As Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate its 50th Independence Anniversary, the NCSL Savings & Loan Society has reminded members that its loan products are available to provide financial confidence during this important national occasion. The loan facilities ranging from borrowing limits equal to members’ savings, up to five times their savings balance are structured to suit different financial needs, - 1:1 Loan – borrow up to savings balance (14% p.a.) - 1:2 Loan – borrow up to twice savings balance (20% p.a.) - 1:5 Loan – borrow up to five times savings balance (26% p.a.) NCSL said the loans are designed to assist members with family commitments, small business needs, or customary obligations during the busy Independence period. At the same time, the Society continues to emphasize the importance of saving regularly, noting that stronger savings histories improve members’ eligibility and borrowing power. Digital platforms such as MyNCSL Online, the mobile app, and *USSD (628#) have made access to both savings and loans easier, especially for members outside main centers. NCSL stated that the combination of saving and responsible borrowing remains central to its mission of supporting members in building long-term financial stability.

The Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant (MBOP) continues its nationwide expansion with New Ireland Province officially joining as the newest provincial chapter. The announcement follows the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the New Ireland Pageant Committee and the national MBOP PNG on Tuesday, 9 September 2025. The Miss Bird of Paradise New Ireland Pageant Committee, chaired by Sylvia Pascoe, will work closely with the New Ireland Student Associations at the University of Papua New Guinea and Pacific Adventist University. Representatives, including Sylvia Mishiel Uku and colleagues from UPNG NISA, attended the signing ceremony. Deputy Chair of the MBOP PNG National Committee, Ruby Kerepa, congratulated New Ireland for taking the bold step to join the platform. “As MBOP PNG continues our vision to ensure participation of all 22 provinces in this year’s pageant, we are proud to welcome New Ireland Province. Your willingness to join this journey affirms our vision of a platform that truly represents our country and its diverse cultures,” Ms. Kerepa said. The Miss Bird of Paradise New Ireland Pageant will select a contestant to represent the province at the national event in December. Aspiring contestants will apply through a provincial selection process, while provinces unable to host full-scale pageants will nominate representatives. The MBOP PNG committee extended its congratulations to New Ireland Province and wished them success in their preparations.

The PNG Lewas delivered a sensational performance today at Albert Park 1, defeating the Philippines by a staggering 168 runs in Day 2 of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific Qualifier. Electing to field first, the Philippines were unable to contain PNG’s explosive batting lineup. Captain Brenda Tau and star Konio Oala led the charge, propelling PNG to a record-breaking total of 224/1 in 20 overs. Konio Oala was the standout performer, smashing 130 off 71 balls*, including 23 fours and 2 sixes, while Naoani Vare contributed a solid 49 off 40 balls. Brenda Tau finished the innings not out on 31 off just 13 deliveries, striking at an extraordinary rate of 238.46. In response, the Philippines struggled against a relentless PNG bowling attack from Pauke Siaka who was the bowler of the day, claiming 5 wickets for just 1 run in 3.4 overs, dismantling the opposition with precise deliveries. Hane Tau and Henao Thomas were also impressed, taking two wickets each and keeping the scoring rate under control. The Philippines were bowled out for 56 runs in 19.4 overs, with Karri Keen top-scoring with just 19 runs. Amelia Valdez was run out by Isabel Toua and Brenda Tau, while Alex Smith was dismissed early by Hane Tau, highlighting PNG’s dominance across batting and bowling. Konio Oala’s fearless batting and Pauke Siaka’s devastating spell ensured the Lewas’ victory, earning Oala the Player of the Match award for her outstanding performance. The match featured remarkable individual contributions but was ultimately defined by the cohesive team effort that saw PNG dominate every department of the game. This victory underscores PNG’s continued dominance in the East Asia Pacific Qualifier and showcases the growing strength and skill of the Lewas in international women’s cricket. The Lewas’ record-breaking total and clinical bowling display set a high benchmark for their upcoming fixtures, inspiring future generations of female cricketers in Papua New Guinea and across the region.

A smooth transition of leadership has taken place within the Central Provincial Administration as Mr. Bala Kapa officially assumed the role of Acting Provincial Administrator, succeeding Mr. Edward Kila after a handover takeover ceremony at the Governor’s Boardroom at Konedobu, Port Moresby city on the 5th of September. The event was witnessed by the Central Governor, Rufina Peter, senior officials from the Department of Personnel Management, the Central Province Traffic Authority, and members of the provincial executive management team. Mr. Kila, who served one year and nine months as Acting Provincial Administrator, steps down as he approaches the mandatory retirement age of 65. Governor Peter explained that under Public Service Commission rules, his acting term could not be extended. She thanked him for his service and emphasized the importance of unity during the transition period, adding that a larger farewell ceremony would be held later. Deputy Secretary and Acting Secretary of DPM, Mr. Vele Ravugamini, praised the leadership shown during the ceremony, describing it as “one of the best handover-takeover events” he had witnessed. He said the unity displayed among the administration was a model for the country. “It’s not about us as individuals or occupying a bigger office, it’s about humility, unity, and serving our people.” In his final remarks, Mr. Kila reflected on his 42 years of public service, thanking the Governor for her support and urging his successor to remain committed to delivering services. He revealed plans to dedicate his retirement to family, church work, evangelism, piggery farming, and consultancy. Incoming Acting Provincial Administrator Mr. Kapa, who previously served as Deputy Provincial Administrator for Corporate Services for over a decade, acknowledged his predecessor and outlined his priorities. “We only have 14 months to deliver, so as an Administration we must put our heads together to support the Governor and meet the targets set by the Government of the day.” Mr. Kapa officially assumes office on Monday, 8 September 2025, with a mandate to steer the province forward until a permanent appointment is made.

The newly formed Basketball National Referees Association has successfully completed a two-day training program in Port Moresby, marking a major step in lifting the standards of officiating across Papua New Guinea (PNG). Led by Association President Mr. Charles Morola, the training was held at the Taurama Aquatic Centre on the 8th-09th September along with combined classroom sessions with on court practice. Participants ranged from new officials to experienced referees, all focused on enhancing technical skills, discipline, and professionalism. “Referees must be on top of their game. The sport is highly technical, and there is no room for emotional reactions. Time management and continuous learning are key to improving.” He praised the rise of a new generation of referees including, pioneering women Betty Angula and Marca Muri, whilst also acknowledging mentors such as Ronnie Mea, Slieve Mohu, and Ishmeal Kekeao who joined from Lae to support the sessions. Formed earlier this year under the Basketball Federation of PNG, the Association is led by Mr. Morola alongside Vice President Peter Mendi Mope, Treasurer Lucy Abel, and Secretary Anna Mope. Since taking office as president, Mr. Morola has conducted referee development programs in Mt. Hagen, Aiyura Valley, and Madang. “This is only the first step in the right direction. With commitment and collaboration, we will continue to raise the game to FIBA standards.”

Nasfund Contributors Savings and Loans Limited (NCSL) is helping students in East New Britain province develop good financial habits through its recent Young Minds Savings Campaign. The campaign, which ran from August 25 to 29, aimed to teach the value of saving to students at Kokopo Secondary School, Malaguna Technical Secondary School, and Kerevat National High School. During the event, NCSL staff spoke directly with students about the importance of saving, even in small amounts. According to Delma Bualten, NCSL's Area Manager for the NGI & Southern Region, the message was simple. “We are here to help young people understand that saving even a kina a day can make a real difference over time.” Students were encouraged to save K1 daily and track their progress, with the goal of depositing their savings into an NCSL account once they become eligible. The campaign also introduced students to NCSL's digital services, with some signing up for the MyNCSL Member Online platform. Teachers and school leaders praised the program and expressed interest in expanding it to include more staff in the future. Beyond just banking, the campaign is part of NCSL's broader effort to prepare young people for their future. “We are proud to be part of their journey.” “This initiative highlights NCSL's dedication to financial literacy, community outreach, and member support, with the goal of fostering a new generation of financially responsible Papua New Guineans.”

The PNG Lewas have kicked off their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier campaign in style, defeating Japan by 45 runs in Suva, Fiji today. Batting first at Albert Park 2, the Lewas posted a solid 139 for 4 in 20 overs. Konio Oala top-scored with an impressive 50 from 39 deliveries, earning her the Player of the Match award. Japan’s reply was spirited, with opener Haruna Iwasaki blasting 31 runs from 17 balls, but the PNG bowlers held firm. Isabel Toua was the standout, taking 3 wickets for just 8 runs, while Geua Tom added 2 for 23. Pauke Siaka (1/4) and Mairi Tom (1/15) chipped in with key breakthroughs as Japan was dismissed for 94 in 19.5 overs. The Lewas’ sharp fielding, which included three run outs, underlined their determination and secured a convincing opening victory. Captain Brenda Tau praised her side’s discipline and composure. “It was a tough and competitive match against Japan, and we thank them for giving us a good challenge. I am very proud of how the team played today, especially our bowlers who executed well. We look forward to carrying our flag high until the qualifiers end,” Tau said. Cricket PNG congratulated the team for their strong start and urged continued focus as the Lewas push for World Cup qualification. The Lewas now prepare for their second match against Vanuatu tomorrow, Wednesday, 10 September, at Albert Park 2 in Suva.

Trukai Industries Limited has reaffirmed its support for the Morobe Provincial Agricultural Show, committing more than K133,000 as a Champion Sponsor for this year’s event. The country’s leading rice manufacturer and distributor said its sponsorship reflects a long-standing commitment to agricultural development, knowledge sharing, and cultural celebration in Papua New Guinea. Head of Trukai Industries, Andrew Grace, said the company was proud to continue its partnership with one of the nation’s most celebrated regional events. “We are honoured to be the Champion Sponsor of the 52nd Morobe Show, an event that celebrates culture and promotes agricultural innovation in PNG,” Mr. Grace said. This year, Trukai’s sponsorship includes K121,000 in cash, two tonnes of rice for sing- sing groups, and merchandise for participating cowboys. As part of its Champion Sponsor package, Trukai will also showcase its Village Sustainable Livelihood concept, highlighting the company’s work to promote food security and community-based agriculture. Visitors to the Trukai Village at the show will also see a mini rice plot, demonstrating the stages of rice planting, alongside displays and branded merchandise. Mr Grace said the event provides an opportunity for the company to engage with communities and share knowledge on sustainable farming practices. “Our sponsorship will support agricultural exhibits and competitions, and we look forward to sharing the important work we do at Trukai,” he said. The 62nd Morobe Provincial Agricultural Show will be held on Saturday, September 13, and Sunday, September 14, 2025. Trukai has been a long-time supporter of the show, which remains one of PNG’s premier events celebrating agriculture, livestock, and cultural heritage.

Cricket has been Helen Koita Atai’s lifelong passion and now she has made history as Papua New Guinea’s first female international cricket umpire. From village fields to the world stage, her journey is inspiring a new generation in a sport where women are breaking barriers. Born on 7 July 1983 and raised in Hanuabada Village, Port Moresby, Helen’s path reflects resilience, determination, and love for cricket. She began her playing career in the Port Moresby Cricket Association with Mariners CC in 1996, later joining Coasters CC in 2000. Her talent soon earned her a place with the national women’s team, the PNG Lewas, where she represented her country at major tournaments including the 2006 EAP Women’s Cricket Qualifier in Port Moresby and the 2008 Global Women’s World Cup Qualifier in South Africa. After her playing days, Helen transitioned into officiating in 2008, beginning at club level in Port Moresby before formally joining the PNG Cricket Umpires Association in 2012. Her steady rise saw her officiating across senior men’s and women’s domestic matches, junior grades, social competitions, and national tournaments such as the Isuzu T20 Smash. Helen’s commitment to growth has seen her complete numerous training courses and workshops from her first Level 1 Umpires Course in 2008 under veteran Lakani Oala, to advanced sessions with international educators including Dave Orchard, Steve Bernard, Daryl Harper, and Robert Parry. In 2024, she further honed her skills under ICC Master Educator Muhammad Qureshi alongside PNG senior umpires Alu Kapa and Oala. Her international debut came in 2014 at the ICC U19 Men’s East Asia-Pacific Trophy in Queensland, Australia. Since then, Helen has officiated at prestigious tournaments including the Pacific Games in Port Moresby (2015), ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers in Samoa (2016), and most recently the 2025 Pacific-Aus Sports Cricket Tournament in Port Moresby. Reflecting on her journey, Helen said “I am so proud but humbled to be the first PNG woman umpire at the international level following the footsteps of my male counterparts, Lakani Oala and Alu Kapa, whom I have learnt so much from.” She acknowledged that every international assignment brings new challenges but sees them as opportunities to grow. “Standing alongside World Cup umpires is a great achievement for me and helps upskill my umpiring techniques.” Now aged 42, Helen continues to push boundaries. On Saturday 6 September, she travelled to Fiji to officiate at the ICC East Asia Pacific Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers another milestone in a career built on perseverance and passion. Helen remains committed to encouraging more women to follow in her footsteps. “I encourage women folks out there to take up umpiring as it is and can be rewarding.” She credits Cricket PNG, the ICC, and the EAP region for their recognition and support, while paying tribute to her mentors and trainers for their guidance. For Helen Koita Atai, umpiring is not just about officiating games but also it is about representing PNG with pride and proving that women can stand tall in all areas of the sport.

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) Air Transport Wing (ATW) in Port Moresby city, drew massive crowds today during its highly anticipated Static Aircraft Display as part of the Defence Week celebrating the country's 50th Independence Anniversary. Most of the attendees were youths from the nearby ATS Blocks, along with families of PNGDF personnel from ATS Military Barracks, Murray Barracks, Taurama, and Goldie Barracks. The event kicked off at 9 a.m. and continued until 3 p.m., showcasing aircraft from the Papua New Guinea Air Force alongside visiting aircraft and pilots from the Royal Australian Air Force and the Royal New Zealand Air Force. The display gave the public an up-close look at military aircraft, as well as an opportunity to interact with pilots and crew, sparking enthusiasm and curiosity, especially among younger attendees. Among the crowd who spoke to PNG HAUSBUNG was Sterick Hayara, who resides at Skyview, along with Ezikiel Togango and Andrew from ATS last block. They were full of energy, taking advantage of the school holidays to spend their first weekend break at the event. Sterick shared his excitement: “I’ve always been curious about military planes because they are unique when they fly in the sky, unlike our Air Niugini passenger planes. So today was a chance I had to take to have a close look.” Andrew added by noting it as an event that is part of the 50th Anniversary “Nothing much to say, but the reason I had to attend is because this is part of our country’s 50th Independence celebrations.” The event brought together families for quality time and gave youths the opportunity to satisfy their curiosity about Defense Force aircraft. The group was also fortunate to meet the DC flight attendant of the RAAF C-130J, who gladly shared his experience with Andrew and Sterick “Being a part of the RAAF has always been a dream since I was a kid. Now I’ve been with the Air Force for six years, and it’s pretty cool because I get to live my dream and serve my country.” The Static Aircraft Display is the second-to-last event of the PNGDF Week-long celebration, which will conclude tomorrow.

PNG Lewa have kicked off their much-anticipated Brisbane tour with a combination of training sessions, trial matches, and team-building activities that have highlighted both their skill and strong team spirit. The tour began with the team’s arrival in Brisbane, where the Lewas quickly settled in and prepared for an intensive training and match schedule. Their second day was devoted to refining technical skills, with a net session and dedicated fielding drills that showcased the players’ commitment and energy. Day three saw the Lewas take to the field for their first trial matches against Queensland Premier Select at Sangate Cricket Club. In the T20 format, the Lewas impressed by posting 5/175 in their 20 overs while restricting their opponents to 2/100, claiming a convincing victory. Captain Brenda Tau led from the front with a stunning century, scoring 104 runs. Later that day, in a T10 trial match against the same opposition, the Lewas again dominated, chasing down the target with ease at 2/114 against Queensland’s 5/60. Top scorers included Konio Oala with 34 runs, Naoani Vare with 31, and Holland Doriga with 29, while Isabel Toua delivered a bowling masterclass with a hat-trick. On day four, the team took a break from competition for a refreshing ferry ride along the Brisbane River to South Bank, followed by a psychology session led by Maverick from QC, designed to strengthen the players’ mental approach to competition and teamwork. The action continued on day five with another T20 trial match against Queensland Premier Select at Albany Cricket Club, allowing the Lewas to fine-tune their strategy and cohesion ahead of the upcoming qualifiers. The Brisbane leg of the tour wraps up on 7 September, when the Lewas will travel to Fiji to compete in the Women’s EAP World Cup Qualifiers.

The skies above Ela Beach came alive this morning in a spectacular air show celebrating Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary, showcasing the nation’s growing military capabilities and international partnerships. The event featured aerial displays by the PNGDF Air Transport Wing, Air Niugini, and partner air forces from Australia, New Zealand, France, India, and Tonga. Thousands of spectators, along with international partners, joined in the celebrations, which highlighted modern air power and shared Pacific pride. Emphasizing the collective efforts of partnerships, particularly with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) since 2020, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col) Nancy Wii, Director of Air Preparations for the PNGDF, reflected on the milestone moment. “We have revived our air capabilities in partnership with the Royal Australian Air Force since 2020, and today we showcase what our team has achieved. The air show today is a collective effort by our partners who are here to celebrate our 50th anniversary,” Colonel Wii said. Lt. Col. Wii, who has served in the PNGDF for 20 years, highlighted the growth of the air wing, noting the introduction of three PAC 750 aircraft and the Flight Specialist Program, which has trained pilots, loadmasters, and movement personnel. “These aircraft form the foundation for the future Air Force of PNG,” she added. A strong focus of Lt. Col. Wii’s address was the participation of women in the Defense Force. “So far, there are about 200 females across our three services, with 15 serving in areas of aircraft engineering, movement, personnel, and support. I am currently the only female pilot, and we would like to see more women join the ranks.” She urged young girls to pursue careers in aviation and defense, drawing inspiration from her own journey by growing up in a village in Jiwaka Province, earning her pilot’s license in New Zealand, and rising to leadership within the PNGDF. The event also marked the first public demonstration of PNGDF’s parachute dropping capability, with aircraft specially equipped for in-flight open-door operations. Colonel Wii noted that the Air Wing is also building capacity for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Looking ahead, she revealed plans to recruit more female pilots, encouraging young women to see the PNGDF as an equal-opportunity employer. “Nothing is impossible for women. I hope to have 10 more females in aviation before I retire,” she said. Supported by international partners, the Ela Beach Air Show combined thrilling aerial displays with a powerful message that Papua New Guinea’s Defense Force is modern, capable, and open to all regardless of gender.