Understanding when and how to seek help was a key message delivered to military wives during a Family Sexual Violence Awareness Program held as part of the 9th Biannual Military Wives Convention in Port Moresby.Officers from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary's Family Sexual Violence Unit shared information on domestic violence, victims' rights and the support services available to those affected by abuse.Acting Director of the Family Sexual Violence Directorate, Chief Sergeant Job Eremugo and Deputy Director Senior Sergeant Wasima Kauvianda led the awareness session, outlining the role of the Family Sexual Violence Unit and the support mechanisms available to victims throughout the country.The officers explained that the unit was established in 2009 and now operates 54 Family Sexual Violence Units with 98 personnel stationed across Papua New Guinea's 22 provinces.Participants were informed that the unit receives and registers complaints, investigates cases, apprehends offenders, assists victims to obtain Interim Protection Orders, prepares court files and works closely with other agencies to ensure victims receive appropriate support and protection.The presentation highlighted that family and sexual violence can take many forms, including physical assault, verbal abuse, intimidation, threats and psychological abuse.Women attending the convention were reminded that victims are not limited to adult women, but also include children, the elderly, persons living with disabilities and other vulnerable members of society.FSVU officers stressed the importance of reporting incidents early and preserving evidence such as photographs of injuries, damaged property, clothing, and electronic communications that may assist investigations.Participants also learned about the reporting process, with Family Sexual Violence Units serving as the first point of contact for most family and sexual violence cases. Depending on the nature of the complaint, victims may be referred for medical treatment, legal assistance, counselling services or protection orders.The officers acknowledged that many victims continue to face challenges after reporting abuse, including intimidation by perpetrators, family pressure, and a lack of supportive environments.The session also examined the cycle of violence, including periods of tension, abuse, denial and reconciliation, which often make it difficult for victims to leave abusive relationships. Factors such as fear, financial dependence, family expectations and concern for children were identified as common reasons victims remain in violent situations.Military wives were encouraged to support one another, seek help when needed and use the information gained during the session to raise awareness within their families and communities.The awareness session forms part of the convention's broader focus on empowering military wives with knowledge and practical tools to strengthen families, promote safety and contribute to violence-free communities.

Military wives from across Papua New Guinea have been encouraged to place greater emphasis on their own health and wellbeing while continuing to support their families and communities.The message was delivered during a health awareness presentation at the 9th biennial Military Wives Convention currently underway in Port Moresby.Critical Care Nurse Specialist Sr. Nathalie Mosh from the Murray Barracks Clinic presented a session on empowering military wives to overcome stress, prevent lifestyle diseases and protect their overall health.Speaking to participants, Sr Mosh acknowledged the important role military wives play in supporting their spouses, raising children and maintaining strong family units within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force community.She said the demands of military life often place significant pressure on women, particularly during deployments, extended work commitments, financial challenges and family responsibilities.According to the presentation, prolonged and unmanaged stress can negatively affect mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing, contributing to conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, depression, and strained family relationships.Sr Mosh encouraged participants to recognise the signs of stress early, including fatigue, headaches, poor sleep, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating.She outlined practical ways women can better manage stress, including maintaining regular prayer and devotion, engaging in physical exercise, getting adequate rest, eating nutritious foods and seeking support from trusted friends, family members or health professionals when needed.The session drew inspiration from the convention theme, “Arise Esthers! For Such a Time as This,” based on the biblical story of Queen Esther, whose courage, wisdom and resilience were highlighted as qualities military wives can emulate in their daily lives.Participants were reminded that caring for their own health is not only beneficial to them personally but also strengthens their ability to support their families and contribute positively to their communities.The presentation concluded with a call for military wives to rise above challenges, prioritise self-care and become role models for healthier living within their households and across the wider PNGDF family.

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) has stepped up its efforts to promote gender equality and family welfare through its Directorate of Gender, Peace and Security with a focus on creating safer and more inclusive environments for personnel and their families.Addressing participants at the 9th PNGDF Military Wives Convention at Murray Barracks, Director of Gender, Peace and Security Captain Imelda Divina highlighted the important role the directorate plays in supporting serving members and their families while enhancing the overall effectiveness of the force.Captain Divina said the PNGDF Gender Committee was established in 2016 to address policy gaps and improve support for servicewomen. Over the years, its role has expanded to include servicemen and defence families, recognising that strong and resilient families contribute to a stronger Defence Force.She said the directorate's work is guided by the National Constitution's principles of equality and participation, while also supporting national and international commitments on gender equality and women's participation in peace and security.Among its key priorities are improving policies, providing training and education, strengthening governance and reporting systems, and ensuring gender perspectives are integrated into military operations and decision-making processes.The directorate has also introduced a range of training programs, including Gender Sensitisation, Gender Focal Point and Gender Advisor courses, aimed at building awareness and strengthening leadership capacity throughout the force.Captain Divina also outlined several policies that have been developed or are currently being progressed, including policies on sexual harassment, parental leave, accommodation, grooming standards, fraternisation among members and unacceptable behaviour.A major focus of the directorate's work is the prevention of sexual and gender-based violence, both within the workplace and at home. Through awareness programs, policy reforms and partnerships with government agencies and support organisations, the PNGDF is working to create safer environments for its members and their families.Captain Divina said Gender, Peace and Security is not simply about increasing the number of women in the force but ensuring that both women and men are given equal opportunities to contribute, lead and participate in decision-making.She encouraged military families to continue supporting the initiatives being implemented across the PNGDF, adding that lasting change can only be achieved when everyone works together to create a more inclusive, respectful and effective Defence Force.

Mrs. Elvin Iramu, President of the Joint Forces Academy Military Wives Association, has called for stronger family support measures and improved reunion arrangements for serving personnel during the 9th Bi-annual Military Wives Convention currently underway in Port Moresby.Mrs. Iramu, whose husband serves as a Physical Training Instructor at the Joint Forces Academy, was among delegates presenting issues and recommendations on behalf of families living in Igam Barracks.She said the week-long convention has provided an important platform for military wives to share their experiences, raise matters affecting their families and contribute ideas that could help strengthen support systems within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.Mrs. Iramu said one of the most valuable aspects of the convention is the opportunity for military wives from different barracks across the country to meet and build lasting relationships."Our husbands often know each other because they have trained and served together throughout their careers, but as wives we rarely have the opportunity to meet and connect," she said.Mrs. Iramu said the convention allows women to establish support networks, share experiences and maintain communication with families from other military communities.Representing Igam Barracks, she highlighted the importance of reunion arrangements for personnel serving away from their families, particularly those attached to training institutions or deployed on operations for extended periods.She said maintaining strong family connections contributes positively to the wellbeing of both serving members and their loved ones and supports a stable home environment.Mrs. Iramu encouraged continued discussions on ways to strengthen reunion arrangements and family support initiatives, noting that military families play an important role in supporting personnel throughout their service.She said the convention provides a constructive avenue for military spouses to share recommendations and contribute to ongoing conversations about the welfare and wellbeing of Defence Force families.Mrs. Iramu also acknowledged the important role played by chaplains, commanding officers and Defence Force leaders in listening to the concerns and suggestions raised throughout the convention.She expressed hope that discussions and recommendations from this year's gathering would continue to contribute to efforts aimed at strengthening military communities and supporting families across the country.Faith and fellowship, she said, remain central to military family life and continue to provide encouragement and strength for women supporting serving members.Mrs. Iramu described being a military wife as both a privilege and a responsibility, saying the convention has empowered women to embrace leadership roles within their families and communities.She said the convention theme, "Arise Esthers: for Such a Time as This," serves as a reminder that military spouses have an important role to play in supporting their families, communities and the wider Defence Force.The Military Wives Convention continues throughout the week, bringing together more than 300 delegates from military units nationwide to discuss ways of strengthening support networks, promoting family wellbeing and enhancing the role of military spouses within the Defence Force community.

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) could see a more inclusive approach to supporting military families in the future, with discussions emerging around expanding the Military Wives Convention to include spouses of all serving members.The idea was raised during the 9th Biennial Military Wives Convention currently underway at in Port Moresby this week, where more than 300 delegates from military units across the country have gathered for the week-long event.Licensed Officer Lieutenant Jasmine Numbuk said the convention has traditionally focused on wives of serving Defence Force members, but changing family dynamics within the organisation may require a broader approach in the years ahead.She noted that the Defence Force now has more women serving in uniform, with some married to civilian husbands who are also affected by military postings, deployments and the demands of Defence Force life.Lieutenant Numbuk said there is growing recognition that support programs should reflect the changing makeup of military families and provide opportunities for all spouses to participate in discussions that affect their lives.She said the convention's theme, "Arise Esthers for Such a Time as This," has encouraged participants to reflect on their roles not only as supporters of serving members, but also as leaders within their families and communities.For Lieutenant Numbuk, one of the most significant aspects of the convention has been witnessing women confidently share their experiences and contribute ideas that could help shape future policies within the Defence Force.As a female officer serving in a traditionally male-dominated institution, she said listening to military spouses has provided valuable insight into a different style of leadership centred on support, understanding and family wellbeing.She said military wives play an important role behind the scenes, helping serving members remain focused on their duties while managing responsibilities within the home and community.Throughout the week, delegates are participating in leadership discussions, faith-based activities and cultural programs that highlight the contribution military spouses make to the overall success of the Defence Force.Lieutenant Numbuk said the convention is not only about discussing current issues but also about preparing for the future by ensuring spouses have a stronger voice in conversations that affect military families.She added that recommendations from this year's gathering could help shape future conventions and strengthen recognition of the vital role spouses play in supporting the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.With participation continuing to grow, organisers believe the event will remain an important platform for leadership development, representation and inclusion within the wider Defence Force community.

More than 300 military wives and mothers from across Papua New Guinea have gathered in Port Moresby for the 9th Bi-annual Military Wives Convention for a week-long event aimed at strengthening support systems for Defence Force families and addressing issues affecting life within military communities.Hosted by the Force Support Battalion (FSB) Military Wives, the convention brings together women from various Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) units to discuss challenges, share experiences and contribute recommendations that could help improve the welfare of military families.Licensed Officer for the convention, Lieutenant Jasmine Numbuk, said the gathering provides a valuable opportunity for Defence Force dependents to voice concerns and participate in discussions that directly impact their lives.She said the convention serves as an important platform for understanding the realities faced by families living in barracks and allows Defence Force leadership to gain greater awareness of issues affecting dependents.Throughout the week, participants will engage in presentations, panel discussions and awareness sessions covering a range of topics including gender-based violence, mental health, family welfare, lifestyle diseases and administrative matters affecting military families.Lieutenant Numbuk said the planning process involved identifying key concerns within barracks communities and inviting organisations that could contribute to addressing those issues. These include health professionals, welfare agencies and specialists involved in domestic violence prevention and family support services.She explained that military wives often experience many of the same challenges and are in a unique position to provide practical recommendations on how those issues can be addressed.As part of the convention, surveys will be conducted among military wives, female soldiers and military couples to gather information from different perspectives. The findings will help ensure recommendations are evidence-based and reflect the needs of the wider military community.Lieutenant Numbuk said the Defence Force hopes to use the information collected to develop programs and strategies that promote stability within barracks and strengthen support systems for serving members and their families.She added that military spouses play a critical role in supporting Defence Force personnel and that understanding their experiences is essential to maintaining strong and resilient military communities.The convention will conclude later this week with delegates presenting recommendations that will be submitted to Defence Force leadership for consideration.

The Uni Piggies Rugby Football Club produced a solid performance in Round 9 of the Capital Rugby Union (CRU) competition, with the club's A Grade side leading the way with a convincing 22-10 victory over Defence on Saturday.The senior side delivered a disciplined and determined display throughout the match, controlling key periods of play and capitalising on scoring opportunities to secure the 12-point win. The result adds valuable competition points to Uni Piggies' campaign as they continue to push for a strong finish to the season.The day began with the Under-20 clash at Field 1, where Defence narrowly defeated Uni Piggies 3-0 in a closely contested encounter. Despite creating opportunities, the young Piggies side was unable to break through a resilient Defence outfit.In the Under-23 match, Uni Piggies put up a spirited effort but fell short, going down 5-3. The match remained competitive from start to finish, with both teams battling hard for possession and territory.While the junior grades were unable to secure victories, the A Grade side ensured the club ended the day on a positive note. Their strong attacking play and defensive commitment proved too much for Defence, allowing Uni Piggies to claim an important win in front of their supporters.The mixed results see Uni Piggies take one win from three matches against Defence in Round 9, with the club now turning its focus to the next round of the CRU competition as they look to build momentum in the weeks ahead.

The Kulumata Circuit in Port Moresby city is strengthening its focus on youth development by encouraging young people to take active roles in church leadership and activities.Vice Chairman David James said youths are being mentored and given opportunities to organise and lead church programs as part of ongoing leadership development.He also confirmed that the circuit is sponsoring youths to attend an upcoming youth convention, with participants currently preparing and camping ahead of the event scheduled for later this month.Mr. James said the initiative is part of a broader effort to build capacity among young people within the church.“We encourage them to be part of leadership and take the lead in organising activities. Most of the organisers you see here are youth leaders. We are mentoring them and allowing them to lead,” he said.The circuit says youth engagement remains a key priority alongside its church development programs.

The Kulumata Circuit in Port Moresby city held a fundraising event yesterday during the King's Birthday public holiday, aimed at supporting ongoing church development projects and preparations for its annual Thanksgiving later this year.Vice Chairman David James said the fundraiser is part of efforts to help the circuit meet its financial targets ahead of the October Thanksgiving celebration.He said funds raised through Thanksgiving will be directed towards key church priorities, including the completion of a church building and plans to acquire additional land for future development.“We are doing fundraising for Thanksgiving, which falls in October this year. We have targets to meet, so these activities are helping us work towards those goals,” Mr. James said.“These collections go towards the church projects. We still have a building to complete and land we are working to acquire.”Kulumata Circuit Treasurer Ms. Natasha Kedamwana said the fundraising is part of the circuit’s structured plan leading up to Thanksgiving, with members working towards a set financial target each year.“Basically, this foundation is towards our Thanksgiving. By September we should be coming up with the amount that the church has set. So, we work towards that every year,” she said.She added that today’s event marks the first fundraising activity for the year, with more planned in the coming months.“So basically this is our first fundraising and there’ll be more coming,” Ms. Kedamwana said.The event featured volleyball and darts competitions, as well as children’s games, bringing together families, youth, and church members in a day of activities and fundraising.Mr. James said this is the first fundraising activity for the year, with another planned for early September.

The race for finals positions in the Capital Rugby Union (CRU) competition is heating up after seven rounds, with several divisions shaping up for an exciting second half of the season.In the Pepsi Premier Grade competition, Brothers remains the team to beat, maintaining their unbeaten record and opening up a six-point lead at the top of the ladder. Valley Hunters sit in second place, while Harlequins and MBB Marlins currently occupy the remaining Top Four positions.Despite Brothers' strong start, the battle for finals places remains wide open. Nova, Crusaders and Juggernauts are still within reach of the Top Four, while Wanderers and University will be looking to build momentum as the season progresses.The Pepsi A Grade competition continues to be one of the closest contests in CRU this season. Defence holds onto the top spot, but only five competition points separate first and fourth place. Harlequins, Kone Sharks and University remain firmly in contention, with a single result capable of reshaping the standings in the coming weeks.In the Moni Plus Under-23 Boys division, Wanderers continue to lead the competition despite suffering their first loss of the season. MBB Marlins remain second, while Defence's Round Seven victory has pushed them into third place and within striking distance of the ladder leaders. Brothers currently hold the final Top Four position, although several clubs remain in the finals hunt.Kone Sharks continue their unbeaten run in the Moni Plus Under-20 Boys competition and remain the pace-setters after seven rounds. Wanderers are close behind, while Valley Hunters and Defence round out the current Top Four. With only six points separating second and fifth positions, the race for finals rugby remains highly competitive.In the NiuPower Open Women's competition, Valley Hunters have made an impressive start to the season and sit alone at the top of the ladder after three rounds. Juggernauts and Nova are also unbeaten and share second place on points, ensuring the competition remains tightly contested in its early stages.No matches were played in the NiuPower Under-20 Girls competition over the weekend. Juggernauts and MBB Marlins remain unbeaten and share top spot, while Nova and Kone Sharks continue to position themselves as strong finals contenders.With several divisions separated by only a handful of points, the battle for finals places is expected to intensify as the CRU season enters its crucial middle stages. While Brothers and Kone Sharks have established themselves as the teams to catch in their respective competitions, many clubs remain within striking distance, setting the stage for an exciting run toward the finals.

Harlequins have strengthened their hold on top spot in the Capital Rugby Union A Grade competition following Round 6, but the race for the minor premiership remains wide open.The ladder leaders continued their unbeaten season with a 22-5 victory over Ruswin Crusaders, moving to 22 competition points and maintaining a narrow advantage at the summit.However, Defence are breathing down their necks, sitting just one point behind on 21 points after six rounds. Defence kept their title hopes alive with a hard-fought 15-10 win over Theodist MBB Marlins and remained firmly in contention for top spot.The bigger story is Defence's quest to return to Premier Grade rugby. Currently competing in A Grade, the club is working towards earning promotion back to the top division, making every match and every competition point crucial.Elsewhere, Kone Sharks continued their strong campaign with a 15-0 victory over Fincorp University Piggies, while Chemcare Juggernauts edged SWG TSI Valley Hunters 5-0 to remain among the leading contenders.Kramer APAC Brothers also secured a 23-5 win over MR Ethan Wanderers.Round 6 Results•     Kone Sharks 15-0 Fincorp University Piggies •     Kramer APAC Brothers 23-5 MR Ethan Wanderers •     Harlequins 22-5 Ruswin Crusaders •     Defence 15-10 Theodist MBB Marlins •     Chemcare Juggernauts 5-0 SWG TSI Valley Hunters A Grade Standings After Round 61.    Harlequins – 22 pts 2.    Defence – 21 pts 3.    Juggernauts – 18 pts 4.    University – 18 pts 5.    Kone Sharks – 17 pts With only five points separating first and fifth, A Grade is emerging as one of the most competitive competitions in CRU this season.Juggernauts, University and Kone Sharks remain within striking distance of the leaders, ensuring the ladder could change dramatically from week to week.As the competition heads into the second half of the season, the battle for the minor premiership is shaping up as one of the most intriguing races in CRU rugby.The question now is: who will finish on top of A Grade in 2026? Will Harlequins hold their advantage, or can Defence complete their push back towards Premier Grade rugby by claiming the minor premiership?

Kramer APAC Brothers remain the team to beat in the Pepsi Capital Rugby Union (CRU) Premier Grade competition after extending their unbeaten run to six straight victories in Round 6.The competition leaders defeated Ruswin Crusaders 29-15 to maintain their perfect record and strengthen their grip on top spot on the ladder.While Brothers continue to set the pace, the battle behind them is emerging as one of the most exciting storylines of the season.Harlequins moved into second place following a hard-fought 18-16 victory over Chemcare Juggernauts, while Theodist MBB Marlins kept their unbeaten record intact with a convincing 24-13 win over MR Ethan Wanderers.SWG TSI Valley Hunters also continued their strong form, edging Fincorp University Piggies 13-10 in a closely contested encounter.Round 6 Results:•     Kramer APAC Brothers 29-15 Ruswin Crusaders •     SWG TSI Valley Hunters 13-10 Fincorp University Piggies •     Theodist MBB Marlins 24-13 MR Ethan Wanderers •     Harlequins 18-16 Chemcare Juggernauts With Brothers unbeaten, Marlins yet to suffer a loss and both Harlequins and Valley Hunters continuing to collect crucial wins, the race for finals positions is beginning to take shape.As the competition moves into the second half of the season, attention is turning to which club is best placed to challenge Brothers' dominance and potentially end their winning streak.