The people of West Sepik Province gathered in Vanimo on Sunday, August 31, to witness history as the first Miss Bird of Paradise Sandaun Pageant crowned its inaugural queen. The week-long cultural celebration brought together five contestants who showcased the unique traditions, beauty, and talents of West Sepik. The final night featured competitions in four categories: Sarong, Talent, Traditionally Inspired Dress, and Stage Interview. Earlier events included Topic Presentation, Float, and Miss Traditional. At the end of the night, Carol Hwena, representing Vanimo Free Trade Zone Ltd, was crowned the first Miss Bird of Paradise Sandaun. Hwena also claimed several major awards, including Best Stage Interview, Best Float, Best Sarong, and Miss Traditional. The 24-year-old is from Vanimo Village in the Bewani Wutung Onei LLG and holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology. Other awards went to; - Kristina Konie (Miss Bewani Palm Oil Development Ltd) 1st Runner Up - Annie Rose Wouwou (Miss Seleven Sio Construction) 2nd Runner Up - Natasha Fulieng (Miss Telefomin) Miss Friendship - Tia Nalaik (Miss Golden Medallion Hotel) Committee’s Choice In a statement, the Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Pageant Committee congratulated Hwena on her victory and praised all contestants for being “tremendous ambassadors for their communities and West Sepik Province.” The successful staging of the inaugural event was celebrated by organizers and participants alike as a proud milestone for the province.

East Sepik Governor Allan Bird has not only just joined the People’s Reform Party (PRP) but has also been appointed as its new Party Leader, in what observers say could be a significant reshaping of Papua New Guinea’s political landscape. The announcement was made Today Sunday 31st August 2025 at Dream Inn in Port Moresby city, where PRP founder and North Fly MP James Donald said the party’s executive unanimously endorsed Bird to take over leadership. “If Allan Bird is going to join the party, we also agree that he takes the leadership,” Donald declared, describing the decision as a sacrifice for the greater good of the country. Bird, who had been an independent MP for more than two years, said he had considered retiring from politics altogether. But the calls from his East Sepik constituents and the wider public convinced him to continue, including fellow Politician, Bryan Kramer. Governor Bird revealed that five political parties had approached him to join their ranks, but he set strict conditions before making a move. He said he wanted a party that must stand for reforms and was ready for action. The party must not be based in his Momase region, and the party must be led by ambitious, principled young leaders, and lastly the party must not carry “bad political baggage” from the past. “People’s Reform Party ticked all the boxes,” Bird said. “They have no history of bad decisions that I would have to defend. They are a clean slate.” Founded in August 2018, PRP is one of the country’s youngest parties. It first entered parliament in 2022 with the election of James Donald, who has led the party since its inception. The party’s emblem and colors are red, black, and white that symbolize courage in reform, strength in decision-making, and honesty in governance. By handing over leadership to Governor Bird, Donald said PRP was demonstrating humility and unity. “It is about dropping egos and seeing the bigger picture,” he told the crowd. In his maiden speech as PRP leader, Bird repeated his long-standing call for a “hard reset” of Papua New Guinea’s governance. He likened the country to a “sick patient in hospital” needing bitter medicine rather than “sweet promises.” “We are going to be honest with Papua New Guineans. Corruption is out of control, crime is out of control, young people have no opportunities. We need hard reforms, not easy talk,” Bird said. He announced that PRP would use digital platforms to allow members and citizens to participate directly in policy debates, party governance, and even decisions on how MPs should vote in parliament. “This party is going to give control back to the people,” he said. “If we want transparency in government, it must start in our own party.” The appointment of Bird, a two-term governor with national recognition, gives PRP its highest-profile leader to date. Analysts say it could position the party as a reformist alternative ahead of the 2027 general election. For now, Bird says he is focused on building a team of like-minded leaders committed to “taking the hard road” for genuine change. “Change comes at a price. It will not be easy. But if you believe this country deserves better, then this is the journey we must take together,” he told supporters.

Tomorrow, 1st September, a total of 335 Grade 12 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students from six National Schools of Excellence (NSOE) will begin their annual STEM examinations, marking a significant milestone for the fourth batch of students since the program’s inception in 2022. The exams, running until Friday, 5th September, will be taken at Sogeri NSOE (62 students), Aiyura NSOE (77), Passam NSOE (62), Wawin NSOE (39), Keravat NSOE (27), and Port Moresby NSOE (68). Students will be tested in Mathematics, Technology (ICT), Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Engineering. Secretary for Education, Dr. Uke Kombra, highlighted the importance of the STEM program in shaping Papua New Guinea’s future workforce. “This STEM exam is critical in identifying our top students who will later receive scholarships to further their studies overseas. STEM education is essential as we prepare a new generation of thinkers, innovators, and problem-solvers to drive our nation’s development over the next 50 years,” he said. Dr. Kombra also stressed strict compliance with Measurement Services Division (MSD) regulations, requiring principals and deputy principals to remain at their schools throughout the examination period. Penalties for any breaches could include non-certification and further investigations. Following the exams, marking will be conducted in Port Moresby from 6th to 11th September. Dr. Kombra extended his best wishes to all students as they embark on this important assessment. This year’s batch represents another step forward in PNG’s STEM education initiative, reinforcing the government’s commitment to nurturing the country’s next generation of innovators and scientists.

The excitement in Vanimo is reaching its peak as the Miss Bird of Paradise Sandaun Pageant enters Day 4 of its journey to crown the province’s inaugural queen. The provincial pageant, a highlight of Sandaun’s jubilee celebrations, has captured the attention of locals, drawing large crowds and vibrant community support. Backed by the Vanimo Green River District Development Authority, the pageant has five stunning contestants vying for the crown: - Kristiina Konie (Miss Bewani Palm Oil Development Ltd)   - Tia Nalaik (Miss Golden Medallion Hotel)   - Natasha Fulieng (Miss Telefomin)   - Carol Hwena (Miss Vanimo Free Trade Zone Ltd)   - Annie Wouwou (Miss Selewen Sio Building Constructions). Day 4 featured a colorful float parade through the heart of Vanimo and traditional performances by the contestants, both of which are judged categories that will add to the cumulative scores leading into the big night. The crowning is set for Tomorrow August 31, at the Pope Francis Oval, where one contestant will walk away with the honor of becoming Sandaun’s very first Miss Bird of Paradise. The pageant committee is calling on the people of West Sepik to join in the celebrations and showcase the beauty, art, and culture that define the province.

A young mother’s life changed overnight when she was handed the keys to a brand-new kit home after winning Trukai Industries’ Win Your Own Home promotion in Lorengau, Manus last Friday. The lucky winner, 30-year-old Pauline Simahun, married with two boys, could hardly contain her emotions as Trukai staff presented her with the house key at Papindo in Lorengau. Pauline, who is originally from Morobe and East New Britain, is married to Steven Simahun of Loniu village, Manus. “I am grateful to Trukai for the house, I never thought I would win. I only entered with two tickets at Papindo in Lorengau,” she said. “When they first drew my name, I didn’t know until people from the village showed me on their phone, that was then when I realized it was true. I don’t know what else to say but thank you, Trukai!” Her husband Steven shared the same excitement, describing the moment as a longtime dream turned into reality. “I work, but owning a home was something we always dreamed of. We never thought it would come from just two lucky tickets. Trukai has given us something to truly own,” he said. Pauline was one of four major winners in the nationwide promotion, which ran from October 7, 2024, to February 28, 2025, with the grand draw held on March 27, 2025. To enter, shoppers had to purchase a 10kg bag of Roots Rice, complete the entry form, and drop it into participating store bins. Other regional winners included Iamo Rigana (Southern Region, Port Moresby), Madila John (Momase Region, Lae), and Ukut Inako (Highlands Region, Mt. Hagen). For Pauline and Steven, the simple act of purchasing rice turned into the gift of a lifetime, a home to call their own in Manus.

Cricket Papua New Guinea (CPNG) has confirmed that Barramundis player Kipling Doriga has appeared in court in Jersey in the United Kingdom (UK) this week following an incident that occurred on Monday, August 25. Doriga pleaded guilty to the charge of robbery when he appeared before the Magistrate’s Court on the morning of Wednesday 27th August. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to return to Jersey’s Royal Court on November 28th for sentencing. In a statement released today, CPNG said the matter is being treated as an individual case and will not impact the team’s ongoing participation in the tournament. Officials have indicated that no further individual comments will be made at this stage, with CPNG emphasizing that the team remains focused on fulfilling its tour commitments. The Barramundis are scheduled to play two more fixtures in Jersey as part of their current tour.

Basketball fans in Port Moresby are set for a major sporting showcase tomorrow as the Golden Jubilee Masters Basketball Competition heads into its Cup Major Semi Finals at the Taurama Aquatic Indoor Stadium. The tournament, which celebrates friendship, fitness, and community spirit, will feature four back-to-back clashes between veteran teams competing for Cup and Bowl honours. Court 1 Schedule for Saturday, August 30, 2025, 6:00 PM: KSS Flame vs Tamaraws (Women’s Cup Semi Final) 6:30 PM: KKS Flames vs Tamaraws (Men’s Cup Semi Final) 7:00 PM: Exodus Legends vs Next +40 (Women’s Cup Semi Final) 7:30 PM: O.T.H.G vs Next +40 (Men’s Cup Semi Final) Organizers say fans can expect competitive matchups, dramatic moments, and the experience of seeing some of Papua New Guinea’s seasoned basketballers showcase their talent. The initiative is supported by the Prime Minister in partnership with the Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG). Entry to the semi-finals is free.

Barramundis have suffered a heavy defeat in the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League A, going down by 160 runs to hosts Jersey at the Farmers Cricket Club in St Martin, Jersey. Batting first, Jersey posted 261 runs in 49.1 overs, with an outstanding innings from Asa Tribe, who struck 175 runs from 156 balls. His performance anchored Jersey’s innings and earned him the Player of the Match award. In reply, PNG struggled against a disciplined bowling attack and were bowled out for 101 runs in 30.2 overs. There were moments of resistance from Vagi Guba (41 from 79 balls) and Damien Ravu (28 from 35), but wickets fell at regular intervals. At one stage, the Barramundis were reduced to 12 for 4, leaving them with little chance to recover. Jersey’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Harrison Carlyon (2/23) and Julius Sumerauer (2/27) making early breakthroughs, while George Richardson (2/20), Dom Blampied (2/15), and Nick Greenwood (2/3) cleaned up the middle and lower order. The result strengthens Jersey’s position in the tournament and leaves Papua New Guinea searching for a turnaround. The Barramundis will next face Qatar Tomorrow August 30, 2025, at the Farmers Cricket Club Ground in St Martin.

Two Papua New Guinean women, Hannah Kuwimb from Mt Hagen and Kathy Araea from Alotau, have been selected to take part in the 2025 FIBA Oceania WiLEAD Program, a regional initiative aimed at developing female leaders in basketball. The program, hosted in Canberra and supported by PacificAus Sports, brings together 15 emerging leaders from eight national federations across the Pacific. It includes online learning, keynote sessions, in-person workshops, and internship placements intended to strengthen collaboration and elevate women’s roles in the sport. The Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) confirmed the announcement, describing the selection as a significant achievement for women in sport. “This is one of the first steps in the right direction,” said Delisha Koime, BFPNG Program Quality Lead. “We’re proud to see Hannah and Kathy take on this opportunity. Their selection reflects our commitment to creating pathways for women because it is not just to play basketball, but to lead, inspire, and shape its future.” As part of the program, Kuwimb and Araea will receive training in sports administration, coaching, and community engagement. BFPNG said the achievement aligns with its renewed focus on gender equity and represents a step towards creating a more inclusive future for basketball in Papua New Guinea. More information on the 2025 WiLEAD cohort is available on the FIBA Oceania website.

Strength and conditioning coach, Anthea Murray is playing a crucial role in preparing Papua New Guinea’s National Women’s Cricket Team, the PNG LEWAS, for the Women’s East Asia Pacific World Cup Qualifiers in Fiji, starting September 7. Working closely with Head Coach Mahuru Dai, Murray is ensuring the athletes are physically ready to compete at the highest international level. The team will travel to Brisbane on August 31 for final preparations. Murray’s journey into high-performance coaching began in 2022 when she earned her Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA) Level 1 certification, supported by the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC). In 2024, she advanced to ASCA Level 2 training in Melbourne through Cricket Australia, gaining valuable experience in elite athlete development and high-performance environments. “Every athlete’s potential can be unlocked with the right preparation, guidance, and mindset. Cricket is not just about runs and wickets it is about resilience and trust.” As a former competitive swimmer representing PNG from the age of nine, Murray brings discipline, mental toughness, and a deep understanding of peak performance to cricket. She has worked with elite female athletes, national under-19 teams, and senior men’s squads, developing a coaching philosophy that blends physical conditioning with holistic athlete development. Murray is also a trailblazer in a male-dominated high-performance space, using her journey to inspire the next generation of female coaches in Papua New Guinea. “Strength and conditioning are not just a job; it is a calling. My vision is to establish a High-Performance Institute in PNG to provide young athletes with world-class coaching, testing, and education.” Strength and conditioning focus on improving an athlete’s strength, speed, endurance, agility, and flexibility. In addition, it also emphasizes injury prevention and faster recovery through targeted exercises and training. “In short, it’s about turning raw talent into a strong, resilient, and high-performing athlete.” With Murray’s guidance, the PNG LEWAS are entering the qualifiers stronger, faster, and more resilient, ready to represent their nation with confidence. Her leadership highlights the growing influence of female coaches in elite sport and demonstrates the impact of high-performance training in raising Papua New Guinea’s international sporting profile.

The Australia Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and PNG National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) came together to launch WAN KANTRI a 60-minute documentary film on the how our forefathers gain independence from the Australian Government with a bright blend of interviews from individuals making a mark for the PNG future moving forward. The film was launched yesterday 27th August 2025 at APEC Haus. WAN KANTRI blends rare archival footage, political history, and deeply personal accounts from citizens who lived through the country’s 1975 transition from Australian administration to sovereignty. Narrated by NBC’s Maureen Orea, the film revisits the optimism and challenges of the nation’s founding leaders, including the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and his contemporaries, while reflecting on the sacrifices of ordinary Papua New Guineans who witnessed the raising of the national flag for the first time. The documentary highlights key voices such as Dame Meg Taylor, who recalled the emotional moment the Australian flag was lowered, and descendants of leaders like Dulciana Somare, daughter of the nation’s founding prime minister, who emphasized the importance of remembering the unifying spirit that bound more than 800 tribes into one country. It also revisits the work of the Constitutional Planning Committee, led by Dr John Momis and Sir John Kaputin, which carried the voices of ordinary people into PNG’s homegrown Constitution. But WAN KANTRI is not only a reflection on the past. It also shines a spotlight on today’s youth, innovators, and farmers working to uphold the dreams of the country’s forefathers. The film follows young leaders such as Slyney Tau, who is teaching communities about sustainable farming and local economic empowerment, proving that the spirit of self-reliance enshrined in the Constitution continues to inspire new generations. With sweeping visuals of sing-sing, the Hiri Moale Festival, and village life, the documentary balances history with hope. It portrays PNG as a land of a thousand tribes, united in diversity, and still striving to fulfill the promise of independence. WAN KANTRI comes as Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary of independence in September. Both ABC and NBC described the collaboration as a way of honoring the shared history between the two nations while giving Papua New Guineans, especially its youth, an opportunity to see their own stories reflected on screen.

The long-standing partnership between the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and Papua New Guinea’s National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), strengthened by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2022, was showcased last night at the advanced screening of WAN KANTRI at APEC Haus in Port Moresby. The extraordinary 60-minute documentary, co-produced over more than a year, takes viewers on a powerful journey through Papua New Guinea’s history, spirit, and traditions, while looking ahead to the next 50 years of independence. Distinguished guests included Sir Robert Igara, Dame Meg Taylor and Sir Moi Avei, were among those who attended the screening last night. Pictured above Also, present were government, community, and cultural leaders, joined by Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Penny Morton, who addressed the audience. Although unable to attend in person, Prime Minister James Marape sent a recorded message emphasizing the broader significance of the collaboration. “This latest collaboration between NBC and ABC is more than a documentary it is a powerful reflection of the enduring partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia.” His message highlighted how co-productions like WAN KANTRI reinforce bilateral ties, celebrate shared values, and provide a platform for national storytelling. Marape expressed confidence that the partnership would continue to strengthen connections between PNG and Australian institutions, as well as between communities and audiences. Minister for Communications and ICT Timothy Masiu, also sending a recorded message, reflected on the documentary’s tribute to PNG’s first 50 years of sovereignty. “One Country is more than just an account of historical events for it is a tribute to the strength, courage and sacrifices of those who fought for and sustained our sovereignty for the first 50 years.” Minister Masiu emphasized that the documentary inspires both citizens and government to continue working toward national progress and a stronger Papua New Guinea for the next 50 years and beyond. Hosting the evening, NBC Managing Director Kora Nou reflected on the pride of the corporation in delivering the project. “The NBC is proud to be standing side by side with ABC in this landmark moment, celebrating our nation’s independence and the enduring friendship between our organizations.” ABC International Head Claire G. Morman highlighted the scope and uniqueness of the collaboration. “Never before have the ABC and NBC collaborated to produce such an incredible breadth of content, inspired by PNG’s rich history and culture.” She further explained that the documentary amplifies local voices while sharing PNG’s story with both national and international audiences. “This film shares the voices and stories of PNG’s independence while looking to what the nation’s future might hold.” As part of the celebration, the ABC and NBC gifted a copy of WAN KANTRI the Next 50 Years to the Government of Papua New Guinea. The ABC NBC relationship began in 1973 when the ABC gifted its Port Moresby headquarters to the newly established NBC. Since then, the organizations have collaborated through staff exchanges, training programs, and sharing of content and technical expertise. Where to Watch, WAN KANTRI: The Next 50 Years will premiere on Tuesday, 16 September 2025, Independence Day, across multiple platforms: NBCTV at 7:30pm (PGT) ABC Australia at 2:00pm and 8:00pm (PGT) NBC National Radio 90.7FM at 8:00am and 8:00pm (PGT) ABC Radio Australia 101.9FM at 1:00pm and 6:00pm (PGT) Throughout September, ABC and NBC will also share special “PNG 50 Years” programming across NBCTV, NBC National Radio, TribeFM, ABC Australia, ABC Radio Australia, ABC Pacific, and ABC News.