Partnering with the Centre of Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) through the Young Minds Savings Campaign, Nasfund teams conducted sessions focused on introducing concepts of financial literacy and financial inclusion across Alotau, Milne Bay Province, from Sept. 22 to Sept. 24.
The campaign ended last Thursday with the team visiting selected schools, with an estimated participation of more than 800 students, teachers and locals.
The Young Minds Savings Campaign is an initiative of CEFI aimed at strengthening financial literacy, promoting positive savings behavior and introducing school-aged children to the importance of financial management.
East Cape Primary School Head Teacher Toby Toweyaga said the campaign was an opportunity for organizations such as Nasfund to provide educational information to young people, including students.
“Most of the sessions were focused on introducing students to the language and concepts of how they could save money in the future,” Toweyaga said.
He thanked CEFI and its partners for the opportunity given to the school and the surrounding communities.
East Cape ward councillor Peter David said he was grateful to CEFI for bringing stakeholders to the doorstep of their community and creating awareness of the importance of managing and saving money.
“Especially for students, this awareness has created a way forward on the importance of investing for their school fees and their future,” David added.
Nasfund Alotau Branch Officer in Charge Benjamin Manumanua said it was important for the savings culture to begin in the classroom because what children learn about money today will help determine and secure their financial future.
“The Young Minds Savings Campaign involved financial literacy, where our teams had the opportunity to encourage students to become financially responsible citizens,” Manumanua said.
The Nasfund Alotau Branch is proud to partner with CEFI, the Bank of Papua New Guinea and the Milne Bay Provincial Government in shaping financially smart young leaders.
The campaign started on Tuesday, with the team visiting Watu-no Primary School and Divinai Primary School, where more than 100 students, teachers and locals visited the Nasfund booths to find out more about its services and products.
On Wednesday, the team visited Lelehudi and Walalaia Primary Schools, delivering financial awareness sessions that included presentations on Nasfund’s products and services. The Nasfund team on the ground also provided client services where necessary at the information booths during the visits.
At the conclusion of the campaign, the team visited East Cape Primary School and continued discussions with students, teachers and surrounding communities on financial literacy and financial inclusion.
Australian electrical infrastructure partner CE Group is expanding its regional focus into the Indo-Pacific, building on its established operations and project delivery experience across the Pacific.
CE Group has taken another step in its regional growth strategy, joining the Australian delegation at the Asian Development Bank Business Opportunities Fair 2026 in Manila and contributing to discussions around the future of sustainable infrastructure across Asia and the Pacific.
The move reflects a broader direction for the Australian electrical engineering and infrastructure business: taking the experience developed across Australia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Fiji into the wider Indo-Pacific market.
For CE Group, that expansion is closely connected to the infrastructure challenges already familiar across the Pacific-energy security, resilient infrastructure, remote delivery, local capability and the need for stronger partnerships between government, development institutions, industry and communities.
Infrastructure investment is moving
The scale of planned investment across the Pacific demonstrates the opportunity ahead. At the Manila forum, ADB outlined a US$3.652 billion active Pacific portfolio, a further US$3.686 billion program for 2026–2029, and a US$469 million procurement pipeline for 2026–2027.
Transport, energy, water and urban infrastructure represent some of the largest areas of current ADB investment in the Pacific. But the regional conversation is increasingly extending beyond the infrastructure asset itself.
Climate resilience, local participation, workforce capability, supply chains and long-term economic value are becoming central considerations in how infrastructure is planned and delivered.
These are areas where CE Group sees a direct connection between its Pacific experience and the wider Indo-Pacific market.
Pacific experience provides the foundation
Delivering infrastructure in the Pacific requires a different operating model. Distance, logistics, workforce availability, local supply chains and the capacity to operate in remote environments can influence every stage of delivery.
For CE Group, regional growth has therefore been built around developing capability on the ground rather than approaching the Pacific as an extension of the Australian market.
Its regional footprint now includes operations across Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Fiji, supported by its Australian engineering, design, manufacturing and construction capability.
That experience is shaping the company's approach to the Indo-Pacific.
CE Group's focus is not simply entering new countries. It is building the relationships, local capability and delivery networks required to operate responsibly and effectively within them.
Joining the infrastructure conversation earlier
Participation in the ADB Business Opportunities Fair also placed CE Group within a much broader conversation about where regional infrastructure investment is heading and how industry participates.
ADB's Pacific program specifically examined development priorities for the next three to five years, emerging investment areas and where greater industry capability and innovation will be required.
For CE Group, engagement at this level represents an important evolution.
The business is moving beyond responding to individual project opportunities and engaging earlier with the governments, development institutions, delivery partners and industry networks influencing the region's infrastructure pipeline.
That includes understanding where investment is being directed, the infrastructure priorities of individual countries and the role Australian capability can play alongside local and regional partners.
Beyond Borders
CE Group's Indo-Pacific direction builds on a straightforward principle: infrastructure should create value beyond the asset being constructed.
Local employment, skills development, stronger supply chains and enduring in-country capability are increasingly important measures of successful regional delivery.
As investment in energy and critical infrastructure continues across the Indo-Pacific, CE Group intends to bring its electrical infrastructure capability and practical Pacific delivery experience into those conversations.
The geography may be expanding, but the approach remains consistent-work with local people, understand the operating environment and build partnerships capable of delivering infrastructure that lasts.
Beyond Borders. Progress Through Partnership.
Westpac Pacific is investing in the future of banking across the region through its Future Banker Development Series, a dedicated professional development program designed to strengthen the skills, confidence and expertise of emerging banking professionals in Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
The six-month program reflects Westpac's commitment to developing talent across the Pacific and equipping employees with the capabilities needed to support customers in an increasingly dynamic financial environment.
Bringing together early- and mid-career banking professionals from across Fiji and Papua New Guinea, the Future Banker Development Series provides participants with access to development opportunities that draw on the experience, expertise and learning frameworks of the broader Westpac Group, while remaining grounded in the realities of Pacific banking.
The program focuses on the practical skills that underpin strong customer relationships and professional excellence, including communication, emotional intelligence, stakeholder engagement, customer conversations and personal effectiveness. Participants complete a structured learning journey that combines virtual learning, peer collaboration and practical workplace application.
Westpac Pacific is celebrating the success of its inaugural cohort, with 15 participants having completed or being in the final stages of completing the program.
Westpac PNG Head of Corporate & Commercial Banking Patrick Wright said developing banking capability is particularly important as Papua New Guinea continues to invest in economic growth and business development.
"Papua New Guinea is a market full of opportunity, with businesses expanding, industries evolving and customers requiring increasingly sophisticated financial support. Ensuring our people have the skills and knowledge to meet those needs is essential."
Wright said the program provides emerging banking professionals with exposure to proven learning frameworks and industry expertise from across the Westpac Group.
"Future Banker provides emerging banking professionals with exposure to proven learning frameworks and industry expertise from across the Westpac Group, helping them broaden their capabilities while applying those insights within the PNG context. It's an investment in the people who will help shape the future of banking in Papua New Guinea."
Wright said bringing participants together from across the Pacific also creates broader benefits for customers and the business.
"There is enormous value in learning from colleagues across different markets. Sharing experiences, ideas and perspectives helps build stronger banking professionals and ultimately allows us to deliver better outcomes for our customers, businesses and communities."
Through programs such as Future Banker, Westpac is helping build a pipeline of skilled banking professionals equipped to support the Pacific's evolving financial services sector, combining local market knowledge with development opportunities drawn from the wider Westpac Group.
Building on years of dedicated service in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB), Nasfund’s Buka team, led by Martin Numan, has partnered with staff from its Port Moresby headquarters for a major regional outreach drive.
Central to this initiative is the onboarding of 1,300 employees from Lloyds Panguna Limited. Operating from a first-of-its-kind mobile branch directly at the Panguna Mine site, the joint team is working face-to-face with workers to register new superannuation accounts, activate Member Online access and guide them through their Retirement Readiness plans.
Alongside the Panguna onboarding, the team hosted an employer workshop in Buka and a networking event in Arawa to assist local organizations with compliance and superannuation education. These forums engaged more than 20 regional employers spanning government, retail, hospitality, education and emerging industries.
Nasfund Chief Executive Officer Rajeev Sharma thanked Lloyds Panguna Limited and the participating businesses for their strong partnership.
“Nasfund remains committed to maintaining a responsive presence in AROB,” Sharma said.
“Through the collaboration of our local and HQ staff, proactive member education and accessible services, we will continue working with stakeholders to expand superannuation coverage and safeguard our members’ retirement savings.”
Nasfund looks forward to building on this ongoing success at Panguna and continuing to serve the AROB business community for years to come.
Papua New Guinea's mining, oil and gas, infrastructure and industrial sectors continue to expand, driving increased demand for reliable, efficient and flexible equipment solutions. Whether supporting a shutdown at a major mine, powering a remote workforce accommodation village, providing compressed air for construction activities or delivering reliable power to critical infrastructure, today's projects require more than equipment alone. They require solutions.
As Papua New Guinea's authorised Atlas Copco distributor, High Arctic is bringing a complete range of power and industrial equipment solutions to the market, supported by local expertise, service capability and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by businesses operating throughout PNG.
More Than a Distributor
High Arctic's partnership with Atlas Copco provides customers with access to one of the world's most recognised equipment platforms across power generation, energy storage, lighting and compressed air technologies.
However, the real value extends far beyond the equipment itself.
Every project presents different operational challenges. Remote mining operations demand reliability in harsh environments. LNG facilities require dependable backup and standby power. Infrastructure developments require flexible solutions capable of adapting as project requirements evolve. Industrial facilities seek improved efficiency, reduced operating costs and greater visibility of critical assets.
By combining Atlas Copco's world-leading technology with High Arctic's local knowledge and support capability, customers gain access to solutions designed specifically for PNG conditions.
Power Generation Solutions
Reliable power remains one of the most critical requirements for many organisations operating throughout Papua New Guinea.
Atlas Copco's generator range provides power solutions spanning temporary construction power, standby applications, remote operational support and large-scale industrial projects. Designed for demanding environments, these generators deliver reliability, fuel efficiency and operational flexibility where power availability is critical.
For customers seeking greater flexibility, High Arctic can provide both sales and rental solutions, allowing organisations to select the ownership model best suited to their operational and commercial objectives.
Whether supporting planned shutdowns, remote resource developments or long-term infrastructure projects, High Arctic can develop power solutions tailored to project requirements.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
One of the most significant developments in modern power generation is battery energy storage.
Atlas Copco's ZenergiZe battery energy storage systems are helping redefine how power is generated, stored and managed. By integrating battery storage into traditional power systems, organisations can reduce generator run hours, lower fuel consumption and improve overall system efficiency.
For operations where fuel transport and logistics represent a significant cost, these improvements can deliver substantial operational and commercial benefits.
Battery energy storage is particularly relevant for mining operations, workforce accommodation villages, industrial facilities and infrastructure projects where power demands fluctuate throughout the day.
As the market continues to move towards smarter and more sustainable energy solutions, High Arctic is well positioned to support customers through the transition.
Portable and Industrial Compressors
Compressed air remains a critical utility across many industries and is often referred to as the fourth utility behind electricity, water and gas.
Atlas Copco's compressor range supports a wide variety of applications including mining, construction, drilling, abrasive blasting, pipeline maintenance, civil works and industrial operations.
Known globally for reliability, efficiency and performance, Atlas Copco compressors are designed to operate in some of the world's most demanding environments.
Supported by High Arctic's sales, rental and service capability, customers can access compressed air solutions that deliver productivity while reducing downtime.
Lighting Solutions for Modern Worksites
Safe and productive worksites require reliable lighting.
Atlas Copco's lighting tower range includes modern LED, hybrid and solar-powered solutions designed to provide efficient site illumination while reducing fuel consumption and operating costs.
From mining shutdowns and infrastructure projects to emergency response activities and remote construction sites, modern lighting solutions play a critical role in supporting operational safety and productivity.
With increasing focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, lighting technology continues to evolve, creating new opportunities for customers to reduce costs while improving site performance.
Intelligent Equipment Monitoring
Today's equipment is smarter than ever before.
Atlas Copco's FleetLink telematics platform allows customers to remotely monitor equipment performance, utilisation, fuel consumption, operating hours, service intervals and alarm notifications from virtually anywhere.
For organisations managing equipment across multiple locations throughout Papua New Guinea, access to real-time information can significantly improve operational decision-making and maintenance planning.
Rather than reacting to equipment issues after they occur, businesses can take a more proactive approach to asset management, helping improve reliability while reducing operating costs.
Sales, Rental and Tailored Solutions
No two projects are the same.
Some customers prefer to purchase equipment as part of their long-term operating strategy. Others require the flexibility of rental equipment to support temporary projects, shutdowns, maintenance campaigns or changing operational requirements.
High Arctic's ability to provide both sales and rental solutions allows customers to select the commercial model that best supports their business.
From a single generator through to integrated power stations, battery energy storage systems, compressors and lighting fleets, High Arctic can design and deliver solutions tailored to specific operational requirements.
The opportunities are virtually endless.
Supporting PNG's Future
As Papua New Guinea continues to invest in mining, LNG, oil and gas, infrastructure and industrial development, demand for reliable equipment and energy solutions will continue to grow.
Through its partnership with Atlas Copco, High Arctic is committed to providing customers with access to world-class technology supported by local expertise, technical capability and responsive service.
The focus is not simply on supplying equipment.
It is about understanding the customer's challenge, delivering the right solution and becoming a trusted partner in their success.
Because when reliability matters, High Arctic is helping power the industries driving Papua New Guinea forward.
About High Arctic
High Arctic is the authorised Atlas Copco distributor for Papua New Guinea, providing sales, rental and service solutions across power generation, battery energy storage systems, compressors, lighting towers and industrial equipment.
Supporting the mining, oil and gas, infrastructure, utilities, construction and industrial sectors, High Arctic combines global technology with local expertise to deliver solutions specifically designed for PNG conditions.
For Further Information
Steve Macklin General Manager – Rental Equipment
Leon Townsend Sales Manager
High Arctic Energy Services PNG
Powering PNG's growth through world-class technology, local expertise and reliable energy solutions.
Pacific Towing (PacTow) is taking another significant step in its regional growth strategy, with the re-flagging of its Honiara-based ASD tug Pacific Salvor to Solomon Islands.
The move is more than a change of flag. It represents a shift from having a Papua New Guinea vessel permanently deployed into the Solomon Islands market to embedding a major marine asset within the country itself.
Once the re-flagging process is complete, Pacific Salvor will legally become a Solomon Islands vessel, fly the Solomon Islands flag and be renamed. The process is expected to take approximately six months.
PacTow General Manager Gerard Kasnari says the decision reflects the company’s long-term commitment to both Solomon Islands and the wider Melanesian maritime industry.
A major capability permanently based in Solomon Islands
Pacific Salvor is not just a harbour tug. The 50-tonne bollard-pull ASD vessel is also capable of emergency towage, salvage, wreck removal and long-distance ocean towage. It is equipped with specialist firefighting capability, enabling it to support vessels affected by onboard fires.
Recent events have already demonstrated the value of having such a vessel available locally.
When the cargo and passenger vessel MV Anjeanette caught fire at Honiara Port, Pacific Salvor was mobilised in the early hours of the morning, provided boundary cooling and towed the burning vessel away from the port and nearby fuel storage facilities.
The tug was also deployed when general cargo vessel MV Wealth broke down while under Solomon Islands police escort, requiring an emergency tow to Honiara.
Re-flagging reinforces a long-term regional strategy
The re-flagging of Pacific Salvor also sits within a much larger PacTow fleet investment program.
The company has invested PGK70 million in two technologically advanced new-build ASD tugs, Pacific Responder and Pacific Resolute.
With a 70-tonne bollard pull, Pacific Responder is more powerful than any other tug in the PacTow fleet and is equipped with advanced firefighting capability and high-powered forward and aft winches. The vessel has been designed to support not only complex harbour towage, but also salvage, emergency response and long-distance towage. A very similar vessel, but with a 60-tonne bollard pull, Pacific Resolute, further increases PacTow’s fleet capacity.
While the two new-build tugs were acquired primarily to strengthen harbour towage capability in PNG, their significance extends well beyond PNG’s ports.
In short, a stronger fleet in PNG creates a stronger fleet across the region. It improves PacTow’s ability to maintain harbour towage coverage while mobilising vessels for emergencies and major projects in other countries. In Solomon Islands, that regional investment is complemented by a very local commitment - the permanent deployment and now re-flagging of a second tug, Pacific Salvor.
Matrix Constructions PNG Limited has built its business around a straightforward proposition: combine decades of construction experience in Papua New Guinea with a predominantly local workforce capable of delivering projects across commercial, residential, infrastructure and resource-sector markets.
The Port Moresby-based company was established in 2011, but traces its PNG operating history to its parent company, which has been active in the country since 1960. Matrix is wholly Papua New Guinean-owned and says it has the capacity to design and construct projects in Port Moresby as well as regional areas.
Its work covers commercial, retail and industrial developments; low-, medium- and high-rise residential projects and resorts; housing; health and education facilities; aviation infrastructure; and mining and infrastructure projects.
The breadth of those sectors is reflected in projects highlighted by the company, including the Air Niugini Residential Apartments, Governor General Precinct, Jacksons International Terminal Building, Hides EPC4 PNG LNG Project and Walter Strong Building at Port Moresby General Hospital.
For Matrix, the ability to operate across different sectors is supported by an in-house management structure covering operations, finance, safety, quality and environmental management.
Local workforce
A key feature of the company's model is its workforce.
Matrix says 98% of its employees are Papua New Guineans, supported by expatriate personnel. Its workforce includes labourers and apprentices through to project administrators, site engineers, site managers, project managers, design managers, cost planners and supervisors.
The company says its personnel collectively bring decades of construction experience in Papua New Guinea and Australia. That combination of local knowledge and technical experience is central to its approach to project delivery.
The focus on national participation is particularly relevant in a construction market where major developments increasingly require contractors to combine technical capability with an understanding of local operating conditions and workforce requirements.
Safety and quality
Matrix also places safety and quality at the centre of its project delivery model.
The company says its workforce is focused on meeting high standards of safety and quality and that its operations adhere to relevant Australian and international standards. It positions these capabilities as important credentials for undertaking both public- and private-sector projects.
Its project experience spans environments with significantly different requirements — from residential accommodation and government facilities to airport infrastructure, healthcare and the resources sector.
That diversity has given the company exposure to the different technical, logistical and management demands associated with construction in Papua New Guinea.
Building local capability
Matrix's story is ultimately one of building a locally owned construction business around established experience and a predominantly national workforce.
Its stated objective is not confined to construction capacity alone. The company has developed an organisational structure covering project management, design, cost planning, engineering, supervision and site operations, allowing it to maintain capabilities across different stages of project delivery.
For a Papua New Guinean contractor, that breadth matters as the country's construction market continues to encompass government infrastructure, private developments, resources projects and essential facilities.
More than a decade after Matrix Constructions was established, its positioning remains grounded in the same fundamentals: local ownership, experienced people, broad sector capability and a focus on safety and quality.
The company's profile presents those capabilities as the foundation for working with both public and private-sector clients across Papua New Guinea — with the experience of its parent business providing a history that stretches back more than six decades.
National Superannuation Fund Limited (Nasfund) has been delivering its Superannuation (Supa) Education Sessions in schools across PNG since 2024, as part of its commitment to preparing young Papua New Guineans for their future financial journeys.
The program is a superannuation education and awareness initiative designed to help students understand superannuation, retirement savings, and personal financial planning.
The initiative equips participants with essential knowledge, including how superannuation works, the role of Nasfund, the importance of starting to save early, strategies for growing retirement savings, and the value of making informed financial decisions throughout life.
As part of this ongoing initiative, Nasfund Member Experience Manager Melisha Sindiwan conducted three Supa Education Sessions over the past two weeks at Port Moresby Grammar School. The sessions provided Grade 12 students with a practical introduction to superannuation and long-term financial planning.
The sessions were highly engaging and focused on building awareness of superannuation, encouraging students to begin thinking about financial planning well before they enter the workforce. Students were introduced to the basics of superannuation, its role in supporting financial security and retirement savings, and the benefits of developing saving habits.
This marks the third consecutive year that Nasfund has partnered with Port Moresby Grammar School to deliver the Supa Education Program as part of the Grade 12 school enrichment program, reinforcing the Fund’s commitment to investing in financial literacy and empowering future generations with the knowledge needed to make sound financial decisions.
Speaking on the importance of the program, Port Moresby Grammar School Director of Curriculum for Senior School Brenda Kekeao said the Supa Education Sessions align closely with the school’s future financial planning module.
“For this module, we looked at other organisations, but the school chose Nasfund because of the long-standing relationship it has with the company,” Ms Kekeao said.
“We hope these sessions will help educate students about their future financial planning.”
Ms Kekeao further acknowledged that the sessions serve as valuable enrichment opportunities for students, complementing classroom learning by providing expert knowledge from industry professionals.
“The sessions could also be regarded as enrichment programs because teachers are not specialised in superannuation. Experts like the Nasfund team are invited to conduct these sessions and provide students with practical knowledge and real-life financial insights,” she said.
The Supa Education Sessions also complement topics covered in the Grade 12 Business Studies curriculum, helping students connect classroom theory with practical financial concepts they will encounter throughout their lives and careers.
Ok Tedi Mining Limited has completed its first direct charter flight between Tabubil and Brisbane, establishing the Australian city as a new hub for the company's fly-in, fly-out workforce.
The inaugural flight departed Tabubil on September 4, 2026, marking a milestone in Ok Tedi's 42-year operating history and reducing travel time for employees and business partners travelling between its Western Province mining operations and Australia.
Ok Tedi managing director and chief executive officer Kedi Ilimbit said the direct service would eliminate three to four hours of airport delays and make travel more convenient for employees.
“It cuts off three to four hours of delays at airports and makes travel more convenient for our employees. It has been a successful inaugural flight, and I am very pleased,” Ilimbit said upon arrival in Brisbane.
He said the service would become the new hub for Ok Tedi's FIFO operations.
“After 42 years of operations, we have made it into Brisbane. This will become the new hub for Ok Tedi FIFO operations.”
The direct connection is expected to improve travel reliability and support workforce mobility between Australia and the Star Mountains mining operation in Western Province.
Ilimbit thanked charter operator Pacific Direct, the flight crew and Australian border, quarantine, customs and immigration authorities for facilitating the inaugural service.
The milestone comes ahead of Papua New Guinea's 51st Independence Anniversary and adds to Ok Tedi's international operating footprint, with the company maintaining a marketing and logistics facility in Brisbane.
Ok Tedi Mining Limited is a majority state-owned company operating an open-pit copper, gold and silver mine in Western Province. The company exports copper concentrate to smelters and refineries in Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, South Korea, India and Germany.
The company has also expanded its growth strategy beyond Western Province through its acquisition of Gallipoli Exploration Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Australian-listed Kingston Resources Limited, for the Misima mine in Milne Bay Province.
Ok Tedi's registered office and senior operational management are based in Tabubil, with a representative office in Port Moresby and its Brisbane marketing and logistics facility.
Stella Ipang, a PATH Outstanding Member and leader in Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI), has been named the 2026 Overall Winner of the Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA), receiving a PGK10,000 grant in recognition of her work strengthening inclusive healthcare across Papua New Guinea.
Stella, who also won the Private Sector Category, was recognised for her leadership in embedding GEDSI principles into Papua New Guinea’s immunisation sector. Her work has helped make health programmes more inclusive, accessible and accountable for women, children and marginalised communities.
At a celebratory cheque presentation at Westpac’s head office at Harbourside West, Stella was presented with a ceremonial cheque acknowledging her contribution to advancing inclusion and improving health outcomes across the country.
Through her work with PATH, Stella has helped integrate inclusive approaches into immunisation programmes, including the development of a GEDSI Action Plan and scorecard assessment for Provincial Health Authorities. These practical tools support health teams in assessing programmes, identifying gaps, strengthening accountability and improving access for communities that may otherwise be left behind.
Beyond her professional achievements, Stella is also the creator of the GEDSI EmpowerMe Puzzle, which has been showcased internationally, and the author of My Action Words. These creative resources make inclusion, empowerment and agency easier to understand and apply across different audiences, including health workers, communities and young readers.
“Receiving this award is an honour,” said Stella following her win. “I am grateful to do work that has a positive impact on our community. I hope this recognition encourages more women and young girls to pursue their ambitions, embrace leadership opportunities and believe in their ability to make a difference.”
Westpac Pacific Managing Director Emma Low congratulated Stella on her achievement, saying, “Stella’s commitment to advancing inclusion and improving health outcomes has created tangible benefits for communities across Papua New Guinea. Her achievements stood out among an exceptional group of finalists and reflect the spirit of these awards.”
Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said the awards continue to recognise women whose leadership and service are helping shape a stronger future for Papua New Guinea.
“At Westpac PNG, we are proud to recognise these outstanding women and the positive impact they are making across the country. Their leadership, courage and commitment show what is possible when people step forward to serve their communities and help build a stronger Papua New Guinea. I congratulate all the finalists and winners and thank them for the difference they continue to make.”
Stella’s recognition follows a strong 2026 awards programme, with more than 200 nominations received from across Papua New Guinea. The awards celebrated seven category winners across Entrepreneur, Not-for-Profit, Private Sector, Public Sector, Sports & Arts, Sustainability and Young Achiever.
The 2026 category winners were:
As Overall Winner, Stella will receive a PGK5,000 grant and will attend an Australian executive leadership symposium in 2026 or 2027.
The Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA) is Papua New Guinea’s premier programme celebrating the achievements and leadership of exceptional women across the country. Commencing in 2002, the awards are designed to recognise and empower women who are making significant contributions in their communities, workplaces and industries.
Sandvik has introduced a fully autonomous, battery-electric surface drilling concept that demonstrates the company’s vision for the next generation of surface mining.
Unveiled at Sandvik’s Future of Mining event in Tampere, Finland, the concept machine, known as Sami, showcases how AI, enhanced robotics, electrification and digital connectivity can work together as part of an intelligent, mine-wide operating system to improve safety and productivity.
“For years, Sandvik has helped define the future of underground mining through automation, electrification and digital technologies that have fundamentally changed how mines operate,” said Patrick Murphy, President Mining at Sandvik. “Our latest concept brings that same ambition to surface operations. By challenging conventional ways of working, we’re helping to create the next generation of safer, more productive, more reliable and increasingly autonomous mines.”
Built on a boom-drill platform, the concept machine has no operator cabin and operates fully autonomously. It carries its own drill bits, collar pipes and down-the-hole hammers onboard, while an integrated robotic manipulator autonomously performs bit changes, installs collar pipes and replaces hammers.
It can also measure hole depth and deviation after drilling, navigate autonomously through the mine environment and continuously adapt its behavior by identifying, tracking and classifying people, equipment and other objects around it. This enables the machine to distinguish between dynamic and stationary obstacles and respond accordingly. LED matrix displays communicate the machine’s operational status to personnel working nearby.
The concept also introduces a new level of mine-wide intelligence. Connected to a continuously updated digital twin, Sami is managed through Sandi, Sandvik’s AI agent. Sandi assigns drilling tasks and coordinates activities across the broader mining fleet, while Sami autonomously plans and executes its work cycle, adapting to nearby equipment and changing site conditions. Operators interact with Sandi using natural language, intervening only when human judgment is required.
In developing the concept, Sandvik looked beyond individual features to explore how electrification, autonomous operation, robotic tool handling and digital integration could be combined into a single system.
Sandvik’s latest concept machine continues the company’s tradition of challenging conventional equipment design and exploring what technologies come next for mining. Beginning with its AutoMine® Concept Loader in 2020, Sandvik has introduced a series of concept platforms spanning underground and surface mining applications, each serving as a proving ground for emerging technologies before they are incorporated into commercial solutions. Rather than being production machines themselves, these concepts are intended to accelerate the development of innovations that ultimately enhance the safety, productivity and sustainability of Sandvik’s commercial equipment portfolio.
Riku Pulli, President of Digital Mining Technologies at Sandvik, said the greatest innovation lies not in the concept machine itself, but in its integration into an intelligent mining ecosystem.
“By combining AI, autonomy and a continuously updated digital twin, we move from optimizing individual assets to optimizing the entire mining operation,” Pulli said. “That’s where the next step change in productivity and decision-making will come from. Sami is a concept rather than a product, but the technologies behind it are very real. Many of the capabilities being demonstrated today will help shape the evolution of our offering and find their way into future solutions for surface mining customers.”
Although demonstrated on a boom-drill platform, the technologies embodied in the concept machine are intended to be scalable across the wider Sandvik surface drilling portfolio, including rotary blasthole drills. Sandvik has developed the concept to stimulate conversation and collaboration with customers and industry stakeholders while accelerating the development of future commercial solutions for surface mining.
Sandvik is a global, high-tech engineering group providing solutions that enhance productivity, profitability and sustainability for the manufacturing, mining and infrastructure industries. We are at the forefront of digitalization and focus on optimizing our customers’ processes. Our world-leading offering includes equipment, tools, services and digital solutions for machining, mining, rock excavation and rock processing. In 2025, the Group had approximately 42,000 employees and revenues of about SEK 121 billion in more than 150 countries.
Mining is a business area within the Sandvik Group and a global leading supplier of equipment and tools, parts, service, digital solutions and sustainability-driving technologies for the mining and construction industries. Application areas include rock drilling, rock cutting, loading and hauling, tunneling, ground support and quarrying. In 2025, sales were approximately SEK 69 billion, with about 18,000 employees. For further information, visit mining.sandvik.
Sandvik is introducing the Toro® TH663i I Gen2 underground truck, the latest evolution of its proven 63-metric-ton haulage platform. Developed through continuous improvement, operational experience and customer insight, the updated truck incorporates more than 30 enhancements designed to improve reliability, productivity, operator safety and total cost of ownership in underground mining operations.
Performance data from underground operations shows measurable improvements compared with earlier Toro® TH663i models. Reference data indicates a 25% reduction in mean time to repair (MTTR) and a 12% increase in mean time between failures (MTBF), resulting in more than 170 additional operating hours per truck annually.
“Customers are looking for predictable performance they can rely on every shift,” said Esa-Pekka Kantola, Product Line Manager, Load and Haul at Sandvik Mining. “With Toro® TH663i I Gen2, we have used years of underground operating experience to refine a proven platform and help customers improve productivity, increase availability and control their cost per ton.”
Rather than a complete redesign, the Toro® TH663i I Gen2 builds on years of operating experience with the Toro® TH663i platform in underground mines around the world, incorporating accumulated improvements into the latest generation of the truck.
The more than 30 updates span multiple areas of the machine, including the engine, electrical systems, powertrain, software and structural systems. Together, the updates are designed to increase availability, enhance durability, improve serviceability and support lower cost per ton and total cost of ownership throughout the equipment lifecycle.
The Toro® TH663i I Gen2 can be combined with Sandvik digital and automation technologies, including My Sandvik Digital Services and AutoMine® solutions, and is supported by Sandvik's global parts, service and training network.
The Toro® TH663i I Gen2 will be showcased during Sandvik's customer day in Turku as part of Future of Mining 2026, where visitors can see the truck in the exhibition area and during live demonstrations.
Sandvik is a global, high-tech engineering group providing solutions that enhance productivity, profitability and sustainability for the manufacturing, mining and infrastructure industries. We are at the forefront of digitalization and focus on optimizing our customers' processes. Our world-leading offering includes equipment, tools, services and digital solutions for machining, mining, rock excavation and rock processing. In 2025, the Group had approximately 42,000 employees and revenues of about SEK 121 billion in more than 150 countries.
Port Moresby, 2 September 2026. Westpac PNG has partnered with 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA) Overall Winner Anne-Shirley Korave and her organization, Queenpads, to donate 80 reusable menstrual hygiene packs to Haus Ruth, a safe house in Port Moresby supporting survivors of gender-based violence and their children.
The donation was delivered as part of a community support session at Haus Ruth, including an education session led by Anne-Shirley with survivors and staff, the handover of Queenpads packs, and a practical financial literacy session delivered by Westpac PNG.
Haus Ruth, run by City Mission PNG, provides meals, accommodation and essential support for survivors of gender-based violence and their children. The donation recognizes that access to menstrual hygiene products is a practical need that can affect dignity, confidence, wellbeing and participation in daily life.
Westpac PNG chief executive Andrew Cairns said the initiative reflected the purpose of the WOW Awards by extending support beyond recognition and into practical community action.
“The WOW Awards are about backing women who are already making a difference in their communities,” Mr Cairns said. “Through this donation to Haus Ruth, we are proud to support Anne-Shirley and Queenpads in responding to a real community need. This initiative brings together practical support, education and financial literacy in a way that recognizes the dignity and wellbeing of women and girls.”
Anne-Shirley Korave, 2025 WOWA Overall Winner and founder of Queenpads, said improving access to menstrual hygiene products was an important part of supporting women and girls.
“When women and girls have access to the products and support they need, it helps protect dignity, build confidence and support wellbeing,” Ms Korave said. “We are grateful to partner with Westpac PNG to provide these packs to Haus Ruth and to spend time with survivors and staff through an education session that responds to a practical need.”
As part of the visit, Westpac PNG also delivered free, practical financial literacy training for Haus Ruth staff and survivors, supporting financial confidence and capability alongside health and wellbeing outcomes.
Through the WOW Awards and partnerships with women-led organizations such as Queenpads, Westpac PNG continues to champion women leaders and contribute to practical initiatives that create positive social impacts across Papua New Guinea.
National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) chief executive officer Rajeev Sharma has received the 50th Anniversary King’s Medal in recognition of his 25 years of service in finance, accounting and corporate leadership in Papua New Guinea.
Governor-General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, representing King Charles III, presented the medal to Sharma at Government House in Port Moresby.
During the presentation ceremony, Sir Bob acknowledged Sharma’s contribution to Papua New Guinea and his continuing role in advancing retirement security and strengthening confidence in the country’s superannuation industry.
Sharma said he was honored to receive the national recognition and dedicated the award to his family and the staff of Nasfund.
“I want to say thank you to the people of Papua New Guinea for accepting us in PNG. I am very honoured and humbled to receive this award on behalf of my wife and children,” Sharma said.
“This award is not only for me but for all the Nasfund staff who work tirelessly with me. I really appreciate this.”
The commemorative medal was approved by King Charles III as part of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations. It recognizes Papua New Guineans and others who have made significant contributions to the country’s development over the past five decades.
Nasfund leadership
Nasfund chairman Christopher Elphick congratulated Sharma, describing the presentation as a proud moment for the superannuation fund.
“It is a proud moment for Nasfund to see our CEO receive such a distinguished national honour through the Governor-General, His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, on behalf of His Majesty King Charles III,” Elphick said.
Elphick said Sharma had strengthened Papua New Guinea’s superannuation sector while promoting sound governance and delivering long-term value for Nasfund members.
“Rajeev’s commitment to strengthening Papua New Guinea’s superannuation sector, promoting sound governance, and delivering long-term value for our members has made a lasting impact,” he said.
The recognition reflected Sharma’s professional achievements as well as his dedication to serving Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific region, Elphick said.
He said Sharma’s leadership had helped position Nasfund as one of Papua New Guinea’s most respected and trusted financial institutions.
On behalf of the Nasfund board, management and staff, Elphick thanked Sharma for his leadership, dedication and service.
If you want, I can also make this more PNG Post-Courier-style, business-news style, or a sharper Reuters/MLex-style version.
Steamships has committed PGK100,000 as a Gold sponsor of the 2026 Hiri Moale Festival, reinforcing the company’s support for the Motu Koita communities and the preservation of Papua New Guinea’s cultural heritage.
The sponsorship reflects Steamships’ long-standing relationship with the Motu Koita people, whose communities are closely connected to the company’s operations, employees, customers and investments across the National Capital District.
Steamships managing director Chris Daniells said the company’s history was closely linked to the Motu Koita people through the sea and the historic Hiri trading voyages.
“The story of the Motu Koita people and the story of Steamships are connected by the sea,” Daniells said.
He said the Hiri voyages established traditions of trade, trust and cooperation that continued to reflect values shaping Steamships during its 108-year history.
The sponsorship also recognises the historical relationship between Steamships and the Motu Koita people, including the early partnership between company founder Captain Algernon Fitch and Captain Pipi Gari of Elevala.
Gari became the first qualified Papuan ship captain in 1929. Steamships said generations of Motu Koita men and women had also contributed to the company over the years.
The sponsorship forms part of Steamships’ corporate social responsibility strategy, which focuses on strengthening relationships and creating long-term value in the communities where the company operates.
Chairman of the Motu Koita Assembly Russell Simon Wavik welcomed the contribution, saying it recognised the enduring partnership between the company and the community.
“We appreciate Steamships' Gold Sponsorship of the 2026 Hiri Moale Festival and acknowledge the enduring relationship between Steamships and the Motu Koita people,” Wavik said.
The Hiri Moale Festival is one of PNG’s major cultural events and celebrates the history of the Hiri trading voyages, which connected Motu and Gulf communities through traditional maritime trade.
Steamships said it looked forward to supporting the 2026 festival and joining the Motu Koita community in celebrating the cultural tradition.
Another year, another exciting opportunity to welcome a new group of young learners to the Hastings Deering Port Moresby Business Centre.
As part of Book Week 2026, children from Buk Bilong Pikinini visited our Port Moresby facilities for an educational and engaging tour, giving them a firsthand look at what we do.
The children enjoyed an exciting tour of the Business Centre, starting with our Sales Team, where they saw a brand-new CAT 426 Backhoe Loader. They then visited our Learning Centre, where they learned about machine electrical systems and watched a demonstration.
The tour continued to the Hose Pressing Container, Parts Warehouse and Service Workshop. The children explored the tool store, watched our technicians at work and even had a hands-on experience with a forklift.
It was a wonderful opportunity to inspire the next generation and spark curiosity about careers in engineering, technology and the trades.
The visit concluded with lunch and gifts provided by the HD POM team, leaving the children with smiles and lasting memories of their experience.
A big thank you to everyone involved in organising and supporting this successful event. Your commitment helped make the Buk Bilong Pikinini Visit 2026 a rewarding and inspiring day for everyone.
“Investing in young minds today helps build the future of our nation tomorrow.”
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