Army Engineers from Townsville Champion Infrastructure Revival on Manus Island
The community of Manus Island has expressed gratitude to the Townsville’s 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment for their efforts in rebuilding infrastructure during the Exercise Puk Puk initiative in Papua New Guinea. The project saw collaboration from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force Engineer Battalion and the British Army. They jointly celebrated the refurbishment of facilities at Lombrum Naval Base, which were enhanced to uplift the living standards of its residents.
In a span of six weeks, the team diligently worked on mending stairs, roads, decks, ensuring electric wire safety in residential areas, and revamping a schoolroom for the children of PNGDF personnel based there.
Commander Buni Lorea of PNGDF expressed his gratitude for the swift and efficient work and voiced his hopes for the Australian Army’s future involvement. He emphasized the importance of such projects, particularly in ensuring uninterrupted learning for children during inclement weather. “The efforts bolster our children’s education, and I’d like to see the team return,” he remarked.
He also shed light on the significance of this joint endeavor in strengthening the bond between Australia and Papua New Guinea. “The presence of Australians, particularly during Puk Puk, has solidified our bond. This collaboration epitomizes the essence of a robust partnership,” Commander Buni noted. “Working shoulder to shoulder, exchanging ideas and understanding each other’s cultures is pivotal in forging strong ties.”
Captain Helena Sorial of the Australian Army reflected on the value of the Exercise Puk Puk experience, which has been ongoing for two decades. “Every session with PNGDF has been enlightening. It’s more than just skimming the surface as tourists do. We immerse ourselves in their culture, work hand-in-hand and gain a profound appreciation for their way of life,” she stated.
Following the completion of their tasks, the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment partook in cultural celebrations, including traditional dances and Mumu feasts. As they prepare to depart from Lombrum Naval Base in the forthcoming weeks, they will bid adieu to their PNGDF allies and set their sights on the next chapter of Exercise Puk Puk, scheduled for 2024.
