OC 21 Const Sqn, Maj Dechlan Ellis, is challenged by PNG warriors. ADF engineers unload cargo in preparation for Ex Puk Puk. Photo provided by Australian High Commission, Port Moresby

Building ties

More than 70 engineers from 21 Const Sqn have joined 45 engineers from PNG’s engineer battalion to undertake a major refurbishment of the Goldie River Barracks to improve living conditions for soldiers.

The joint project, known as Exercise Puk Puk (Tok Pisin for crocodile – the emblem of the PNGDF Engineer Battalion), will see upgrades to the soldier’s living accommodation, shower and toilet facilities, training building, rifle range and access road to the Goldie River Barracks.

Head of the ADF in PNG, Col Dougall McMillan, said the joint exercise, funded under the Defence Cooperation Program, will provide a boost to facilities and improve living conditions for soldiers at PNG’s premier training facility.

“The upgraded facilities will improve the overall living conditions for the soldiers, and these improved facilities will have a positive affect on morale,” he said.

“This is the second joint activity between the two engineering groups, following last year’s revamp of Igam Barracks in Lae to improve soldier’s accommodation and other facilities.”

Col McMillan said the two-month project reinforced the strong links between the ADF and the PNGDF.

“Australia shares close Defence links with PNG and this exercise promotes skills transfer and exchange of technical expertise, as well as friendship and understanding between the two forces.”

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