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No methanol or illicits detected in cocktail, Fiji says

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TRAVEL FIJI SECLUSION

Cocktails from a Fiji resort where seven people fell ill from a suspected poisoning incident did not contain methanol or illicit substances, authorities say.

Fiji Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka says a toxicology report of the pina colada mixture served at the five-star Warwick Fiji resort found the drinks were not laced with illegal alcohol.

“After testing the ingredients of the drinks served to guests by the Fiji police force, I can confirm that no illicit substances or methanol were found in the ingredients or liquor samples,” he told reporters on Wednesday.

A resort representative previously said the pina colada ingredients included a powder smoothie mixture from New Zealand, coconut liqueur, pineapple juice and white rum. 

The resort bought them from established suppliers, he said.

Fijian police and its health department continue to investigate the cause of the group’s illness.

Mr Gavoka also said the seven affected people, which includes four Australians, had been discharged from hospital and had recovered.

The group, aged between 18 and 56, was taken to hospital on Saturday after drinking the cocktails at the resort on Viti Levu island.

“The findings that there is no evidence of alcohol poisoning is great news for Fiji,” Mr Gavoka said.

Australian mother and daughter, Tanya and Georgia Sandoe landed back in Sydney on Monday evening after being released from hospital.

Mr Gavoka, who is also the tourism minister, said the South Pacific nation was a safe and reliable destination for travellers and the community was in disbelief about the poisoning allegation.

“We were rocked by this, the whole industry was quite affected … No one in Fiji would do anything harmful to any of our guests,” he said.

“Fiji holds the highest standards when it comes to food, beverages and overall safety (and) the health and wellbeing of our visitors remains our top priority.”

Mr Gavoka also asked foreign governments to remove travel warnings related to the incident.

A health official told reporters the symptoms the group suffered could have been caused by an infection or other chemicals and these were lines of inquiry.

The incident follows the death of two Australians in Laos, where they were among several victims of a suspected mass methanol poisoning.

About one million Australians visit Fiji each year and tourism contributes significantly to the nation’s economy.

Written By: Aaron Bunch © Australian Associated Press

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K20million Relief Package and PNGDF Assistance for Vanuatu

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James Marape

In a significant move to support regional solidarity, Prime Minister for Papua New Guinea, James Marape announced the approval a K20 million relief package to assist the government and people of Vanuatu in the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck the island nation earlier this week.

The funding will enable immediate deployment of aid and resources, including personnel from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), to assist in relief, rescue, and recovery efforts.

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the people of Vanuatu during this difficult time,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“The National Executive Council’s decision to approve K20 million in relief reflects our commitment to standing with our Pacific neighbours in their time of need. This funding will facilitate urgent assistance, including the mobilisation of PNGDF engineers, medics, and logistical experts, along with critical supplies such as food, water, and medical aid.”

The PNGDF is preparing to deploy a contingent to Vanuatu in the coming days.

Their mission will focus on addressing immediate humanitarian needs, supporting search and rescue operations, and assisting in the restoration of essential services.

“This is not just about delivering aid but also about reaffirming our shared commitment to the Pacific family. When one of us is impacted, we all stand together,” he said.

Meanwhile, Australia has already begun aid efforts in Vanuatu.

The Australian government has repatriated 148 citizens on two air force planes sent to deliver search and rescue teams and other assistance following the 7.3-magnitude earthquake that devastated Port Vila.

With the airport reopening on Wednesday afternoon, relief and support from Australia was able to touch down including a C17 Globemaster and C130 Hercules with personnel from Queensland and NSW fire and rescue.

Australian Federal Police, a foreign affairs department crisis response team and a medical assistance team were also deployed.

Vanuatu relief response.
A supplied image obtained on Thursday, December 19, 2024, of AustraliaÕs disaster response teams arriving in Port Vila, Vanuatu, Wednesday, December 18, 2024. Australian rescue and medical teams have arrived in Port Vila as the Pacific nation races to respond to Tuesday’s 7.3-magnitude earthquake. (AAP Image/Supplied by DFAT)

Their first priority was to help people trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings as “there are lives to be saved there right now”, taskforce leader chief superintendent Douglas May said.

Parts of this content © Australian Associated Press

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14 deaths reported after Vanuatu earthquake, hundreds injured

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At least 14 people have been killed by a major earthquake in Vanuatu, with the full extent of the damage still unclear.  

At lunchtime on Tuesday, a 7.3 magnitude tremor rattled nearby Port Vila for 30 seconds, causing destruction in the capital.

Katie Greenwood, the Red Cross’ Pacific head, said the Vanuatu government had confirmed a death toll of 14 and hundreds of injuries. 

Footage and photos broadcast by local outlet VBTC and on social media lays bare the devastation in Port Vila.

A building housing the US, UK, French and New Zealand diplomatic posts was among the worst hit, with the bottom floor of the US embassy crushed by the above floors.

Many photos on social media show collapsed buildings, one which has crumpled cars underneath, with reports of people being stuck in rubble, with careful efforts underway to assist.

“Many victims in the country, flights suspended, communications cut, no water or electricity, we are organising relief,” French ambassador to Vanuatu and Solomon Islands, Jean-Baptiste Jeangene Vilmer, posted on social media.

In a VBTC broadcast, caretaker Prime Minister Charlot Salwai issued a state of emergency for seven days, and instituted an overnight curfew – except for essential services – from 6pm to 6am.

Telecommunications failures after the earthquake have made confirming the scale of the harm and damage difficult.

Those communicating with the outside world were largely able to do so through Starlink, including journalist Dan McGarry.

Mr McGarry was first to report loss of life from Port Vila, and has documented landslips around the capital, including a major blockage of a key road near the country’s chief international port, in addition to destruction of buildings.

“People died and many more were hurt. Some have lost their home, and many will find it hard to get back to work. Repairs will likely stretch for years, as they always do in the wake of disaster,” Mr McGarry posted on X.

“But people are pulling together as only Vanuatu knows how. We will get through this. We always do.”

He reported power and water was still out on Wednesday morning, with Australian air force planes flying overhead to survey the damage.

More than 80 islands make up Vanuatu, and it is also unclear how the 350,000-strong population is faring in towns and settlements outside the capital.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong called the disaster a “dreadful tragedy” and with acting Pacific Minister Matt Keogh, said Australia would be rushing to its neighbour’s aid.

“Australia stands with the people of Vanuatu … we are family and we will always be there in times of need,” the pair said in a statement. 

“The Australian government is preparing to deploy immediate assistance … including urban search and rescue and emergency medical teams.  

“We are closely monitoring the situation and stand ready to provide further assistance to the people of Vanuatu as the extent of damage becomes clear.” 

Mr Jeangene Vilmer said France was working with Australia and New Zealand to co-ordinate the response.

The disaster has occurred at a moment of political turmoil in the Melanesian country.

Mr Salwai dissolved parliament last month, setting the stage for a snap election on January 14, only for opposition MPs to mount a constitutional challenge to the move.

While a first case was dismissed by the Supreme Court last week, former prime minister Ishmael Kalsakau announced they are appealing that judgment – which was due to be heard before Christmas with reuters.

Written by: Ben McKay

Content © Australian Associated Press

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NYDA Concludes validation workshop for NYDA Act 2014

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NYDA Concludes validation workshop on NYDA Act 2014

The National Youth Development Authority (NYDA) recently concluded a significant week-long validation workshop focused on the review of the NYDA 2014 Act.

This event brought together various stakeholders dedicated to the development and empowerment of the youth in PNG societies.

The workshop provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, where participants engaged in discussions that aimed to refine and enhance the existing policies governing youth development.

On the final day of the workshop, NYDA Managing Director, Mr. Joe Itaki addressed the participants, acknowledging their contributions and the importance of their engagement throughout the week.

He emphasized that such gatherings are not merely formalities; they serve as vital opportunities for stakeholders to contribute their ideas, perspectives, and interventions.

Mr. Itaki’s remarks resonated with the overarching goal of crafting strategies that will influence the policy landscape for the next five to ten years, ultimately striving to create a better society for young people.

“It is paramount that we come together to share our insights and strategies,” Mr. Itaki stated.

“Our collaborative efforts can shape a future where our youth not only thrive but are also equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow. The input we provide today is crucial in forming the policies that will guide us into the future.”

The workshop featured a diverse array of speakers and specialists who shared their expertise on various aspects of youth development.

Participants engaged in panel discussions, breakout sessions, and brainstorming activities designed to elicit innovative solutions and strategies.

This collaborative environment fostered a sense of community and collective responsibility among attendees, reinforcing the notion that the success of youth programs depends heavily on the input and commitment of all stakeholders involved.

As the validation workshop drew to a close, Mr. Itaki highlighted that the feedback collected during these sessions would be meticulously compiled into a report that would be submitted to the House of Parliament.

This submission aims to advocate for policies that are informed by the insights gained during the workshop, ensuring that the voices of all participants are heard in the legislative process.

The NYDA remains committed to its mission of promoting youth development and empowerment. This workshop was a step forward in that mission, setting the stage for future initiatives that will address the pressing needs of young people across the nation.

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Major damage in Vanuatu earthquake, deaths feared

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Vanuatu earthquake

A major casualty event is feared in Port Vila after a brutal earthquake rumbled Vanuatu’s capital, damaging buildings including a diplomatic hub.

A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck just off the east coast of Vanuatu’s major island of Efate at 12.47pm on Tuesday.

Locals reported on social media feeling violent shaking for around 30 seconds.

Broadcaster VBTC has reported a number of destroyed buildings, some of which have fallen on and crumpled cars.

The La Casa D’Andrea E Luciano building, which houses the US, UK, French and New Zealand embassies and High Commissions, has been seriously damaged, with footage posted to social media showing a section of building collapsed onto the first floor.

France’s Pacific envoy Veronique Roger-Lacan posted on social media that diplomatic personnel based at the facility were unharmed.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said staff working at the Australian High Commission, located nearby, were also safe.

Senator Wong said assistance would be provided to the South Pacific nation and any Australians working or on holidays there.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia stood ready to assist its “friend and neighbour”.

Photos and videos published by VBTC show minor damage across the capital, including shattered windows and walls, and rearranged interiors.

Dan McGarry, a Vanuatu-based journalist, posted drone footage of major landslides near Vanuatu’s international shipping terminal.

He told AAP there was no doubt there had been casualties from the tremor.

“There are buildings down here so I’m expecting the casualty figure to rise,” he said.

“I know of one fatality according to police stationed at Port Vila Central Hospital, and I saw with my own eyes three others on gurneys, several others walking around, walking wounded.

“I think it will probably be in the dozens, altogether dead and wounded.”

Attempts to confirm fatalities or injuries with Vanuatu authorities have been unsuccessful, owing to communications issues.

AP reported government websites were offline in the immediate aftermath of the tremor, as were local media outlets.

“There is limited connectivity through one of our telecommunications carriers, the other one is entirely offline and power is out through the entire capital,” Mr McGarry said.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed “significant damage” to the diplomatic building, along with his “deep concerns” following the significant tremor.

A tsunami threat to Australia and New Zealand was cleared by authorities in both countries.

The earthquake occurred at a relatively shallow depth of 57km, according to American earthquake monitors the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

Smaller aftershocks, including one of 5.5 magnitude, followed.

The island nation lies on the “Ring of Fire”, a 40,000km seismically active arc around the rim of the Pacific tectonic plate.

“Vanuatu is situated, like New Zealand, on top of a subduction zone,” University of Auckland physics associate professor Kasper van Wijk said.

“This particular earthquake was shallow and close to Port Vila, so I expect there to be significant damage from the earthquake.”

Australia’s foreign affairs department advises that Australians requiring consular assistance should contact the their 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 6261 3305.

Written by: Ben McKay © AAP

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PNGDF Supply Company: A 56-year journey

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The color yellow in the Papua New Guinea Defence Force Support Battalion represents the Supply Company, a vital logistic unit that manages supplies for all ten PNGDF units throughout Papua New Guinea.

As bright as the color itself, the Supply Company has a colorful history that was birthed on the 26th of July 1968.

Established seven years before independence the Supply Company remained the backbone of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force including the Maritime Element and the Air Transport Wing.

When the name Papua New Guinea Defence Force is mentioned, most people imagine soldiers on patrol at the borders or soldiers responding to tribal conflicts in the Highlands.

However, many do not know enough about the Supply Company to appreciate their work in ensuring soldiers are equipped with uniforms, boots, operational gear and fire power to carry out the duties of the Defence Force.

This essential role is performed by dedicated men and women of the sub-units within the Supply Company based out of Murray Barracks in Port Moresby.

For over five decades the Company evolved from One Base Ordinance Depot to Defence Support Agency (DSA) before transitioning into Supply Company as it is known today.

On November 28th the Company commemorated its 56th anniversary with a day’s celebration out of its base at Murray Barracks.

Chief Warrant Officer, Sition Saulo.
Chief Warrant Officer, Sition Saulo.

The longest serving member of the Supply Company, Chief Warrant Officer, Sition Saulo who served 34 years in the Company said 26-years had passed since the company hosted a Parade to mark the Company’s anniversary.

“I am happy about this parade; this is my last parade. I am retiring next year,” said Saulo.

Enlisted into the Papua New Guinea Defence Force in January of 1981, Saulo was posted to the Second Royal Pacific Islands Regiment (2RPIR) where he spent his early years as a young PNGDF solider.

“After Goldie, I passed out and I was transferred to A Company 2RPIR and from there I was posted to the Support Company as a store man,” Saulo recalled.

Ten years later, Saulo was part of the Delta Company from Moem Barracks who travelled to Port Moresby because of a curfew in Moem.

When the rest of the Delta Company returned to Moem, Saulo stayed back to attend a Supply Course.
Little did he know that he would be spending 34-years serving in the Supply Company based out of Murray Barracks.

“I attended a Supply Course at Goldie and from there on, I was posted to Supply Company. From then on, until today,” said Saulo.

Major Chalem Chandrol - Supply Company Commanding Officer Reviewing Anniversary Parade
Major Chalem Chandrol – Supply Company Commanding Officer Reviewing Anniversary Parade

When addressing serving members of the Supply Company during the anniversary parade, its Commanding Officer, Major Chalem Chandrol said the celebration was an opportunity to honor past serving members, acknowledged the dedication of current members and celebrate the contribution of Supply Company within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.

“This anniversary celebration holds immerse significance for us. On July 26th 1968, to 26th July 2024 makes over five decades, 56 years of service and evolution of the PNGDF Supply Company,” said Chandrol.

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St Paul’s Graduation

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St Paul's Graduation

A total of two-hundred and fifty-nine (259) Grade Eight students graduated at the St Paul’s Lutheran Primary School in Lae today.
 
School Head Teacher, Alfred Norman Lewong says this the graduation is significant in marking the end of the traditional grade eight graduations for primary schools in the country.
 
“With the proposed phasing out of examinations for students passing out of grade eight, this is a memorable occasion for our school,” says Mr Lewong.
 
Mr Lewong further thanked the board, parents, stakeholders and sponsors for their continuous support to the school throughout the year outlining funding delays from the government.
 
“We haven’t had a graduation ceremony for some years and I am grateful to our corporate sponsors who had came on board this year to make this graduation a success,” added Mr Lewong.
 
One of the sponsors, the Owner of Wonderful Taxi and Hire Cars Services and Gabensis Guest House, Chris Donald says he is proud to sponsor some awards at the graduation because education plays a vital role in the development and growth of the nation.
 
“As a Lutheran devotee,  I am happy to be supporting one of our pioneer schools in Lae and Morobe province,” says Mr Donald.

Mr Donald also represented PC & JY Woo company who sponsored the grade eight dux award which was presented to top student, Ms. Grace Totabun.
 
St Paul’s Primary School is one of the biggest schools in Lae with a total of 1,648 students.
 
Mr Lewong says as a Level 8 school, it would be a massive challenge if they are chosen to accept Grade nine students in 2025.
 
“Under the 1-6-6 Policy, we would have to accept grade one to grade nine students and that would be a burden on the limited learning infrastructures we have in the school,” says the Head Teacher.
 
Meanwhile, Education Minister Lukas Dekena this week says examinations will continue and will not be used as means to select students to continue or being left out.

IMAGE: Supplied by Sylvester Gawi

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West Papuans Still Holding on to the Hope of a Free West Papua

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West Papuans Still Holding on to the Hope of a Free West Papua

THE 1st of December has always been Independence Day for the people of West Papua.  

This week Port Moresby residents of West Papuan descent celebrated the day on Sunday with the theme, “Celebrating and preserving our culture through food and the arts. “

The day began with everyone participating in the National Anthem, Hai Tanaku Papua which translates to, My Land, Papua.  

Other activities included song and dance, and a dialogue with the young and older generations to share ideas on a way forward.  

West Papuan children dancers.

SME stalls were also set up selling West Papuan cuisine and arts and crafts.

Guest Speaker and NCD Governor, Powes Parkop, a staunch supporter of the West Papua cause reminded attendees of the struggles of their ancestors and for future generations to not lose hope.

“We must be proud of our identity, our culture, our land, our heritage and most importantly we have to challenge ourselves, redefine our journey and our future, that’s the most important responsibility we have.”’

West Papua was a Dutch colony in the late 1800s and by the 1950s, Netherlands began to prepare for withdrawal.  

On December 1st 1961, West Papuans held a congress to discuss independence.  

The national flag, the morning star was raised for the first time on this day.  

Governor Powes Parkop described the West Papua cause, ‘a tragedy’.  

This is due to the fact that following the declaration of Independence in 1961, Indonesia laid claim over the island a year later in 1962.

This led to the United Nations sponsored treaty known as the New York Agreement.  

Indonesia was appointed temporary administrator without consultation or consent of West Papuans.

In 1969 the Act of Free Choice enabled West Papuans to decide their destiny but again only 1026 West Papuans had to make that choice under the barrel of the gun.

To this day, West Papua remains under Indonesian rule.

NCD Governor, Powes Parkop at the West Papua Day celebrations.
NCD Governor, Powes Parkop at the West Papua Day celebrations.

Parkop said; “PNG will celebrate 50 years of Independence next year but this is only so for half of the island, the other half is still missing, we are losing our land, we are losing our resources, if we are not careful, we are going to lose our future too.”

He encouraged the people to preserve their culture and heritage and to breakaway from the colonial mindset, colonial laws and ideas that hinder progress to freedom for West Papua. 

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Bringing Christmas Joy to Light Bearers Early Childhood Learning Centre

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Bringing Christmas Joy to Light Bearers Early Childhood Learning Centre

Students at the Light Bearers Early Childhood Learning Centre will not worry about school stationary next year, after receiving Digicel Backpacks full of school supplies.

In the true spirit of giving this holiday season, Digicel PNG brought cheer to Light Bearers Early Childhood Learning Centre located in Bomana, Port Moresby.

A non-government organization, the Centre is a recipient of an open-air classroom built in partnership with Digicel’s Foundation housing over 150 students.

The school was first established in 2017 and this year marks its seventh year of operation in the community. The program started with a fantastic welcome speech by advanced grade student Tina Pele, followed by prayer and a moment of silence dedicated to the co-founder and Head Teacher of Light Bearers Early Childhood Learning Center, the late Mrs. Florence Sam; who passed away in October this year.

Bringing Christmas Joy to Light Bearers Early Childhood Learning Centre

The activities began with Digicel Staff Volunteers led by Head of Marketing, Tessa Valace gifting each student with a Christmas gift as well as a Digicel backpack filled with school supplies for the next year.

Following the ceremony, the students and teachers were treated to a mini party with refreshments and drinks to further celebrate the end of the school year.

Lorna McPherson, Senior Vice President & Chief Sales Officer commented, “It’s always heart-warming to see the smiles and joy on the children’s faces when our team visits the Light Bearers Early Childhood Learning Centre.

“Holidays are a time of reflection and we as a business and individually reflect on our blessings, we are truly honored to share with those who may need a little extra.

At Digicel, we believe in using our resources to make a positive difference in our communities and partnering with the Light Bearers Early Childhood Learning Center allows us to do just that.”

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Call to Modernize the Employment Act

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BCW Survey - Employment Act

A survey carried out by the Business Coalition for Women (BCFW) has suggested for the government to modernize the Employment Act.

The suggestion among others, draws on evidence from BCFW’s nationally representative survey of 2,026 Papua New Guineans, published earlier this week.

The survey is the first in recent years to collect data on earnings of Papua New Guineans and the first to estimate the gender earnings gap in PNG.

With the budget sitting this week, BCFW has put forward three main suggestions for the Marape-Rosso Government to consider. The major one is to “Commit to Modernizing the Employment Act”.

The organization that forces on empowering women leaders believes that this would be a “quick win” for the government on jobs – benefitting both women and men.

While the organization acknowledges the government’s keen interest in reviewing the Employment Act, they suggest the following to be included in the amendment;

· Introduce paid maternity leave (currently the Act includes only unpaid maternity leave).
· Introduce paid paternity leave for fathers (currently, there is no paternity leave).
· Strengthen anti-discrimination protection for women who are pregnant or are new
mothers (e.g. prohibit dismissal of pregnant workers).
· Remove Sections 98 and 99 which prohibit women work in underground mining,
heavy labour, and at night in industrial settings.

From it’s research, BCFW found that a sizable number of women (31%) would be interested in night shift, physically arduous, or underground jobs.

Apart from this, BCFW also proposed “Include job policies targeting women” and “The Budget should prioritise family and household care policies”.

Both they say will be popular with the public – among both women and men.

Other analysis show that improving the prospects of work for women will benefit PNG’s
economy as a whole.

“Our findings suggest Papua New Guineans agree: 69% say PNG would be better off if more women had the opportunity to work.

“We also found that Papua New Guineans would support policies to promote women’s work.”

Over 70% – including among men and young people – think the government should develop
jobs policies specifically targeting women.

“Our findings show that household care is the main reason Papua New Guineans are out of the labour force or are underemployed.

Among those not working, 39% of women and 14% of men cite household care responsibilities as the reason for not working.

Among those who are working, 51% of women and 36% of men cite household care duties as their main reason for not working as much as they would like to.

For the remainder (who are not currently interested in such roles), they too could be interested – if safety concerns were addressed.

“We urge the government to consider these three suggestions for inclusion in the 2025
Budget. Acting on them would benefit the PNG economy, for all of us, whether women or
men.”

The full survey report, ’PNG Labour Market Survey: Earnings, Gender, and Ambitions –
Findings, Analysis, and Policy Implications’, is available on BCFW’s website.

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