Mahlon WINSTON

Papua New Guinea’s national airline, Air Niugini, has reaffirmed its commitment to celebrating the country’s rich cultural heritage by coming on board as a sponsor of this year’s Hiri Moale Festival.Announcing the recent partnership, the airline’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Alan Milne emphasized the importance of supporting cultural initiatives that promote unity and pride among Papua New Guineans.“I am truly proud to continue our support of the Hiri Moale Festival and, most importantly, the Hiri Hanenamo quest.”“We have been involved for several years now, and it is our privilege and pleasure to continue that support.”As part of its sponsorship, Air Niugini will sponsor the 2026 Hiri Hanenamo winners on a memorable holiday cruise to three Pacific Island nations including Fiji, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands.The newly crowned Hanenamo Queen will travel to Fiji, while the first runner-up will visit Vanuatu, and the second runner-up will journey to the Solomon Islands.Mr. Milne emphasized that this initiative transcends sponsorship, highlighting the airline’s role in supporting cultural preservation.“This is much more about partnership and sponsorship,” Milne stated. “We at Air Niugini believe we have a responsibility to support initiatives that celebrate and preserve our nation’s diverse cultural heritage.”“Our support is also a recognition and acknowledgment of the Motu-Koita people as the traditional custodians of the land where we operate.”“We are privileged to operate from this land and to be part of this community,” he added. “Through our continued partnership with the Hiri Moale Festival and the Hiri Hanenamo quest, Air Niugini is proud to stand alongside the Motu-Koita community in celebrating culture, empowering our people, and preserving our heritage.”Meanwhile, Motu-Koita Chairman and Deputy NCD Governor Mr. Russell Simon Wavik, expressed his gratitude for Air Niugini’s support, emphasizing the importance of the festival as a celebration of identity and unity.“On behalf of the Motu-Koita Assembly and the people of Motu-Koitabu, I sincerely thank Air Niugini for their valued support towards the Hiri Moale Festival.”“This festival is more than a celebration; it is a platform to promote cultural pride, unity, and participation among our youth. Your partnership is vital in helping us achieve these goals.”Mr. Wavik highlighted that the festival also aims to educate and reconnect the community with its history, particularly through the re-enactment of the Hiri Trade voyage, an ancient maritime trade route established by their ancestors.This year’s Hiri Hanenamo contest has also introduced new measures to ensure safety and respect for the contestants, who are selected based on strict criteria including completing formal education up to Grade 12 or higher.Thirteen young women would participate in the quest, with modifications made to the dress code to ensure their protection amid modern safety concerns and technological advancements.“For safety reasons and to discourage discrimination, we have decided that contestants will wear clothing covering from the waist down,” Wavik explained.“It is important that we respect and protect our young women while celebrating their role in our culture.”In closing, Mr. Wavik extended heartfelt gratitude to the leadership of Air Niugini and the broader community, expressing hope for continued partnership.“May God bless your operations, your partnership, and our mutual efforts to promote our culture and heritage.”“Together, we can ensure that the spirit of the Hiri Moale Festival endures for generations to come.”The Hiri Moale Festival continues to serve as a vital cultural showcase, with corporate support including Air Niugini who continues to play an essential role in safeguarding and celebrating Papua New Guinea’s unique traditions.The 2026 Hiri Moale Festival will run from September 8th-13th in Port Moresby, with Ela Beach serving as the main event hub for the week’s festivities.

In a significant boost to this year’s Hiri Moale Festival, WR Carpenters Group announced its role as the official gold sponsor, reaffirming its commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural heritage.The announcement was made during a ceremony held on Thursday, September 03rd, at the Boroko Motors Showroom, highlighting the importance of community, tradition, and corporate partnership in preserving the nation’s identity.Mr. Boe Dairi, General Manager of WR Carpenters Group, expressed pride in their association with the festival, emphasizing the cultural significance of the event.“The Hiri Moale Festival is more than just an annual celebration. It is a powerful expression of our culture, heritage, identity, and traditions.”“It provides an important opportunity for showcasing the rich cultural history of Papua New Guinea, particularly the traditions of the movement people.”The group’s sponsorship will include logistical support such as transportation assistance including trucks and light vehicles, to facilitate the movement and activities associated with the festival.“As a group of companies, we are proud to support an event that brings our communities together and provides an opportunity for our culture to be celebrated, preserved, and shared with future generations.”This support aligns with WR Carpenters Group’s broader commitment to community development and cultural preservation, reinforcing its role as a responsible corporate citizen in Papua New Guinea.Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Russell Simon Wavik, Chairman of the Motu-Koita Assembly and Deputy NCD Governor, who acknowledged the vital role of corporate support in making the festival a success.“We came here purposely seeking support from business houses to help us make this event possible.”“It is my great pleasure on behalf of the Motu-Koita Assembly to sincerely acknowledge and thank Bronco Motors for their generous support towards the Hiri Moale Festival.”He expressed gratitude for the substantial contribution of 22 vehicles from Boroko Motors, which include 19 vehicles for the road and motorcade, two buses for the Hiri-Hanenamo celebrations, and one vehicle for logistics.“This is a substantial contribution and will greatly assist us in ensuring that the festival is conducted in a safe, organized, and dignified manner.”He also highlighted the importance of partnerships such as these, stating that support from Boroko Motors and WR Carpenters Group demonstrates a sense of corporate citizenship and a genuine commitment to working alongside our communities.Concluding his remarks, Wavik extended sincere gratitude to the management and staff of both companies, emphasizing the role of such partnerships in strengthening cultural identity and community cohesion.The Hiri Moale Festival continues to be a vital platform for celebrating and preserving the culture of the Motu-Koita people, with corporate support playing an increasingly important role in ensuring its success and safety.This year’s celebrations will take place from September 8th to 13th, 2026, centered at Ela Beach (Era Kone) in Port Moresby.

The PNG Chiefs are set to mark a significant milestone in the club’s history with the unveiling of its official logo at a special ceremony in Port Moresby on October 21.This event heralds the next chapter for the club as it prepares to enter the NRL in 2028.Built on the pillars of pride, ambition, and a deep connection to Papua New Guinea’s people, culture, and passion for rugby league, the new logo will serve as a unifying symbol for the nation.It aims to foster a strong identity for the club both on and off the field as it continues to establish itself as a representative of PNG.Designed in consultation with local PNG design experts, the logo reflects the spirit of the PNG Chiefs and embodies the values the club stands for. It will become the emblem that carries the club into its bright future.PNG Chiefs Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lorna McPherson, emphasized the significance of the upcoming event, describing it as a watershed moment for the club and a proud day for rugby league in Papua New Guinea. “For a club that has had many special moments to date and will have many more to come in the future, this will be a remarkable occasion of celebration – not only for the PNG Chiefs but for Papua New Guinea as a whole,” McPherson said. “Our logo will give our club a recognizable identity and symbol that our players, staff, sponsors, community and supporters can resonate with and truly call their own.”“It represents where we have come from as a nation, the values we will stand for as a club, and the future we want to build together for all Papua New Guineans.”“This is a logo that belongs to the entire PNG Chiefs community. It is a mark of pride for Papua New Guinea and for everyone who has believed in what this club can become, and we are incredibly excited to walk into the next era of the Chiefs in this way.”The unveiling of the logo will be followed by the launch of the club’s inaugural jersey, which will be revealed and made available for purchase on October 22.The jersey has been proudly designed by a local artist and team, with careful consideration given to affordability and accessibility for all Papua New Guineans.

After taking her Oath of Office today and creating history as the first female Public Prosecutor of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, Ms. Helen Roalakona expressed her commitment to reform, build capacity, and uphold the rule of law while in office amid ongoing challenges facing the nation.In her first address to the media as the Public Prosecutor, Ms. Roalakona emphasized the importance of her role and the support she has received.“Today has been a significant event for me and for the Office of the Public Prosecutor, having been sworn in to take on the office as the first female public prosecutor for Papua New Guinea,” she stated.“The role is not a very light role. I understand the weight that comes with it and I think what is reassuring is the support of the government and recognition of the Office of the Public Prosecutor and the role it plays.”Ms. Roalakona understands that the pressure is on and acknowledged her former boss for having confidence in her ability to do the job.“I take on the role as a human being who can do the job. So, I take it on with that confidence.“We’re at a stage with the country's current situation of law and order, and especially with the country being placed on the grey list, where a lot of attention has been given to the lack of prosecutions. It is an important time for the Office of the Public Prosecutor to step up, to carry out its mandate, and to uphold the rule of law.”Her immediate focus is on strengthening the operations of the office which she now occupies.“We hope that within the tenure of my appointment, we are able to achieve, firstly, strengthening the operations of the Office of the Public Prosecutor to increase our manpower and capacity, essentially to meet the demands of the country, to respond positively to the country's position with the grey listing, and being part of the strategy to take the country out of the grey listing are some of our important priorities during the tenure of my appointment,” she said.The new Public Prosecutor also highlighted the Office’s regional engagement.“In the recent past, we’ve engaged with our Melanesian partners, where we have signed MoUs with the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. We intend to provide assistance and capacity building to our neighbouring countries, our Melanesian brothers, to strengthen their capacity and share our skills.”She reaffirmed the unique status of the Public Prosecutor’s Office in PNG, as a very unique law office, where they are the only Prosecutor’s Agency in the country with powers to take on very seriously, and ensure to exercise and to control that power according to the law.Despite being a small team, she expressed confidence in her staff and for the support she has received over the past 12 months during her acting tenure. She also thanked and acknowledged her two deputies for their support and ensuring the operations during her acting tenure ran smoothly.Looking ahead, she outlined her strategic vision for the next six years.“Our overall objective is to raise the standard of prosecutions in this country, to increase our skills and capacity, and to deliver prosecution services that are effective and efficient for the people of Papua New Guinea,” she said.Institutional reform and expansion are also on the agenda.“Currently, we have about 11 provincial offices, and we aim to increase that to at least 15 or 20, especially in provinces with resident judges and high volumes of criminal matters,” she added.“This will require an increase in manpower, and we have approval to recruit the right people to fill these positions. It’s part of our five-year corporate plan to expand our presence into all provinces, especially where the need is greatest.”Her appointment marks a new chapter for the Office of the Public Prosecutor and the nation’s justice system.“It is an important time for the Office to step up and meet the demands of the country. We are committed to strengthening our institution and delivering justice for all Papua New Guineans.” Roalakona concluded.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) marked a significant moment in its legal history today with the official swearing in of Ms. Helen Roalakona as the country’s first female taking charge of the Office of the Public Prosecutor.The emotional swearing-in ceremony was witnessed by Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika and Minister for Justice and Attorney General Pila Niningi, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Ms. Roalakona’s legal career.Ms. Roalakona had served as Acting Public Prosecutor following her appointment to the position in 2025.Her appointment as Public Prosecutor was subsequently announced in August this year by Minister Niningi in his capacity as Chairman of the National Judicial Council.Congratulating Ms. Roalakona, Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika reflected on his own experience as a public prosecutor, acknowledging that the role was demanding and carried significant responsibility.Sir Gibbs reminded the new Public Prosecutor that the Office of the Public Prosecutor is the prosecuting authority of Papua New Guinea, with a constitutional responsibility to administer criminal prosecutions independently and in the public interest.He said the Public Prosecutor’s Office plays an important role in representing the interests of the people of Papua New Guinea in criminal proceedings, including ensuring that accused persons are prosecuted fairly and that the law is applied without fear, favour or improper influence.Sir Gibbs described Ms. Roalakona’s appointment as a historic occasion and wishes her and her team success as they take the Office into its next chapter.Justice Minister and Attorney General Pila Niningi also congratulated Ms. Roalakona, describing her appointment as well deserved.Mr. Niningi said he was confident that Ms. Roalakona would provide strong leadership and guide the Office of the Public Prosecutor into a new era of professionalism, accountability and effective prosecution.In her first remarks after taking the oath, Ms. Roalakona identified strengthening the prosecution of public corruption cases as one of her immediate priorities.She said addressing corruption was critical to restoring public confidence in the country’s justice system and would also contribute to Papua New Guinea’s efforts to address concerns associated with its grey-listing status.As Public Prosecutor, Ms. Roalakona will have responsibility for overseeing the prosecution of criminal offences on behalf of the State, providing legal direction to public prosecutors, determining whether and how serious criminal matters should proceed, and ensuring prosecutions are conducted fairly, independently and in accordance with the law.Her office also plays an important role in protecting the integrity of the criminal justice system by ensuring that prosecutions are based on sufficient evidence, safeguarding the rights of accused persons while representing the public interest, and working with law enforcement and other justice-sector agencies to strengthen the administration of criminal justice.Ms. Roalakona’s appointment comes at a time when Papua New Guinea is seeking stronger action against corruption and greater public confidence in its justice institutions.Her immediate focus on public corruption prosecutions is therefore, expected to place the Office of the Public Prosecutor at the centre of efforts to strengthen accountability and the rule of law in the country.

Police in East New Britain (ENB)are on high alert and in-search of under a dozen suspects that are responsible for vehicle hijacking and armed hold-up at a store in Rabaul on Monday August 31st, at approximately 12, midday.From reports received from ENB Provincial Police Commander, Chief Superintendent – Amanda Kates, a PMV bus from Malex 2 was held up by up to 12 youths, armed with bush knifes and a homemade gun.A number of school students were also on-board the PMV bus at the time of the incident. Fortunately, none of the students were harmed.The incident has raised concerns about community safety and ongoing law enforcement efforts in the region.After seizing control of the vehicle, the offenders used it to stage a daring hold-up at Lings Store in Rabaul. The thieves enter the store and took all the cash registers. Fortunately, the management of Lings had most of the cash, leaving only small amounts in each register.The suspects then escaped the scene in the stolen PMV bus, resulting in a high-speed chase by police and Ling’s security contractor, NKCL Security.The stolen vehicle was later abandoned near Malaguna 1 in a drain, adjacent to the local workshop. During the attempt to evade police, one of the suspects was shot and injured by police officers. The injured suspect was taken to Nonga Hospital, where he is receiving medical treatment. His condition remains undisclosed.According to Chief Supt. Kates, the criminals, shot and injured one of the students while trying to evade capture; however, this is yet to be confirmed as police are still continuing their investigations.Community members are urged to provide any information that might assist police with their investigation. The police force remains focused on ensuring that such violent acts are addressed swiftly and effectively.

At the official launched of the K8.35 million water rehabilitation project yesterday, in Elevala village, Port Moresby, NCD, a concerned NCD Governor, Powes Parkop challenged Water PNG to step up in its services and enough with the excuses.Governor Powes Parkop emphasized the critical importance of basic services, particularly water, as the foundation of community well-being, economic prosperity, and national progress. He declared that Water is Life, underscoring that without access to clean and reliable water, communities cannot thrive, and the city cannot develop.The project focuses on rehabilitating pipelines in Ward 1, covering communities from Elavala, Hanua Bada, Rabiagini, Gabi, Tatana, Araira, Kokou, and surrounding villages. It is part of a broader government effort to address decades-old infrastructural deficiencies that have hindered the city’s growth and service delivery.“The capacity of our water systems was built many years ago and is now inadequate for our expanding city,” Governor Parkop explained.“We need to plan better for the future, ensure high standards, and provide reliable water to support our people, businesses, and industries,” Parkop said.Governor Parkop also highlighted the need for strategic planning and urged Water PNG to elevate its standards, advocating for future-ready infrastructure that can accommodate population growth and urban expansion.He called for a comprehensive approach that includes alternative water sources, such as developing new catchments and water reservoirs, to reduce reliance on aging systems.Furthermore, the governor criticized past management of water services and stressed that the government will pursue policies to ensure that basic utilities like water, electricity, and sanitation are prioritized and efficiently delivered.He announced plans to establish standalone water supply systems for villages and communities that are underserved, including a soon-to-be-commissioned bottled water project in Pari.As climate change and phenomena such as El Niño threaten water security nationwide, Governor Parkop emphasized that the city must develop resilient and sustainable water systems.“We cannot rely solely on external sources; we must be proactive and innovative in safeguarding our water supply,” he urged.The launch of this water rehabilitation project signifies a renewed focus on essential service delivery, recognizing that access to clean water is fundamental to improving living standards and fostering sustainable urban growth.The government’s commitment to infrastructure modernization aims to set a standard for the nation and inspire broader development initiatives.This project marks a pivotal step toward ensuring Port Moresby’s future as a resilient, well-served city, capable of meeting the needs of its growing population and economy.

In a significant step towards ensuring the integrity of the upcoming National General Election, the East New Britain Provincial Police Command held a major mobilization and training session today at the Provincial Headquarters (PHQ) in Kokopo.Chief Superintendent Amanda Kates, East New Britain Provincial Police Commander, announced that 175 police reservists have officially undergo specialized preparation for NATEL 2027 (National Electoral Task Force). The operation is designed to support the Electoral Commission in maintaining peace, order, and security during the electoral process.The training exercise was notably strengthened by the presence of staff from the Electoral Commission, marking a crucial collaborative effort between law enforcement and election officials. This partnership aims to streamline communication and operational protocols, ensuring that both entities are synchronized in their mission to protect the democratic process.Chief Supt. Kates noted that the inclusion of Electoral Commission staff underscores the shared responsibilities and a unified approach to safeguard the votes of every citizen in East New Britain.Kates also emphasized that the primary objective of this mobilization is to create an environment where voters can participate without fear or intimidation.“Our goal is clear, let us make NATEL 2027 a free, fair, and safe election. We ask for the cooperation of all citizens as we work together to uphold the sanctity of the ballot box.”The East New Britain Provincial Police Command urges all community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities or the Electoral Commission directly. By working together, the province can ensure a peaceful and successful electoral outcome.

Five senior public officials in New Ireland Province have been arrested and charged over the alleged misappropriation of K908,839.50 in Tuition Fee Free (TFF) funds, while a sixth person has been charged with money laundering.The arrests followed an investigation by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) into alleged financial abuse involving TFF funds allocated to New Hanover Secondary School (NHSS) between 2021 and 2024.ICAC said the investigation began after a complaint was lodged by a concerned citizen over the alleged misuse of education funds.Those arrested and charged include Fredrick Mahisu, who served as principal of New Hanover Secondary School from 2021 to 2024; Apollo Pangasa, Coordinator Subsidy with the National Department of Education attached to the New Ireland Provincial Administration; Benson Apelis, Director for Education; Wesley Siangat, Director Education; and Lindsay Eruel, Provincial Examination Officer.Also charged is Shirley Nathasa Perry, the wife of Mahisu, who faces a money laundering charge.ICAC alleges that Mahisu submitted inflated student enrolment figures to the Department of Education in Waigani, resulting in excess TFF payments being made to New Hanover Secondary School through the Provincial Subsidy Office.The commission said the Provincial Government later identified the overpayment after comparing the payments with the school”s actual enrolment figures. The surplus funds were subsequently withheld as “outstanding” subsidy payments.It is alleged that Mahisu, who had access to pre-signed cheques for the school account, made significant unauthorized cash withdrawals.ICAC further alleges that the withdrawals were facilitated by approval letters from a Provincial Education officer to BSP Kavieng, and that Mahisu allegedly paid the officer for the approvals.The investigation also alleges that some officers pressured the Subsidy Office to release the withheld money as outstanding subsidy payments, which Mahisu would allegedly withdraw and deposit into personal accounts.According to ICAC, of the K908,839.50 allegedly misappropriated, K278,268 was allegedly deposited into Mahisu's personal account, while K307,098.60 was paid to his company.The commission alleges a further K114,822.90 was spent on four vehicles; K64,450 was transferred to Perry, and K144,200 was allegedly paid to other officers.Mahisu and Perry were arrested in Kokopo and appeared before the Kokopo District Court, where both were granted bail. Their matter was listed for mention later in September.Pangasa, Apelis, Siangat and Eruel were arrested in Kavieng and have also been granted bail by the District Court.ICAC Acting Commissioner, retired Judge Don Sawong, thanked the Provincial Police Commanders, including the Divisional Commanders for East New Britain and New Ireland, as well as the New Ireland Provincial Administration, for their cooperation during the investigation.The arrests form part of ICAC's ongoing efforts to investigate alleged corruption and protect public funds from misuse.All accused persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court of law.

A major K8.35 million water rehabilitation project, was launched in Ward 1 of the Moresby North-West Electorate to improve access to clean, safe and reliable drinking water for thousands of residents across several coastal communities.Launched yesterday in Elevala village, Port Moresby, NCD, the project will rehabilitate, upgrade and expand the existing water supply network, benefiting communities in Hanuabada, Elevala, Gabi, Mirigini (Badihagwa), Tatana-Araira, Baruni, Koukou and Sasiva.In Elevala Village, Motu-Koita East, the project is expected to address years of inadequate and unreliable water infrastructure, with about five villages in the area set to benefit from an improved water supply system.The project is being delivered through a counter-funding partnership involving the National Government, National Capital District Commission (NCDC), Motu-Koita Assembly, Moresby North-West District Office.An upfront payment of K2.5 million has been made to the contractor, Monier PNG Limited, allowing construction work to begin.The project was initiated by the Member for Moresby North-West, Lohia Boie Samuel back in 2021, when he won the seat in the By-election.The project follows an assessment conducted in 2021, which identified ageing infrastructure, inadequate water access, water rationing, significant water losses and a lack of proper metering as some of the major challenges affecting communities in the area."Under the rehabilitation program, ageing distribution pipelines will be replaced and upgraded, while the existing water network will be expanded to improve supply capacity and reliability," he said."Existing water tanks and pump stations will also be refurbished to strengthen the system and enable it to meet the needs of a growing population."A key objective of the project is to reduce the water rationing experienced by communities and work towards providing households with a continuous 24-hour, seven-day water supply.The project will also address water losses through the rehabilitation of ageing infrastructure and the introduction of proper water metering," said Boie Samuel.This means that communities currently classified as unbilled consumers will be transitioned to a metered system, enabling accurate billing, improved revenue collection and greater accountability for water supplied.The design also includes improvements to water delivery for communities located on higher ground, where inadequate water pressure has been a longstanding problem.Fire hydrants will be installed as part of the upgraded network, providing additional fire protection infrastructure and improving community safety.All these will be done by the project Contractor, Monier Limited, who has the latest and improved construction materials.According to Monier Representative, Mr. Anup Singh, the pipes they will be using are scientifically tested and proven as ecofriendly and will last for 50 years.For residents of Elevala and neighbouring villages, the project represents a significant investment in basic infrastructure and community wellbeing after years of challenges associated with inadequate water supply.The initiative is also expected to contribute to improved public health by providing communities with greater access to clean and safe potable water, reducing the risks associated with unreliable or unsafe water sources.The Moresby North-West Member has indicated that Wards 7, 8, 10 and 11 are expected to follow after the successful completion of the Ward 1 project.The broader objective is to progressively improve water supply services across the electorate and ensure communities have access to reliable, adequate and sustainable potable water.The Ward 1 project is therefore, being regarded as an important step towards improving the health, safety and quality of life of communities across Moresby North-West.

After a decade of near misses and consistent top-tier performances, Canberra-born golfer Josh Armstrong finally conquered his demons, securing his first-ever Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia victory at the 2026 PNG Open.The triumph, that was held on Sunday, August 30, at the Royal Port Moresby Golf Club, marked a significant milestone in Armstrong’s career and serves as a proud moment for PNG golf, highlighting the nation’s increasing influence on the regional sporting stage.The event was elevated by high-profile attendance, including special guests NRL legend Jarome Luai and Prime Minister James Marape, underscoring the tournament’s growing prestige.Armstrong entered the final day just one shot behind Queenslander Louis Dobbelaar, setting the stage for a tense showdown.The breakthrough began early on the back nine, where Armstrong surged into the lead with a dramatic eagle on the par-5 ninth hole, followed immediately by a birdie on the tenth.His display of resilience and precision seemed to signal that the long wait for a title might finally be over.However, the 27-year-old faced critical tests later in the round. A costly bogey on the short 13th hole, combined with a double-bogey on the par-4 14th, briefly unraveled his advantage.The error allowed Victorian challenger Lachlan Aylen to close the gap, creating a three-man battle for the crown heading into the closing holes.Armstrong’s experience proved decisive when it mattered most. Regaining his composure after the double bogey, he made pars on the 15th and 16th to stabilize his position.The defining moment of the day arrived on the 17th, where Armstrong executed a remarkable recovery shot from dense vegetation, sinking a crucial 10-foot birdie putt to reclaim a one-shot lead.With momentum on his side, Armstrong closed out the tournament with a steady par on the 18th, finishing with a final-round score of three-under 69.He ended the week at 14-under par, two strokes clear of joint runners-up Dobbelaar and Aylen.This victory is more than just a trophy; it is a career-defining achievement for Armstrong, who had previously recorded six top five finishes, including a tie for third place at the Heritage Classic in April.By topping the Challenger Tour’s Order of Merit, Armstrong has earned automatic entry into two of Australia’s premier golf events: the Australian PGA Championship and the Australian Open.Lachlan Aylen’s second-place finish guarantees him additional opportunities in the upcoming season, while Louis Dobbelaar is poised for an exciting summer of competition following his strong showing.The 2026 PNG Open has not only showcased PNG’s potential to host world-class events but also highlighted the country’s ability to produce and support elite golfers.

A fire destroyed a storage shed at the Rabaul Volcano Observatory after strong winds whipped the fire from a nearby hillside towards the building.According to reports received by PNG HAUSBUNG from authorities on ground, the fire broke at around 12:00PM.It is believed the wind whipped a spark of fire onto the building that quickly spread. Fortunately, the fire did not spread to the nearby buildings.The East New Britain Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Amanda Kates, reported that the fire services arrived on scene after an hour in which they were able to control the remaining fire from spreading to other buildings.The storage shed was completely burnt down to ashes including a boat that was kept in the shed. No injuries were reported.A formal investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the fire and other necessary or additional findings.Attempts to reach Rabaul Volcano Observatory Director were unsuccessful as his phone remained off.