Exercise Puk Puk, the joint engineering exercise between the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) and Australian Defence Force (ADF), was officially closed on Thursday 26 June by Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph.
This year, Exercise Puk Puk was held at Igam Barracks in Lae, where the defence engineers worked together to complete a major refurbishment of an accommodation block, converting it into 106 beds in twin share rooms.
Almost two kilometres of new perimeter road was constructed, the rugby pitch was resurfaced, a new 100-seat home and away grandstand was built, and a new playground was installed at Igam Barracks Primary School.
Exercise Puk Puk 2025 was a major step up for the PNGDF and ADF engineers, with several complex construction activities successfully delivered. For the first time, a PNGDF Officer filled the role of Contingent Second in Command, and Captain Cyril Gerari was recognised for his leadership with the awarding of an Army Bronze Commendation during the closing ceremony.
Exercise Puk Puk has been a key component of the defence relationship between PNG and Australia since 2002. The 2025 activity was supported by partners from the New Zealand Defence Force, British Army, and the Japanese Ground Self Defence Force. Observer nations included members of the French Army in New Caledonia, and the Indian Army.
Defence engineers worked together on the refurbishment of an accommodation block, converting it into 106 beds in twin share rooms. Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph officiates ribbon cutting at Igam Barracks.
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