Lae, 8 March 2025 – The Australian Consulate-General in Lae hosted a vibrant International Women’s Day event at the Lae Yacht Club on Saturday, emphasising the theme "Accelerate Action" to drive gender equality forward.
The event highlighted the achievements of women in Papua New Guinea while addressing the persistent barriers to their full participation in society. The gathering brought together dignitaries, community leaders, and professionals committed to empowering women across various sectors.
Delivering the opening remarks, Australian Consul-General Brenton Kanowski reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to gender equality, citing a dedicated Gender Equality Fund that provides AUD $65 million annually to support women’s empowerment initiatives.
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| Kanowski delivering his address |
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| Australian Consul-General Brenton Kanowski with Bart Philemon (left) and Luther Wenge at the event. |
“We all know this work still has a long way to go in Papua New Guinea. We see examples in the media daily of sexual and reproductive-based violence or sorcery accusation-related violence. This simply must stop,” Kanowski stated.
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| Kanowski delivering his address. |
The event featured speeches from notable figures, including Morobe Governor Hon. Luther Wenge and Justice Polume-Kiele, who served as the keynote speaker. Sergeant Ruth Murup from the Royal PNG Constabulary’s Family and Sexual Violence Unit in Lae also shared insights on law enforcement efforts to combat gender-based violence.
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Governor Wenge delivering his speech. |
Kanowski reflected on a personal story about his grandfather, Mr Fred Stolz, who founded Balob Teachers’ College in Lae in 1964. He recounted how his grandfather defied societal norms at the time, advocating for the education of women despite opposition. “People told him that training women would be a waste of money because they would marry and quit teaching. But he pushed back, and today, thousands of women teachers have shaped the lives of countless Papua New Guinean children,” he said.
The event also celebrated the resilience of PNG women, known as Pawa Meris, who continue to make strides despite challenges. “There are so many examples of Pawa Meris across PNG who are making a difference. They are being ‘counted in’ and blazing the trail for other women to follow, the next generation of this nation’s leaders,” Kanowski added.
The event concluded with a group photo and refreshments, with gratitude extended to sponsors, including PacTrade PNG Ltd, Lae Biscuit Company, Ramu Agri-Industries, and the Lae Yacht Club.
The annual event underscored the need for continued action to ensure that women and girls in PNG are safe, have equal opportunities, and can contribute fully to national development.
ENDS
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