The first PNG Defence Force Ceremonial Shed and Band Hut were opened recently at Murray Barracks, in Port Moresby.
According to Australian High Commission the project was completed by the PNGDF and Australian Defence Force, an ongoing demonstration of the enduring partnership between PNG and Australia.
The Ceremonial Shed provides a dedicated all-weather space for PNGDF Ceremonial Company personnel to meet and train.
The Band Hut also provides an administration area and storage space for important band material, including instruments.
The Band Hut is the first facility made available for the Band since its establishment in 2008. The Ceremonial Company and Band played a critical role for the PNGDF in PNG’s 50th anniversary of independence.
Warrant Officer Harold Siaoa, one of the original members of the PNGDF Ceremonial Company, spoke of working together with ADF members to design and develop the new infrastructure.
“We are proud to have this training space, it has changed our mindset and gives us a place to train, work and belong,” Warrant Officer Siaoa said.
He said the new Ceremonial Shed and Band Hut will enable the PNGDF to continue to carry on the important military traditions and support the broader PNG government in the delivery of protocol in a sustainable and resilient way for years to come.
PNGDF Support Commander Colonel John Giregire said, they have come a long way.
“It’s been a long journey, and I was involved from the very start, it was an honour to see you perform on the 50th anniversary,” he said.
ADF Lieutenant Colonel Arron Kinleyside, said, the ADF and PNGDF have a long history, and military history involves drill, it involves ceremony, and it involves music, which is a shared passion between both organisations. “This project recognises the important capability that both Ceremonial and Band bring to the PNGDF, and these facilities represent an investment in these capabilities and our continued partnership,” he said.
