Westpac PNG is proud to announce the 21 finalists for the 2026 Westpac Outstanding Women's Awards, recognising women who are making a meaningful impact across Papua New Guinea through leadership, service, innovation, and community impact.

For more than 100 years, Westpac has stood alongside the people of the Pacific, supporting communities, creating opportunities, and investing for the long term. The Westpac Outstanding Women's Awards are part of this ongoing commitment.

Selected across seven award categories, this year's finalists represent a diverse group of women whose contributions are helping communities grow, businesses succeed, and industries progress across the country, creating lasting impact today and for generations to come.

The announcement of the finalists marks the next stage of the 2026 awards programme, leading up to the awards ceremony on Saturday, 25 July 2026, in Port Moresby. Winners from each category will be announced on the night, together with the Overall 2026 WOW Award winner, recognising a woman whose leadership and impact stand out across all categories.

The finalists by category are:

• Entrepreneur: Judy Ejampi, Martha Raka, and Sylvia Pascoe

• Private: Orpah Peter, Rita Karaie, and Stella Ipang

• Not-for-Profit: Naomi Longa, Jacqueline Mary Boga Garoau, and Sr. Bolena Azimo

• Public: Debra Sungi, Elizabeth Tandoa, and Fiona Gesa

• Sports & Arts: Edith Monagi, Susanne Sere, and Wosi Kaeyo

• Sustainability: Deborah Yassa Yulu, Emma Oliver, and Kiteni Kurika

• Young Achiever: Getta Kambar, Naomi Dubabagi, and Zimmah Neinaka

Tamzin Wardley, Chairwoman of the Westpac PNG Board, said: "The WOW Awards are a powerful reminder of the leadership, resilience, and service women bring to every part of Papua New Guinea. This year's finalists reflect the strength of women who are driving progress in their communities, workplaces, and industries."

Each category winner will receive a PGK 5,000 grant to support their continued work and impact.

Emma Low, Managing Director for Westpac Pacific, said: "For more than a century, Westpac has stood alongside Pacific communities, and these awards are one way we continue that commitment. By recognising and supporting outstanding women, we are helping create opportunities that can carry forward for generations."

Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said: "These finalists show what is possible when talent, determination, and purpose come together. Their achievements are not only inspiring others today, but they are also helping build stronger communities and a more inclusive future for Papua New Guinea."

In the lead-up to the event, finalist profiles will be shared across Westpac's channels to celebrate their achievements and the work they are doing to help drive progress across Papua New Guinea.

High Arctic is expanding its presence in Papua New Guinea through a broader range of industrial services while preparing for the resumption of drilling activities later this year. This marks a new chapter for a company that has operated in the country for nearly two decades.

High Arctic's corporate roots date back to 1993 in Canada, while its PNG operations commenced in 2007. Since entering the market, the company has drilled, worked over, or abandoned more than 100 oil and gas wells and says it has grown to become a leading provider of remote worksite services in Papua New Guinea.

The company says it has recorded more than nine years and accumulated 4.7 million work hours without a recordable incident—a world-class level of performance.

Restructuring sharpens PNG focus

Historically, High Arctic's PNG operations have centred on two drilling rigs, one workover rig, and the operation of a client-owned drilling rig. In recent years, however, the company has diversified its business to include equipment rental, industrial equipment distribution, asset integrity and maintenance management, workforce training, and, most recently, fire services.

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, High Arctic implemented a business restructuring that led to the establishment of High Arctic Overseas Holding Corp. The move enabled the PNG business to operate independently from its former parent company, High Arctic Energy Services Inc.

The company remains publicly listed on the Canadian stock market (TSXV: HOH) and is managed from Brisbane, Australia. According to High Arctic, the restructuring was undertaken to reinforce its commitment to Papua New Guinea and support the ongoing development of the country's resource sector and national workforce.

The company said the cyclical nature of PNG's resources industry creates opportunities to apply transferable skills developed through frontier remote drilling operations to a wider range of sectors, including mining, civil construction, and commercial developments.

Equipment rental business expands

High Arctic has significantly expanded its rental equipment division, supplying equipment to customers across the mining, construction, and logistics sectors.

Its rental fleet includes cranes, telehandlers, loaders, four-wheel-drive vehicles, trucks, buses, camps, power systems, compressors, light towers, elevated work platforms, water pumps, and HDPE composite matting.

The company said its rental offering provides customers with an alternative to major capital expenditure while reducing maintenance obligations and equipment procurement delays.

Atlas Copco partnership strengthens equipment offering

High Arctic recently announced a partnership with Atlas Copco's Power Technique division, becoming its authorised distributor in Papua New Guinea.

Through its rental equipment division, the company now offers both sales and rental options for Atlas Copco power generators, energy storage systems, air compressors, light towers, dewatering pumps, and solar containers.

High Arctic said it also has access to technical support and product development resources from Atlas Copco's Australian operations and global manufacturing network. The company plans to maintain stocks of commonly required equipment and spare parts, while also developing a skilled local workforce to provide in-country aftermarket support.

According to High Arctic, the partnership is based on a shared objective of delivering quality equipment and service while improving distribution channels throughout Papua New Guinea. The partnership operates through the company's Rental Equipment business, headed by General Manager Steve Macklin.

New fire services capability

As part of its diversification strategy, High Arctic identified an under-served need for dedicated fire preparedness in PNG. A Fire Services Division was established in late 2025, providing fire protection solutions across PNG's industrial, commercial, and residential sectors.

The division's capabilities include fire system design, installation, commissioning, inspection, maintenance, and compliance certification.

Its fire protection offerings include centrally monitored fire alarm systems, emergency warning and intercommunication systems, sprinkler systems, fire hydrants, hose reels, pump sets, and gas, foam, and water mist suppression systems.

High Arctic said the division is led by General Manager Steve Bowman, who has 24 years of fire systems industry experience, including more than 15 years working within PNG's mining and industrial sectors.

Asset management and maintenance services

The company has long provided asset integrity and maintenance management services to its foundational customer in PNG. It is now offering preventive maintenance programmes, spare-parts planning, computerised maintenance management system implementation, maintenance manuals, and standard operating procedures to the broader industry in PNG.

According to High Arctic, the division is designed to help customers improve asset reliability, reduce operational risks, maximise equipment uptime, and support regulatory compliance.

The company also provides audits, technical assessments, and workforce training programmes aimed at strengthening maintenance capability and operational performance.

Drilling operations set to restart

A key development for the company came in May 2026, when High Arctic renewed a long-standing drilling services contract with its principal customer in Papua New Guinea.

Later that month, the customer advised that drilling activities would recommence, prompting plans to remobilise personnel and equipment in July ahead of drilling operations scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.

According to the company, the drilling programme currently includes four approved wells, with the potential for additional wells to be added in the future. High Arctic said the campaign could see Rig 103 operate beyond the current contract period.

The company said the recommencement of drilling would have a significant impact on stakeholders, particularly its domestic drilling workforce, many of whom have supported operations over the past two decades.

Workforce development remains a priority

PNG Industry Manpower Solutions (PIMS), which has been part of the High Arctic group since 2009, remains a key component of the company's workforce development efforts.

PIMS is registered with Papua New Guinea's Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology under National Training Council registration number 182 and provides certified training programmes focused on workplace compliance and competency development.

The company said PIMS is increasingly focused on partnering with industry clients to strengthen workforce competence, maintain compliance, and improve operational readiness through group-based certified training programmes.

The training provider is also seeking to support the development of future supervisors and leaders within PNG's national workforce through tailored leadership programmes.

Since 2024, PIMS has coordinated a quarterly industry roundtable that brings together representatives from a range of PNG-based organisations and industries. According to the company, the forum promotes open dialogue, shared insights, and peer learning to support workforce development and continuous improvement.

Looking ahead

High Arctic said it will continue to develop the capabilities of Papua New Guinea's national workforce while providing services across the country's resource, industrial, and commercial sectors.

The company said it is exploring additional diversification and investment opportunities that align with its business values and long-term objectives while maintaining its focus on quality performance and service delivery.

As it prepares for the return of drilling activities and expands its portfolio of industrial services, High Arctic said it remains committed to supporting the development of Papua New Guinea's resource sector and workforce.

Across Papua New Guinea's remote regions, including many communities located alongside mining and resource corridors, access to quality education is still determined by one simple factor: whether a classroom has the most basic learning tools.

In many rural schools, students attend lessons seated on dusty floors without desks, books, or essential learning materials, while teachers are often required to deliver lessons without whiteboards, storage, or even basic stationery.

These limitations directly impact student engagement, literacy outcomes, attendance rates, and ultimately, long-term economic participation within their own communities.

This is the gap that Project Skul (school), an initiative of Project Yumi, is designed to address. The program works by redirecting surplus, high-quality educational resources from Australia to under-resourced schools throughout Papua New Guinea.

Furniture such as desks, chairs, bookshelves, whiteboards, and classroom learning materials, often discarded because of infrastructure upgrades in Australian schools or businesses, is collected, repurposed, and delivered to communities where it is urgently needed.

By improving classroom environments, Project Skul supports increased student attendance and engagement, enables teachers to deliver more effective lessons, improves access to literacy and numeracy resources, and helps create safe, functional learning spaces that foster meaningful educational outcomes.

To date, Project Yumi has saved more than three million educational and health resources from landfill, delivered support to more than 150 schools and health centres, and reached communities across all 20 provinces of Papua New Guinea.

For industries operating in remote regions, particularly mining organisations with long-term community investment commitments, access to quality education is widely recognised as a key driver of social stability, economic development, and future workforce readiness.

For both Australian and Papua New Guinean organisations operating across the mining and resource sectors, initiatives such as Project Skul present a practical opportunity to align corporate social responsibility commitments with measurable environmental and social outcomes.

Each year, thousands of desks, chairs, and classroom resources are disposed of across Australia because of refurbishment cycles, infrastructure upgrades, or asset replacement programs—not because they are no longer functional, but simply because they are no longer required.

Through Project Skul, these quality surplus resources are diverted from landfill and delivered to under-resourced schools throughout Papua New Guinea, where they can make an immediate and lasting impact.

By partnering with Project Yumi, companies can sponsor the fit-out of an individual classroom or support the broader delivery of the Project Skul initiative.

These partnerships contribute directly to global development priorities, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

They also enable organisations to play a tangible role in improving access to education in the communities where they operate.

Project Yumi's partnership model is built on collaboration with businesses, community organisations, and local stakeholders in both Australia and Papua New Guinea.

By sponsoring a classroom or supporting resource delivery through Project Skul, mining companies can contribute to long-term education outcomes, future workforce capability, community wellbeing and resilience, and environmentally responsible resource management within their host communities.

Education remains a foundational determinant of economic growth, employment readiness, and community resilience. Through partnerships that transform surplus into opportunity, Project Yumi is helping ensure that the next generation of Papua New Guinean students is not limited by a lack of desks, books, or safe learning environments. Instead, they are empowered through access to education, helping create stronger, more sustainable communities for the future.

As global trade becomes more complex, governments and businesses must address fraud, invoice errors and non-compliant goods while improving efficiency. SGS Group provides Trade Facilitation Services (TFS) that help modernise trade through digitalisation, risk management and enhanced border controls.

Digital Trade with e-Invoicing

SGS Cross-Border e-Invoicing replaces paper invoices with secure, tamper-proof electronic documents shared instantly among customs authorities, banks and traders.

• Reduces fraudulent transactions by up to 99%
• Improves revenue collection
• Speeds up trade processing

Accurate Valuation with e-Valuator®

SGS e-Valuator® uses a global price database to detect under- or over-invoicing in real time.

• Automated risk alerts and screening
• Faster customs clearance
• Stronger protection of government revenue

Quality Assurance through PCA

The SGS Product Conformity Assessment (PCA) programme ensures that goods comply with national standards before shipment and that a Certificate of Conformity is issued.

• Prevents unsafe and counterfeit products
• Supports local industries
• Reduces the risk of shipment rejection

Smart Scanning for Border Control

SGS also provides non-intrusive scanning solutions to strengthen border security and facilitate trade.

• X-ray scanning combined with AI-based image analysis improves the detection of high-risk cargo.
• A centralised TFS platform enables remote monitoring and faster decision-making.
• Integration with customs systems enhances data visibility and operational efficiency.

Enabling Trusted and Efficient Trade

Together, TFS solutions provide an integrated framework to:

• Increase revenue and reduce fraud
• Improve efficiency and transparency
• Strengthen border control
• Align with international trade standards

With its global expertise and advanced technologies, SGS supports the development of secure, efficient and sustainable trade ecosystems worldwide.

The Remington Group, Papua New Guinea's leading technology solutions provider, has expanded its retail footprint into the Highlands region with the opening of its newest Remington Hi-Tek outlet in Mt. Hagen.

Joining the company's established locations in Port Moresby and Lae, the new store brings a wide range of technology products and services closer to customers in the Western Highlands and surrounding provinces.

To mark the occasion, Remington Hi-Tek hosted a vibrant Open Day on 16 June in partnership with the PNGFM radio team. PNGFM broadcast live throughout the day across its media platforms, generating excitement and engaging with the local community.

Visitors enjoyed an interactive experience featuring giveaways, trivia competitions, voucher prizes and other activities, while exploring the store's extensive range of laptops, smartphones and technology accessories.

The event attracted strong community support, with large crowds turning out to welcome the new store and discover the latest technology offerings.

Remington Hi-Tek is the retail technology arm of the Remington Group, one of Papua New Guinea's most established business groups. Through its nationwide network, the company supplies information technology products, office equipment, communications solutions, business systems and after-sales support to government agencies, businesses and consumers across the country.

With a longstanding commitment to innovation and customer service, the Remington Group continues to play a key role in supporting Papua New Guinea's digital transformation by providing access to world-class technology products and services backed by local expertise.

The opening of the Mt. Hagen outlet reflects the company's commitment to expanding access to technology beyond the country's major urban centres and supporting the growing digital needs of communities throughout the Highlands region.

The Remington Group extends its sincere gratitude to the people of Mt. Hagen for their warm reception and looks forward to serving the Highlands region for many years to come.

About Remington Group

The Remington Group is Papua New Guinea's premier technology solutions provider, delivering information and communications technology, office automation, business systems, telecommunications, security and retail technology solutions nationwide. With decades of experience and a strong presence across Papua New Guinea, the Group supports government, corporate and consumer customers through innovative products, trusted brands and dedicated local service.

Leading underground contract miner Barminco has selected Sandvik to supply a 23-unit fleet of underground trucks, loaders and drills for the Bellevue Gold Project in Western Australia.

The order, which was booked in the second quarter of 2026, includes seven Toro® TH663i trucks, six Toro® LH517i loaders, five Sandvik DL432i longhole drills and five Sandvik DD422i development drills. The development drills will include Sandvik's dual controls package, which features dual drilling controls and split feeds for multitask drilling operations, including boring, bolting and meshing. The deal also includes rock tools, parts and services.

"Our collaboration with Sandvik continues to evolve alongside the increasing demands of modern underground mining," said Mick Radi, Vice President, Operations Australia, for Barminco, part of the Perenti Group. "This new fleet investment for Bellevue will support accelerated underground development, improved material movement and increased flexibility as additional mining areas are opened. It positions us well to deliver strong operational performance while supporting our customer's long-term sustainable production growth."

Bellevue Gold Limited awarded Barminco a four-year contract at its namesake operation, one of Australia's highest-grade gold mines. Starting in August 2026, Barminco will provide all underground mining services to support the ongoing development and production activities at Bellevue, located approximately 400 kilometres north-west of Kalgoorlie.

Bellevue commenced commercial production in 2024 and is currently tracking toward FY2026 production guidance of between 130,000 and 150,000 ounces of gold. Bellevue has distinguished itself as a leader in sustainable mining innovation, becoming the world's first net-zero (Scope 1 and Scope 2) gold mine in 2025. Following the commissioning of four wind turbines and a solar farm, approximately 90 per cent of its electricity demand is supplied through renewable energy infrastructure.

Toro® TH663i and Toro® LH517i are engineered for the most demanding underground loading and hauling applications. They offer advanced connectivity, real-time analytics, automation readiness and superior maintainability, enabling high payloads and lower operating costs per tonne.

Sandvik DL432i and Sandvik DD422i deliver a powerful combination of productivity, precision and operator safety for underground drilling. Both rigs are designed to improve drilling accuracy, maximise equipment utilisation and support safer working environments through advanced digital drilling controls, ergonomic operator environments and reliable performance in demanding underground conditions. Together, they help reduce operational variability and support more consistent drilling outcomes.

"We are pleased to further strengthen our longstanding partnership with Barminco by supplying a new fleet of our intelligent equipment to support the Bellevue Gold Project's ramp-up," said Mats Eriksson, President of Mining at Sandvik. "This order reflects Barminco's continued confidence in our technology and our shared commitment to safer, more productive and more sustainable underground mining. It highlights the value our intelligent equipment and digital mining solutions can bring to complex gold mining operations in Australia."

Sandvik Group

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 digitalisation and focus on optimising 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 SEK121 billion in more than 150 countries.

Business Area Mining

Mining is a business area within the Sandvik Group and a leading global supplier of equipment and tools, parts, services, digital solutions and sustainability-driving technologies for the mining and construction industries. Application areas include rock drilling, rock cutting, loading and hauling, tunnelling, ground support and quarrying. In 2025, sales were approximately SEK69 billion with about 18,000 employees. For further information, visit mining.sandvik.

Daikin PNG is proud to have contributed to the successful completion of the Noble Centre at Champion Parade in Downtown Port Moresby, a landmark development that reflects the value of collaboration, innovation and engineering excellence.

Working alongside CRCEG and other project partners, Daikin PNG delivered specialized mechanical ventilation and air conditioning solutions designed to meet high standards of performance, reliability and energy efficiency.

The company's scope of work included:

• Installation of VRF air conditioning systems to provide energy-efficient climate control.
• Installation of fire ventilation fans to enhance life safety and support building compliance requirements.
• Installation of central outside air (OA) processing units to deliver fresh, conditioned air and improve indoor air quality.

The completion of the Noble Centre marks another significant milestone for Daikin PNG and highlights what can be achieved through strong partnerships and a shared commitment to quality. The project further demonstrates the company's capability to deliver advanced HVAC solutions that support modern, sustainable developments across Papua New Guinea.

As one of Papua New Guinea's leading heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) providers, Daikin PNG delivers a comprehensive range of climate control, ventilation and energy-efficient cooling solutions for commercial, industrial and residential projects. Backed by the global expertise and technology of the Daikin Group, the company continues to support major developments across the country with innovative solutions tailored to local conditions and customer needs.

Daikin PNG extends its sincere appreciation to CRCEG, project partners and all those involved in bringing the development to completion. Through collaboration and innovation, the company remains committed to helping build resilient infrastructure and supporting Papua New Guinea's continued growth and development.

TISA Bank has reinforced its commitment to organisational preparedness through a Disaster Risk Management (DRM) information session conducted in partnership with the National Disaster Centre (NDC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The one-day session brought together representatives from TISA Bank, NDC and IOM to enhance awareness of disaster preparedness, emergency response coordination and Papua New Guinea's national disaster management systems. The initiative forms part of a broader capacity-building effort aimed at strengthening institutional readiness and improving responses to disasters and emergencies.

The training covered key disaster risk management principles, hazard identification, communication strategies, national coordination frameworks and organisational preparedness. Participants also engaged in discussions on internal response mechanisms and the importance of integrating disaster risk considerations into operational planning.

For TISA Bank, strengthening preparedness is critical to safeguarding staff, customers and business continuity across its nationwide operations.

TISA Bank Acting Chief Executive Officer Luke Kaul said the session reflects the bank's commitment to building internal capability and enhancing its readiness to respond to emergencies.

"At TISA Bank, preparedness is fundamental to how we protect our people, serve our customers and maintain our operations," Kaul said.

"This engagement with the National Disaster Centre and the International Organization for Migration is an important step in strengthening our internal capacity and ensuring we are better equipped to respond to emergencies while contributing to broader national resilience efforts."

The session also marked the beginning of a longer-term collaboration between TISA Bank, NDC and IOM. Future initiatives are expected to include more advanced training programs, including certified courses in incident management and institutional disaster risk management planning.

A total of 20 TISA Bank employees participated in the training, representing the Physical Security, Audit, Operational Risk, Property and Facilities, Information Technology, and People and Culture departments.

Through initiatives such as this, TISA Bank remains committed to strengthening internal capability, enhancing preparedness across its branch network and supporting national efforts to build disaster resilience through strategic partnerships and sustained engagement.

In Papua New Guinea, one of Port Moresby’s most iconic dining destinations has been given a new lease on life, with Crown Hotel officially relaunching Rapala Restaurant, offering an elevated culinary experience that combines premium international cuisine, stunning harbour views combining local flavours and world-class hospitality.

Located within  Crown Hotel,  Rapala Restaurant has reopened following an extensive redevelopment and menu transformation, bringing a fresh approach to fine dining while maintaining the restaurant’s longstanding reputation among local and international guests.

The relaunch forms part of Crown Hotel’s ongoing commitment to upgrading its facilities and enhancing guest experiences since local ownership assumed management responsibility in November 2018.

Leading the new culinary direction is Executive Chef Arup Das, who joined Crown Hotel in December 2025.

Chef Das brings more than 15 years of international hospitality experience, having worked with some of India's most respected hotel brands. 

Having previously worked in PNG since 2022, Chef Das said the opportunity to lead Crown Hotel's culinary operations and revive Rapala Restaurant was one he eagerly embraces.

"Rapala was once one of the city's most recognised restaurants before COVID-19, and reopening it was a special assignment for me," Chef Das said.

"Together with the management team, we developed a completely new menu, new presentations and a new dining concept focused on fine dining standards while creating something unique for Port Moresby."

The restaurant officially reopened on 16 March 2026, introducing a carefully curated menu featuring premium ingredients, contemporary presentation and expertly matched wines.

A Heritage Property Continues to Develop

Crown Hotel holds a unique place in PNG’s hospitality history.

Originally developed during the years surrounding PNG’s Independence (1975) and commencing operations in 1978, the property has evolved through several identities over the decades, transitioning from Travelodge to Park Royal before becoming the Crown Hotel known today.

Now proudly operating as a 100% Papua New Guinean-owned hotel, Crown Hotel has undertaken continuous renovations and modernisation works over recent years, including upgrades to guest rooms, public spaces, furnishings and facilities.

Rapala restaurant represents one of the final major components of the hotel's ongoing transformation.

According to Chef Das, Rapala Restaurant was pending to reopen for some time because they wanted to make sure they had the right culinary leadership and vision.

"We wanted to bring back a restaurant that people remembered and loved, while introducing a fresh fine dining experience that meets modern expectations."

Dine at an Award-Winning Destination

The revitalisation of Rapala Restaurant comes as Crown Hotel continues to build on its growing reputation within the hospitality industry.

The hotel has received approximately 12 awards over the past seven years and has again been nominated for the prestigious World Travel Awards, recognising its commitment to service excellence and continuous improvement.

For guests seeking a memorable dining experience in Port Moresby, Rapala Restaurant, fine dining offers a compelling combination of premium cuisine, waterfront views, personalised service and contemporary elegance.

A Dining Experience Defined by Its View

While Port Moresby offers several well-known dining establishments, Crown Hotel believes Rapala Restaurant's location sets it apart.

Perched above the waterfront, the restaurant provides uninterrupted views across Fairfax Harbour and the sea beyond, creating a setting that few other venues in the city can replicate.

"The ambience and seaside view are among Rapala's greatest strengths," Chef Das said.

"It creates a completely different dining atmosphere. Guests come not only for the food but for the overall experience."

The waterfront backdrop has quickly become one of the restaurant's most celebrated features, particularly during sunset dining services and weekend evenings.

Premium Ingredients and Signature Dishes

Rapala restaurant's new identity is a menu built around premium imported meats, fresh seafood and innovative culinary techniques.

Guests can enjoy high-quality Australian-sourced Wagyu beef, premium seafood and carefully selected international ingredients, all prepared using contemporary cooking methods and elegant plating.

One of the restaurant's standout attractions is its Lobster Thermidor, which has already emerged as a customer favourite.

Prepared using large premium lobsters and presented with refined flair, the dish has become one of Rapala's signature offerings.

Other popular menu selections include

•Wagyu beef steaks

•Pan-seared scallops

•Beef carpaccio

•Seafood bisque

•French onion soup

•Premium salmon dishes

•Chicken breast served with fresh guacamole

A range of vegetarian and dietary-specific options

Chef Das said the menu balances familiar favourites with creative touches designed to surprise guests.

"We take classic dishes and present them in a different way," he explained.

"The names may be familiar, but the presentation, flavour combinations and dining experience are uniquely Rapala."

Wine Pairing Elevates the Experience

A key feature distinguishing Rapala restaurant from many traditional dining venues is its emphasis on curated wine pairings.

Throughout the menu, recommended wines accompany soups, starters, salads and main courses, allowing guests to enjoy a complete fine dining experience.

The pairing concept has been designed to complement flavours while introducing diners to combinations typically associated with premium international restaurants.

"We wanted guests to experience more than just a meal," said Chef Das.

"The wine pairings are carefully selected to enhance each dish and create a memorable dining journey."

Showcasing PNG Local Ingredients

While premium meats and specialty products are imported to ensure quality, Crown Hotel remains committed to incorporating PNG's rich agricultural produce into its menu.

Local ingredients play an important role in Rapala restaurant's culinary philosophy. These shows the restaurant is passionate about showcasing local produce.

Chef Das added, "In many dishes we use locally grown vegetables, herbs and ingredients, and we continue looking for ways to incorporate Papua New Guinea's unique flavours into our menu."

Some herbs are even grown on-site, while ingredients and vegetables such as sweet potatos, have been incorporated into selected dishes to provide a distinctive local touch.

The approach allows guests to enjoy international fine dining while still experiencing authentic Papua New Guinean flavours.

Investing in PNG

Crown Hotel's success continues to be built on its people.

The hotel employs more than 200 team members, with only nine expatriate staff members across all departments.

More than 95% of employees are Papua New Guinean nationals, reflecting the hotel's commitment to developing local hospitality talent.

Training remains a major focus, with international managers and chefs working closely with local staff to strengthen fine dining service standards, food preparation techniques and guest engagement.

Crown Hotel's goal is to deliver world-class hospitality while showcasing the warmth and professionalism that Papua New Guineans are known for.

The restaurant's reopening marks only the beginning of Crown Hotel's culinary evolution.

Management has committed to reviewing and refreshing menus regularly, ensuring guests continue to enjoy new dining experiences throughout the year.

Menus across the hotel's various outlets—including the café, room service, bars and restaurants—are updated periodically, with Rapala restaurant expected to introduce seasonal menu changes every few months.

With its blend of international culinary expertise, Papua New Guinean hospitality and one of the city's most scenic dining locations, Rapala restaurant is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for food lovers, business travellers and residents alike.

Whether enjoying a perfectly prepared Wagyu steak, indulging in the restaurant's signature Lobster Thermidor, or simply watching the sun set over Fairfax Harbour with a glass of wine in hand, Rapala offers a dining experience designed to linger long after the last course is served.

Papua New Guinea is entering a new era of digital transformation. Across government, business, education and households, technology is becoming increasingly central to economic growth, productivity and connectivity. 

As one of Papua New Guinea's longest-standing ICT companies, Daltron is proud to play a leading role in supporting this transformation. For nearly five decades, we have evolved alongside the nation, continuously investing in technology, people and infrastructure to deliver world-class solutions to businesses and consumers throughout the country. 

Today, Daltron operates through four strategic business divisions: Internet Services, Corporate Enterprise Solutions, Office Automation and Retail Technology. Together, these pillars provide a comprehensive technology ecosystem that enables organisations and individuals to thrive in an increasingly digital world. 

Strengthening Connectivity Through ISP Services 

Reliable connectivity has become the backbone of modern business operations. Through our Internet Service Provider division, Daltron continues to expand access to secure, reliable and scalable connectivity solutions for organisations across Papua New Guinea. 

Leading Enterprise Digital Transformation 

As organisations accelerate their digital transformation journeys, the need for visibility, resilience and efficiency has never been greater. 

In 2025, Daltron strengthened its position as a leader in enterprise observability by introducing the SolarWinds Observability Platform to the Papua New Guinea market. This advanced solution enables organisations to gain real-time visibility into their IT environments, helping them improve performance, reduce downtime and strengthen operational resilience. 

Our enterprise portfolio is supported by partnerships with some of the world's most respected technology providers, including Nutanix, Aruba, VMware, HP, Cisco, Fortinet, OpenText, Citrix and Oracle. 

We have also expanded our networking portfolio through strategic partnerships with Ruijie Networks, providing customers with advanced routers, switches and network infrastructure solutions designed to support growing digital demands. 

Delivering Smart and Efficient Workplaces 

Daltron is proud to be Papua New Guinea's largest distributor, reseller and service provider of Sharp multifunction printer and copier solutions. Our dedicated team supports organisations across government, education, healthcare and the private sector with document management, workflow automation and managed print services that improve efficiency and productivity. 

Expanding Security and Surveillance Capabilities 

As security requirements continue to evolve, organisations require increasingly sophisticated tools to protect their people, assets and operations. 

Daltron has strengthened its surveillance and security portfolio through partnerships with global technology leaders such as Dahua, one of the world's largest surveillance and security technology providers. 

One of Papua New Guinea's Largest Retail Technology Networks 

With a growing network of eight retail showrooms strategically located across the country, Daltron has established one of Papua New Guinea's largest technology retail networks. 

Our retail presence allows customers to access the latest innovations in computing, consumer electronics, office equipment and digital solutions, supported by knowledgeable local teams and comprehensive after-sales service. 

Investing in Papua New Guinea's Future 

At Daltron, technology is not simply about products and services. It is about empowering people, supporting businesses and contributing to national development. 

Our continued investments in connectivity, cybersecurity, enterprise solutions, office automation, surveillance technologies and retail infrastructure reflect our confidence in Papua New Guinea's future and its growing digital economy. 

As the country continues its digital transformation journey, Daltron remains committed to delivering world-class technology solutions, building trusted partnerships and helping organisations across every sector achieve their goals. 

The future of Papua New Guinea will be increasingly digital, connected and technology-driven. Daltron is proud to be helping shape that future through innovation, partnership and long-term investment. 

 

By Shehan Zahir 
Assistant General Manager – Sales & Marketing, South Pacific Region 

The Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy (PNG CORE) has appointed Richard Kassman as its new executive director, bringing more than four decades of leadership experience across the petroleum, energy, insurance, tourism and civil society sectors.

Kassman succeeds interim executive director Philip Samar and will lead the chamber's strategic initiatives, stakeholder engagement and policy advocacy efforts.

PNG CORE said Kassman has more than 40 years of experience in senior leadership roles and is a founding director of Transparency International PNG, reflecting his long-standing involvement in governance and accountability initiatives.

Before joining PNG CORE, he served as manager of public affairs and external communications at TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited, where he played a key role in stakeholder engagement and external relations for major energy projects.

His career has included senior executive positions in both private-sector companies and state-owned organizations, with a focus on strategic leadership and sustainable development.

Outside the corporate sector, Kassman has also been active in community and sporting organizations. He served as chef de mission for Team PNG during the 2015 Pacific Games and was awarded the Order of the British Empire for his contributions to business and the community.

PNG CORE President Anthony Smaré welcomed the appointment, saying Kassman's experience and leadership would strengthen the chamber's ability to advocate for sustainable development and support the continued contribution of the resources and energy sector to Papua New Guinea's economy.

"Richard Kassman is a respected leader with a proven track record of integrity, vision and commitment to Papua New Guinea. His appointment as executive director strengthens PNG CORE's capacity to advocate for sustainable development and to ensure that the resources and energy sector continues to deliver benefits for our people and our nation," Smaré said.

Smaré also thanked Samar for his service as interim executive director during the leadership transition.

"On behalf of PNG CORE, I sincerely thank Philip Samar for his dedication and leadership as interim executive director. His stewardship ensured continuity and stability, and we are grateful for his valuable contribution to the chamber during this important time," he said.

As executive director, Kassman will work closely with industry partners, government agencies and local communities to promote responsible and inclusive growth across Papua New Guinea's resources and energy sectors.

Loloata Island Resort proudly attended the official launch of the Pacific Australia Skills Papua New Guinea (PAS PNG) Program at Port Moresby Technical College late in May 2026.

The event brought together representatives from the Australian High Commission, military personnel, industry stakeholders, educators, government representatives and participants to celebrate a significant milestone in technical and vocational education across the country. The program aims to equip Papua New Guineans with practical, industry-relevant skills that support economic growth and create employment opportunities.

Representing the resort at the launch were Executive Chef Neori Mokotanavanua, Hospitality Trainer Roa Vali and several members of the resort's culinary team, who were participating in a three-week training programme under PAS PNG at the time. Their presence highlighted the resort's commitment to professional development and its belief that a skilled workforce is essential to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

"The training provided practical skills I can apply directly at Loloata, including workflow delegation, communication with staff and guests, and recipe costing," said Aiku Pala, a chef at Loloata Island Resort. "Programs like PAS PNG are important for developing and upskilling young chefs, helping them build successful careers in the hospitality industry."

A highlight of the visit was seeing members of the resort's kitchen team actively engaged in training sessions, developing practical skills that will strengthen service standards and support the long-term growth of PNG's hospitality industry.

Loloata Island Resort congratulates the Pacific Australia Skills Papua New Guinea Program and all stakeholders involved in making this initiative possible, and looks forward to the positive impact it will have on individuals, businesses and communities across the country.

Remington Technology and Don Bosco Technical School (DBTS) Gabutu have formalized their long-standing partnership through the signing of a 2026 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 28. The agreement reinforces their shared commitment to advancing technical education and professional development in Papua New Guinea.

The strategic framework establishes a coordinated working relationship designed to leverage the strengths of both institutions, focusing on two primary areas:

Student Job Training with Remington Technology Limited: Remington Technology will host Don Bosco Gabutu students for workplace-based training aligned with the institution's academic calendar. This will provide students with valuable hands-on experience within Remington's operational environment across various technical trades.

Staff Training and Skills Development: Don Bosco Gabutu will deliver tailored professional development programs for Remington employees. These customized training sessions will help ensure that Remington staff remain at the forefront of evolving industry standards.

The formal signing ceremony was attended by key representatives from both organizations, including DBTS Gabutu Principal Martin Dai, DBTS Gabutu Deputy Principal Kenneth Gonzales, and Remington Group Chief Executive Officer Justin Kieseker.

Kieseker emphasized the importance of the ongoing partnership, noting that Remington's continued investment in technical institutions is a cornerstone of the company's mission to foster a highly skilled local workforce and create a better future for Papua New Guinea's youth.