Puma Energy recently announced plans to build a multi-purpose hall for Cheshire Disability Services at Hohola in Port Moresby. The project was officially launched on September 17 with a ground-breaking ceremony led by Governor-General His Excellency Sir Bob Dadae. The hall is expected to be completed early 2026 next year and will include a large area for residents and students, as well as office space for staff. Cheshire Disability Services provides education and care for children and adults living with disabilities in Port Moresby. General Manager of Cheshire Disability Services Gerald Bengesser, said that this is a boost to the work Cheshire does in the community. He later thanked Puma Energy for their support and said that will use this facility to run their programs and host events and trainings. “We thank Puma Energy for choosing to support our organization and for presenting the project as an Independence gift to people living with disabilities.” Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of Puma, Chairman of Puma Energy, Mr. Jiri Zrust highlighted the long-term support between the company and Cheshire Disability Services and the importance of this new project. “The company has been providing fuel support to Cheshire Disability Services for more than ten years.” “We are proud to further support the organization with a new multi-purpose hall that will provide the infrastructure necessary to help more people living with disabilities in Papua New Guinea (PNG).” The project coincides with the recent passage of the National Disabilities Services Bill in August 2025, which seeks to protect the rights of people living with disabilities. Moreover, one of the key areas the government aims to address under the bill is infrastructure for disability services. That is why the new hall is expected to strengthen Cheshire’s capacity to provide services and support to people living with disabilities in the country.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award will be introduced in Papua New Guinea following a roundtable discussion held in Port Moresby on 18 September 2025. The event was attended by His Royal Highness Prince Edward Antony Richard Louis, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape. The discussions focused on how the award program could support young people in developing skills such as resilience, leadership, and community engagement outside the classroom. For PNG, Puma Energy and the TISA Group have been named as founding partners, providing initial financial and logistical support. During the event it was announced that a pilot program will commence in 2026 with three secondary schools in Port Moresby: Jubilee Secondary, De La Salle Secondary, and Gordons Secondary School. A broader national rollout is planned after the pilot phase. The program will also receive support from the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award office in Australia. Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, said that the Award empowers youths with leadership, community engagement, and resilience, while also giving them opportunities for exposure to international institutions. “Every young person deserves the chance to discover their purpose, passion, and place in the world.” He also expressed his gratitude for the support from Puma Energy and the TISA Group. Speaking on behalf of Puma Energy, Jiri Zrust, Trustee and Chair of the World Fellowship of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation and Chairman of Puma Energy. “At Puma Energy, we are proud to be a Founding Partner of the Award in Papua New Guinea. Investing in young people is investing in the nation’s future, and we are honoured to help bring this world-renowned framework to our communities alongside the TISA Foundation.” The event was also attended by Peter Kaye, Chief Executive of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Australia, Timor-Leste, and the Solomon Islands, PNG’s Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae, Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko, Cardinal Sir John Ribat; senior officials from the Department of Education, the UK and Australian High Commissions, and representatives of Puma Energy, the TISA Foundation, and the pilot schools. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was established in 1956 and now operates in more than 130 countries. It provides young people with internationally recognized accreditation for non-formal learning and development, which is acknowledged by many employers and universities.

Trukai Industries has once again been recognized as the Best Exhibitor at the 62nd Morobe Show, marking its third consecutive win at the annual event. The Morobe Show, held over the weekend in Lae, coincided with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence anniversary celebrations under the theme “50 Years Forward.” Head of Trukai Industries, Andrew Grace, said the recognition reflects the company’s commitment to excellence and community development. “We are incredibly proud of this achievement, and I want to extend my thanks to the Morobe Show Committee for their work in organizing such a significant event,” Mr. Grace said. “This victory belongs to our hardworking staff, dedicated farmers, and the communities we serve.” Trukai’s display featured rice paddy demonstrations, milling processes, and a paddy-to-plate information centre, showcasing its focus on innovation and sustainability in the agricultural sector. Vice President of the Morobe Show Committee, William Rannie, praised the company’s ongoing contributions. “On behalf of the committee, I thank Trukai Industries for their unwavering support,” Mr. Rannie said. “Their dedication is evident in the quality of their display, which has consistently raised the bar for exhibitors and enriched the experience for visitors.” Trukai’s continued success at the Morobe Show reinforces its position as a trusted household brand and supporter of agricultural growth and community development in Papua New Guinea.

The PNG Lewas arrived in Port Moresby yesterday to a proud welcome after being crowned champions of the ICC Women’s East Asia-Pacific T20 Qualifier in Suva, Fiji. The team sealed their place at the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier in Nepal with a dominant nine-wicket win over Vanuatu in the final. They will now join nine other nations including Bangladesh, Scotland, and the Netherlands in the Global Qualifier, where four teams will advance to the Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales. Lewas captain Brenda Tau described the victory as a proud moment for Papua New Guinea, especially with the country celebrating 50 years of independence this week. "I am so proud of our team for this victory. On the eve of our country’s Independence celebrations, this win is gold. We bring home pride in our national colours,” she said. Tau also acknowledged the role of coaches, team management, Cricket PNG, the media, and fans, dedicating the win to the people of Papua New Guinea. Head coach Mahuru Dai added his congratulations to the country. “On behalf of the team, I wish Papua New Guinea a Happy Independence celebration this week. We are proud to fly the flag high,” he said. The Lewas’ success has been described as a unifying moment for the nation, strengthening the sense of pride during the Golden Jubilee Independence celebrations. Their journey now continues with preparations for the Global Qualifier in Nepal, where they will compete for one of four spots at the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup.

Port Moresby Nature Park officially reopened its Orchid Garden on September 17, marking a significant milestone in Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations. The event, held at the Park’s Café Deck, brought together government leaders, diplomats, corporate sponsors, and community stakeholders. Guests were welcomed with coffee and light refreshments before formal proceedings commenced. Chairlady of the Port Moresby Nature Park Ms. Lorna McPherson, opened the program by acknowledging the efforts of staff, board members, and sponsors who contributed to the restoration of the Orchid Garden. She described the project as “a living tribute to PNG’s fifty years of independence,” highlighting the park’s role as a conservation hub, cultural bridge, and educational space for thousands of school children. Governor of the National Capital District (NCD) Powes Parkop, also delivered remarks, stressing the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship as part of PNG’s national identity. “This garden stands as a living tribute to our nation’s fifty years of independence. It tells the cultural story of Papua New Guinea.” Governor Parkop further called for stronger collective action to protect PNG’s flora and fauna for future generations. In addition, corporate partners including Santos as the naming rights sponsor, Total Energies, Rotary, and the Brian Bell Foundation were also recognized for their contributions. Diplomatic representatives, including the United States Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, were also present for the occasion. Following after the speeches, guests participated in the official ribbon cutting ceremony and guided tour of the Orchid Garden. The garden features storyboards showcasing PNG’s cultural heritage, including a restored Lagatoi canoe contributed by Motu Koita Assembly, symbolizing unity and traditional seafaring history. Furthermore, the reopening underscores the Nature Park’s role as one of the country’s most well-maintained green spaces since its establishment in the 1970s, continuing its legacy of conservation, research, and education.

Thirteen tourists from Russia arrived in the country just in time to celebrate the nation’s 50th Golden Jubilee of Independence. Their first stop was Port Moresby’s Murray Barracks, where the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) hosted the Festival of a Thousand Tribe led by Governor Powes Parkop. The atmosphere was alive with color, rhythm, and unity. From New Ireland’s graceful dance to Madang’s cultural performance, to a powerful poem on independence from students, the visitors found themselves swept into a celebration that showcased all 22 provinces. For the entire Russian group, it was their first time travelling to Papua New Guinea and it was the best and most unforgettable introduction they could have asked for. The 13 Russian citizens were not very fluent in English, but fortunately one of them, Dave Primov, spoke more clearly than most and shared his impressions of the visit. “Today we are here to celebrate 50 years of independence of Papua New Guinea. We are happy to be here because it’s very interesting, it is a real cultural event. The people are so friendly, always smiling, and we like it very much.” He explained that the group had come for a 10-day visit to Papua New Guinea, and one of the events they plan to attend is the upcoming Goroka Show. Instead, they found themselves enjoying a mini-Goroka experience right here in Port Moresby, as every province proudly performed their dances, songs, and attire. Dave also told PNG Haus Bung, who was present during the event, that he has a personal plan to visit 129 countries and Papua New Guinea is at the top of his list because of its diverse culture. He then extended an invitation to other Travellers "I want to invite all tourists around the world please come to this celebration. It is very beautiful in Papua New Guinea. For me, this is one of the countries I have visited out of the 129 I plan to see. Because it is different. We like it a lot, and we are already speaking about coming again next year.” Tomorrow the group will travel on to Mount Hagen then drive up to experience the Goroka Show live. These 13 Russian tourists came searching for culture, and in Papua New Guinea, they found more than they expected because they found friendship, color, and pride during the country’s Golden Jubilee.

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Lewas have achieved a victory fitting of the country's 50th Independence Anniversary. The Lewas were crowned champions of the 2025 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier, following a dominant nine wickets win over Vanuatu in Suva, Fiji yesterday. Vanuatu, asked to bat first, managed 113 for nine in their 20 overs as PNG’s bowlers kept a tight grip on the innings. In reply, the Lewas made light work of the chase, reaching 114 for one in 15.1 overs. Opening batter Naoani Vare anchored the innings with a superb 57 off 47 balls, while captain Brenda Tau added an unbeaten 39 from 39 deliveries to seal the victory with nearly five overs to spare. Vare’s knock earned her the Player of the Match award. The victory means Papua New Guinea are officially the 2025 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier Champions and will now advance to the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, to be held in Nepal in January. At the Global Qualifier, the Lewas will compete for one of four coveted spots at the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales. They join a strong field of international teams 1. Nepal (Host) 2. Bangladesh 3. Scotland 4. United States of America 5. Thailand 6. Ireland 7. Netherlands 8. Zimbabwe 9. Namibia 10. Papua New Guinea This achievement caps a brilliant campaign for the Lewas, who earlier overcame Indonesia in the semi-finals final before overpowering Vanuatu in today’s grand final. The win highlights PNG’s continued dominance in the Pacific region and sets them up for the biggest stage yet a shot at qualification for the Women’s T20 World Cup.

PNG Lewas secured a thrilling victory over Indonesia to advance to the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier. Chasing 135 for victory, PNG reached the target in 19.3 overs, finishing on 136/5. Captain Brenda Tau starred with a match winning 52 not out from 42 balls, including eight boundaries, earning her the Player of the Match award. Key contributions also came from Naoani Vare (35 off 42) and Pauke Siaka (29 off 17, four fours), while Melanie Ani supported Tau in steadying the innings despite regular wickets falling. Earlier, Indonesia posted 134/3 from their 20 overs, but disciplined batting from the Lewas ensured a confident chase. With this win, PNG Lewas will face off Vanuatu in the grand final Tomorrow 1.30pm Fiji time (2:30PM PNG time) at Albert Park. The two teams will play to win in aims to secure a spot at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier in Nepal. Vanuatu booked their place in the final with a 22-run victory over Japan in the second semi-final. Led by captain Rachel Andrew, who struck a commanding 72 not out from 59 balls, Vanuatu posted 156/1 before restricting Japan to 134/6. Andrew’s form has been electric in this tournament, earlier she produced a stunning hat-trick and an unbeaten 85 against Indonesia which makes her the biggest threat to PNG in the title clash. The EAP Qualifier, hosted at Albert Park, Suva, Fiji, features eight nations, including Fiji, Cook Islands, Indonesia, Japan, PNG, Philippines, Samoa, and Vanuatu. The tournament is the region’s largest-ever women’s cricket event, with the Philippines making their ICC debut. Fans can follow live scores and streaming via ICC.tv as both teams prepare for what promises to be a historic EAP final while other matches include, 3rd Indonesia Vs 4th Japan 5th Fiji Vs 6th Samoa PNG currently holds the 13th position in the ICC Women’s T20I rankings, ahead of Indonesia at 20th.

Despite the heavy rain, the 62nd Morobe Show opened today in Lae city with hundreds of visitors attending the event. This year’s theme, “50 Years Forward,” highlights Morobe Province’s growth and resilience over five decades of cultural celebration and agricultural achievement. Among the first exhibitors was Trukai Industries, whose staff arrived at 5:00am to set up the Trukai Village. The display featured stocks, merchandise, and interactive exhibits, reflecting the company’s long-standing support for local farming communities and its efforts to engage families through food and culture. Andrew Grace, Head of Trukai Industries, said that the dedication of the Trukai team and the excitement of the community, rain or shine, truly embodied the spirit of “50 Years Forward” and highlighted the company’s pride in being part of an event that brings the Morobe community together and showcases the best of PNG. The show will continue tomorrow, Sunday, 14 September, with Trukai’s agricultural displays, merchandise sales, information centre, and charity stall at the Trukai Village. Visitors can also enjoy family entertainment, children’s activities, and a school competition at the main arena.

Mr. Lewi David, a proud father from the city of Mt Hagen has won the K20,000 Golden Ticket, becoming one of the lucky winners in Maggi Noodles Golden Tickets nationwide promotion. “I am so happy of the money I won; the happiness is killing me cause I'm going to celebrate independence and my daughter's 1st birthday,” Lewi told PNG HAUSBUNG in excitement. The win came from a simple afternoon grocery trip to the trade store nearby for oil and noodles to cook with the garden vegetables for dinner. Lewi recalled: “I went out to buy two Maggi noodles and oil to cook with garden vegetables for afternoon dinner. While cooking, I opened the Maggi packet, and the golden ticket fell out. Everyone shouted because they were also aware of the Maggi Golden Ticket by posters.” In all the excitement Lewi’s mum told him to immediately go to the city to check with the Nestlé office to confirm, but unfortunately the office was closed due to the country’s 50th celebrations. “So, I called the number on the gold ticket and Nestlé confirmed the K20,000 Golden Ticket win.” For Lewi, the timing couldn’t have been more meaningful as this Independence when the country celebrates its Golden Jubilee, his baby daughter Elizabeth's 1st Birthday is around the same time. “It’s God’s timing. I have a lot to do like paying my eldest daughter’s school tuition and celebrate my baby girl’s first birthday on September 16th. So yes, it’s God’s plan for me to win this Golden Ticket.” Maggi Noodles has long been a family favorite in Lewi’s household for years. “Maggi Noodles is my go-to meal, with garden food and egg for my baby girl, and also dinner for the family. That’s the best because it goes with everything.” As PNG marks 50 years of Independence, Lewi says his win is a blessing. “I want to thank Nestlé for this blessing. It will help me a lot. Like I said, it’s God’s plan.”

Perfect timing for Jack Bal! As Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate its 50th Independence Anniversary, Jack has become the lucky winner of the Maggi Noodles Golden Ticket prize worth K50,000. Jack living at Kamtu Y2K along Unigate, Lae Morobe Province could hardly believe his luck last evening while out for some afternoon grocery shopping at Foodmart Top Town. “It was around 5 to 6 pm when I went down to Top Town Foodmart for some shopping,” Jack told PNG HAUSBUNG. “There were posters outside about the Maggi Golden Ticket, and I thought to myself, maybe I could win this money.’” After purchasing a 6-pack of Maggi Noodles, Jack returned home to cook but never imagining that his first pack would hold the golden ticket. “When I opened it, the wrapper had a gold colour. I pulled it out and saw K50,000! I couldn’t believe my eyes. My heart was racing, and I had to take a deep breath and call my family. They told me to call the number immediately, so I decided to call first thing the next morning.” Jack confirmed his win with Nestlé PNG, and the reality soon sank in. “When they confirmed it, I felt so happy that I couldn’t contain the overwhelming joy I felt,” he said. Looking ahead, Jack has big plans for his K50,000 prize money. “I’m going to do a lot with this K50,000. Firstly, I’ll throw a party for my first-born, 4-year-old daughter, Gigi, since we never celebrated her birthday properly due to financial struggles. Then, I plan to renovate our house and take the family to the Morobe Show. Honestly, it’s perfect timing with the 50th Independence Celebration!” Jack’s win marks the first Maggi Golden Ticket winner from Lae, Morobe Province, just in time to coincide with PNG’s historic 50-year milestone. Nestlé PNG has also announced other recent winners from Port Moresby: - 1. Dianne Des – K500.00, Port Moresby - 2. Simon Mala – K500.00Port Moresby - 3. Emmie Betabete – K500.00, Port Moresby - 4. Ethel Payake – K1,000.00 Port Moresby - 5. Theresa Joseph – K1,000.00 Port Moresby The Maggi Noodles Golden Ticket promotion continues to bring excitement and life-changing moments to families across PNG, highlighting Nestlé PNG’s commitment to giving back to its customers.

A special new documentary released by KTF to mark PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary highlights the enduring partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia. The documentary is titled Trek to 50: 50 Years of Independence, A Lifetime of Friendship follows a journey along the Kokoda Track to the historic Isurava Battlefield, a site of deep significance to both nations. Produced by KTF, the film captures personal stories of Papua New Guineans and Australians whose lives and friendships reflect half a century of shared history. Senior PNG business leader and KTF Board Director Peter Aitsi shared his reflections on the milestone. “I have wonderful memories of the period leading into and after 16 September 1975. I left PNG in 1972 at the age of six to live with my adopted family in Melbourne. The significance of Independence did not really dawn on me until a school holiday visit to Port Moresby in 1976 when I was presented with my first PNG passport.” Mr. Aitsi recalled the memory as he believes the documentary is a wonderful way to contribute to PNG 50th Independence celebrations. “Over the 50 years, the bond between the two countries has matured and deepened, as can be attested by the many Papua New Guineans who have built lifelong friendships with Australians, even beyond friends to becoming family.” The film features reflections from trekkers, community health workers, teachers, students and people that are committed to shaping the country’s future. Among them was Courtneyella Dotson, a 2023 KTF Archer Leader and one of PNG’s emerging young voices. She shared on the impact of Aus-PNG partnership as a proud Papua New Guinea. “Australians and Papua New Guineans have been standing by each other before PNG got independence. We have a friendship that has lasted decades. I am proud of PNG’s independence.” Courtneyella as a young voice of change, she believes that Papua New Guineans are resilient people. “If we’re just as resilient as we have been over the last 50 years, we can go places, and I hope our friendship with Australia continues this journey over the next 50 years.” KTF Chair and former Australian High Commissioner to PNG, Ian Kemish, also joined the trek and offered his experience before PNG gain independence. “I remember Papua New Guinea before independence, and that spirit of hope in the air in the lead up to September 16, 1975. People with goodwill from Australia and PNG were working together in great excitement to prepare the way for this new independent land.” Ian believes that hope is still alive among this younger generation. “Walking to Isurava with these young Papua New Guineans, I see so much potential and thoughtfulness. I have no concern at all about PNG’s future if it’s in the hands of these people.” As Papua New Guinea marks its golden jubilee of independence, Trek to 50 honors the past, celebrates the present, and looks forward to a future built on friendship, partnership, and hope between Papua New Guinea and Australia.