Today marks 50 years since Papua New Guinea gained independence – a proud milestone for PNG and our vibrant PNG Australian community. I was living and working in Papua New Guinea when PNG celebrated its 25th anniversary of independence. I have many memories of my time in PNG; especially the warmth and generosity of spirit of every day Papua New Guineans. It has been a privilege to attend and provide support to a number of celebrations here in Queensland. From the cultural day put on by PNG students at the University of Queensland through to the major celebrations that occurred last Saturday, it has been an honour to participate in the celebrations. As I have repeatedly said, the PNG diaspora community is the human bridge between Australia and PNG – or to use a PNG term, the wantok bridge! Happy Independence Day.
