Sir Brian Bell passes on

PRIME Minister Sir Michael Somare has expressed deep sorrow over the death of businessman Sir Brian Bell (pictured) in Brisbane, Australia, yesterday, The National reports.

To many, Sir Brian, 82, could be described as a great man of the people; an honoured gentleman and citizen and a friend of Papua New Guinea.

Over the years, Brian Bell had become Mr B, a nametag that had stayed on until his death.

“Sir Brian has made considerable contributions to his adopted country Papua New Guinea for more than 50 years in business development and innumerable humanitarian causes.

“I take my hat off to this pioneer businessman who contributed to various organisations such as being chairman of the Port Moresby General Hospital until his death.

“He also served as deputy lord mayor of Port Moresby, a member of the PNG lands board, the Salvation Army advisory board and the PNG law and order committee.

“He was at one time chairman of UPNG Foundation, the NCD South Pacific Festival of Arts (1980) and the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal. Sir Brian also served as patrons of AIESEC PNG University and the Port Moresby City Mission.

“Apart from setting up a school just outside Port Moresby, Sir Brian also helped in offering scholarships and funding to many needy and deserving young Papua New Guineans.”

The man from Cinchilla, Queensland, has been in PNG for longer than he has ever been at home and, for most of his years here, he has been a citizen.

Sir Brian, CSM, KBE, C.St.J, was knighted by the Queen for his many contributions to business and charity in PNG.

“PNG has recognised his invaluable contributions and bestowed upon him a number of well-earned awards over the years,” Sir Michael said.

Sir Brian was also the honorary consul-general of Norway and Sweden.

“On behalf of Papua New Guineans, Lady Veronica and my family, I sincerely thank the late Sir Brian’s family for his many contributions.

“He will be remembered by many whose lives he touched,” Sir Michael said.

Sir Brian was an icon who had been at the helm of his business everyday since he began in 1961, and had singularly been responsible for building up a

quality conscious non-food mercantile, hardware, home and electrical appliances business in Papua New Guinea – expanding from Port Moresby to Lae, Kokopo, Madang, Mt Hagen and other smaller towns in the country.

Brian Bell & Company Ltd has become one of Papua New Guinea`s premier retailer, wholesaler and distributor of non-food and clothing products companies.

Through its extensive branch and distribution network, it offers a wide range of products and services to businesses, aid agencies, mining companies, government departments and individuals throughout the country.

Brian Bell`s retail network comprises 10 retail outlets and more than 25 distribution agencies in all major commercial centres in PNG.