by Lorraine Genia – EM TV Sports, Port Moresby
The PNG Sports Foundation has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the PNG Defence Force, to upgrade and manage the facilities located within the vicinity of Murray Barracks.
This partnership will enable the PNGSF to take charge, allowing for expansion, stands structures, and maintenance on the existing playing surfaces.
At present, the Murray Barracks Pool and Gym facilitates the training and up-skilling of athletes for the 2015 Pacific Games.
The two playing fields, basketball and volleyball courts, and the bowling club are the remaining sporting venues that require attention, for redevelopment.
Chief Executive Officer of the PNGSF, Peter Tsiamalili, said the foundation would also look to identify soldiers to train, and that it wasn’t just about infrastructure.
Prior to this agreement, the sports facilities within Murray Barracks had been largely overlooked.
Now, however, the PNG Sports Foundation is looking to extend to other Defence Force establishments, outside of Port Moresby.
Commander Brigadier of the PNGDF, General Gilbert Toropo said, “As a government agency, the Defence Force is committed to assist athletes through the facilities at the establishment. The pools at the Murray and Taurama Barracks and gym have brought about positive outlook for the Defence Force. We look forward to this next venture.”
