.

protocols and standards.

human resource management principles, practices and procedures. user friendly language.

infrastructure planning and development, problem solving of complex business issues and concerns and the ability to resolve complex ICT issues.

Our client offers genuine professional career challenges and opportunities and competitive salary and conditions for this senior management position.

This position is open to PNG citizen and non-citizen applicants. To apply, please visit our website: http://www.vanguardpng.com/current_vacancies.php

Applications close on Friday 30th January , 2015

10 SEATER/A/C/CENTRL LOCK/TINTED EXCELLENT INTERIOR, NON-SMOKER BUMPER BAR/TOW

Niugini Pilots Limited wishes to advise family members and colleagues of the passing of late Captain Joachim Olime on 22 December 2014 at Kimbe hospital after a short illness. Captain Olime was employed by Niugini Pilots as a Senior Marine Pilot based in Kimbe, WNBP.

Captain Olime was an integral member of the company who had much knowledge to share with all of us who had the privilege of working with him since he joined the company in 2013. We all will sadly miss him in many ways.

Captain Olime was 62 years old and he is survived by his wife Margaret and children Pedro, Lincoln, Lowayne, Talitha and Solomon.His body will be repatriated to his home province in East Sepik on 6 January 2015 and he will be laid to rest at his village in Angoram District.

For further information, contact Pedro Olime on 7259 1374 or Captain Max Stoessel on 73843374 or email: stoessel@niuginipilots.com.pg

May his soul rest in Peace.

Lihir Gold, a member of the Newcrest Mining Limited, operates the world class Lihir gold mine located on the tropical island of Lihir and provides residents with a peaceful and secure lifestyle. Fly-in, Fly-out employees enjoy a 15 day on 13 day off roster and are accommodated in well-appointed camps which include full dining, laundry services, and a modern medical centre. We are currently seeking a suitably qualified and highly motivated candidate for the following position:

Coordinator – Workshop & Ancillary Maintenance

RR 2153

Reporting to Superintendent, Plant Services, the successful candidate will oversee the Workshop and Ancillary maintenance team section and ensure that the plant and equipment is correctly maintained to meet necessary production targets. Key elements of the role include:

safety, environment and other policies and procedures by conducting regular monitoring activities. team by providing technical direction to the supervisors and crews and setting and implementing daily maintenance activities.

development and performance management.

provide input on maintenance planning issues. Plan and coordinate shut-down activities 18 months ahead and communicate shut down.

market best practice, streamlining plant processes and providing input on processes to superintendent. The successful candidate will have:

BEATTHERUSH

K42 quality channels for only in Port Moresby 55per month plus GST

Birthdays! Obituaries! In Memoriams!

If you want to wish good health and happiness to someone dear on his or her birthday or if you're honoring recently lost life, or commemorating a past loss, the Post-Courier Classifieds will publish your wishes and thoughts in full colour.

Please contact:

309 1048 or email athobby@spp.com.pg or 309 1172 or email aarua@spp.com.pg for bookings.

maintenance environment.

candidates will be contacted. Conditions of employment will be discussed at the interview.

Senior HR Advisor - Recruitment

Newcrest Mining Limited - Lihir Operations PO Box 789. Port Moresby. NCD Fax: 986 5424

E-mail: RecruitPNG@newcrest.com.au www.newcrest.com.au

The Miner of Choice

Public Service of Papua New Guinea VACANCY NOTICE

SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF NAITONAL PLANNING & MONITORING

Executive Level 6

The National Public Serice is an equal opportunity employer and encourages both men and women to apply”.

We are seeking a highly qualified and experienced executive to provide strategic policy directions to the Department of National Planning and Monitoring in all aspects of the funcations of the exeuctive arm of the government. The Department is responsible to the minister for National Planning and Monitoring for the effective and efficient provision of service, particulary provision of technical and professional advice in relations to policies, plans and programs related to National Development Strategices. The person saught must be knowldgeable in the macro and micro economics and the systems of government.

Applicants must meet the Papua New Guinea Public Service minimum person specifications and possess a Degree in Economics, Commerce, Public Administration, Political Science and relevant post graduate Degree within the specific disciplines or equivalent, with high level skills in administration and people management; skills in policy formulation, budget management and manpower planning and would normally have at least a minimum of ten (10)years experience at an executive level.

Further information about the selection and copies of the National Gazette with full details of the job specifications can be obtained from the Department of Personnel Management by contacting 327 6339, 327 6343 or 327 6390 Applications close at 4:06pm Friday 09th January, 2015 .

Completed Applications (2 copies) should be fowarded to:

The Secretary Department of Personnel Management

P.O. Box 519

WAIGANI National Capital District

Attention: Acting Executive Manager – Office of Senior Executive Services.

Authorized by:

John

Kali, OBE

Secretary Department

of Personnel Management

GAZELLE RESTORATION AUTHORITY PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT POSITION VACANT SENIOR ENGINEER

The Senior Engineer (SE) will report and be accountable to the Project Manager (PM) through the Contracts Manager to provide assistance in all engineering and project implementation matters.

The Senior Engineer must be a current Registered Civil Engineer with IEPNG with at least 7 years of practical work experience within a government organization and/or the private sector with a moderate level of design, monitoring and quality control.

Additional qualification in Project Planning, Management and some experience in Soils Laboratory tests and management would be an advantage.

The Senior Engineer must have knowledge and experience with Procurement guidelines and the Standard Bidding Documents (SBD) for procurement of works, goods and consultancy services.

The Senior Engineer will be in charge of all engineering procurement planning, implementation and supervision related to the Gazelle Restoration Programme (GRP), namely; budget preparations in consultation with various aid donors and stakeholders. stakeholders in the day to day management of programs and contracts. of various projects for the GRA.

the tendering of contracts including proposals or tender assessments and submission to appropriate Supply and Tenders Board. specifications and environmental issues are satisfactorily addressed and complied with.

various tests, calibration of equipments, invoicing and training of Technicians. and monitoring.

The position is equivalent to Grade 18 in the Public Service. Additional benefits include free accommodation and access to after hours use of vehicle. Other conditions similar to the Public Service.

Additional information may be obtained from the Gazelle Restoration Authority Project Implementation Unit Office Kokopo, Attn: Administration Manager.

Applications including CV and at least three most recent work references should be addressed to:

The Acting Project Manager

Gazelle Restoration Authority

Project Implementation Unit

P O Box 2177

KOKOPO

East New Britain Province

Applications close: 5th January 2015.

Authorized by:

Project

Manager

EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

The U.S. Embassy has an immediate vacancy for a suitably qualified

Motor Pool Dispatcher

Incumbent controls motor vehicles use to provide sufficient transportation. Determines the most effective and efficient use of motor pool resources on a daily basis to meet the needs of the embassy in the most cost effective manner possible, with strict compliance with the Department of State regulations and post’s MP policy.

Minimum Requirements

EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

The U.S. Embassy has an immediate vacancy for a suitably qualified

Chauffeur

The U.S. Embassy is seeking a dynamic, motivated individual to join our Motor Pool Team. The position is responsible for 3 major categories of work including service as a Chauffeur, Expeditor and assisting as Warehouseman. The incumbent must operate all Embassy vehicle types including trucks, van and cars.

Minimum Requirements

JOIN OUR TEAM AND HELP FIGHT MALARIA

POSITIONS VACANT: PROJECT STAFF (FIELD BASED)

Client: Positions:

Reference:

CLosing: Contact: Telephone: Email:

Rotarians Against Malaria

Project Supervisors Under 5’s Campaign

Project Officers Under 5’s Campaign

R15PSU5

R15POU5

15 January 2015

Mark Seddon 323 6790 recruit@nla.com.pg

automotive maintenance. Must have a local driver’s license.

Annual Salary: K28,306 – K34, 656 plus benefits. Please note that housing is not a condition of employment. contact information, a detailed resume, and supporting documentation that clearly demonstrates your ability to Embassy of the United States Of America

P.O. Box 1492. Port Moresby. NCD. PNG.

Attn: Human Resources Assistant

Email: PersonnelPortMoresby@state.gov

Applications must be received by January 10, 2015. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Successful c U.S Government as a potential employer.

THE U.S.GOVERNMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

English language. Must be capable of driving all vehicles types and thorougly familiar with Port Moresby streets and traffic. excellent driver.

Annual Salary: K24, 671 plus benefits. Please note that housing is not a condition of employment.

To apply, please send reliable telephone and/or/e-mail contact information, a detailed resume, and supporting documentation that clearly demonstrates your ability to meet the minimum requirements for this position to:

Embassy of the United States Of America

P.O. Box 1492. Port Moresby. NCD. PNG.

Attn: Human Resources Assistant

Email: PersonnelPortMoresby@state.gov

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Successful candidates will go through a very detail security background check on your detail resume and supporting doucments. For those not shortlisted, we thank you for considering the U.S Government as a potential employer.

THE U.S.GOVERNMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Project Supervisor

Project Officer

Overview Minimum Grade 12 Certification

Essential Qualifications Experience and Skills

Past Experience working on field based programmes

Must have outstanding leadership, coordination and communications skills

Must be self motivated and able to use their initiative to achieve goals

Must be able to work under pressure and in remote rural environments

Must be computer literate (MS Word and Excel)

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

Tertiary Qualifications and Certifications

Previous Experience with Donor Funded Development Programme

Previous Experience with Funds Management and Acquittals

Prior Experience working in Rural Areas

Prior Experience working working with Government Agencies to successfully deliver a programme

Prior Experience with SIAs (Suppliementary Immunisation Activities)

Additional Information

A competitive salary will be offered to the successful applicants. The position is based in Port Moresby and does not qualify for an accommodation allowance For more information please see the contact information listed above. APPLICATION FORMS CAN BE COLLECTED FROM ROTARIANS AGAINST MALARIA, UNIT 5 KENMORE TRADE CENTRE, WAIGANI, NCD.

EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby has an immediate vacancy for a suitably qualified

Residential Security Coordinator

The Residential Security Coordinator is responsible for managing the Mission’s Residential Security Program (RSP); conducting residential security surveys, and ensuring that Embassy residences comply with Diplomatic Security (DS) and Post’s residential security standards. The Incumbent reports directly to the Assistant Regional Security Officer (ARSO) or Regional Security Officer (RSO).

Under the direction of the ARSO or RSO, the incumbent also manages the Mission’s Emergency Preparedness Program; orders, and maintains emergency action equipment at the Embassy and residential properties, and conducts emergency awareness training. The incumbent will also be responsible for coordinating and ensuring that Embassy personnel are trained and prepared to respond appropriately to natural disaster incidents.

Minimum Requirements

general services management or government quality contracting is preferred.

Must know and understand the regulations administered by DS as they relate to Residential Security and Emergency Preparedness. programs and must also be able to problem solve, plan and use initiative skills.

Salary: K55,226 – K71,666 per annum, plus benefits. Please note that Housing is not a condition of employment

To apply, please send reliable telephone/email contact information, a detailed resume, and supporting documentation that clearly demonstrates your ability to meet the minimum requirements for this position to;

Embassy of the United States of America

Attn: Human Resources Assistant

P.O. Box 1492. Port Moresby. NCD. PNG.

Or Email: PersonnelPortMoresby@state.gov

Application period closes January 10, 2015.

Only short listed candidates will be contacted. For those that are not contacted, we thank you for considering the U.S Government as a potential employer.

THE U.S. GOVERNMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLO

MORTGAGEE SALE

ALLOTMENT 12 SECTION 20, PINE STREET, HOHOLA NCD PORT MORESBY, (STATE LEASE VOLUME 13 FOLIO 3039)

2x bedroom duplex with an attached warehouse. The building is ground levelled and has approximate gross floor area of 164 sm2. Accommodation to each unit comprises of laundry, kitchen, dining/lounge, two bedrooms and bathroom. The attached warehouse comprises of sales office, sewing room and medicine store room.

External walls comprised of brick and weatherboard and internal walls comprised of plywood, bricks and tiles to wet areas with aluminium framed glass louver windows, security mesh wires and insect screens. The floor composed of reinforced concrete slab base with the overlays of ceramic tiles and corrugated galvanised iron roof with plywood lined ceiling.

The property is serviced with water reticulation, sanitary plumbing, electrical reticulation and fluorescent lighting throughout.

It is located south-east of Pine Street and within walking distance to bus stop, Hohola police station, churches, schools, shops, market and other public services and amenities. It is fully secured with security fence with razor and barbed wires on top.

Tenderers are advised to inspect the property prior to submitting their tenders.

The successful tenderer must have finance available and will be required to sign a contract of sale and pay deposit of 10% within fourteen (14) days notification of acceptance of tender and full settlement within 60 days thereafter.

Tenders should be mark “WESTPAC TENDER” and sent to: Legal Unit

P O Box 706

PORT MORESBY

National Capital District

Please note that highest or any price offered may not necessarily be accepted. For any queries, please contact Legal Unit on telephone number 312 7449. Tenders close on 16th January 2015

The Central Supply and Tenders Board (CSTB) on behalf of the PNG Ports Corporation invites written sealed bids for the Expression of Interest (EoI).

CSTB 3236 AITAPE NEW WHARF, HYDROGRAPHIC SURVEY

CSTB 3237 AITAPE NEW WHARF, GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION

CSTB 3238 AITAPE DESIGN AND BUILD OF WHARF STRUCTURE

Bid Security: Bids Less than PGK 1 million (not required)

Bids exceeding PGK 1 million (K10,000.00) NOT REQUIRED

Bids exceeding PGK10 million (K15,000.00)

Bid Security must be in the form of a Bank cheque or Bank Guarantee and bids submitted without the respective Bid Security will be rejected

Bid Validity: 90 days

Price of the Tender Document A non-refundable fee of K1,000.00 (CSTB 3236), K1,000.00 (CSTB 3237) and K1,000.00 (CSTB 3238) per set of tender documents in the form of Cash or Bank cheque payable to Central Supply & Tenders Board.

Bid Documents Available Central Supply & Tenders Board

Bid must be addressed to:

1st Floor, Westpac Waigani Branch Building, Waigani drive

National Capital District.

The Chairman

Central Supply & Tenders Board P.O Box 6457

Boroko, National Capital District

1st Floor, Westpac Waigani Branch Building, Waigani drive

National Capital District

Bid Delivery Place Lodged in the “Tender Box” located at the Reception office at the Central Supply & Tenders Board Office, B Wing, Level 1, Waigani Westpac

Closing Time & Date

Contact Details

Corporate Central Branch Building

Thursday 8th January 2015 at 10:00am

Erue Jack (Mrs)

Contract Coordinator

Central Supply & Tenders Board

1st Floor, Westpac Waigani Branch Building

Waigani drive, National Capital District

Phone: (675) 3113777 Facsmille: (675) 3113778

Email: EJack@cstb.gov.pg

Instructions to Bidders

Interested Bidders must arrange with their Agent (s) or a Courier firm of their choice to pick up tender documents and similar arrangement must be done for the lodgement of their bid (s).

Bidders must clearly address the outer envelope containing their bid with the address as indicated above in the Bid Delivery Place and marked with the tender number, description of the project, closing date and time. The Central Supply & Tender Board will not be held liable for any mishandling.

Authorized by:

Philip Eludeme Chairman

CENTRAL SUPPLY AND TENDERS BOARD

The Central Supply and Tenders Board (CSTB) on behalf of the Royal PNG Constabulary invites written sealed bids for the Modernisation Housing Programme 2014-2015 Phase 1 Procurement.

CSTB 3195 Construction of 2 x Officers Residence (H90), Biliau, North Coast Road, Madang, Madang Province

CSTB 3196 Construction of 10 x 3L Duplexes, Siar, North Coast Road, Madang, Madang Province

CSTB 3197 Construction of 6 x 3L Duplexes, Bumbu Barracks, Lae, Morobe Province

CSTB 3198 Construction of 6 x 3L Duplexes, Ela & Kimininga Barracks, Mt. Hagen, Western Highlands Province

CSTB 3199 Construction of 12 x Duplexes, Minj Barracks, Minj, Jiwaka Province

Bid Security: Bids Less than PGK 1 million (not required) Bids exceeding PGK 1 million (K10,000.00) Bids exceeding PGK10 million (K15,000.00) Bid Security must be in the form of a Bank cheque or Bank Guarantee and bids submitted without the respective Bid Security will be rejected

Bid Validity: 90 days

Price of the Tender Document A non-refundable fee of K1,000.00 per set of tender documents in the form of Cash or Bank cheque payable to Central Supply & Tenders Board.

Bid Documents Available 24th November 2014 Central Supply & Tenders Board 1st Floor, Westpac Waigani Branch Building, Waigani drive National Capital District. Bid must be addressed to: The Chairman Central Supply & Tenders Board P.O Box 6457 Boroko, National Capital District 1st Floor, Westpac Waigani Branch Building, Waigani drive National Capital District

Bid Delivery Place Lodged in the “Tender Box” located at the Reception office at the Central Supply & Tenders Board Office, B Wing, Level 1, Waigani Westpac Corporate Central Branch Building Closing Time & Date 10:00am Thursday 15th January 2015 (Late Bids will not be accepted)

Contact Details Erue Jack Contract Coordinator Central Supply & Tenders Board 1st Floor, Westpac Waigani Branch Building Waigani drive, National Capital District Phone: (675) 3113777 Facsmille: (675) 3113778

Email: EJack@cstb.gov.pg Instructions to Bidders

Interested Bidders must arrange with their Agent (s) or a Courier firm of their choice to pick up tender documents and similar arrangement must be done for the lodgement of their bid (s).

Bidders must clearly address the outer envelope containing their bid with the address as indicated above in the Bid Delivery Place and marked with the tender number, description of the project, closing date and time.

The Central Supply & Tender Board will not be held liable for any mishandling.

Authorized by: Philip Eludeme Chairman

The Central Supply and Tenders Board (CSTB) on behalf of the Royal PNG Constabulary invites written sealed bids for the Modernisation Housing Programme 2015 Phase 1 (Package 2) and Design Procurement for Capital Works.

CSTB 3242

CSTB 3243

Construction of 3 x 3L Duplexes, Doyle Barracks, Alotau, Milne Bay Province

Construction of 2 x 3L Duplexes, Hutjena, Buka, Autonomous Region of Bougainville

CSTB 3244 Construction of 2 x Officers Residence and 1 x 3L Duplex, Kenabot, Kokopo, East New Britain Province

CSTB 3245

CSTB 3246

Construction of 3 x 3L Duplexes, Aiyura, Eastern Highlands Province

Construction of 4 x 3L Duplex and 1 x Officers Residence , Kerema, Gulf Province

CSTB 3247 Provision of Procurement and Project Management Consultancy Services for RPNGC Modernisation Housing Programme 2015-17.

CSTB 3248 Provision of Architectural Design, Construction Documentation and Contract Administration Services for the Redevelopment of the RPNGC Forensic Building, Gordons, NCD

Bid Security: Bids Less than PGK 1 million (not required)

Bids exceeding PGK 1 million (K10,000.00)

Bids exceeding PGK10 million (K15,000.00)

Bid Security must be in the form of a Bank cheque or Bank Guarantee and bids submitted without the respective Bid Security will be rejected

Bid Validity: 90 days

Price of the Tender Document

A non-refundable fee of K1,000.00 per set of tender documents in the form of Cash or Bank cheque payable to Central Supply & Tenders Board.

Office, B Wing, Level 1, Waigani Westpac Corporate Central Branch Building Closing Time & Date 10:00am Thursday 26th February 2015 (Late Bids will not be accepted) Contact Details Mr. Agarobe Agaru Senior Human Resources/Contract Coordinator Central Supply & Tenders Board 1st Floor, Westpac Waigani Branch Building Waigani drive, National Capital District Phone: (675) 3113777 Facsmille: (675) 3113778

Email: coord4@cstb.gov.pg

Instructions to Bidders

Interested Bidders must arrange with their Agent (s) or a Courier firm of their choice to pick up tender documents and similar arrangement must be done for the lodgement of their bid (s). Bidders must clearly address the outer envelope containing their bid with the address as indicated above in the Bid Delivery Place and marked with the tender number, description of the project, closing date and time. The Central Supply & Tender Board will not be held liable for any mishandling.

Authorized by:

Philip Eludeme Chairman

REQUEST FOR TENDER Contract Management and Supervision Bougainville Health Project

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) country program of Australian Government aid is a complex, diverse and dynamic program. The program has a very strong focuson achieving tangible results for the people of PNG.

The Health and Education Procurement Facility (HEPF) is funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and has been commissioned to implement a large infrastructure and equipment program designed to strengthen the PNG health and education sectors.

HEPF intend to engage Consultancy Services to undertake the Contract Management & Supervision (CMS) of a works contractor who will carry out the construction of 2 Health Projects in Bougainville. These are:

RFT 17 Bougainville Health - Group A

Operating Theatre & Labour Ward - Arawa Hospital

Buka Hospital Water Supply

Buka Transit Store Upgrade

RFT 20 Bougainville Health - Group B Hospital Master Planning, Buka, Arawa, Buin

Scoping, Design and Maintenance for 35 Rural Health Facilities

The tender documentation will be available from our offce in Port Moresby between the hours of 0900 - 1600, Monday to Friday from the 12th of December or alternatively downloaded from our website: www.hepf.net Interested parties must register with the HEPF team at the email address provided below. (An administration charge of PGK 200 will apply to hard copy printed version of the tender documentation picked up from our offce).

Tender briefng will be held on the address below on the 17th of December 2014.

Closing Date for Tender is 30 January 2015.

Companies tendering for this project must be registered in PNG. The bids must be delivered by courier or hand to the tender box at the address below:

Health and Education Procurement Facility

Level 7, Pacifc Place, Downtown, National Capital District, Papua New Guinea

Phone: (+675) 321 0330

Fax: (+675) 321 0233

Digicel: (+675) 7998 1000

Email: tenderH017@hepf.net

www.hepf.net

Managed by HK Logistics in association with Reeves International and Abt JTA

REQUEST FOR TENDER RFT E036

Construction of 2 Ablution Blocks Lombrum, Manus Island, PNG

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) country program of Australian Government aid is a complex, diverse and dynamic program. The program has a very strong focus on achieving tangible results for the people of PNG.

The Health and Education Procurement Facility (HEPF) is funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and has been commissioned to implement a large infrastructure and equipment program designed to strengthen the PNG health and education sectors.

HEPF intend to engage a works contractor to undertake construction of 2 school Ablution Blocks located at the elementary and primary schools, Lombrum Naval Base, Manus Island, Papua New Guinea.

The tender documentation will be available from our office in Port Moresby from 22nd of December or alternatively downloaded from our website which will be available on the 19th December: www.hepf.net. Interested parties must register with the HEPF team at the email address provided below. (An administration charge of PGK200 will apply to hard copy printed version of the tender documentation picked up from our office).

Please note that our office will be close from 24th December to 2nd January 2015.

Closing Date for Tender is 16th of January 2015 at 1630 hrs. Companies tendering for this project must be registered in PNG

The bids must be delivered by courier or hand to the tender box at the address below:

Health and Education Procurement Facility Level 7, Pacific Place, Downtown, National Capital District, Papua New Guinea

Phone: (+675) 321 0330

Fax: (+675 321 0233

Digicel: (+675) 7998 1000

Email: tenderE016@hepf.net www.hepf.net

Managed by HK Logistics in association with Reeves International and Abt JTA

(CONSULTANT SERVICES– FIRMS SELECTION)

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST 5.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

PRELIMINARY SOCIAL ASSESSMENT AND RESETTLEMENT POLICY FRAMEWORK

PNG ENERGY SECTOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECT (ESDP) CONSULTING SERVICES

Credit No./TF No./Grant No. 5201-PG

Project ID No. ESDP/PPL/C/15

The Government of Papua New Guineahas receivedcredit from the World Bank for its PNG Energy Sector Development Project (ESDP) and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consultant services. The services include (a) determining the social impacts of the Naoro Brown Hydropower Project with the existing socio-economic and cultural context in the project area (b) arrangements to manage these impacts through preparation, implementation, and operation

services (brochures, description of similar assignments, experience in similar conditions, availability of The shortlisting criteria are; experience in at least three Preliminary Social Assessment in similar hydro projects; three experiences developing a Resettlement Policy Framework for similar hydro projects /energy of Interest; Bank policy requires that consultants provide professional, objective, and impartial advice and at all times hold the client’s interests paramount, without any consideration for future work, and that in clients, or that may place them in a position of being unable to carry out the assignment in the best interest of the Borrower.

A consultant will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the World Bank’s Guidelines: Selection and Employment of Consultants by World Bank Borrowers (current edition).

1 Mr. Chris Bais, PMU Director

PNG Power Limited

Cnr Wards Rd/Cordia St, Hohola]

P O Box 1105, Boroko, NCD, PNG

2. Mr. Francis Uratun, PMU Manager

PNG Power Limited

Cnr Wards Rd/Cordia St, Hohola]

P O Box 1105, Boroko,NCD, PNG

Tel: (675) 324 3546

Fax: (675) 325 0008

Email: cbais@pngpower.com.pg

Web site: www.pngpower.com.pg

Tel:(675) 324 3548

Fax: (675) 325 0185

E-mail: furatun@pngpower.com.pg

Web site: www.pngpower.com.pg

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST MUST BE DELIVERED IN A WRITTEN FORM TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS (IN PERSON, OR BY MAIL, OR BY E-MAIL) BY FRIDAY 16TH JANUARY, 2015.

SOCCER

CRICKET

TENNIS

HOPMAN CUP

BASKETBALL

Ronaldo ‘would listen’ to Manchester

SOCCER

REAL Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo “would listen” to Manchester United if they wanted him back, says a former assistant to Sir Alex Ferguson.

Mike Phelan says he doesn’t think Ronaldo would be ready to leave Real Madrid just yet but says he has very close ties to Old Trafford.

“Ronaldo loved his time at Manchester United and, if Manchester United were interested in him again, then he would listen to that because part of his career has come through Man United,” he said.

“But listen, he is where he is because of him being Ronaldo and, at the moment, Madrid are successful so I can’t see why he would think about coming back to Manchester United now.”

CRAFTNESS won the race in the Happy 50th Glenn Handicap on Saturday.

Craftiness nears course record at Rosehill

HORSE RACING

CRAFTINESS was described as brilliant, arrogant and exciting as he tore around the Rosehill 1100m in near-course record time on Saturday.

Trainer Joe Pride has yet another potentially outstanding sprinter in his stable as Craftiness cruised to an effortless win in the Happy 50th Glenn Handicap.

What made the win even more stunning was the time

Craftiness ran 1min 2.57sec which was only 0.06sec outside Westicaro’s track record set eight years ago.

Craftiness ran the blister-

ing time, including a sizzling final 600m of 33.52sec, without being unduly pressured by champion jockey Blake Shinn.

“He was so focused today,’’ Shinn said. “I can’t tell you how exciting he is.

“I know he was running fast but he was enjoying himself. I was so impressed by his win today.

“He is ‘push button’ to ride but he has great tactical speed and you don’t want to take that away from him.

“I wanted to take this Rosehill 1100m by the scruff of the neck because I knew I was on the best horse and wanted to

ride him like he is the best horse. This way you take bad luck out of the equation.’’

After favourite backers were burned following the successive defeats of Harrier Jet ($1.70) and It’s A Silvertrail ($2), Craftiness ($1.60) gave punters reason to cheer as he raced away to score by 2½ lengths from Mihiri ($5) with Kudero ($61) a half-length away third.

Craftiness scored his third win in succession and his fifth in just six starts — his only defeat came when edged out by Religify at Warwick Farm when resuming earlier this campaign — but Pride

intends to send the horse fo a spell rather than press on further into summer.

“It was a step up in grade today, he stayed on the same weight and treated them contempt — he was just a faster horse than the others,’’ Pride said.

“He will go to the paddock now, not that he needs to but it is just a timing thin.

“I’ll only give him a month off as I’m not sending out a tired horse.

“But he will return for a race like the Hall Mark Stakes at the end of the autumn carnival and then we will look at Brisbane.’’

Pride is keen to stretch Craftiness out in trip and his long-term ambition is to target the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap, run this year over 1350m at Doomben in June.

“He will run further, I would be very surprised if he didn’t,’’ Pride said.

Shinn is also confident Craftiness will be able to stretch his brilliance out to 1400m at least and rates the gelding as a potential stakesgrade horse.

Craftiness was previously trained by the late Guy Walter and Shinn, who won on the sprinter at his first two starts last year.

Louis van Gaal’s side sits third in the Premier League as the January transfer window opens and Phelan, who left the club along with Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, does not expect a great deal of reinforcement until the summer.

“Do they need to sign anyone? I’m not there anymore but what I’ve seen is that a full Manchester United squad going into January will be formidable,” he said. “They have quality.

CRISTIANO Ronaldo

Johnson withdraws from 4th Test

CRICKET

CRICKET Australia announced on Sunday morning left-arm quick Mitchell Johnson had been ruled out of the final Test of the four-match series which the home side leads two-nil.

Johnson had been rested from training on Saturday because of hamstring soreness.

Fellow pace bowlers Peter Siddle and Mitchell Starc are among those pushing for a possible recall to the side, alongside young spin-bowling all-rounder Ashton Agar.

4IC scorcher tipped for Williams opening match

TENNIS

WORLD No.1 Serena Williams has less than 48 hours to ¬acclimatise to the Australian summer after arriving in Perth yesterday afternoon for this week’s Hopman Cup. There is a forecast maximum of 41C tomorrow when Williams will launch her 2015 season against Italy’s Flavia Pennetta in a scorching day ¬session at Perth Arena.

The 33-year-old superstar looked relaxed yesterday but acknowledged adjusting to the conditions would be a tough ask after landing in WA from the United States winter.

“I’ll have to get used to it. Right now I’m not able to, but I’ll get used to it I hope,’’ ¬Williams said, before heading up

to the State Tennis Centre for a hit up. The 18-time singles grand slam champion said she loved playing in Australia and was eager to build on her impressive Hopman Cup record.

Williams, who will partner world No.19 John Isner, has her sights set on becoming the first player to win the Hopman Cup three times, having successfully combined with James Blake in 2003 and Mardy Fish in 2008.

“(I’m just looking forward to) getting some matches in and hopefully I can do well for USA here,’’ she said. “Hopefully I’ll have a good season and we’ll see how it goes.’’

The tournament begins at 10am today when Canada faces the Czech Republic, before West Australian duo Casey

Dellacqua and Matt Ebden take on Poland tonight.

Williams will play Canadian rising star Eugenie Bouchard on Tuesday night in the most anticipated match of the ¬tournament, before facing the Czech Republic’s Lucie ¬Safarova on Thursday night.

2013 Wimbledon champion Andy Murray will be the last Hopman Cup starter to arrive when he lands in Perth today. Murray missed the Hopman Cup Ball after qualifying for last night’s final of the exhibition event in Abu Dhabi against Novak Djokovic.

Murray is set to hit the ground running when he ¬begins his Hopman Cup against France’s Benoit Paire tomorrow night, having ¬demolished a rusty Rafael Nadal 6-2

6-0 in the semi-finals of Abu Dhabi on Friday night.

The Hopman Cup follows the same heat policy as the Australian Open, but tournament ¬director Paul Kilderry said yesterday he would be flexible about closing the roof this week if the players asked for it. “We go along with the Australian Open heat policy, but we’re probably pretty lenient,’’ Kilderry said.

“Once it hits around 37C we’ll speak to the players and if they’re both happy we will. We want to certainly be sensible about it, especially because a lot of them are coming from ¬Europe from the cold for the first tournament of the year.’’

Kilderry was confident fans would be comfortable at Perth Arena despite maximum tem-

Hargreaves is NRL strongest man

RUGBY LEAGUE

ROOSTERS enforcer Jared Waerea-Hargreaves has claimed the first major scalp of 2015 — the title of ‘Strongest Man in Rugby League’.

While no one will confirm it officially, this column can reveal that Waerea-Hargreaves has become the star attraction of Roosters’ gym sessions over summer with a staggering 160kg powerclean.

His incredible performances on the Olympic lift, considered the best indicator of power and strength, is not only a Roosters club record, but it is believed to be the best of any player in the NRL.

Sadly, with rugby league conditioners now closely guarding gym statistics, it’s hard to know who comes close to challenging the Tricolours’ forward.

However, in 2010, The Daily

Telegraph featured a back-page story on then Parramatta centre Timana Tahu powercleaning his way to a new club record. It was 140kg.

One senior NRL rival said last week: “If there’s anyone lifting more than 160, I certainly haven’t

seen it.

“Someone like Paul Gallen might go close. But it’s a huge lift for an NRL player.

“Jared is obviously a beast in the gym and, unlike some guys, he takes that power into games with him.”

peratures of 37C, 41C, 35C and 35C forecast for the first four days of the tournament.

“It’s all air-conditioned under the seats and we’ll move the roof as much as we can to protect the fans as well,’’ he said. The arrival of Williams yesterday was a muchneeded boost for the tournament, which has lost half of its original men’s field due to injury.

The tournament will boast a strong women’s field, with six of the eight ranked in the world’s top 20, and nine top-20 players overall.

But the event has lost two significant drawcards following the withdrawals of Australian rising star Nick Kyrgios (back) and popular Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (arm).

Socceroos not secure over line-up

SOCCER

LEFT back Jason Davidson says no one feels secure in the Socceroos starting line-up heading in to the Asian Cup.

Except maybe for captain Mile Jedinak.

Davidson appears locked in a two-way battle with Aziz Behich for the starting left back spot for Friday’s tournament opener against Kuwait at AAMI Park.

The intensity at training has risen in the past two days and there have been full-field drills aplenty, pitting teams of 11 against each other.

But despite the extra formation work on the

training track, Davidson said players remain none the wiser about coach Ange Postecoglou’s plans at the selection table.

“As you know with Ange, he keeps his cards close to his chest,” Davidson said.

“I don’t think anyone is guaranteed a spot, maybe only Mile because he’s the captain.

“I think that’s good because it keeps everyone on their toes.

Under Ange, the way things are, there’s no stars in the team and no one is guaranteed a spot and that’s good because the standard of training is high.

“Mitchell had some righthamstring soreness during the Boxing Day Test and we have been closely monitoring his recovery since that match but feel he has not fully recovered,” team physio Alex Kountouris said in a statement.

“As such, he will not play in the upcoming Sydney Test match. We expect him to recover in time to play a part in the upcoming tri-series against England and India.”

The move to rest Johnson appears a wise one with the tri-series to come plus the World Cup to be jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand in February and March.

“Mitchell is an important part of our plans for the remainder of our summer and we want him 100 per-cent right so won’t be taking any risks with him,” coach Darren Lehmann said.

“We believe it is best for Mitchell to take this opportunity to freshen up and get his body fully fit ahead of the tri-series.”

Johnson is Australia’s second-leading wicket-taker in the current Test series with 13 victims at 35.53 behind spinner Nathan Lyon who has claimed 19 wickets.

However the player of the series in the 2013/14 Ashes (37 wickets at 13.97) has been less of a force this season and has complained following the third Test in Melbourne that the Test pitches have been flat batting tracks this summer.

The 56-Test veteran Siddle was dropped after taking 2/88 and 0/21 in the first Test in Adelaide, where he battled illness and was unable to consistently hit the 140km/h mark bowling coach Craig McDermott was asking of him.

Starc, 24, and 23-year-old debutant Josh Hazlewood were included for the second Test in Brisbane and Ryan Harris returned from a thigh injury at Starc’s expense for the Melbourne Boxing Day Test.

Starc has taken three wickets in two BBL games for the Sydney Sixers since his Test axing and has hit speeds of 150km/h.

Strike bowler Harris, 35, says his fellow veteran Siddle, 30, has been the missing link in the pace attack in the past two matches. “When I see things about him potentially gone, he’s still got so much to offer,” Harris said on Saturday.

SERENA Williams poses for a selfie with a fan at Perth International Airport

JARED Waerea-Hargreaves

Pictorial of Keleone 9s at Wagula Park & NCD Governor’s Cup grand-finals at IPI Park

Keleone 9s NCD Governors Cup

AN EA Brothers player hits the turf courtesy of two Iruone players in the Penant final

CUP final action between Vewala and Marokele

PLAYERS in action at Wagula Park

VEWALA celebrate

VEWALA forward power in the Cup final

FREEWAY Bumpers Christopher Simon offloads to teammate Joe Barewo (left)

FREEWAY Bumpers Junior Yambe has Hohola Six Knights George Iso (with ball) in his sights

FREEWWAY Bumpers Freddy Andale (left) and a Hohola Six Knights player have a few words at each other

FREEWWAY Bumpers tryscoring hero Presley Soto enjoys the moment

FREEWAY Bumpers staunch supporter John Soto holds aloft the 2014 NCD Governors Cup

Pictures: STEPHEN KILA

Baaz Cup to own mini stadium

RUGBY LEAGUE BY BRIAN JEMEJEME

FOR the first time in the history of any Off-season rugby league in the country, the Baaz Cup Eastern Highlands off-season league will own a mini stadium.

No off-season rugby league organisations in the country has ever owned one mini stadium and Baaz Cup Off - season league is set to create history thanks to the North-East Member and Vice Minister for Sports and Pacific Games Labi Amaiu.

It will be a historical moment when the mini stadium is launched for use once the construction phase of it comes to complete.

The mini stadium will be similar to that of Sir John Guise stadium (but will be small in size) and it will be built at 9 Mile area, close to the Cemetery.

Vewala wins Keleone 9s

RUGBY LEAGUE

BY JOHN PANGKATANA

SIMPLE Vewala of Pelegai Village are the inaugural winners of the Keleone Nines Christmas and New Year challenge.

Vewala were held to a 14-14 deadlock by fellow Pelegai team Maro Kele at full-time, but managed to slip in a plucky field-goal by David Marai to seal the victory before a jam packed Wagula Park at Maopa Village on Friday.

Vewala are now K10,000 richer for their efforts over the

five-day tournament which drew 30 teams from all the Aroma Coast villagers plus one Central Province mixed called the SSG Roosters.

Vewala was ably led by skipper Vagi Frank who led by example with team-mate Billy Peter, whose efforts was recognised as the Player of the Tournament.

Peter collected K500 and a trophy courtesy of special guest, director National Statistics Roko Koloma.

Cup runners-up Maro Kele pocketed K5000 for their efforts.

Abau MP and National Government Minister for Public Service Sir Puka Temu was appreciative of the Keleone Rugby Football League (KRFL), plus the huge role played by Evele and Agnes Kala to develop Wagula Park as an icon for the Central Province.

Sir Puka also made a further commitment to annually sponsor the KRFL with K50,000 from his Abau District DSIP funding to stage the tournament.

In the other categories, SSG Roosters led by PNG World

Cup 9s player Gahuna Silas won the Plate final after beating Noma Rina 22-16.

Gahuna also collected the Top Try Scorers trophy plus K500, also donated by Koloma.

The Roosters won themselves K3000 and latter K2000.

In the Bowl final, Rovanama collected K2000 for beating Brass 24-12. Brass won K1000.

In the Pennant final, Ea Brass beat Ilimo Paiga 18-10. Brass collecte K1000, while Paiga K600.

Basil committed to Ipatas Cup

RUGBY LEAGUE

BY FRANKIY KAPIN

DEPUTY Opposition Leader and Member for Bulolo Sam Basil has honored his commitment to accommodate the Morobe leg of the Coca Cola Ipatas Cup (CCIC) announced on New Year’s Day.

Basil made the commitment last year (2014) to support the CCIC concept if given the green light by the CCIC to bring the games to the township of Wau in Bulolo.

And as the 2015 CCIC officially kicks off this coming weekend (10th January) and Wau bestowed as the home of the rugby league in Papua New Guinea will see the code’s revival through the K30, 000 investment by the Pangu Party Leader.

The package has also been boosted with the K10, 000 sponsorship from the Morobe Mining Joint Venture (MMJV) bringing to total K40, 000 for the Morobe leg of the tournament apart from the other 15 centers throughout the country scheduled to partake in the CCIC this year.

Basil has not only embarked on bringing the sporting code back to his people down at the district level but more so believes the commitment is an indirect investment to the township’s

The tournament was a major success story and is set to set a strong foundation for the KRFL to get their 2015 season underway under the PNGRFL umbrella.

Other guest who were present were Micah Vele (Department of Labour), Gairowai Geno (surveyor consultant), Pala Gamini, George Vagi (businessmen), Puana Puana (Global Project Engineer), Make Koloma, Geno Vagi (AusAID), Gwaibo Mairi (PNGRFL southern confederation director).

Amaiu announced this initiative before the kick- off of Amaiu Cup festive rugby league grand final at Gordons, Unagi oval in Port Moresby last Monday.

Amaiu informed the crowd, grand finalist teams, players and the officials that this initiative comes as a blessing for running the Baaz Cup off - season league competition successfully for the past 10 years.

‘’Before I became a member, I gave support in my own little ways and at times, I had to think twice whether to assist or back away. But, I see that every grand final ends on high note with all teams walking away smiling. That is the kind of administration and attitude the rugby followers want to see and witness,’’ he said.

economic activities.

Basil said, “This is an indirect investment into Wau town, over a couple of thousand or more people will flood the township. We have spent K30, 000 but we expect guest houses and shops to benefit as well the people to be entertained.”

He said recently the district has upgraded Wau town roads, the Grace Memorial water supply project having received rehabilitation funding, upgrading of the airstrips and its facilities, new culverts as well two new bridges to be built in Wau.

“We want the concept of such magnitude to be brought into Wau,” said Basil.

Basil said the sponsorship is worth K30, 000 but the spinoffs given back to the economy of Wau is more than the initial package.

CEO of CCIC Timothy Lepa in acknowledging the sponsorship thanked the MP for honoring his commitment knowing that assistance of such magnitude is hard to come by these days. Lepa announced that 164 teams from 21 provinces have been approved to play for the CCIC in 2015.

He said eight teams will compete in the Morobe challenge, two from the Bulolo district and rest coming from Lae.

Amaiu clarified it wasn’t because of him being the member for north-east and that he wanted to do this but as a former player and administrator, he felt how every club, players, supporters and sponsors want and that is to see every grand final ends with a smile and not with a mishap. ‘’You people, the administration, all the teams and supporters have shown this calibre and deserve a better treatment and you’ve got it,’’ he said.

In addition, Amaiu will assist the officials of the Baaz Cup and affiliate it’s competition with Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) next year.

PNG U20 World Cup 9s representative and SSG Roosters flyer Silas Gahuna scores a spectacular try. INSET: Simple Vewala skipper Vagi Frank holds aloft the Keleone 9s Cup after their 15-14 win over Maro Kele on Friday. Picture: STEPHEN KILA

CEO of CCIC Timothy Lepa receiving the K30, 000 cheque from Bulolo MP Sam Basil. Picture: FRANKIY KAPIN LABI Amaiu

Bumpers win

BY JOHN PANGKATANA

THE NCD Governor Powes Parkop Cup has returned to Jack Soto’s residence at Heka Kora Street, Hohola Stage Three.

This follows the Freeway Bumpers grinding 6-4 victory over Hohola Six Knights at a packed Ipi Park yesterday.

The Bumpers won the title for the second consecutive year and a further K10,000 in prize-money for their efforts.

The Knights picked up K5000.

In an all-Hohola final, the Bumpers held on to a slender 6-0 at half-time and only

allowed a an unconverted try from the Knights in a strong defensive effort to retain bragging rights for another 12 months.

Bumpers and Port Moresby Vipers rake Presley Soto scored from a darting run from dummy-half to catch the latter off-guard in the only points of the first half.

With the conversion the Bumpers held on in the second-half which was dominated by the Knights, who had several chances to take the game, but poor kicking let themselves down.

Despite the Bumpers dominating the middle through

strong runners led by skipper Junior Yambe, Watson Repo, Freddy Andale, Christopher Simon, Allan Sotto and Wapi Mori, they couldn’t extend their lead.

The Knights managed to pull one back through some strong runs from Kambi Igiman, Emey Bobson and George Iso, which led to second-rower Amula Aniaso crossing over after continuous pressure on the Bumpers try-line.

The failure to kick the extra points came back to haunt them after the match.

The Knights missed the conversion and then a penalty that could have given them

the lead. Soto again was given an opening down a slender right edge from another dummy-half break, but was ruled a no try as the referee and linesman were unsighted due to spectators.

Tensions and tempers started to get the better of both sides as they put up a strong defensive efforts.

The Bumpers, having that extra edge, did not panic and were directed well by halves John Simon and Mathew Waine to maintain their composure to the final whistle.

Strong teams from Six-Mile and Morata failed to break the Hohola domination.

FREEWAY Bumpers Presley Soto (left) was penalised for this dangerous tackle on the Hohola Six Knights player.