Thirty (30) unique masks from Kerema District will be preserved at an Elavo (Haus) after the 20th Toare Mask Festival was successfully staged on the 3rd of August. This year's 20th Toare festival was the first to be included into the National Cultural Commissions Annual Events Calendar and for the first time to be facilitated by the Toare village with the support in facilitation. With the theme for this year “Culture in Pride to promote Peace and Harmony” most preservation of Gulfs Cultural heritage is honoured with the carvings of these masks that represents and tells a different story in each clan, villages in the province. 32 Cultural groups were showcased Infront of tourists, TPA, Total Energies and other dignitaries from both National and the Provincial Government and 30 different masks were displayed. The Mask displayed will then be saved and kept in an Elavo (sacred house) like a mini museum for Tourists to visit in the village. Total Energies Director for Corporate Affairs Richard Kassman stated that he was honoured to have attended the festival. "Total Energies have come on board two times in a row for the company to assist and work towards promoting the culture of this province Gulf.” “Our Cultural heritage is very important to keep our stories, folklore and tales all in this mask festival and history is very important for our younger generations and to withhold the knowledge of this land.” Kassman said they will continue to support as Total Energies is a French company which is one of our key focuses, on promoting and liaising within the communities we work in. Meanwhile, National Cultural Commission Research Manager Alex Puki told the people of Kerema District that this year’s Toare Mask Festival has been placed into their annual national event calendar. “We are proud to support the festival and to showcase the different cultural diversity of Gulf through its designated mask festival.” "We will continue to support the festival because it has been enlisted as a new event into our calendars.” “We encourage the people of Gulf to use this platform as an engine to drive to support and continue to uphold our culture in the province.” Minister for Petroleum and Energies and Kerema Open Member Thomas Opa presented a K20,000 to the organizing committee to boost next year's 21st showcase. Member Opa said he was excited to represent the governor of the province to be with the people to celebrate the event. Opa, while officially launching the ceremony on behalf of Provincial Executive Council, said it is important for the districts to preserve culture and for the people to use the culture and artifacts to tap into Tourism and SMEs soon. The Toare Organizing Committee appreciated and acknowledged this year’s festival boost by major sponsors Gulf Provincial Government with K50 000, K15,000 from Total Energies, National Cultural Commission with K5000 while Kerema District Development Authority (KDDA) presented a K20,000 to run the event smoothly.

Transparency International PNG (TIPNG)’ s 2024 Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption (SASWAC), which took place in both Lae and Port Moresby, saw the participation of 108 teams from the corporate and government sector, 17 Civil Society Organisations, 69 schools, and 38 families. From the generosity of these participants, TIPNG has raised a K240,500.00 through the walk against corruption. These will enable TIPNG to continue its work in promoting transparency and accountability through its programs. “I want to express TIPNG’s sincere gratitude to everyone who participated in the Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption through in-kind support, volunteering and registering to participate.” “Your collective efforts have not only contributed significantly to our financial sustainability but have also sent a powerful message of unity and determination against corruption.” The theme of 2024 Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption was “Rise to the Occasion" and positioned all Papua New Guineans as agents of change to take on the responsibility of doing what is best for the country and with a sense of urgency. The Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption (SASWAC) started in 2007 and is TIPNG’s major fundraising event. The goal of the Walk Against Corruption is to raise funds to support the operations of TIPNG; raise greater awareness about corruption among institutions and corporate sector and provide a peaceful avenue for citizens to express their opposition to corruption.

Central Province Governor, Rufina Peter has joined other leaders in expressing her profound condemnation of the recent massacre, rape, and destruction in Tambari village, Angoram, East Sepik Province (ESP), which occurred between July 16 and 18, 2024. Governor Peter, a staunch advocate for women's rights and safety, has called for immediate action to bring the perpetrators to justice. “As a woman and a leader, I am deeply saddened and outraged by the horrific events that transpired in Tambari village.” “The senseless violence, particularly against women and children, is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges we face in ensuring the safety and dignity of all our citizens.” To capture the culprits and bring peace and security back to the neighborhood, the governor underlined the necessity of a coordinated response from law enforcement organizations and the community. “It is imperative that we work together to find these individuals and hold them accountable for their actions. “Justice must be served to bring solace to the victims and their families.” Governor Peter highlighted the broader implications of such violence on society, particularly from a woman's perspective. “These acts of brutality undermine the very fabric of our communities.” “As women, we understand the fear and trauma that such incidents inflict on families and society.” “It is heartbreaking to see our sisters, mothers, and children subjected to such inhumanity.” She also called for increased support and resources for the survivors of the violence, urging both governmental and non-governmental organizations to provide necessary aid and counseling services. “We must ensure that the survivors receive the care and support.” “In God we can; we will transform Central Province together; they need to rebuild their lives.” “This includes medical attention, psychological counseling, and legal assistance.” In her closing remarks, Governor Peter reaffirmed her commitment to fighting for justice and advocating for stronger measures to protect victims of violence especially women and children from all types of violence. “We must stand united against such atrocities and work tirelessly to create a safer and more just society for all; our resolve to protect and uplift our communities remains unwavering.” The slaughter in Tambari was condemned by the Central Provincial Governor, which emphasizes how quickly action and unity are required in the wake of disasters like these. Nationwide, there is a resounding cry for justice and support for the survivors, serving as a constant reminder of the value of empathy, responsibility, and teamwork in the fight against violence in all its manifestations.

PNG's female flag bearer at the opening ceremony of Paris 2024, Georgia-Leigh Vele recently discovered a journal she had kept since she was eight years old. She had stated in it that her life's ambition was to compete in the Olympics and win a medal, albeit a gold one would suffice. 17 years later, on August 3, 2024, in the Paris La Defense Arena, the 8-year-old girl's written dream came true. She made a tremendous effort to fulfill her dream of being an Olympian by placing fourth in her heat of the 50-meter women's freestyle, even though she was unable to advance to the following round and win a medal. As one of the five debutants for Team PNG at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Vele powered through but fell short to qualify for the semi-finals. She swam a time of 27.61 behind Montenegro’s KULJACA (27.19), Eritrea’s RACH (27.20) and St Vincent and the Grenadines GREENE (27.23). Vele expressed that her dream to be an Olympian passed in the blink of an eye. “It felt like such a whirlwind, like in a matter of seconds it had come and gone.” “It hadn’t sunk in until about an hour later, what I had just done, but I just felt so proud of myself and what I had accomplished. Dreams, goals and prayers had all come to fruition.” Swimming Coach Rick Van Der Zant, in congratulating Vele for her efforts and courage at the Olympic Games said he was very proud of Georgia-Leigh, who has been a stalwart of the PNG swim team. Ryan Pini, Chef de Mission of Team PNG stated that Georgia-Leigh’s performance in the 50m Freestyle at the Paris 2024 Olympics was outstanding. “Her journey from an 8-year-old with a dream to an Olympian is nothing short of inspirational.” “Having personally watched Georgia-Leigh grow in this sport, I have seen her commitment and passion for swimming and to help the younger generation of swimmers back home in Papua New Guinea.” “Georgia-Leigh’s achievement is a testament to the power of perseverance and the support of our team and family.” “Congratulations, Georgia-Leigh—you have made us all incredibly proud.” Team PNG now looks forward to Morea Baru’s competition in the Men’s 61kg Weightlifting event on Thursday 7th August at 3pm (11:00pm PNG time). Athletes yet to compete are Weightlifter Morea Baru in the 61kg division on Wednesday 7th of August, followed by Taekwondo athletes Kevin Kassman in the -68kg division on Thursday 8th August and Gibson Mara in the +80kg division on Saturday 10th August.

For My Father was written with the intention of telling everyone’s story – which in my opinion did exactly that. What can I say? Excitement was already in the air as I stepped into one of the few territories of Port Moresby’s thespians – Moresby Arts Theatre. Prior to attending, I received an informal invite from the writer himself, Andrew Kuliniasi who was also part of the cast. Him being the friend who introduced me to theatre and one of the few individuals who’s influenced me to embrace performing arts, I couldn’t turn down the offer. Knowing Andrew and the kind of material he creates, I knew this show had a powerful setting and message that would resonate with all Papua New Guineans regardless of our diverse ethnicities and cultures. As expected, the play introduced the audience to a classic PNG experience, that is, a haus krai filled with financial burdens and cultural expectations. The cast used the theatre’s lounge as a performance space instead of a traditional stage which was perfect as it created a feeling of involvement between the cast and audience. I remember feeling like I was observing actual family drama violently unfold right before my eyes. For a moment I forgot that this was just a play. My mind however snapped back to the present when I noticed tears streaming down my face. That was when Andrew’s character Elisha delivered a shocking twist amidst the chaos. It was an emotionally charged experience that I still felt even after I stepped outdoors. Brief interviews from audience members followed once I stepped outside. One attendee, a young man named Jurel from Southern Highlands, admitted that it was his first time attending a live theatrical production. He did not hold back from complimenting the cast on their outstanding performances stating that the play left him speechless. Furthermore, he encouraged more Papua New Guineans to watch such productions as it depicts the gritty realities of PNG. Despite the play making references to being set in a coastal environment, aspects of the play are still relatable to him, a person from the Highlands region. His response successfully enforced the writer’s intention of telling everyone’s story regardless of who they are. As I reflect on my experience, I must admit, For My Father could potentially become one of PNG theatre’s timeless masterpieces. This play not only addresses pressing issues in the country but also challenges the underlying culture of shame towards certain subjects that permeates our traditional communities but has also seeped into modern society. An art that shows the complexities of life and human nature while also being relatable to a local audience, For My Father is truly a voice for all Papua New Guineans.

Title: For My Father Director: Ziggy Yominao Writer: Andrew Kuliniasi Rating: M17 Duration: 60minutes Actors: Emmanuel Simeon ∙ Daniel Romney ∙ Hannaniah Dickson ∙ Andrew Kuliniasi ∙ Denzel Apelis After the passing of their father, four siblings are burdened by the financial costs of haus krai, funeral and burial. Consequently, they reach out to their long-neglected, estranged half-brother who has the means to pay for it all. For My Father is a play by KnackStudios in collaboration with Dare2Create, performed at the Moresby Arts Theatre. It covers themes of physical and sexual abuse, LGBTQ+, financial hardship, youth unemployment, neglect, and family brokenness. The play artfully blends realism and naturalistic style purposefully to enable the performance to be relatable to a Papua New Guinean audience while also addressing the gritty realities of life. The production uses the theatre’s lounge as a performance space instead of the traditional stage which not only gives the audience a feeling of involvement but also gives an advantage to the setting of the entire living room scene. For My Father stands out among most plays I’ve watched, because it’s a play written by Papua New Guineans for Papua New Guineans. Despite most of the cast being young, their ability to present the complexities of life and the condition of human nature while experiencing grief was masterfully executed. Each actor excelled in portraying their respective characters. Each character is unique with their own personal struggles and backstories which make the play all the more captivating. Michael Katau (Denzel Apelis) is the eldest half-brother who lives overseas and is the most successful out of all his siblings; Elisha Katau (Andrew Kuliniasi) is a member of the LGBTQ+ community who engages in prostitution to provide for his siblings; Braxton Katau (Daniel Romney) is a pastor concerned for his father’s and siblings’ spiritual well-being; Benny Katau (Immanuel Simeon) is the unemployed brother who hangs around with a bad crowd; and Anita Katau (Hannaniah Dickson) is the youngest and also their father’s favorite. Despite each character being so different from one another, audiences can still find something to relate to. For My Father was written with the intention to tell every individual’s story which in my opinion was successfully done. The average Papua New Guinean may not relate to Elisha’s story, but they can relate to Benny and his struggle of living as an unemployed youth. Others may relate to Michael’s feeling of abandonment by parental figures and also his drive to become successful. Whatever the circumstance, the play will tell someone’s story directly or indirectly – through words, actions, emotions or situations. I encourage more Papua New Guineans to watch For My Father. It is both a realistically and emotionally driven play that will leave you crying tears of laughter, sadness, anguish and bitterness.

Nine days have passed since the opening of the Paris Olympics and Team PNG’s fourth athlete Georgia – Leigh Vele is set to compete in the sport of swimming. Vele will participate in the Women’s 50m Freestyle at the Paris La Defense arena, 7:09pm PNG time. She has received much love and support from Papua New Guineans on social media wishing her the best and good luck. The young swimmer alongside counterpart Josh Tarere entered the games via universality placing, a system aimed to improve the gender parity and diversity of participating nations in all Olympic sports, accessible to national Olympic committees that typically have small delegations. Her previous competitions include the Women’s 100m freestyle at the World Aquatics championships held in Gwangju, South Korea (2019), and the 50m breaststroke at the Pacific Games (2023) which she secured a bronze medal. Vele will be competing against Kaiya Brown (Samoa), Ionnah Eliane Douilet (Benin), Jovana Kuljaca (Montenegro), Kennice Aphenie Greene (St. Vincent and the Grenadines), Khema Elizabeth (Seychelles), Christina Rach (Eritrea) and Sophia Latiff (Tanzania).

Equal Playing Field’s (EPF) signature annual event the Corporate Health Challenge is back in 2024 encouraging a culture of health and fitness. EPF states that the Corporate Health Challenge raises funds to support communities in need and to promote a healthier lifestyle because in today’s urban setting’s most children and families consume meals of low-nutritional value. “In contrast to earlier times, when hospital deaths were primarily caused by infectious diseases, presently, working-class and educated individuals are primarily affected by lifestyle disorders.” “Many young and productive Papua New Guineans have lost their lives due to the four main non-communicable diseases of kidney disease, heart disease, stroke, and cancer.” “In light of this, the corporate health challenge aims to encourage a culture of fitness and healthy eating while also raising money for EPF's upcoming programs.” In 2023, EPF had the privilege of hosting the first EPF Corporate Health Challenge, the challenge consisted of childhood games, which were handball, rugby tag, tin game and the watermelon challenge. “We were delighted to see participation from well-known corporations that understood how important it is to put employee well-being first.” “Their involvement demonstrated their dedication to fostering a positive work environment in addition to adding another level of competition.” EPF is seeking organizations to sponsor the health challenge: - Top Tier K20, 000 - Second Tier K10 000 The Corporate Health Challenge kicks off on Sunday 25th, August 2024.

Leonie Beu took the 100m track in front of a crowded Stade de France at 6:35PM PNG Time. In Heat 4 of the Preliminary Round, the 25-year-old from Morobe and Oro Province placed behind Bolivia's Guadalupe Torrez (11.6s) and Sao Tome & Principe's Gorete Semedo (11.44s). Beu qualified for Round 1 after coming third in the preliminary round with a personal best time of 11.63 seconds. Round 1 saw 17 of the 36 competitors from the preliminary move on. Beu advanced to Round 1 and faced 71 other competitors in Heat 5 to secure a spot in the Semi Finals. Dina Asher-Smith of Great Britain (world ranked #6) and Ewa Swoboda of Poland (world ranked #5) were on the starting line alongside Beu (world ranked #561). Following Brazilian competitor Carolina Azevedo's false start, Beu finished the race with a slower response time of 0.252 seconds compared to her previous best of 0.182 seconds. Beu, who placed eighth in Round 1 with a time of 11.73 seconds, expressed satisfaction with her performance. “I feel so good about the preliminary round.” “Standing at the start line for round 1, I could feel that the race was going to be a fast race.” Beu said her motto is: “Nothing Secret, Just hard work.”

Air Niugini will resume Fokker jet operations to Tokua airport, Rabaul effective from Saturday, 10th August 2024. The decision to resume flights follows the completion of airport runway repair works by the National Airports Corporation (NAC). With the resumption of jet operations to Rabaul, there will also be changes to Kavieng flight times and aircraft overnight in Hoskins. The Hoskins/Kavieng flight, PX 262 will now be cancelled as well as the Rabaul overnight flight PX206, instead its passengers will be accommodated with Rabaul and Kavieng passengers on flight (PX 4274) and Hoskins passengers on flight PX4244. Flight times out of Kavieng and Hoskins are also retimed to depart early back to Port Moresby with Kavieng flight enroute Port Moresby via Rabaul. Flights between Port Moresby/Buka and Rabaul will also see an upgrade of equipment from Dash 8 to Fokker jet aircraft. For those passengers who have already booked their travel and ticketed, please check with your nearest Air Niugini Sales office, preferred travel agents or call toll free 180 3444 for new flight times for Rabaul, Kavieng and Hoskins. Air Niugini thanks the NAC for completing the runway repairs to enable the resumption of jet operations. It has been over 12 months since Air Niugini was able to operate jet services to Rabaul. This has had a major impact on tourism and trade into and out of East New Britain and is also not the first time the runway was repaired. In 2021, Tokua reopened after runway repairs were undertaken. Unfortunately, due to the poor quality of repair work, and potentially jeopardising the safety of jet operations, Air Niugini chose to downgrade to a smaller Dash8 service. Fit for purpose airport infrastructure is essential to the successful operations of Air Niugini and Tokua hasn’t been fit for purpose for over 2 years. Air Niugini CEO, Gary Seddon stated that using bigger aircrafts can ease travel costs but will require better facilities. “If we can use our larger aircraft, more frequently to airports around the country, Air Niugini could offer more affordable airfares to the traveling public.” “We need good airport infrastructure that can meet the increasing demand for air travel.” Air Niugini expresses its gratitude to its customers for their continuous patience and understanding throughout the disruption to services to and from Rabaul.

Team Papua New Guinea (Team PNG) Swimming athlete Josh Tarere swam a personal best of 53.58 seconds in the 100m Freestyle event on Tuesday 30th of July. Finishing first in his heat, Tarere was happy with his swim, bettering his previous best by .53 seconds, and placing him 72 out of 79 athletes. The youngster expressed great delight over his accomplishment. “I have been swimming since I was 12 years old; after 13 years of Swimming, I made the Olympics, and I am happy with my results.” Chef de Mission to Team PNG and former Olympic Swimmer Ryan Pini was also delighted at Tarere’s outcome complimenting the swimmer’s development in the sport. "As Chef de Mission to Team PNG and a former Olympic swimmer myself, I am incredibly proud of Josh’s performance in the 100m freestyle at the Paris 2024 Olympics.” “Josh executed his race exactly according to plan, demonstrating his maturity and growth in his swimming career.” “His ability to maintain such intense focus and deliver under the pressure of the world’s biggest stage is truly impressive.” “This level of dedication and composure is a testament to his hard work and commitment, and it sets a strong example for aspiring athletes in Papua New Guinea.” Team PNG’s next athlete to compete is Leonie Beu in the 100m Athletics event. Leonie takes on the track at 10:35am (18:35 PNG time), today Friday 3rd August 2024. Coach Brett Green said that Leonie has been training well since arriving in Paris. “Leonie has done everything required of an Olympian in her preparation – her last week has been great, and we are looking forward to a fast run in the preliminary round to progress to round 1.” Athletes yet to compete following Beu’s competition are Georgia-Leigh Vele in the 50m Freestyle on Saturday 3rd August, Weightlifter Morea Baru in the 61kg division on Wednesday 7th of August, followed by Taekwondo athletes Kevin Kassman in the -68kg division on Thursday 8th August and Gibson Mara in the +80kg division on Saturday 10th August.

The PNG Bible Translation Association (PNGBTA) today celebrated its 44th year in translation work in the country. PNGBTA Executive Director Mr. Nelson Tapineng, spoke passionately about the work of translating bibles to serve the people who do not understand the English language. "PNG Bible Translation does this work because we believe that true transformation comes from the word of God." "As the scriptures say, 'Man cannot live on bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord'." "Bread can satisfy physical hunger but it cannot satisfy the needs of the inner man." Meanwhile, Chairman of the PNGBTA Board, Ganjiki Wayne, expressed his gratitude towards God for bringing PNGBTA this far in translation work. He also stated critical facts regarding the state of language survival in PNG. "PNG likes to boast about having the most languages in the world but the truth is languages are dying." "Our country has 12% of the world's languages; there's still a lot of work to do." "Part of our work is to forge relationships with other churches to help with bible translation work." "Bible translation should not just be PNGBTA's work but also the work of local churches." The Papua New Guinea Bible Translation Association is an indigenous Christian organization dedicated to training mother-tongue speakers for Bible translation. Their vision is to see the people of Papua New Guinea transformed by the translated word of God. Apart from translation work, PNGBTA also produces Christian films, audio bibles, literacy curriculum, materials, dictionaries & hymn books in local languages as well as training individuals to be teachers of the Bible, linguists, administrators and community leaders.