The Information Management division of APCS (Asia Pacific Communication Specialists) may be new, but it comes equipped with more than three decades of experience in PNG information compliance and governance.

Better known across PNG for their expansive range of IT products and services, as well as business internet, APCS’s foray into the world of information management comes ready-made to meet PNG’s governance and compliance requirements.

This is something that APCS’ Senior Information Consultant, Christine Noske, says is often overlooked in digital transformation projects.  

A highly experienced information management consultant, Christine boasts more than 30 years’ experience in helping PNG enterprise and public sector navigate through the complex world of compliance, governance, and risk management.

Now at the helm of APCS’ information management division, Christine is passing on her wealth of experience to a new generation of information specialists. 

This investment has been quick to show a return, as several government agencies have moved rapidly to take advantage of an ISO-compliant, information management framework to accompany their digital transformation activities.

When it comes to digital transformation projects, Christine explains why it’s not a good idea to simply jump into a scanning project, or procure a document software system, without the corresponding information management framework to support the process:

“In PNG’s newspapers recently, or through the rumour mill, we are more frequently seeing articles about, or hearing stories of, information being stolen or ‘lost’ or not being maintained, of not being readable or of poor quality. So how can we address these issues? Organisations should develop and implement an Information Management Framework,” she said.

In today’s information-driven world, effective information management (IM) frameworks are critical for organisations. These frameworks establish systematic processes to handle an organisation’s information from creation to disposal, ensuring compliance, information security, and operational efficiency. 

Christine says a robust IM framework is foundational to effective governance and plays a significant role in risk management by safeguarding vital information assets and supporting legal compliance whilst ensuring organisational needs are met.

Information management frameworks provide structured policies, practices, and technologies for handling organisational information which encompasses both documents and records. While documents typically refer to draft documents, records are evidence of organisational activities and transactions that require secure retention and access over time.

IM frameworks include procedures for the entire lifecycle of information - from creation and storage to access, retention, and disposal. Implementing these frameworks ensures an organisation’s information is accurate, accessible, and protected.

A comprehensive IM framework includes four key components:

• Policy Development: Clear guidelines define the handling of information across all areas of the organisation.
• Information Classification: Assigning categories to information to ensure information can be readily retrieved and are also used as a basis to determine access and retention needs.
• Access Controls: Restricting access to sensitive information and protecting against unauthorised access.
• Retention and Disposal Schedules: Structured timeframes for information retention to support compliance with regulations and business requirements.

IM Frameworks and Governance and Risk Management

Governance refers to policies and structures that guide decision-making and accountability within an organisation. Effective governance frameworks rely heavily on access to reliable, well-managed information. IM frameworks support organisational governance by enhancing transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency.

• Minimising Information Loss: Organisations face potential information loss from cyberattacks, accidental deletions, or natural disasters.  An IM framework provides secure storage, regular backups, and recovery processes, safeguarding information against loss and ensuring business continuity.
• Transparency and Accountability: An IM framework ensures information is consistent, complete, and traceable. This transparency supports audit trails, providing clear evidence of decisions and transactions. Such transparency is vital for internal governance and is often a regulatory requirement for external auditing.
• Streamlining Decision-Making: Reliable data and well-organised information improves decision-making processes.  Management relies on accurate, up-to-date information to make informed decisions.  By maintaining easily accessible, accurate information, IM frameworks streamline decision-making, increasing the efficiency of governance and business processes.
• Supporting Corporate Compliance: An organisation’s adherence to internal policies and external regulations is foundational to effective governance. An IM framework promotes consistent policy application, demonstrating an organisation’s commitment to compliance and governance. For example, retaining financial records as per regulations builds stakeholder confidence, showcasing a commitment to ethical and legal practice.
• Enabling Continuous Improvement: Ongoing monitoring of IM frameworks provides insights into areas for improvement. Regular audits, feedback loops, and compliance checks help organisations refine their IM practices, supporting continuous improvement and adaptability in governance.

IM frameworks are indispensable for organisations aiming to achieve robust risk management and governance. By systematising the handling, storage, and protection of information, IM frameworks mitigate legal, financial, and operational risks, enhancing information security, and ensuring compliance. Moreover, they lay the groundwork for effective governance by promoting transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making.

In an information-centric world, organisations with strong IM frameworks are better positioned to protect their information assets, uphold regulatory requirements, and respond adeptly to evolving challenges, ensuring sustainability and resilience.

For more information on how to get started on your organisations’ digital journey, get in touch at www.apcs.com.pg

In celebration of the company’s 75th anniversary as a Caterpillar Dealer in Papua New Guinea, Hastings Deering PNG held an event in Port Moresby to commemorate the significant milestone.

Members of the Hastings Deering PNG team, together with members of the broader Pacific Islands and Hastings Deering Executive Leadership Teams, came together with some PNG customers, partners and key stakeholders to celebrate all the company has achieved since its beginnings in Lae in 1949.  

From speeches to entertainment from local performers, to sharing insights and memorable moments over the years, the evening was a night to remember and an opportunity for many to reflect on the progress and pride displayed within the PNG business.

Hastings Deering’s Chief Operating Officer – Pacific Islands and Rental Solutions, Jason Smith, said: “Our success in PNG is a reflection of the efforts of our people and their passion, and our commitment to constantly innovate and evolve through the challenges and opportunities that have come our way in this region.”

During the evening, Hastings Deering CEO and Managing Director, Mark Scott, also spoke about the relationships and support the company has had from its customers, and how it has worked in partnership with them to drive progress, not only within their respective businesses, but across the country.

Mark also unveiled the new Hastings Deering PNG brand – A brand that retains the firm’s history but also highlights the importance of its presence within PNG and the pride that is evident among the local team.

Today, Hastings Deering PNG is an organisation of more than 300 employees, based across five sites in Lae, Tabubil, Lihir, Kimbe and its headquarters in Port Moresby.

Congratulations to the PNG Team on 75 years of operations as a Caterpillar Dealer!

Since 2007, the Head Hunters team has sourced and connected professionals worldwide to match their clients' talent and cultural needs.

With a mission to connect organisations with top-tier talent, the firm leverages extensive industry expertise and a global database to deliver exceptional results, ensuring clients find the right candidates for key positions time and again.

Head Hunters operates under a clear mission: “We Listen, We Hunt, We Deliver.” This philosophy shapes their recruitment approach, emphasising a deep understanding of each client’s needs.

For businesses aiming to elevate their hiring processes, Head Hunters offers a distinctive and effective approach that promises reliable results every time, using targeted methods that go beyond traditional recruitment.

By focusing on specific skills and experiences, Head Hunters ensures that clients receive a curated shortlist of the most qualified professionals in the market.

With over 15 years of successful placements, Head Hunters’ expertise spans sectors including finance, legal, engineering, sales, marketing, and technology. This broad industry knowledge enables them to meet diverse organisational needs, particularly for senior roles and C-suite positions.

Their commitment to understanding both the candidate and client landscapes in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia allows them to provide effective solutions from day one.

Head Hunters stands out for its strategic approach and unique operational model. Unlike standard recruitment agencies that cast a wide net, Head Hunters employs a meticulous selection process focused on each role’s specific requirements. This ensures that only the most qualified candidates are presented to clients, significantly reducing time and resources spent on hiring.

The firm specialises in placing expatriate talent in PNG, where sourcing experienced professionals can be challenging. By leveraging their network of expatriate specialists, Head Hunters provides skilled individuals ready to contribute effectively from day one.

As demand for high-calibre professionals rises, Head Hunters remains committed to its mission of excellence. By prioritising client satisfaction and focusing on quality placements, they are redefining what it means to be a recruitment partner.

Located at 339 Coronation Drive in Milton, Brisbane, and Monian Tower, Douglas Street, in Port Moresby’s town centre, this boutique recruitment firm not only serves key sectors but also fosters strong client relationships, ensuring ongoing support and communication throughout the hiring process.

Their local expertise and industry connections in both Australia and PNG make them a preferred partner for organisations navigating today’s recruitment complexities.

Connecting Australian Businesses with Top Talent

As local recruitment experts, Head Hunters is a trusted name in talent acquisition, transforming how Australian companies find skilled professionals. With a proven track record in matching businesses with ideal candidates, the firm specialises in placing exceptional talent across diverse industries.

Understanding the unique challenges of the Australian workforce, Head Hunters prides itself on an extensive database of skilled Australians. Their services include comprehensive database placements, executive searches, and an innovative express shortlisting service.

The express shortlisting service meets the needs of businesses requiring quick, cost-effective hiring solutions. Upon receiving applications, their local recruitment experts rigorously screen candidates against agreed criteria, delivering the top 3-5 candidates within a swift turnaround time for a flat fee. This approach streamlines hiring and saves businesses valuable time and resources.

Head Hunters is ready to assist, whether businesses require executive recruitment, talent sourcing, or express shortlisting services.

Leading Recruitment Solutions for PNG

Head Hunters is the market leader in recruiting PNG professionals and identifying the best-fit expatriates for PNG, with a proven track record of placing C-suite professionals across various sectors.

The firm has successfully matched organisations with top-tier talent, including Board Directors, CEOs, CFOs, IT Heads, Project Engineers, Sales Managers, Retail Managers, Commercial Managers, Legal Counsel, and Audit Managers across all regions of PNG.

Understanding the complexities of clients’ work environments, Head Hunters provides tailored recruitment solutions. The dedicated team is equipped to manage every aspect of recruitment, ensuring a seamless experience for both employers and candidates.

Their services encompass full executive recruitment, headhunting for professional candidates, and express shortlisting services designed to meet diverse business needs.

Contact Head Hunters Today

For those seeking to enhance their talent acquisition strategies, Head Hunters invites you to start your recruitment journey today. Visit their website to learn more about tailored services and discover how they can help your organisation succeed.

Companies can register job openings or call for more information on finding the ideal candidates for their PNG operations. Businesses in PNG needing assistance with executive recruitment, talent sourcing, or express shortlisting services can reach out at +675 7090 7200.

For companies in Australia, those interested in optimising recruitment processes can contact the team at +617 3368 2523 to explore how they can find the ideal candidates for their operations.

November is a month of global activism to take action and prevent all forms of violence against women. Joining this global agenda, more than 1,000 people wearing red walked the streets of Port Moresby with support from Puma Energy as major sponsors for the annual “Redvember Walk.”

This officially launched the “United to End Violence Against Women (EVAW)” campaign led by the Governor-General, His Excellency Sir Bob Dadae, and the Governor of the National Capital District (NCD), Hon. Powes Parkop.

In his address ahead of the walk, Governor-General Dadae underscored the importance of widespread participation in ending violence against women.

“This is a campaign that we all should be involved in, at all levels. I call on every citizen to join us in this vital effort,” he urged the people.

The walk, held on Sunday 10th November, was a highlight of the global 20 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). It brought together government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens in a powerful demonstration of solidarity.

Distinguished guests that attended included the EU Ambassador and Delegation, British High Commission, Australia High Commission, Delegation from US Embassy, UN RC, UN Women, World Bank, Solomon Islands High Commission, Solomon Islands Footbal team and PNG foothball team (PNG Kapuls).

Representing the corporate sector were Puma Energy Limited, Santos Foundation and Santos Limited, Commissioner of NCD Board and Citi Manger Mr Ravu Frank, DPM, ICT, RTA, PNG Trade Union Congress, Bel Isi Network, and members of the city watch teams.

The walk began at 6 AM at Sir John Guise Stadium and traversed several major roads, Ward Strip, Kennedy Road, and Goodwit Road, to the National Parliament House. It continued to the Independence Boulevard Drive, heading back to Waigani Drive, and concluded back at the stadium.

Governor Parkop, who has championed this cause in Port Moresby for the past five years, reflected on the urgency of the moment. He referenced the recent tragedy involving a young woman, the late Jessica Yori, whose death shocked the country.

“We cannot ignore these tragedies,” he said. “This is a call for all of us—government, businesses, NGOs, and citizens—to join together and make our city a safer place for women, children, and everyone.”

“This is not just about a walk. There are thousands of unheard voices out there who need our help. Let us not leave today as another Sunday walk. Let’s make a commitment to take action and support those who need it most. Together, we can make PNG a safe place to live, work, and build a better future,” the NCD governor said.

Corporate Support for the Fight Against GBV: Puma Energy

As one of the key corporate supporters of this year’s Redvember Walk, Puma Energy has made safety a cornerstone of its operations in the country.

Nancy Gah, Marketing Manager at Puma Energy, spoke passionately about the broader impact of GBV beyond the home and into the workplace. She reiterated its strong commitment to supporting the fight against GBV and spoke about the importance of collaboration, urging businesses, the government, NGOs, and individuals to join forces to tackle the issue.

“I believe that as a collective, we can achieve more. Most companies believe in this fight against GBV, and some even have their own programs. It’s time we all join hands and collaborate,” she said.

“At Puma Energy, our guiding principle is to ensure everyone goes home safely. But safety doesn’t start at work—it begins at home. If there’s violence in the household, or if people face violence on their way to work, it affects their ability to perform,” Gah explained.

“Together, we can make a difference. No woman, no child, should fear for their safety in their own home or on the streets. Enough is enough.”

Gah also highlighted the profound mental, emotional, and physical toll that violence takes on individuals. “Violence is a disease. But like many diseases, it can be cured. We must take the necessary steps to address this issue and stop the cycle of violence.”

Inaugural NCD Women’s Expo and Summit

The Redvember Walk also coincided with the opening of the inaugural NCD Women’s Expo and Summit, which ran from 9 to 13 November. The summit aims to empower women by providing a platform for dialogue on critical issues such as gender equality, women’s health, and economic participation.

It was an important opportunity for women in Port Moresby to come together, share their experiences, and take collective action to improve their lives and communities.

Governor Parkop, who chairs the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, welcomed the collaboration with businesses, the United Nations, and other partners to promote gender equality and the elimination of violence against women.

“This is not just a city issue—it’s a national issue,” Parkop emphasized. “We all have a role to play in ensuring that Papua New Guinea becomes a place where everyone can live, work, and thrive safely.”

As the walk concluded, participants were reminded that the fight against GBV does not end with a single event. Governor Parkop urged the community to continue advocating for change.

He said: “While today’s walk is an important step, it is only one part of a much larger effort to end violence against women. We must work together, year-round, to create safer communities.”

The United to End Violence Against Women campaign, which is part of the 16 Days of Activism movement, has been a powerful force for social change in the nation. With continued support from government leaders, businesses like Puma Energy, Santos Foundation and Santos Limited, civil society organizations, and individuals, there is hope that real change is possible.

Ark modular buildings are increasingly being chosen for mining and oil and gas camps due to their speed of assembly, low cost, high quality, and green credentials.  With a multitude of building configurations, Ark camps can be found throughout the world, including at some of its biggest LNG developments.  In 2010 Ark delivered its first LNG camp in PNG – a 1,000 person, multi-storey accommodation complex and support buildings assembled by a 99 percent local workforce in less than one year.  Ark camps are now scattered across PNG.

Ark’s impressive production capacity – 2,000 cabins (i.e., modular units) per month – continues to grow largely due to its substantial and ongoing investment in technology.  General Manager for Ark Pacific, Cass Ruka confirms that for a 5,000 person camp it takes a maximum of three months, upon issuance of a purchase order, to have all components delivered to site.  Moreover, given that the company manufactures and delivers in stages, the first lot of building componentry can be on site in less than one month.

Ruka explains that Ark’s production capacity is underpinned by an intelligent manufacturing system that is powered by both robotics and data analytics.  He goes on to emphasise that the same system also maximises quality.  “Not only can our robotic welders operate 24/7 and 365 days per year, but they’re incredibly precise, producing seamless and perfect welds to ensure the durability and longevity of Ark’s buildings irrespective of whether they’re needed in the jungles of PNG or deserts of Qatar.”

Ark’s investment in technology, as well as in its expanded factory facilities, enables it to manufacture at considerable scale, which means that it can bring its product to market at a low cost.  “We don’t cut corners on quality to keep prices down.  It’s our scale and our technology that enables us to price our building systems so reasonably” explains Ruka.  “We’re an ISO9001 certified company with plenty of other certifications such as our fire safety ratings to attest to the superiority of our buildings.”

In addition to the winning ‘trifecta’ of speed, cost and quality, Ark’s modular buildings also perform well when it comes to their environmental credentials.  Ark has the lowest emission rates in the world of modular construction.  Their high-tech manufacturing system keeps production waste to a bare minimum and because they are assembled (as opposed to constructed) there is no on-site pollution, wet work, or special waste disposal required.  Ark buildings are also re-purposeable and largely recyclable. 

Another important environmental advantage when building with Ark is a reduced freight footprint – up to 70 percent less than its competitors.  Six of its flat pack units are equivalent to a single standard 20 foot shipping container when stacked together ready for transport.  This means less ships, trucks, barges, etcetera when building with Ark, which in turn equates to (1) lower carbon emissions, (2) lower costs, (3) reduced degradation of local road networks, and (4) in the case of river transport systems, less water traffic and hence vessel wake erosion.

Ark has a 20-year history of delivering fit for purpose camps to oil, gas and mining developers all over the world.  It’s building systems continue to improve and evolve in accord with client requirements and international standards.  To learn more about Ark buildings in PNG, including its resource sector camp expertise and the advantages of its unique building systems: www.arkpacific.net

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has donated K550,000 to the University of Papua New Guinea’s (UPNG) Earth Sciences Division & Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction, upgrading the division’s Computer Laboratory for students and teaching staff.

The funds cover the purchase and installation of 28 desktops, seven laptops, and one uninterruptible power supply (UPS) device. Currently there are only six desktops that caters to the division’s 26 final-year students, 21 third-year students, and 20 second-year students.

Manager Mine Technical Services, James Bu, Manager Production Services, James Waisime, and Manager Corporate Affairs, Dexter Wagambie, attended the University’s Open Day on Friday October 11th to announce the donation.

Mr Wagambie said, “This donation complements OTML’s vision to create a sustainable future for our people, by positively impacting tertiary level students and mould them to be the workforce that we envision them to be in the future.”

OTML’s presence at the Open Day was also an opportunity for the three Manager’s to inspire students eager to learn more about the mine’s operations, geological activities, and training programs.

The impact of OTML’s Graduate Development Scheme on the development of graduates and the benefits that the mine operation gains from these professionals over the years was highlighted.

“The GDS Program is all about building leaders in the industry. The current Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kedi Ilimbit, including Mr Bu, Mr Waisime, myself, and many other leaders in OTML are products of the GDS program,” Mr Wagambie said.

Head of the Earth Science Division Associate Professor Joseph Espi said, “Ok Tedi is an integral part of our vision to be the best because Ok Tedi is a nationally owned company and the largest open-pit mine in PNG right now with a 98% national workforce and national CEO. These are reasons enough to inspire our students excel in their chosen fields of study.”

OTML is committed to maintaining an industry-institution relationship with key tertiary institutions, such as UPNG, to ensure they produce quality graduates that are ‘industry ready’.

iPi Group’s purified 600ml water also known as “Tenkyu.wara,” is now available for purchase at Tango Supermarket, Tokarara, Port Moresby.

Tenkyu.wara and the Tenkyu. initiative aims to promote not only healthy drinking water but also to engage clients and other business entities in a meaningful corporate social effort that empowers Papua New Guineans.

Each purchase of Tenkyu.wara directly contributes to the growth and empowerment of communities within iPi’s operational sphere, reinforcing its commitment to giving back to the communities in which they work.

iPi Group has also extended its support to other organizations by purchasing and donating Tenkyu wara as an alternate to cash donations.

Tenkyu.wara can be sold to raise funds needed by those organizations or used for events such as water stations at fun runs.

Early this year, iPi Group launched a partnership with Business for Health (B4H) to help combat TB and HIV, alleviating their burden on employees, families and communities in PNG. The profits from the sales of Tenkyu.wara goes towards supporting B4H’s efforts.

The mission of our Tenkyu. initiative is to offer a win-win-win solution that offers quality drinking water, improved health and hygiene facilities, and support for our communities.

By choosing Tenkyu.wara, you are not only quenching your thirst but also contributing to a brighter future for PNG. Remember, a little “Tenkyu” can go a long way to changing lives!

The Weir Group PLC (Weir), a global mining technology leader, has been awarded a £25m contract to provide industry-leading energy efficient, sustainable solutions to the next phase of OCP Group’s Benguerir and Louta greenfield phosphate projects in Morocco. The order will support the continued construction of the Louta project and the trebling of production from the Benguerir project, where Weir has previously provided similar separation and desliming solutions also based on our market leading WARMAN® slurry pump and CAVEX® hydrocyclone technology. The Benguerir expansion will start up following the initial phase of the project which has scheduled first production in 2024, with an estimated total mine life of more than 100 years.

The £25m contract award will be recognised in the order book during the remainder of Q3 2024. After commissioning of the equipment, aftermarket support will be provided via Weir technical experts from our Moroccan service centre, which is located close to the projects.

The receipt of orders associated with the contract award does not result in a change to Weir’s full year 2024 financial guidance as of 30 July 2024.

Commenting on the contract award, Jon Stanton, Chief Executive Officer of Weir said:

“We are pleased to have secured this major contract. It represents a strong endorsement of our WARMAN® and CAVEX® ranges that provide energy efficient separation at scale to support our customer’s productivity and sustainability goals. Along with our industry-leading solutions, we promise our customers world class service; our local team are delighted to continue to deliver for OCP as they commission the initial phase at Benguerir and look to expand these exciting projects.”

Weir is an innovative, end-to-end solutions provider focused on accelerating sustainable mining. Exhibiting at this year’s MINExpo, in the Central Hall Booth #8833, Weir will be showcasing its marketing-leading brands and unveiling a range of new innovative technologies and solutions.

Weir will launch its ESCO® NEXSYS™ GET Lip System for rope shovel dippers, which lowers lip maintenance requirements, extends tooth and adapter life and, ultimately, provides miners with longer uninterrupted shovel operation.

Weir will also be unveiling its new high-capacity ENDURON® ELITE screen. It’s a double-deck banana screen, available in a range of sizes, the largest of which has a deck measuring 4.3m x 8.5m and weighs nearly 50 tonnes. It’s driven by two exciters, whereas competitor machines of comparable size require three.

It will form an integral part of Weir’s commitment to deliver transformational flowsheet solutions in which traditional tumbling mills are replaced by HPGRs and vertical stirred mills, potentially reducing energy consumption by up to 40%.

Weir’s booth will feature the Digital Hub, which will highlight Weir’s digital offering – MOTION METRICS® and Weir’s new digital brand, NEXT™ Intelligent Solutions.

The new MOTION METRICS® ShovelMetrics™ Gen 3 Payload monitoring solution is designed to optimise truck loading and improve haulage efficiency by reducing both underloading and overloading. And as part of Weir’s commitment to service its customers even in the most remote locations, MOTION METRICS® systems now support connectivity via Starlink, enabling reliable data transmission anywhere in the world.

NEXT™ Intelligent Solutions extend and expand Weir’s current capabilities and transforms its process optimisation services into real-time digital solutions. Weir has developed digital packages for all of its market-leading solutions – pumps, cyclones, HPGRs, screens and hoses and spools – based around key customer needs: Insight, Uptime and Production.

The Digital Hub will use monitors to create a remote operation centre, allowing attendees to experience the same digital platforms and interfaces that Weir utilises to support its customers.
Attendees will also have an opportunity to experience an interactive scale P&H 41000XPC shovel model demonstration of MOTION METRICS® ShovelMetrics™ Gen 3, as well as a ShovelMetrics™ model control station, featuring the same touch screen monitor and controller used by operators.

Weir experts from its digital, extraction, processing, comminution, tailings, and flowsheet solutions teams will be available at the booth to continue the conversation about how Weir is partnering with customers to accelerate sustainable mining.

Jon Stanton, Chief Executive Officer of Weir said:

‘MINExpo is a wonderful event and a great opportunity to catch up with our customers and colleagues. We’ve been doing a lot of work to expand our portfolio of innovative, end-to-end solutions to help our customers produce the metals and minerals required to transition to a low carbon economy and it’s exciting to be able to show that off at the world’s largest mining show.

‘It is clear the world needs more metals and minerals but there is a recognition in the industry that we need to mine them more sustainably than we have in the past. That means using less energy, using water wisely and generating less waste. And Weir – with our world-class engineering, advanced materials science and intelligent automation – is at the forefront of helping miners do that.’

Pacific Towing (‘PacTow’) has been exceptionally busy with salvage projects in its home country, Papua New Guinea.  Melanesia’s marine services and salvage market leader performed four salvages across three separate provinces in just two months.  The salvages involved international fishing vessels as well as a domestic general cargo vessel. 

Three of the recently salvaged vessels had run aground and another was adrift at sea. Two of the vessels were towed back to the capital city of Port Moresby for repairs and the others to Rabaul in East New Britain. 

PacTow Manager Gerard Kasnari reports that “vessels running aground reefs, is the leading reason for PacTow’s salvage operations in PNG, and that this is especially so for international fishing vessels.”  Mechanical or engine failure is the second most common reason for PacTow’s salvages.

Unfortunately, an engine failure which was experienced by the cargo vessel PacTow recently salvaged occurred during unfavourable weather conditions on its approach to Port Moresby via Basilisk Passage.  Strong southeast winds from the stern pushed the ship straight onto the reef at Fisherman’s (Daugo) Island.  Two ASD tugs of 62 and 64 tonnes bollard pull were deployed from PacTow’s nearby tug base to refloat the vessel and tow her into Port Moresby.  Another of PacTow’s ASD tugs has since towed the vessel to Batam Indonesia for repairs.

The most challenging of the recent salvages performed by PacTow was of one of the international fishing vessels.  The 71 metre long tuna purse seiner had run aground on a fringing reef at Emirau Island, part of the remote Mussau Archipelago in New Ireland Province.  There was grave concern that the vessel would break up and pollute the traditional fishing grounds and coastline, thus severely impacting the local villagers.

PacTow chartered a helicopter to fly in one of its commercial diving supervisors and veteran salvage master, Ian Perrott to assess the technical requirements of the salvage.  PacTow has long partnered with Perrott Salvage on numerous projects throughout Melanesia and also in northern Australia. 

This initial stage of the project was also important to build rapport with the traditional landowners. Kasnari stresses that the establishment of trust and positive community relations is essential to the success of any salvage project taking place on PNG’s remote coastlines, especially when people are living nearby and relying on the reefs and oceans for their livelihood.   

Following the necessary planning and logistical arrangements, a tug and PacTow’s salvage team and commercial divers from Port Moresby were deployed to refloat the vessel and tow her to Rabaul.  Upon arrival in Rabaul the commercial divers were able to conduct a full hull inspection and provide the necessary reports to the vessel’s owners so that an application could be made for the vessel’s return to her flagged state.

Salvage is a core service of PacTow’s and one that frequently requires long distance towage.  Kasnari says that “many of the vessels we assist, whether they are adrift at sea due to some sort of mechanical failure, or have run aground a reef, are operating hundreds of nautical miles from any kind of port let alone major ports where there are the right kind of repair services. Sometimes we’ll tow a vessel to a small regional port for initial repairs and then we’ll do a longer tow back to Port Moresby or Lae.”

Depending on the extent of repairs required and under which country the vessel is flagged, PacTow will also transfer salvaged vessels internationally if that’s what the owners want.  At times, they’ll just provide an escort service if the vessel can travel under its own power.  

PacTow’s fleet of tugs, especially its larger and more powerful ASDs, are central to its salvage operations and long-distance ocean towage capacity.  Kasnari, points out that the purchase of most of the ASDs has been part of a strategic re-fleeting program that is now two thirds complete.  In addition to owning PNG’s largest tug fleet, PacTow has its tugs strategically deployed at each of its five operations throughout PNG, as well as in Solomon Islands, enabling it to provide a more rapid emergency response service.  The company has also established a business in Fiji.

PacTow is Melanesia’s only full member of the International Salvage Union (ISU) and is also a member of the International Spill Control Organization (ISCO).

TotalEnergies EP PNG has appointed Vavine Fay Mulina-Trusty to the newly created position of People & Services Director, effective as of September 1, 2024.

The new People & Services directorate will focus on employee management and support, maintaining a high level of service with regards to care of our people in the affiliate. Human Resources, General Services and Internal Communications all fall within her purview.

Working at TotalEnergies for the last five years, Vavine has slowly established herself, starting within the affiliate as an officer, being promoted to Human Resource Manager and now overseeing her own directorate, proving herself as a hardworking and dedicated professional within the space of human resources.

Alongside Public Affairs Manager Mr Richard Kassman and the new Head of Acceptability and External Communication, she is one of only three nationals who sits on the Management Committee, an extraordinary feat for a young Papua New Guinean woman.

Her profound comprehension of her role, coupled with her empathetic approach to employee relations, knowledge of culture and ability to harmonize these elements with corporate culture, establishes her as a standout amongst her peers.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) was recently awarded the Statement of Compliance (SOC) for its Kiunga Port, marking a significant milestone in ensuring the port’s adherence to the International Ship Port Security (ISPS) Code.

OTML Corporate Affairs Manager, Dexter Wagambie, received the SOC on behalf of the company and congratulated the OTML Asset Protection and Kiunga Operations teams who worked closely with the Department of Transport compliance team to arrive at this outcome.

“The successful achievement of this compliance status means that Kiunga Port has been assessed and certified to comply with international operational standards, with the SOC being valid for the next five years,” Mr Wagambie said.

“Congratulations to Ok Tedi and in particular, the Asset Protection Department (APD) and Kiunga Operations team for the collaborative effort in ensuring the OTML Kiunga Port operates at an international standard,” he said.

The SOC was officially presented by the Department of Transport Acting Secretary, Mathew Wowoni, and former Secretary, Roy Mumu, who played an essential role in issuing the previous SOCs.

Mr Wowoni, recognised the crucial role of the Kiunga Port in supporting both the national economy, the well-being of local communities and the importance of OTML’s contributions to Papua New Guinea.

In addition to the SOC, the Kiunga Wharf has been registered on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Website as a compliant port, reinforcing its status within the international shipping community.

OTML is committed to operating with excellence, ensuring safe and efficient shipping practices, while strengthening its operations to deliver maximum return to PNG shareholders, mine impacted communities and the people of Papua New Guinea.

The Remington Group Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Navin Raju as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Navin brings extensive experience in leadership, strategic planning, and business development to the role, and will be instrumental in guiding Remington Group's continued growth and expansion throughout Papua New Guinea.

Mr. Raju joins Remington Group with over two decades of executive experience across various industries. He most recently served as the CEO of CPL Group PNG, where he played a key role in driving the company's success. His leadership background also includes roles such as CEO of Hardware Haus Limited, CEO of Heli Niugini Limited, and senior positions at AkzoNobel PNG.

In a statement regarding his appointment, Navin Raju expressed his enthusiasm:

"I am honoured and excited to take on this new role as CEO of Remington Group. The company has a rich history of excellence and leadership in Papua New Guinea, and I look forward to working with the talented team here to further propel the organization forward. My goal is to build on the strong foundation already established, continue driving innovation, and ensure Remington Group remains a leading force in the market."

The Remington Group Board of Directors is confident that Navin's wealth of experience and strategic vision will guide the company through its next phase of growth and success.

About Remington Group:

Remington Group is one of Papua New Guinea's leading technology and solutions companies, specializing in business technology solutions, printing, and equipment services. With a commitment to quality, local talent development, and innovative solutions, Remington Group has been a key player in Papua New Guinea's business landscape for 76 years.

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, having the right talent in place is crucial for success. This is especially true in sectors where technical expertise and operational efficiency are paramount.

For over four decades, SGS has been at the forefront of providing specialised recruitment and service delivery solutions that meet the unique needs of diverse industries across different regions.

At SGS, our recruitment and service delivery teams bring a wealth of experience to various operational stages, from project inception and growth to production and ongoing operations. Our mission is simple: to deliver high-quality professionals and value-adding services that optimise your projects.

“Our unparalleled knowledge, vast network, and abundant resources, empower us to connect you with highly skilled professionals.” - Brittany Shephard, Business Manager. 

Expertise Across the Project Lifecycle and Tailored Solutions for Diverse Needs

Recognising that each project is unique, we offer tailored services to meet specific client needs.

Permanent Recruitment and Head-hunting, focuses on sourcing top-tier talent with specialised skills and providing scalable solutions with a one-off fee structure.

Contract Recruitment is ideal for flexible staffing for short or long-term projects, including global team deployments.

Local and International Payroll Solutions ensure seamless payroll management across borders, supporting regulatory compliance and multiple currencies.

Finally, Global Mobility Solutions handles logistics, visas, accommodations, and insurance, ensuring smooth international placements and contractor management.

Meeting the Challenges of a Dynamic Market 

Finding the best manpower resources, wherever your operations are based, is critical. SGS - technical staffing solutions provide specialised support tailored to the shifting demands of the local market. Our cost-effective recruitment solutions are customised to meet your needs, ensuring that your projects benefit from the right blend of technical professionals and value-adding services.

Bronte Gale, General Manager Industries, says, “We leverage our local expertise in the Australia and Papua New Guinea region, along with our global reach, to ensure exceptional service delivery that aligns with your strategic goals.”

As industries evolve, the need for adaptable and skilled professionals remains constant. With SGS as your partner, you gain access to a dedicated team committed delivering the highest standards of recruitment, payroll, and contract management services. Our solutions give you the edge to drive your projects confidently in a competitive landscape.

For further information, please contact: Brittany Shephard, Technical Staffing Solutions (Australia & PNG), Business Manager. T: +61 7 3622 4724

About SGS 

We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognised as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.

Air Niugini has officially appointed Gary Seddon as its Chief Executive Officer, following his tenure as Acting CEO. The confirmation was made by the National Executive Council (NEC) after a comprehensive selection process conducted by Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH), the airline’s shareholder.

Seddon, who has been instrumental in steering the airline through a challenging period, takes on the role permanently, having demonstrated strong leadership and a commitment to driving the national carrier forward. During his time as interim CEO, Seddon achieved several significant milestones, including the fleet replacement programme with Airbus and Boeing aircraft, the expansion of Air Niugini’s route network, and improvements in customer service. His strategic direction has positioned the airline to better navigate the competitive regional aviation market.

Air Niugini Chairman Karl Yalo expressed confidence in Seddon’s ability to lead the airline into a new phase of growth, especially with the arrival of Airbus A220s in September 2025, coinciding with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. He noted that Seddon’s leadership would be crucial in the ongoing re-fleeting process, which aims to modernise the airline’s fleet and enhance its regional standing.

Seddon, upon his permanent appointment, conveyed his gratitude to the NEC, the Prime Minister, and the Minister for State Enterprises. He emphasised his commitment to improving the airline’s operations and addressing existing challenges, while thanking Air Niugini’s loyal customers and staff for their support.

William Duma, Minister for State Enterprises, highlighted the importance of Air Niugini’s role in delivering reliable and affordable services as a state-owned enterprise. He noted that the upcoming fleet upgrades, including the purchase of Airbus A220s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners, would transform Air Niugini into a leading airline in the region, ensuring sustainable growth and delivering value for stakeholders.

Seddon’s permanent appointment signals a period of stability and ambition for Papua New Guinea’s national airline as it continues to expand and modernise.